Has your dog been giving you the classic puppy-dog stare while you are trying to enjoy your bowl of yogurt? And you're thinking, âCan dogs eat yogurt?â Well, let's figure that out before you start letting your pup clean out the container.
Is Yogurt Good For Dogs?
Well, dogs definitely can eat it and yogurt could be good for them! There are still a few factors you might have to consider. The calcium and protein in yogurt make it an excellent choice for dogs. The lactose, on the other hand, can be tricky. Handling dairy is not something dogs are great at. You know how some people feel after having ice cream when they really shouldnât have? Same deal. If your dog is lactose intolerant, they might end up with an upset stomach or, even worse, a bathroom situation neither of you will enjoy.
Hazards of Feeding Dogs Yogurt
Not all yogurts are safe for dogs, though. Fake or sugar sweeteners are frequently included in flavored yogurts. The health and digestive system of your dog are not improved by these. Such yogurts also include xylitol. It is a sweetener thatâs super toxic to dogs. Even a little bit can cause all sorts of problems like dangerously low blood sugar or even liver damage. So if dogs eat yogurts, make sure itâs plain, unsweetened yogurt as recommended by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA), without any fancy flavors or extras.
Can Yogurt Benefit Dogs?
Yogurt for dogs can be excellent, given that their stomach can handle it. Itâs full of protein and calcium. The dogâs muscles and bones are also strengthened at the same time. Mixing a little yogurt into the dogâs kibble will make mealtime more exciting, as advocated by PetMD. The dog will also remain full for longer. This snack is also really enjoyed by some pups, making it easy to conceal medicine within. Yogurt is a fantastic option for rewarding your dog with a treat that is free of unhealthy ingredients.
Are the Probiotics in Yogurt Good for Dogs?
Probiotics are the good bacteria found in yogurt. They aid in digestion and are extremely beneficial for canines. The sad part is that the commercially purchased yogurt lacks sufficient probiotics. So the yogurt you are giving them might not do a lot in that area. A probiotic supplement could be more beneficial, so you should consult your vet on that matter.Â
Conclusion
So can dogs have yogurt? It is not something you should be feeding the canine every day. Plain and unsweetened yogurt is a great occasional snack. Their tolerance has to be watched to make sure you are not overdoing it. A big NO to the sugary and flavored yogurt though. Any dog that has never had yogurt before might not digest it well. Feed the yogurt bit by bit and see how it goes.Â
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat Greek yogurt? Greek yogurt for dogs is awesome. It has a very thick consistency. It also does not have the same amount of lactose as regular yogurt. Plain is the best yogurt for dogs.
Can dogs have vanilla yogurt? Not really. Vanilla yogurt usually has a lot of added sugar or artificial stuff thatâs not good for dogs. The only safe option is plain.
What kind of yogurt can dogs eat? Plain and unsweetened yogurt suits canines best as any mixed sugar can cause digestive and health problems.
