Y. Amagai, K. Karasawa, M. Morifuji, T. Yamaji, H. Matsuda, and A. Tanaka (2017) explored the effects of fermented milk enriched with milk phospholipids (MPL) on gut health and skin condition in dogs suffering from allergic skin disorders such as dry skin, mild eczema, and pruritus (itchiness).
Nine dogs participated in a crossover design, receiving either the fermented milk supplement or a placebo for four weeks, followed by a two-week washout before switching treatments. Researchers monitored changes in fecal metabolites and clinical signs of skin irritation.
The results showed that fermented milk with MPL significantly reduced levels of indole and acetic acid in feces, markers of abnormal gut decomposition. Importantly, dogs receiving the supplement also demonstrated improved pruritus scores, reflecting less itch-related behavior.
These findings suggest that dietary supplementation with fermented milk containing MPL can both stabilize gut microbiota and improve skin health in dogs with allergic disorders. This dual benefit highlights the growing link between gut health and dermatological conditions in companion animals.
Source: Amagai, Y., Karasawa, K., Morifuji, M., Yamaji, T., Matsuda, H., & Tanaka, A. (2017). Supplementation with Fermented Milk Containing Milk Phospholipids Improves the Enteric Environment and Skin Conditions of Dogs with Allergic Skin Disorders.
