Can dogs or cats eat yoghurt?

Yoghurt isn't toxic to your canine companion and may even provide some health benefits in moderation. However, proceed carefully - many dogs have trouble digesting foods containing lactose, like yoghurt. Not all yoghurt is safe, even if your dog is relatively tolerant of lactose.

Yoghurt contains probiotics, beneficial bacteria that promote good digestive health by improving the balance of microorganisms in the gut. Probiotics may help alleviate symptoms of diarrhoea, constipation, and other digestive issues. Only feed your pet yoghurt rich with live cultures, like plain Greek-style yoghurt.

Yoghurt is also high in protein and calcium, both important nutrients for maintaining strong bones and muscles.

However, flavoured yoghurt varieties often contain added sugars, which your dog won't like, or even artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

The safest type of yoghurt to feed your dog is plain, unsweetened Greek-style yoghurt with no additives.

When introducing yoghurt into your dog's diet for the first time, start slowly with small amounts and monitor their reaction carefully. Some dogs can tolerate lactose well when they eat yoghurt as an occasional treat or as a supplement to their regular meals. Other dogs may develop diarrhoea or stomach upset if they eat too much at once or regularly in large quantities. Some dogs may have no tolerance for even small amounts of yoghurt, so be observant.

If your dog eats yoghurt and shows signs of illness such as lethargy, diarrhoea, or vomiting, tell your veterinarian immediately. If your dog ever requires veterinary care due to something they ate, dog insurance can help cover the cost of treatment.