Yogurt can provide probiotics for dogs, but it also contains ingredients like sugar, artificial sweeteners, and milk proteins that can be harmful.
Yogurt can provide probiotics for dogs, but it also contains ingredients like sugar, artificial sweeteners, and milk proteins that can be harmful.
As a dog owner and yogurt lover myself, I often get asked if sharing my yogurt is safe for my furry friend.
While yogurt can provide some benefits for dogs, there are also some ingredients to watch out for that could cause gastrointestinal upset or other issues.
After researching extensively and consulting with veterinarians, here is what I've learned about the dangers of yogurt for dogs, what to avoid when choosing a dog-friendly yogurt, and what brand of yogurt is good for dogs.
What Makes Yogurt Dangerous for Dogs
Yogurt contains active cultures and probiotics that can benefit dogs when consumed in moderation.
However, some ingredients added to certain yogurts may cause problems:
Xylitol - An artificial sweetener found in some yogurts and incredibly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar and potential liver damage. Always avoid yogurt with xylitol.
High sugar content - Heavily sweetened yogurts have lots of sugar, which can lead to obesity, diabetes, and other health issues in dogs. Go for unsweetened or lightly sweetened varieties.
Cow's milk - While many dogs can tolerate dairy, some may experience diarrhea, gas, or bloating. Stick to yogurt made from goat's or sheep's milk if your dog is sensitive.
Flavorings and preservatives - Things like artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives serve no nutritional purpose and may cause irritation. Select plain, natural yogurt.
How Much Yogurt Can Dogs Have?
When given in moderation, yogurt can provide nutritional benefits. Some tips on safe amounts:
Give no more than 2-3 tablespoons of yogurt per day for a small to medium dog. Adjust up or down depending on size.
Limit to a few times per week rather than daily, as yogurt shouldn't be a dietary staple.
Use plain, unsweetened yogurt whenever possible to avoid excess calories or sugar.
Mix yogurt with dog food rather than offering it alone so it's a small part of their diet.
End yogurt treats if you notice any digestive upset.
The Best and Worst Yogurts for Dogs
The safest bets are plain, unsweetened varieties like Greek or traditional yogurt made with whole milk and live active cultures. Goat's milk or sheep's milk yogurts are also typically well-tolerated.
Avoid yogurts with artificial sweeteners like xylitol, lots of added sugar, flavorings, or preservatives. Also steer clear of non-dairy and fat-free yogurts, as the added thickeners and lower fat content aren't ideal.
Pay attention to labels and look for buzzwords like "natural," "no added sugars," "plain," etc. If yogurt has cartoon characters or candy mix-ins, it's likely not a great choice.
When in doubt, check with your vet, especially if your dog has allergies or health conditions. With the right yogurt in moderation, dogs big and small can enjoy this tasty probiotic powerhouse!
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