Can Dogs Eat Yogurt?
Yes, in small amounts. Plain yogurt with no sugar or sweeteners is usually better tolerated than milk. Never give your dog yogurt with xylitol: it is highly toxic to dogs.
What it gives your dog
During fermentation, yogurt bacteria convert part of the lactose and help digest what remains; that is why many dogs who do not tolerate milk handle a spoonful of yogurt well. It provides protein, calcium and live cultures (Lactobacillus bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus), although its probiotic effect in dogs has not been well demonstrated.
The risk lies in what is added. Flavored, fruit or sweetened yogurts add sugar your dog does not need. "Light" or "sugar-free" yogurts can contain sweeteners, and xylitol (sometimes listed as birch sugar) is especially dangerous: in dogs it triggers a massive release of insulin and a drop in blood sugar from about 0.1 g per kg of body weight, and liver damage at higher doses. Always read the label.
How to serve it
- Plain, unsweetened, unflavored and with no sweeteners (check the ingredient list)
- Ideally nonfat or low-fat; Greek yogurt has quite a bit more fat
- A spoonful over their food, or frozen in ice cube trays as a summer treat
- Plain kefir and plain lactose-free yogurt also work
How much can they eat?
Small dog (under 10 kg / 22 lb): 1-2 tablespoons (15-30 g) a day; medium dog (10-25 kg / 22-55 lb): 2-4 tablespoons (30-60 g); large dog (over 25 kg / 55 lb): half to one 125 g pot (about 1/4-1/2 cup, 60-125 g). The first time, give less, in case it causes soft stools.
Risks
- Xylitol and other sweeteners in "sugar-free" yogurts
- Sugar in flavored or fruit yogurts
- Lactose intolerance: gas or diarrhea
- Greek yogurt or yogurt with cream: lots of fat
- Yogurts with grapes, raisins, chocolate or nuts
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat Greek yogurt?
Yes, but in smaller amounts than regular plain yogurt. Full-fat Greek yogurt is around 10 % fat, about three times more than whole-milk plain yogurt, so in overweight dogs or dogs with a sensitive stomach it can cause diarrhea. If you like the texture, there are nonfat Greek versions. What does not change: no sugar, no flavors and no sweeteners.
Is yogurt good for dogs with diarrhea?
It may help some dogs, but it is not a treatment. Yogurt cultures are not probiotics designed for dogs and their effect on diarrhea has been little studied; also, the remaining lactose can make it worse in intolerant dogs. If you want to support their gut flora, ask your vet about a veterinary probiotic formulated for dogs.
Can puppies eat yogurt?
Yes, a teaspoon of plain unsweetened yogurt now and then, once they eat solid food. It works as a treat or to fill a toy and freeze it, which soothes teething discomfort. Start small, because puppies have sensitive stomachs and not all of them tolerate lactose equally once weaned.
General information reviewed against veterinary sources. If your dog has eaten something that worries you, call your vet or a 24-hour emergency vet right away, without waiting for symptoms.