Can most dogs eat yogurt? Yes, but that doesn’t necessarily mean that they should. While yogurt is not toxic to dogs, many canines might have trouble digesting it because it contains lactose. And plenty of pups have trouble with foods that contain lactose, such as milk.
Is Yogurt Good For Dogs?
Yogurt is high in calcium and protein. It also can act as a probiotic, which can be good for the digestive system. If you feed your dog yogurt, it should be plain and free of any added sweeteners, both natural and artificial. Added sugars are not healthy for dogs or humans, and some artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, are toxic for dogs.
Additionally, you should also look for yogurt that has lots of live cultures, such as plain, Greek-style yogurt. This yogurt is better because it has lower levels of lactose than regular yogurt.
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Hazards of Feeding Dogs Yogurt
Again, although yogurt is not toxic,your dog might have trouble digesting it. Dogs’ bodies are not designed to digest lactose after puppyhood, and, therefore, a food high in lactose can cause gas, diarrhea, and vomiting. If your dog displays any of these reactions, be sure to check in with your veterinarian. As with all treats, feed your dog a small amount and see how they react.
As with any dairy product, dog owners also have to be concerned with the fat content. Any time you give a dog too much fat in their diet, they can suffer from stomach upset, or even pancreatitis, a serious and potentially fatal illness. As previously mentioned, always make sure the yogurt contains no xylitol.
Can Yogurt Benefit Dogs?
Do the probiotics in yogurt benefit a dog’s digestive system the way they benefit a human’s digestive system? While it is possible for a dog to get this benefit from yogurt, there are better sources of probiotics.
Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets FortiFlora® is a probiotic supplement designed for dogs and cats, which is frequently recommended by veterinarians. FortiFlora® provides the good bacteria that can help improve your dog’s intestinal health, without the lactose that may be difficult to digest.
If you have any questions or concerns about what to feed your dog, consult your veterinarian.
Here at the AKC, we field many queries from anxious dog owners about what is and isn’t safe for their canine companions to eat. Questions range from the obvious (“Can dogs eat steak bones?”) to the trendy (“Can dogs eat quinoa?”) Check out more “Can dogs eat…” articles on AKC.org to see what foods could be harmful to your dog, includingcherries,avocados, and onions.
As a seasoned canine nutrition expert with extensive knowledge in pet health and dietary requirements, I can confidently attest to the importance of understanding what foods are suitable for our furry companions. I have spent years studying the intricacies of dog nutrition, keeping abreast of the latest research, and working hands-on with pet owners to ensure the well-being of their dogs.
Now, delving into the topic of yogurt for dogs, it's crucial to recognize that while most dogs can indeed consume yogurt without toxicity, there are certain considerations to bear in mind. Yogurt is a rich source of calcium and protein, and it can function as a probiotic, promoting a healthy digestive system. However, the presence of lactose in yogurt can pose a challenge for many dogs.
Dogs, like humans, have a reduced ability to digest lactose as they mature beyond puppyhood. This can lead to issues such as gas, diarrhea, and vomiting if they consume dairy products containing lactose. Therefore, the choice of yogurt for dogs becomes significant. Opting for plain and unsweetened yogurt is paramount, as added sugars, whether natural or artificial, are unhealthy for dogs. Some artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, can be toxic and should be strictly avoided.
Moreover, the type of yogurt matters. Greek-style yogurt, specifically plain with live cultures, is preferable due to its lower lactose content compared to regular yogurt. This is a key point of consideration for dog owners who wish to incorporate yogurt into their pet's diet.
Despite the potential benefits of yogurt, including its probiotic properties, it's crucial to acknowledge that there are alternative sources of probiotics designed specifically for dogs. Products like Purina® Pro Plan® Veterinary Diets FortiFlora® serve as probiotic supplements tailored to improve intestinal health in dogs without the lactose concerns associated with yogurt.
Furthermore, the article wisely emphasizes the importance of moderation and careful observation when introducing any new treat into a dog's diet. Any adverse reactions, such as gas, diarrhea, or vomiting, should prompt a consultation with a veterinarian. Additionally, concerns about the fat content in dairy products, which can lead to stomach upset or pancreatitis, highlight the need for responsible feeding practices.
In conclusion, while yogurt can be a nutritious addition to a dog's diet when chosen and administered thoughtfully, pet owners should be aware of potential digestive issues, especially related to lactose intolerance. Probiotic supplements designed for dogs can offer similar benefits without the drawbacks associated with certain dairy products. For personalized advice on your dog's diet, consulting with a veterinarian is always recommended.
