Can dogs have yogurt? Yes!
When it comes to pet nutrition, one common question is about yogurt—whether it's safe for dogs and how it is beneficial (or harmful) to their health. This article dives into everything owners need to know about feeding yogurt to dogs with these topics:
What is Yogurt?
Yogurt is a fermented dairy product made by adding specific bacterial cultures to milk mainly Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus. This process thickens the milk and gives it a tangy flavor.
“Yogurt is a fermented milk product with beneficial lactic acid bacteria and provides a good to excellent source of protein, calcium, and probiotics,” according to the 2015 study by Fisberg, M., & Machado, R.
Yogurt is rich in protein, calcium, and probiotics, making it a popular health food for humans. But what about dogs? Can they enjoy these benefits too?
What are the Kinds of Yogurt that Dogs Can Have?
It's safe to feed dogs plain, unsweetened yogurt made from cow’s milk, goat’s milk, or plant-based milk such as coconut or almond. The important thing is to make sure that the yogurt doesn't have added sugars, artificial sweeteners (such as xylitol, which is toxic to dogs), or flavors. Always check the ingredients before giving yogurt to dogs.
Is Plain Yogurt Safe for Dogs?
Yes, plain yogurt is generally safe for dogs in moderation. It’s an excellent source of calcium, protein, and probiotics, which aid digestion.
However, some dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they have difficulty digesting dairy products. In such cases, yogurt causes digestive upset, including gas, diarrhea, or vomiting.
What About Flavored Yogurt for Dogs?
Flavored yogurt is not recommended for dogs. Many flavored yogurts contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners, which are harmful. Some sweeteners like xylitol are highly toxic to dogs and cause severe health issues, including liver failure and even death. Always stick to plain, unsweetened yogurt.
Can Dogs Have Greek Yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt is safe for dogs and a better option than regular yogurt because it contains more protein and less lactose (see Table 1). The thicker consistency also makes it easier to serve as a treat or mix with other foods. However, just like with regular yogurt, it’s important to choose plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt.
How to Introduce Yogurt to Dogs?
When introducing yogurt to your dog’s diet, start with a small amount. Observe the dog for any signs of digestive upset. If the dog tolerates the yogurt well, gradually increase it to the recommended serving size.
How Much Yogurt Should Dogs Have?
Moderation is key when feeding yogurt to dogs. For small dogs, a teaspoon per day is enough, while larger dogs enjoy have up to a tablespoon. Yogurt should be treated as an occasional snack or supplement rather than a regular part of their diet.
What Are the Health Benefits of Yogurt for Dogs?
Yogurt offers several health benefits for dogs, including:
Probiotics: The live bacteria in yogurt help improve the dog’s gut health, aiding in digestion and strengthening their immune system.
Calcium: Essential for strong bones and teeth.
Protein: Supports muscle development and overall health.
Vitamins and Minerals: Yogurt contains various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, and potassium, contributing to the dog’s overall well-being.
Table 1. Some Nutrient Content of Plain Yogurt and Greek Yogurt per 100 grams According to USDA (2022)
Nutrient | Plain Yogurt | Greek Yogurt |
Water | 85.3 g | 81.3 g |
Energy | 78 kcal | 94 kcal |
Protein | 3.82 g | 8.78 g |
Total Lipid | 4.48 g | 54.39 g |
Total Sugar | 4.09 g | 3.25 g |
Lactose | 3.35 g | 2.61 g |
Calcium | 127 mg | 100 mg |
Cholesterol | 14 mg | 17 mg |
Are Probiotics Good for Dogs? Why?
Yes, probiotics are beneficial for dogs. These live microorganisms help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, which is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function.
Probiotics also help alleviate gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and boost overall digestive health
“Probiotics can improve the health of dogs with diarrhoea by regulating gut microbiota, increasing beneficial bacteria and reducing pathogenic bacteria,” according to the 2019 study by Xu, H., Zhao, F., Hou, Q., Huang, W., Liu, Y., Zhang, H., & Sun, Z.
What Are the Risks of Feeding Dogs Yogurt?
While yogurt is generally safe, there are some risks to consider.
Lactose Intolerance: Some dogs are lactose intolerant and experience digestive issues like diarrhea or vomiting after consuming dairy products.
“Feeding lactose-free milk powder to dogs with lactose intolerance reduces symptoms and enhances their health and wellbeing,” according to the 2002 study by Wang, Y., Lou, H., Turpeinen, A., Liu, L., & Xue, F.
Allergies: Some dogs are allergic to dairy, leading to symptoms like itching, hives, or even anaphylaxis in severe cases.
“Bovine IgG is a major allergen in cow's milk, and phosphoglucomutase is an important allergen in dogs' cutaneous adverse reactions to lamb and beef,” according to the 2004 study by Martín, A., Sierra, M., Gonzalez, J., & Arevalo, M.
Caloric Intake: Yogurt adds extra calories to a dog’s diet, leading to weight gain if not fed in moderation.
What Are the Best Yogurt Alternatives for Dogs?
If a dog does not tolerate yogurt, some alternatives are listed below.
Coconut Yogurt: A dairy-free option that has no lactose but is still rich in probiotics.
Pumpkin Puree: High in fiber and great for digestive health.
Cottage Cheese: Lower in lactose than regular yogurt and packed with protein.
Goat’s Milk: Easier to digest than cow’s milk and rich in nutrients.
Kefir: A fermented milk product similar to yogurt, but with different probiotics.
Yogurt is a healthy and safe treat for dogs when chosen and served correctly. Always opt for plain, unsweetened varieties, and introduce them gradually to the dog’s diet.
Keep an eye out for any signs of lactose intolerance or allergies, and consider yogurt alternatives if needed. With the right approach, dogs enjoy the benefits of yogurt without any risks.
Commentaires