Water Kefir for Dogs
This simple water kefir recipe for dogs will show you how to combine live water kefir grains with sugar water to create the perfect, 100% natural probiotic for your canine companion.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 tablespoons of active Water Kefir Grains.
- 1 litre (approx 4 cups) of chlorine-free or filtered water (chlorine can harm the grains).
- ¼ cup of organic cane sugar or unrefined sugar (the grains consume the sugar during fermentation).
Optional: A pinch of baking soda if your water lacks minerals.
You will also need:
- A clean glass jar.
- A breathable cloth, coffee filter or paper towel secured with a rubber band.
- A plastic or nylon sieve (avoid metal mesh, which can degrade the grains over time).
Step-by-step fermentation process
1. Dissolve the sugar: pour the sugar into a small amount of warm water to dissolve the sugar fully, then add the rest of the cool water until the liquid is at room temperature (68°F–85°F / 20°C–29°C).
2. Add the grains: place your water kefir grains into the cooled sugar-water mixture inside the glass jar.
3. Cover and ferment: cover the top of the jar with your breathable cloth or coffee filter and secure it with a rubber band. Leave it in a warm, dark spot away from direct sunlight for 24 to 48 hours.
4. Strain the liquid: once fermented, use your plastic strainer to separate the liquid (the finished kefir water) from the solid grains.
5. Start a new batch: put the strained grains straight into a fresh batch of sugar water to keep them alive and multiplying.
Serving and safety guidelines
- Keep it plain: do not add artificial sweeteners (like xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs), citrus juices or sugary fruits to the finished liquid intended for your dog.
- Portion sizes: introduce the fermented water very slowly. Start small with half a teaspoon to a teaspoon per day for small dogs, or up to 1 tablespoon for larger dogs, mixing it into your dog’s normal food.
- Storage: store the finished kefir water in a sealed container in the fridge for up to a week, or freeze it in small ice cube trays for easy daily portions.
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Our Canine Nutritionist says…
As a dog nutritionist, I’m often asked whether kefir can be a useful addition to a dog’s diet, particular if a dog is suffering from digestive problems.
Kefir is a fermented drink containing beneficial bacteria and yeasts, making it a natural source of probiotics. For many dogs, it can support a healthy gut microbiome and contribute to normal digestive function. It can be particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive digestion, although individual responses vary.
I recommend choosing water kefir grains and, once made, introducing it to your dog gradually, building up to around 1/2 a teaspoon for every 5kg (10lbs) of your dog’s body weight per day.
If your dog has ongoing digestive problems, consult with a dog nutritionist, someone specifically trained in animal nutrition.
Disclaimer:
Important note: this recipe is intended as supplemental feeding for healthy dogs unless specifically formulated as part of a complete diet by a dog nutritionist. It should not replace your dog's regular, balanced daily meals. Treats and toppers should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s total daily calorie intake. Every dog has unique nutritional needs. Always consult your vet before introducing new foods or changing your dog's diet, especially if it has underlying health conditions.
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