How to Manage Leaky Gut Naturally in Dogs

If your dog has leaky gut syndrome, you can help restore gut health naturally by focusing on a nutrient-dense diet, gut-healing foods, and reducing inflammation. Here are some effective natural remedies, including bone broth:

 

1. Feed Bone Broth

 

✅ Why?

Bone broth is rich in collagen, gelatin, and amino acids (like glutamine) that help repair the gut lining and reduce inflammation.

 

2. Switch to a Gut-Healing Diet

 

✅ Why?

A species-appropriate, whole-food diet supports digestion and reduces gut irritation.

 

✔️ Best foods:

·      Raw or lightly cooked meats (grass-fed if possible)

·      Healthy fats (coconut oil, salmon oil)

·      Low-starch vegetables (zucchini, spinach, pumpkin)

·      Fermented foods (like kefir water for probiotics)

·      Bone broth (as mentioned above)

 

❌ Avoid:

·      Grains (wheat, corn, soy)

·      Processed kibble with artificial additives

·      Dairy

 

3. Add Probiotics & Digestive Enzymes

 

✅ Why?

Helps balance gut bacteria and improve digestion.

 

✔️ Good options:

·      Plain probiotic yogurt (unsweetened, no xylitol)

·      Kefir water

·      Probiotic supplements (look for canine-specific strains)

·      Digestive enzymes (help break down food, reducing gut strain)

 

4. Use Natural Anti-Inflammatory Supplements

 

✅ Why?

These soothe inflammation and promote healing.

 

✔️ Top choices:

·      Slippery Elm – coats and soothes the gut lining

·      Marshmallow Root – anti-inflammatory and gut-protective

·      Turmeric – powerful anti-inflammatory (mix with coconut oil and black pepper for absorption)

·      L-glutamine – an amino acid that repairs the intestinal lining

·      Aloe Vera Juice – soothes and promotes gut healing (use in small amounts)

 

5. Support the Liver & Detoxification

 

✅ Why?

Leaky gut allows toxins to enter the bloodstream, so supporting the liver helps.

 

✔️ Best detox foods/supplements:

·      Milk Thistle – supports liver detox

·      Dandelion Root – natural liver cleanser

·      Chlorella or Spirulina – binds toxins and heavy metals

·      Filtered Water – avoid tap water (chlorine & fluoride can worsen gut health)

 

6. Reduce Stress

 

✅ Why?

Stress can weaken the immune system and gut lining.

 

✔️ Ways to reduce stress:

·      Regular exercise & playtime

·      Calm environment (reduce loud noises, excessive crate time)

·      Massage or acupressure

·      Use CBD oil (if needed) for anxiety

 

7. Avoid Harmful Medications & Toxins

 

✅ Why?

Overuse of antibiotics, NSAIDs (like Rimadyl), vaccines, flea/tick chemicals, and processed foods can trigger or worsen leaky gut.

 

✔️ Safer alternatives:

·      Use natural flea/tick repellents (like coconut oil or essential oils)

·      Only use antibiotics when necessary (always follow with probiotics)

·      Consider minimal vaccinations (work with a holistic vet)