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Short-term effects of a synbiotic diet on thyroid and sex hormones in Sarabi Dogs

Summary

Researchers tested whether a special dog food containing beneficial bacteria (L. acidophilus) and a type of fiber (inulin) would affect hormone levels in male Sarabi dogs. Over 24 days, dogs eating this special food showed no harmful changes in thyroid or sex hormones, and all hormone levels stayed normal. This suggests the synbiotic food could potentially be used long-term in dogs without worrying about negative hormonal effects.

Background

Synbiotic products contain both probiotic and prebiotic strains with health-promoting effects. The gut microbiota is associated with the central nervous system and hormonal regulation. Limited studies have examined the effects of synbiotics on thyroid and sex hormones in dogs.

Objective

To investigate the effect of synbiotic feed containing Lactobacillus acidophilus La5 (10^12 cfu/g) and inulin (5%) on changes in thyroid hormones (T3, T4), TSH, LH, FSH, and testosterone in male Sarabi dogs over 24 days.

Results

Synbiotic consumption showed no significant negative effects on thyroid hormones (T3, T4, TSH) or testosterone levels. FSH levels increased significantly in the treatment group (p=0.008). All hormone changes remained within normal physiological ranges during the 24-day period.

Conclusion

Synbiotic feed containing L. acidophilus and inulin (5%) showed no significant adverse effects on thyroid, TSH, and sex hormones in male dogs and may be used long-term for health-promoting effects without harming hormonal activities.
  • Published in:BMC Veterinary Research,
  • Study Type:Clinical Trial,
  • Source: 10.1186/s12917-025-04763-3, PMID: 40317022
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