02/03/2026
Postbiotics are soluble, bioactive metabolic products secreted by live bacteria or yeasts and released during fermentation following cell membrane lysis. Their composition includes metabolites such as enzymes, peptides, proteins, exopolysaccharides, organic acids, and lipids, as well as structural components of the bacterial cell wall including teichoic and lipoteichoic acids, peptidoglycans, bacterial surface layer proteins, and other polysaccharides.
A recent systematic review published in Microorganisms evaluated the effects of postbiotic administration on canine health. Of 157 identified records, 69 met the inclusion criteria, including 13 in vivo studies conducted in dogs. The review assessed reported effects on parameters such as gut microbiota composition, immune and inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress.
The meta-analysis did not yield statistically significant results regarding the use of postbiotics compared with control groups.
Given the limited number of studies currently available on postbiotic administration in dogs, this systematic review and meta-analysis should be regarded as an exploratory synthesis. Its primary aim was to provide an initial overview of the potential effects of postbiotics on canine health based on the best available evidence to date. By identifying trends, knowledge gaps, and methodological challenges in this emerging field, the study aimed to offer a foundation for more targeted and robust investigations in the future.
Study cited in comments.