Pet Food Ingredient
Psyllium
Soluble-fibre supplement derived from Plantago ovata seed husks. Gold standard for firming soft stools in dogs — absorbs water in the colon to bulk and firm the stool without fermentation gas.
Also labelled as
Regulatory status
Recognised fibre ingredient; also widely used as a human dietary supplement (Metamucil is psyllium-based).
Key notes
- —Standard therapeutic dose for dogs: 1 tsp per 25 lbs body weight per day, split across meals, mixed with ~1 tbsp of water per tsp before feeding.
- —First-line intervention for recurring anal gland problems — firm stool naturally expresses the glands, and psyllium produces reliably firm stool within 3-5 days.
Common alternatives
Common questions
How much psyllium can I give my dog?
Standard therapeutic dose: 1 teaspoon per 25 lbs of body weight per day, split across meals, mixed with ~1 tablespoon of water per teaspoon before feeding. Start at half the dose for the first week to let the gut adjust. Unflavoured, sugar-free powder only — human-supplement products with sweeteners or flavourings can contain xylitol (toxic to dogs).
What does psyllium do for dogs?
Soluble fibre that absorbs water in the colon to firm soft stools. First-line intervention for recurring anal gland problems — firm stool expresses glands naturally, and psyllium reliably produces firm stool within 3-5 days. Also helps with intermittent loose stools in mildly sensitive dogs. Does not cause gas or fermentation issues the way some fibre supplements do.
Is this ingredient in your pet's food?
Scan the label. If it contains psyllium or any of the alternative names above, the scanner will flag it against your pet's allergen profile.
Scan a label →This entry is factual reference. It is not medical or veterinary advice. Consult a veterinarian for any decisions about your pet's diet.