If your dog has ever had an upset stomach, your vet may have recommended Pro-Kolin for dogs. This probiotic paste is one of the most commonly prescribed digestive supplements in Australian veterinary clinics, and many dog owners keep a syringe at home for those inevitable tummy troubles.
But when exactly should you use it, and how does it work? This guide covers everything Australian dog owners need to know about Pro-Kolin for dogs, including dosage, when to use it, and when to see a vet instead.
What Is Pro-Kolin?
Pro-Kolin for dogs is a veterinary-developed probiotic and prebiotic paste designed to support digestive health during gastrointestinal upsets. It comes in an easy-to-use syringe with a palatable beef or liver flavour that most dogs accept readily.
The formula contains several key ingredients that work together:
Probiotics (Enterococcus faecium): These beneficial bacteria help restore the natural balance of gut flora and support healthy digestion.
Prebiotics (Preplex): A blend of fructo-oligosaccharide (FOS) and acacia gum that feeds and stimulates the growth of good bacteria in the gut.
Kaolin: A natural binding agent that helps firm up loose stools.
Pectin: A plant-based fibre that soothes the gut lining and helps calm intestinal irritation.
Some formulations, like Pro-Kolin Advanced, also include montmorillonite clay for additional binding action and beta-glucans to support the immune system.
When Should You Use Pro-Kolin for Dogs?
Pro-Kolin for dogs is ideal for use at the first signs of digestive upset. Common situations where it can help include:
Acute diarrhoea: When your dog develops sudden loose or watery stools, Pro-Kolin can help firm things up and restore normal gut function. A clinical study found that dogs treated with Pro-Kolin had a median diarrhoea duration of 32 hours compared to 47 hours for dogs receiving a placebo.
Dietary indiscretion: Dogs are notorious scavengers. If your dog has eaten something they should not have, such as rubbish, table scraps, or unfamiliar food, Pro-Kolin can help settle their stomach.
Food transitions: Switching your dog to a new food should be done gradually over 7 to 10 days. If your dog experiences soft stools during the transition, Pro-Kolin can provide support.
Stress-related stomach upset: Travel, boarding, moving house, fireworks, or changes in routine can trigger digestive upset in dogs. Pro-Kolin for dogs is ideal for these stressful periods.
During or after antibiotic treatment: Antibiotics can disrupt the natural balance of gut bacteria. Using Pro-Kolin alongside antibiotic treatment (given at least one hour apart) helps maintain healthy gut flora.
Post-surgery recovery: After anaesthesia or surgery, some dogs experience temporary digestive upset. Pro-Kolin can support recovery.
How to Give Pro-Kolin to Your Dog
Pro-Kolin for dogs comes in a syringe with a handy dosage wheel. You can give it directly into your dog's mouth or mix it with their food. Most dogs find the flavour appealing and accept it easily.
Dosage by weight (given twice daily):
| Dog Weight | Dose |
|---|---|
| Under 5 kg | 2 ml |
| 5 to 15 kg | 3 ml |
| 15 to 30 kg | 5 ml |
| 30 to 45 kg | 7 ml |
| Over 45 kg | 10 ml |
For severe symptoms, Pro-Kolin can be given up to three times daily. The typical treatment duration is 2 to 3 days, though your vet may recommend longer use in some cases.
Important tips:
- Do not mix Pro-Kolin with hot food, as heat can kill the beneficial probiotic bacteria
- If your dog is taking other medications, give Pro-Kolin at least one hour later to ensure optimal absorption
- Store in a cool, dry place and replace the cap after each use
When to See a Vet Instead
While Pro-Kolin for dogs is excellent for mild digestive upset, some situations require immediate veterinary attention (https://rspcavic.org/learn/issues-requiring-medical-help/).
See your vet urgently if your dog has:
- Bloody diarrhoea or vomit
- Repeated vomiting alongside diarrhoea
- Diarrhoea lasting more than 24 to 48 hours
- Signs of dehydration (dry gums, lethargy, sunken eyes)
- Abdominal pain or bloating
- Fever or weakness
- Refusal to drink water
Puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with existing health conditions should see a vet sooner, as they can become dehydrated quickly.
If your dog's diarrhoea persists beyond 2 to 3 days despite using Pro-Kolin, book a vet appointment to rule out underlying causes such as parasites, infections, or chronic conditions.
Is Pro-Kolin Safe for All Dogs?
Pro-Kolin for dogs is generally very safe and well-tolerated. It can be used in:
- Puppies from 2 weeks of age (consult your vet for puppies under 8 weeks)
- Pregnant and lactating dogs
- Senior dogs
- Dogs with sensitive stomachs
- Dogs with food allergies (the beef flavouring is artificial and contains no actual beef protein)
However, dogs with soya allergies should avoid Pro-Kolin as it contains soya oil. Always check with your vet if your dog has known food sensitivities or is on medication.
Pro-Kolin vs Other Digestive Supplements
You may have seen several Pro-Kolin products available. Here is a quick comparison:
Pro-Kolin (Original): The standard probiotic paste suitable for dogs and cats. Great for general digestive support.
Pro-Kolin Advanced: An upgraded formula with additional montmorillonite clay, psyllium fibre, and beta-glucans. More effective for acute diarrhoea and soft stools. Available in separate dog and cat formulations with species-specific flavours.
Pro-Kolin Enterogenic: Designed for long-term digestive support rather than acute upsets. Better suited for dogs with chronic digestive issues.
For most Australian dog owners, Pro-Kolin or Pro-Kolin Advanced is the best choice for occasional digestive upsets.
Australian Climate Considerations
Australia's warm climate can increase the risk of digestive upset in dogs. Bacteria multiply faster in hot weather, making food spoilage and waterborne pathogens more common during summer months. Dogs may also drink from puddles, ponds, or other contaminated water sources.
Keep Pro-Kolin for dogs in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If stored correctly, it will last until the best before date even after opening.
During hot weather, be extra vigilant about:
- Keeping your dog's water bowl fresh and clean
- Not leaving wet food out for extended periods
- Preventing your dog from scavenging on walks
- Watching for signs of heat stress, which can also cause digestive upset
Keep Pro-Kolin in Your Dog First Aid Kit
Many experienced dog owners keep a syringe of Pro-Kolin for dogs at home as part of their pet first aid kit. When digestive upset strikes, having it on hand means you can start treatment immediately rather than waiting for a vet visit or pharmacy run.
At LifePaws, we stock Pro-Kolin and other digestive health essentials for Australian dogs. Browse our Health & Wellness collection for probiotics, supplements, and products to support your dog's gut health.
Help your dog feel better faster. Shop digestive support products at LifePaws today.