Can dogs eat yogurt?

The answer is yes! Dogs can eat yogurt.

What kind of yogurt is good for dogs?

Live yogurts are the healthiest for dogs. They contain live bacteria called probiotics. Probiotic yogurts are safe for dogs, and humans alike, and can help with the health of your gut.

Usually, the yogurt packaging will tell you if it contains live bacteria. Look at the ingredients label for 'cultures' or 'live bacteria'. Streptococcus thermophilus and Lactobacillus bulgaricus are other names to look out for.

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Probiotics can help fight yeast infections in dogs, which may cause skin and ear problems, boost immunity, and help your dog’s body absorb nutrients. Yogurts are also packed with calcium and protein.

You can give your dog plain, low fat, full fat, naturally flavoured and frozen yogurts.

But make sure you avoid artificial flavours and sweeteners, particularly Xylitols. Xylitol can be dangerous for dogs, even in small quantities.

Check the ingredients carefully. There may be more sweeteners in yogurts than you'd expect.

Don't give your dog yogurt if you know they're lactose intolerant. If you're not sure, speak to your vet about having your pet tested.

Can I give my dog yogurt every day?

Yogurt can be a daily treat for your dog. But according to Jan Dempsey, senior nutritionist at pet food manufacturer Purina, you should aim for the 10% treat rule. That means that yogurt, along with your dog's other treats, should make up no more than 10% of your dog's calorie intake each day.

The problem with that, according to Purina, if you follow this advice your pet may not receive enough probiotic to be of much health benefit.

If you’re keen to provide probiotics regularly don’t rely on yogurt alone. Have a chat with your vet, who may suggest probiotic supplements or offer specific dietary advice.

You might also want to find out more about the benefits of raw food and other alternative dog diets.

Is frozen yogurt safe for dogs?

Yes, you can feed your dog frozen yogurt. Try buying a probiotic yogurt and freezing it at home as shop bought frozen yogurts can be full of sugar.

Can dogs have Greek yogurt?

Yes, they can. Greek yogurt contains probiotics and is healthy and safe for dogs.

It’s generally thicker than other yogurts because they remove whey during the production process. So if your dog turns its nose up at it, this may be the reason.

Is coconut yogurt good for dogs to eat?

Opinions are divided on whether coconut products are safe for dogs.

The American Kennel Club states that coconut oil contains anti-bacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral components and is good for your dog in small quantities – too much can cause diarrhoea.

Coconut oil can be found in the milk and flesh of coconuts. These are ingredients that you may find in coconut yogurt.

However, both the American Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and the Royal Society of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (RSPCA) New South Wales, Australia, state that coconut oil can cause diarrhoea and stomach upsets, and that coconut water contains potassium, which can also lead to health problems.

We would recommend that before giving your dog coconut yogurt, speak to your vet.

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