Postbiotics in Canine Care: A Breakthrough in Oral Health Management for Dogs
Table of Contents
- Key Highlights:
- Introduction
- Understanding Postbiotics and Their Role in Health
- The ADM Study Overview
- The Importance of Oral Health in Canines
- Future Directions for Research
- The Role of Research Facilities in Advancing Animal Health
- Real-World Implications for Pet Owners
Key Highlights:
- ADM's study shows that the postbiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CECT 9161 can reduce plaque formation in dogs, indicating its potential for improving oral health.
- The clinical trial involved 60 dogs and found a 10% reduction in plaque with a high dose of the postbiotic, along with promising changes in the oral microbiome.
- Ongoing research will explore diverse dog populations and various formulations to further assess the impact of postbiotics on canine health.
Introduction
Maintaining optimal oral health is critical for dogs, not only for their dental wellbeing but also for their overall health. Recent advancements in veterinary care have turned the spotlight onto postbiotics—biologically active compounds produced by probiotics that can positively influence gut and oral health. A new clinical study conducted by ADM sheds light on the potential benefits of a unique postbiotic, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CECT 9161, demonstrating significant promise in supporting the oral health of dogs by reducing plaque accumulation. This article delves into the implications of this study, explores the research framework, and discusses future perspectives for postbiotic application in veterinary medicine.
Understanding Postbiotics and Their Role in Health
Postbiotics represent a significant advancement in our understanding of gut health and microbiota management. Unlike probiotics, which are live microorganisms, postbiotics consist of non-viable bacterial products or metabolites that confer health benefits. These compounds have gained attention for their ability to modulate immune responses and enhance gut function, and their application is now being explored in various areas beyond traditional digestive health—with oral care emerging as a pertinent field.
The Lactiplantibacillus plantarum strain used in the ADM study is a heat-treated postbiotic that has shown potential for influencing the oral microbiota of dogs. Particularly, periodontal diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis are common in canines, often linked to microbial imbalances. Strategies that help restore this balance through postbiotics could present new avenues for proactive dental care.
The ADM Study Overview
In May 2025, ADM published findings from a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in the journal Animals. The research aimed to investigate the effects of PRIOME Oral Care, a novel heat-treated postbiotic, on the oral health of dogs with a focus on plaque reduction. The study involved 60 adult male and female dogs that had been recently cleaned of dental plaque, which provided a controlled environment to accurately assess the efficacy of the postbiotic treatment.
During the 57-day trial, dogs were divided into three groups, receiving either a low dose (5 mg), a high dose (25 mg), or a placebo. The postbiotic was integrated into the dogs' diet by being sprinkled over dry kibble. Researchers conducted oral health examinations on Days 1, 29, and 57 to measure changes in plaque formation.
Key Findings
The results demonstrated that the high-dose group experienced a significant 10% reduction in plaque. Meanwhile, the low-dose group showed a 17% reduction, which, while not statistically significant, indicates a positive trend that warrants further exploration. In addition to plaque reduction, the study noted advantageous changes in the oral microbiome, particularly the increase of beneficial bacteria as a result of postbiotic supplementation.
Expert Insights
Peter Jüsten, ADM's Global Vice President of Research and Development Health and Wellness, emphasized the importance of these findings, noting that this study is a pioneering effort to substantiate the impact of PRIOME Oral Care on reducing dental plaque in dogs. This research reflects years of dedication involving multiple ADM teams, contributing valuable data to the expanding field of pet wellness and postbiotics.
The Importance of Oral Health in Canines
Pet owners often overlook oral health, despite the significant risks associated with periodontal disease, which can lead to severe health issues, including heart and kidney problems. Regular dental care practices, especially tooth brushing, can be hard to implement, making the need for alternative solutions paramount.
Dr. Sophie Nixon, Head of Clinical Research for Animal Wellbeing at ADM, highlighted the growing concern among pet owners for maintaining their dogs' oral hygiene. The study’s results underscore the potential of postbiotics as an innovative choice for oral care, offering a more convenient approach to support their pets’ oral health without the difficulties associated with traditional dental hygiene practices.
Future Directions for Research
The ADM study marks just the beginning of the exploration surrounding the effects of postbiotics on canine health. Looking ahead, it is essential to expand the research scope to encompass a broader range of dogs, taking into account diverse breeds, dietary habits, and varying health conditions. Conducting long-term trials could provide deeper insights into the sustainability of oral health improvements offered by postbiotics.
Furthermore, exploring different formulations such as chewable tablets, dental chews, or incorporation into wet food can elucidate the effectiveness of delivery methods on the frequency and efficacy of plaque reduction. Such combinations may lead to more practical solutions for pet owners looking for ways to enhance their dogs’ oral health conveniently.
The Role of Research Facilities in Advancing Animal Health
In line with this momentum, ADM has proactively established a state-of-the-art research and development facility in Switzerland, tailored to animal health innovations focused on microbiomes. This facility, which spans 1,600 square meters, symbolizes a significant commitment to developing effective solutions for the health of both pets and livestock. The research conducted within this space aims to explore new biotic formulations that could reshape the landscape of animal wellbeing.
Real-World Implications for Pet Owners
For dog owners, the findings of this clinical study provide an optimistic outlook regarding oral health management. The introduction of postbiotics as a dietary supplement promises a less invasive, yet effective method to reduce plaque and promote a healthier oral microbiome. As more studies emerge, pet owners will gain access to a growing range of scientifically-backed options for animal care.
The convenience of incorporating postbiotics into routine feeding regimens—especially for dogs that resist brushing or other conventional dental care—can revolutionize the approach to canine dental hygiene. As vet practices increasingly embrace these developments, pet owners will have opportunities to adopt better oral health practices through informed dietary choices.
FAQ
What are postbiotics, and how do they differ from probiotics?
Postbiotics are non-viable bacterial products or metabolites that provide health benefits, as opposed to probiotics, which are live microorganisms that contribute to health. Both play roles in microbiome health, but postbiotics offer the advantage of stability and safety without requiring live bacteria.
What were the main findings of the ADM clinical trial?
The trial demonstrated that the postbiotic Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CECT 9161 significantly reduced plaque buildup in dogs, particularly in the high-dose group. Changes in the oral microbiome were also observed, indicating positive shifts in bacterial populations.
How can I improve my dog’s dental health?
To enhance your dog's dental health, consider incorporating postbiotics into their diet, maintain regular veterinary check-ups, and explore dental care products tailored for pets. Regular brushing, though challenging, remains beneficial when possible.
What future research is planned regarding postbiotics in dogs?
Future research will focus on broader populations of dogs across various breeds and dietary habits, along with long-term studies to assess the sustained effects of postbiotics on oral health and overall wellness.
Where can I learn more about the benefits of postbiotics for pets?
Continued research by organizations like ADM and veterinary health professionals will provide ongoing insights. Pet owners can consult with veterinarians for the latest recommendations and emerging products in the field of canine health.
