What kind of yogurt can dogs eat everyday

Healthy Foods Checklist: Yogurt for Dogs

While most dog foods on the market dont contain yogurt, the yummy dairy product may provide some nutritional benefits for your dog as a meal additive.

Plain, low or non-fat yogurt provides probiotic benefits and serves as an excellent source of calcium for our canine companions. Adding a small spoonful of yogurt to your dogs regular kibble at mealtime can provide digestive benefits and even help your dog stay full longer.

If you decide to feed yogurt to your dog, make sure to read ingredient labels carefully. Avoid flavored yogurts that are packed with sugar, and never feed yogurt that contains the ingredient xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is toxic for dogs. Its also important to avoid yogurt that is chocolate flavored, since chocolate is also poisonous to dogs.

Before making yogurt a regular part of your dogs diet, consult your veterinarian to ensure proper serving suggestions.

Some dogs have a harder time digesting dairy products, so keep an eye out for any signs of lactose intolerance. These may include diarrhea, gas, and vomiting. If your dog displays any of these symptoms following yogurt consumption, follow up with your veterinarian.

See Also

Can dogs eat yogurt?

Is yogurt safe for dogs?

Yes, yogurt is a safe, tasty treat for dogs. Adding some to your dogs kibble could be a way of incorporating a new flavor and texture without the added calories. Its also an easy way to introduce more water to your pets diet.

However, yogurt contains lactose that may trigger an adverse reaction in lactose-intolerant dogs. Some yogurt varieties also contain additives that may be harmful to dogs. Even with the health benefits that dogs can get from eating yogurt, certain precautions must still be observed to make sure that it can be safely shared with your canine buddy.

Why Yogurt is Good for Dogs

Yogurt contains substantial amounts of calcium, protein, zinc, and other nutrients. These are essential nutrients that play an important role in the growth and development of tissues and various physiological processes in the body.

Yogurt contains probiotics. These are beneficial microbes that promote and support the health and integrity of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Probiotics are a combination of live beneficial bacteria and/or yeasts that naturally live in the dog's gastrointestinal tract. A thriving population of good bacteria will discourage bad bacteria from overwhelming the GI tract and causing disease. Good bacteria can help improve intestinal health which is an important factor in maintaining a stronger immune system.

Also, beneficial bacteria can help break down lactose in the gut so its easier to digest.

While these benefits may be enjoyed by your dog by giving small amounts of yogurt occasionally, many vets still recommend a probiotic supplement that is specially formulated for dogs. The number of probiotics in yogurt is not enough to have significant benefits, health-wise, for dogs.

The Dangers of Feeding Your Dog Yogurt

Lactose in Yogurt

Yogurt comes in various flavors, including plain yogurt. While any of these types can be given to dogs, lactose-intolerant dogs have difficulty digesting yogurt, milk, and other dairy products because their bodies lack the enzyme lactase that can help convert lactose into simple sugars so it can be used in the body. Without an efficient way to digest and metabolize lactose, a lactose-intolerant dog may suffer from digestive upsets and exhibit symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and excessive gassiness (flatulence).

If your pet is showing any of these symptoms after consuming some yogurt, you should call your vet.

Fat Content of Yogurt

Another important concern associated with yogurt is its fat content. Even if your dog is not lactose intolerant, regular consumption of yogurt can increase your pets risk for obesity. Too much fat in the diet can also lead to pancreatitis, which is a serious medical issue that is characterized by the inflammation of the pancreas and can be fatal.

Yogurt with Artificial Sweeteners

Some types of yogurt have an added artificial sweetener like xylitol, which is a sugar substitute. However, xylitol is toxic for dogs. Consumption can lead to liver failure because xylitol accumulates in the liver instead of being excreted from the body.

Any yogurt product containing artificial sweeteners or labeled low fat or low calorie should not be given to dogs.

Sugar in Yogurt

Many yogurt varieties contain high amounts of sugar which can wreak havoc on your dogs system. Even yogurt with fruit is not recommended for dogs because these frequently have added sugary syrups. Over time, too much sugar intake can increase a dogs risk of important health issues like diabetes, obesity, and dental problems.

Chocolate-Flavored Yogurt

Chocolate is toxic to dogs. Avoid giving even a small amount of chocolate-flavored yogurt to your dog.

You should make a habit of reading product labels to make sure that you are giving something to your pooch that is safe and healthy.

To protect your dog from adverse effects, always give yogurt in moderation. If its your dogs first time eating yogurt, start by offering a small amount of plain yogurt to see if he exhibits any reactions, including symptoms of lactose intolerance - diarrhea, vomiting, and gassiness.

If there are no problems, yogurt can be given in small amounts as an occasional treat. You can give yogurt directly or try mixing some into your dogs food.

What is the best type of yogurt for my dog?

When choosing yogurt for your dog always look for the following:

• Yogurt varieties that are plain and free of additives, including xylitol and fruits
• Non-fat or low-fat
• Naturally flavored
• Yogurt with active live cultures, such as Greek yogurt

How much yogurt can my dog eat?

Yogurt is not a basic dietary component for dogs. Like other human foods, its given as an occasional treat and that entails sticking to the 10% treat rule. This means that calories from treats should not exceed more than 10% of a dogs total calorie intake every day.

The appropriate serving size of yogurt for dogs is based on several factors which include the following:

• Size
• Weight
• Underlying medical conditions
• Activity level
• Spay or neuter status
• Daily calorie intake

Can dogs benefit from the probiotics in yogurt?

While probiotics in yogurt are good for dogs, the amount that youll be giving your dog on a daily basis (following the 10% rule) wont be enough for your pet to enjoy the many benefits of probiotics from active cultures. Its best to consult with your vet who can recommend a probiotic supplement that is specially formulated for dogs. Dogs can certainly benefit from the probiotics in yogurt, but there are more efficient ways to supplement your dogs diet.

Is Greek yogurt safe for dogs?

Yes, Greek yogurt is safe for dogs, as long as its free of xylitol and other additives. Its thicker texture may appeal to some dogs. Greek yogurt contains active live cultures of probiotics and has lower lactose levels compared to regular yogurt.

The process of making Greek yogurt is different from most yogurt varieties. It undergoes a straining process to remove most of the liquid, leaving behind a significantly higher protein level compared to plain yogurt.

Read more:

Can dogs eat tofu?

Need to speak with a veterinarian regarding your dogs diet or another condition?

Click here to schedule a video consult to speak to one of our vets. You can also download the FirstVet app from the Apple App Store and Google Play Stores.

Can Dogs Eat Yogurt?

Yogurt is a widely appreciated food in the UK. There are numerous ways to enjoy this creamy dairy product, including mixing it with fresh fruit for breakfast or simply enjoying after dinner as a light dessert. Its wonderfully versatile and can be eaten at just about any time of the day, so its no wonder we Brits love it so much!

Its also commonplace to offer the lid to our four-legged friends when we crack open a fresh pot. But, can dogs eat yogurt? Should we be letting them lick the lid or offering them the spoon of yogurt to sample?

Can dogs eat yogurt?

While yogurt isnt actually toxic for dogs, we would advise against offering it to your pooch, as many dogs are actually lactose intolerant! Lactose intolerance is when a dog (or human) has a deficiency in the enzymes they require to break down and digest milk and dairy products including yogurt.

While most puppies will have these enzymes in order to break down their mothers milk, many adult dogs dont produce enough of these enzymes as they become older, which means they will develop digestive signs when they consume dairy products. These can include a sore, uncomfortable tummy as well as vomiting and diarrhoea. In addition to this there are some varieties of yogurt that contain additives which are unsafe for your dog and best avoided at all times. So, as a general rule, its best to avoid feeding yogurt to your dogs, as there are much safer tasty snacks to be had!

To learn more about giving your dogs dairy products, our guide on 'Can dogs eat cheese' will ensure you are making the right decision to maintain your dog's healthy diet.

Is yogurt good for dogs?

Yogurt does contain calcium and protein, and some varieties also have probiotics which are good for the digestive system. However, many yogurts also contain lots of added sugars, flavourings and sweeteners including xylitol which is highly toxic to dogs and can cause liver failure.

If you are wondering whether your dogs health would benefit from yogurt, you can rest assured that you can give your pup all the nutrients they need by simply feeding them a high-quality diet. If you want to give yogurt to your dog because of its probiotic content, its safer to go for a clinically proven probiotic that is aimed specifically at dogs. For example, our PRO PLAN FortiFlora Probiotic Dog Supplement has been scientifically developed with your four-legged friend in mind and is proven to support a healthy immune system. However, before giving your dog any form of supplement its a good idea to check in with your vet so they can recommend the right amount to offer your pup and advise on whether its right for them to begin with.

It's also worth noting that yogurt generally has a high fat content which could cause a stomach upset, and some dogs who eat a high-fat diet can develop pancreatitis, a life-threatening condition.

Now you know the answer to can dogs eat yogurt! Want to find out more about what your dog can eat?

Whilst your dog may seem to be interested in many different foods, it is important to make sure you are making the right decisions when you are treating your dog with options they may not usually eat. This is why we have useful guides on giving your dog mushrooms, and eggs and even learn if they can have ice cream, next.

Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can or Cant Eat

Its not uncommon to want to spoil your dog by sharing your favorite people food snack instead of a dog treat. After all, if it is safe for you to eat, it must be OK for your dog to eat, right? Not necessarily. While many people foods are perfectly safe for dogs, some are very unhealthy and downright dangerous, so its critical to learn which fruits and vegetables dogs can eat.

Dogs digest foods differently than humans do, and eating the wrong foods can lead dogs to long-term health problems and, in extreme cases, even death. As omnivores, dogs have no real need for fruits or vegetables as part of their diet, but giving dog-safe fruit or vegetables to dogs as a treat or snack is OK. Fresh dog foods often include vegetables and fruits in diets formulated for dogs because they offer a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Read on to find out which fruits and vegetables are OK for sharing in moderation and which should be avoided.

Fruits Dogs Can and Cant Eat

ApplesYes, dogs can eat apples. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber for your dog. They are low in protein and fat, making them the perfect snack for senior dogs. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core first. Try them frozen for an icy warm weather snack. You can also find it as an ingredient in apple-flavored dog treats.

AvocadoNo, dogs should avoid avocado. While avocado may be a healthy snack for dog owners, it should not be given to dogs. The pit, skin, and leaves of avocados contain persin, a toxin that often causes vomiting and diarrheain dogs. The fleshy inside of the avocado fruit doesnt have as much persin as the rest of the plant, but it still can be too much for dogs to handle. Avocado flesh is also high in fat, which can cause gastroinsestinal upset for dogs, or contribute to health conditions like pancreatitis if too much is consumed. Your dog can still enjoy the benefits of avocado if you look for dog treats for skin and coat that include avocado in the ingredients.

BananasYes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. Theyre high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dogs main diet. (You can also find banana dog treats that never get overripe!)

BlueberriesYes, dogs can eat blueberries. Blueberries are a superfood rich in antioxidants, which prevent cell damage in humans and canines alike. Theyre packed with fiber and phytochemicals as well. Teaching your dog to catch treats in the air? Try blueberries! The powerhouse fruit is a popular ingredient for blueberry dog treats, sometimes in combination with other superfoods like yogurt.

CantaloupeYes, cantaloupe is safe for dogs. Cantaloupe is packed with nutrients, low in calories, and a great source of water and fiber. It is, however, high in sugar, so should be shared in moderation, especially for dogs who are overweight or have diabetes. Try freezing balls or cubes of cantaloupe for your dog for a refreshing summertime enrichment snack.

CherriesNo, dogs should not eat cherries. With the exception of the fleshy fruit around the seed, cherry plants contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs. Cyanide disrupts cellular oxygen transport, which means that your dogs blood cells cant get enough oxygen. If you have a cherry tree in your yard, be sure your dog doesnt have free access to fallen fruit. If your dog eats cherries whole or cherry pits, watch for dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and red gums, as these may be signs of cyanide poisoning, which is a veterinary emergency. If youre enjoying cherries yourself, be sure to secure the discarded pits in a dog-proof trash can or trash bin that your dog cant access, and let kids know not to share their cherries or cherry pits with your dog. To allow your dog to safely experience the antioxidant benefits that cherries have, choose cherry dog treats formulated for your friend.

CranberriesYes, cranberries are safe for dogs to eat. Both cranberries and dried cranberries are safe to feed to dogs in small quantities. Whether your dog will actually like this tart treat is another question. Either way, moderation is important when feeding cranberries to dogs, as with any treat, as too many cranberries can lead to an upset stomach. Its also worth noting that many dried cranberries sold for people to eat are sweetened, so giving them to your dog is adding unneeded sugar to their diet. Instead, if your dog craves the tangy taste of cranberries, opt for unsweetened fresh or frozen fruits, or pick up some crunchy cranberry dog treats.

CucumbersYes, dogs can eat cucumbers. Cucumbers are especially good for overweight dogs, as they hold little to no carbohydrates or fat, and they are full of satiating hydration. Theyre loaded with vitamins K, C, and B1, as well as potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin. Cool cucumbers are an excellent hot weather treat if your dog enjoys them, and you can even freeze slices for a fun enrichment snack.

GrapesNo, dogs should never eat grapes. If you think your dog has eaten grapes, call your veterinarian. Grapes and raisins (dried grapes) have proved to be very toxic for dogs no matter the dogs breed, sex, or age. In fact, grapes are so toxic that they can lead to acute sudden kidney failure. Always be mindful of this dangerous fruit around dogs, especially if you have children who eat grapes or raisins in your home. If youre throwing away grapes or raisins, dont put them in a compost heap your dog has access to, and be sure your trash can is designed to be dog-proof or (for those crafty problem-solving dogs) placed where your dog cant access it.

MangoYes, dogs can eat mangoes. This sweet and juicy tropical treat is packed with four different vitamins: A, B6, C, and E. Mangoes also have potassium and both beta-carotene and alpha-carotene. Just remember, as with most fruits, remove the hard pit first, as it contains small amounts of cyanide and can become a choking hazard. Mango is high in sugar, so use it as an occasional treat, especially for dogs who struggle with weight. A less messy option for getting the benefits of mangos superfood nutrients is a chewy mango dog treat.

OrangesYes, dogs can eat oranges. Oranges are fine for dogs to eat, according to veterinarians, but its common for dogs to be turned off by any kind of strong citrus smells or tastes. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, and in small quantities, the juicy flesh of an orange can be a tasty treat for your dog. Vets do recommend tossing the orange peel and only offering your dog the flesh of the orange, minus any seeds. Orange peel is rough on their digestive systems, and the oils may make your dog literally turn up their sensitive nose. If your dog isnt a fan of fresh citrus, there are a few dog treats with oranges to choose from.

PeachesYes, peaches are safe for dogs to eat. Small amounts of cut-up fresh or frozen peaches are a great source of fiber and vitamin A, but just like cherries, the pit contains cyanide. As long as you completely cut the flesh away from the peach pit, then fresh peach flesh can be a great summer treat. Be sure the pits are safely discarded in dog-safe trash receptacles. Skip canned peaches, as they usually contain high amounts of sugary syrups. Even canned or jarred peaches in natural juice have more sugar than any dog needs. Frozen peach slices can be a fun, hot-weather enrichment snack for dogs.

PearsYes, dogs can eat pears. Pears are a great snack because theyre high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. If youre sharing pears with your dog, just be sure to cut the pear flesh into bite-size chunks and remove the pit and seeds first, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide. Skip canned or jarred pears with sugary syrups, even the ones labeled in their own juice. You can also find pear dog treats with other functional ingredients like duck or salmon.

PineappleYes, pineapple is safe for dogs to eat. A few chunks of pineapple are a great sweet treat for dogs, as long as the prickly outside peel and crown are removed first. The tropical fruit is full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that makes it easier for dogs to absorb proteins. As with other fruits, dont choose canned or packaged pineapple in sweetened syrups, as dogs dont need added sugars in their diets, especially if theyre prone to obesity. You can also find pineapple dog treats for a taste of the islands on the go.

PumpkinYes, pure pumpkin is a healthy food for dogs. Pumpkin is full of antioxidants, but its superpower is that it works to relieve both diarrhea and constipation in dogs. If youre buying canned pumpkin, always choose 100% pumpkin puree, or you can also roast pumpkin in the oven yourself and feed the peeled pumpkin flesh to your dog. There are also many pumpkin supplements and pumpkin dog treats for dogs to enjoy.

RaspberriesYes, dogs can eat raspberries. Raspberries are safe for dogs in moderation. They contain antioxidants that are great for dogs. Theyre low in sugar and calories, but high in fiber, manganese, and vitamin C. Raspberries are especially good for senior dogs because they have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help aging joints. However, they do contain small, naturally occurring amounts of xylitol, so limit your dog to no more than eight ounces of fresh or frozen raspberries at any one time. Or, just choose a dog treat that includes raspberry as an ingredient.

StrawberriesYes, dogs can eat strawberries. Strawberries are full of fiber and vitamin C. Along with that, they also contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dogs teeth as he or she eats them. Like all fruits, strawberries contain natural sugar, so offer them in moderation. Frozen strawberries can be a fun enrichment treat for dogs. (Or you could just eat the strawberries yourself and hide your dogs favorite training treat in this cute strawberry-shaped snuffle mat instead!)

TomatoesNo, dogs should avoid tomatoes. While the ripened flesh of the tomato fruit is generally safe for dogs, the green parts of the tomato plant contain a toxic substance called solanine. A dog would need to eat a large amount of the tomato plant to make him or her sick, but its better to skip tomatoes all together just to be safe. If your dog likes to explore your vegetable garden, be sure to prevent them from having access to your tomato plants. You can find dog-safe tomato treats if your dog loves the flavor or ripe, antioxidant-rich tomatoes.

WatermelonYes, dogs can eat watermelon. Its important to remove the rind and seeds first, as they can cause intestinal blockage, but watermelon flesh is otherwise safe for dogs. Its full of vitamin A, B-6, and C, as well as potassium. Watermelon is 92 percent water, so its a great way to help keep your dog hydrated on hot summer days. Freeze chunks of seeded watermelon for a fun hot-weather enrichment treat for your dog. (You can even find watermelon-flavored dog treats!)

Vegetables Dogs Can and Cant Eat

AsparagusNo, dogs should not eat asparagus. While asparagus isnt necessarily unsafe for dogs, theres really no benefit to feeding it to them. Its too tough to be eaten raw, and by the time you cook it down so its soft enough for dogs to eat, asparagus loses much of its nutritional value. If you really want to share a veggie with your dog, there are plenty of other options that would be a better choice. But, if your dog really loves asparagus for some reason, it wont harm them to eat it.

BroccoliYes, broccoli is safe for dogs to eat in small amounts, and is best served as an occasional treat. It is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat. However, broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause mild-to-potentially-severe gastric irritation in some dogs. Tough broccoli stalks have been known to cause obstruction in the esophagus in dogs. So, if your dog likes broccoli, its better to offer them cooked broccoli to help avoid these issues. (Or, let them gnaw on a broccoli-shaped dog chew toy while you dig in to your beef & broccoli takeout.)

Brussels SproutsYes, dogs can eat Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that are great for humans and dogs, alike. Dont overfeed them to your dog, however, because they can cause lots and lots of gas. Cabbage is also safe for dogssince Brussels sprouts are basically tiny cabbagesbut sharing cabbage with your dog comes with the same flatulence flag. Dont say we didnt warn you! If your dog is a big fan of Brussels sprouts or cabbage, and youre cool with the results, you might want to consider some dehydrated dog foods that include these leafy greens as a component.

CarrotsYes, dogs can eat carrots. Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack that is high in fiber and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. Plus, crunching on this orange root vegetable is great for your dogs teeth. Carrots are included as an ingredient in many dog foods as well as plenty of carrot dog treats.

CeleryYes, celery is safe for dogs to eat. In addition to vitamins A, B, and C, this crunchy green snack contains the nutrients needed to promote a healthy heart and possibly fight cancer. As if that wasnt enough, celery is also known to freshen doggy breath. Find celery dog chews for an option any dog would enjoy.

Green beansYes, dogs can eat green beans. Chopped, steamed, raw, or canned all types of green beans are safe for dogs to eat, as long as they are plain. Green beans are full of important vitamins and minerals and theyre also full of fiber and low in calories. Opt for no-salt canned green beans for dogs for adding to food, or frozen green beans can be fun enrichment snacks.

MushroomsNo, dogs should avoid mushrooms. Wild mushrooms can be toxic for dogs. While only 50-100 of the 50,000 mushroom species worldwide are known to be toxic, the ones that are poisonous can really hurt your dog or even lead to death. While wild mushrooms are always a solid no, washed mushrooms purchased from the supermarket for human consumption are generally fine for dogs.

OnionsNo, dogs should never eat onions. If you think your dog has eaten onions, call your veterinarian. Onions, leeks, and chives are part of a family of plants called Allium that is poisonous to most pets, and especially cats. Eating onions can cause your dogs red blood cells to rupture, and can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Poisoning from onions is more serious in Japanese breeds of dogs like Akitas and Shiba Inus, but all dogs are very susceptible to it. If you have children in your household, be sure they arent sharing foods with onions with your dog, and secure your onion food scraps or leftovers where your dog cannot access them.

PeasYes, dogs can eat peas. Green peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, and garden or English peas are all OK for dogs to find in their bowl on occasion. Peas have several vitamins, minerals, and are rich in protein and high in fiber. You can feed your dog fresh or frozen peas, but avoid canned peas with added sodium.

SpinachYes, dogscaneat spinach, but its not one of the top vegetables youll want to be sharing with you pup. Spinach is high in oxalic acid, which blocks the bodys ability to absorb calcium and can lead to kidney damage. While your dog would probably have to eat a very large amount of spinach to have this problem, it might be best to go with another vegetable. If you want to give your dog the benefits of the leafy green, you can find spinach dog treats for an occasional snack.