Finley's Barker Shop

01/26/2026

Let's see those snow day doggies!

01/16/2026

A new peer-reviewed, first-of-its-kind study found that dogs with atopic dermatitis (skin allergies) have significantly lower levels of all three key short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs): acetate, propionate, and butyrate, compared to healthy dogs.🦠 These gut-derived compounds are produced by beneficial bacteria and play a critical role in protecting the gut lining, balancing the immune system, and reducing inflammation. Lower SCFA levels suggest that dogs with allergic skin disease may have an altered gut environment that produces fewer of these protective compounds.

Similar patterns are seen in people with atopic dermatitis (eczema), where reduced SCFAs are common and may even help predict disease development. One of SCFAs’ most important functions is nourishing the cells that line the gut, helping maintain a strong intestinal barrier and reducing the risk of unwanted compounds leaking into the bloodstream. Without adequate SCFA-producing bacteria, overall gut, immune, and skin health can suffer.

Feeding dogs minimally processed, high-fiber foods, resistant starches, and targeted probiotics or prebiotics can help beneficial bacteria thrive and increase SCFA production. That’s why Dr. Becker developed PRIMITIVE PROBIOTICS™—a science-driven approach to supporting your dog’s microbiome using specific strains, including Lactobacillus species and Bifidobacterium bifidum, that help contribute to SCFA production and a healthier, more resilient gut.

👉 If you want to explore a science-backed probiotic option for your dog, comment BETTERBELLY and we’ll send a link straight to your DMs.

01/13/2026

Study: “mixed into dog food helped improve dog breath.”

In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, dogs using certain strains of an inanimate probiotic & postbiotic powder showed significant drops in volatile sulfur compounds, it had 27% less bad breath, with noticeable improvement in just one week. Twice as many dogs had fresher breath compared to placebo—without brushing or dental chews, and with no side effects.

Science now shows periodontal disease is driven by an imbalance of the entire oral microbiome. While dental cleanings and brushing are still essential (because they remove plaque), neither approach restores healthy oral microbes.

This has led researchers to focus on rebalancing the mouth microbiome rather than trying to sterilize it. Certain probiotics and postbiotics have been shown to reduce bad breath, calm gum inflammation, and support the mouth’s natural immune defenses. Strains like Lactobacillus reuteri produce reuterin, a natural antimicrobial that helps reduce oral pathogens, plaque, gum inflammation, and bad breath. Lactiplantibacillus plantarum supports oral health by disrupting harmful biofilms, calming gum inflammation, and inhibiting periodontal bacteria.
Bacillus subtilis produces antimicrobial compounds and enzymes that help suppress odor-causing bacteria.

If you want to explore a science-backed probiotic 🥄 option for your dog, comment BETTERBELLY and we’ll send a link your way.

12/25/2025

Merry Christmas everyone! To all my clients, thank you for another great year! Would love to see all your Christmas dog pictures ❤️

12/20/2025