best yogurt for dogs on antibiotics
The 5 Best Yogurts For Dogs | Yummy Probiotics For Your Pooch!
Searching for a new way to spoil Spot? Yogurt can serve as an excellent treat or food-topper for dogs, and it may even provide health benefits in some cases.
Well share everything you need to know about yogurt for dogs below along with some of our favorite options available to share with your four-footer.
- #1 Seven Stars Yogurt [Best Regular Yogurt for Dogs] Certified organic by the USDA and made without GMOs, this is the best all-around yogurt for most dogs.
- #2 365 Organic Greek Yogurt [Best Greek Yogurt for Dogs] An organic Greek yogurt fortified with five probiotic strains and made by a brand you trust.
- #3 Happy Belly Greek Yogurt [Most Affordable Yogurt for Dogs] Packed with protein and made with only grade-A skim milk, this is an excellent option for cost-conscious canine owners.
Is Yogurt Safe for Dogs?
In general, plain, unsweetened yogurt is one of the foods that you can share with your dog safely.
That said, not all yogurt is safe for your furry friend. So, here are a couple of key pointers to keep in mind before feeding Fido some of this delightful dairy delicacy:
- Keep it simple. Look for yogurt that is totally plain without added flavoring, sweeteners, or sugar. Its also a good idea to seek out yogurt that has lots of live cultures (aka beneficial bacteria or probiotics).
- Stay clear of toxins. Remember to steer clear of any ingredients that can be toxic to your dog. This includes but is not limited to grapes, nuts, chocolate, xylitol, and sugar.
- Dont use diet versions. Diet versions of yogurt sometimes contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Instead, focus on limiting your dogs plain, full yogurt intake according to your veterinarians recommendations.
- Monitor calories. Dont forget that yogurt and any other treats should count towards your canines daily caloric intake.
- Keep an eye on fat content. Youll want to keep an eye on the yogurts fat content as well, particularly if your pooch is overweight. Generally speaking, yogurt should be served in small quantities.
- Go for Greek. Greek yogurt has less lactose, so many dogs are able to digest it easier. Its also more nutritious and has thicker texture that many pooches prefer, so its a better buy overall.
Why Give Your Dog Yogurt, Anyway? Is Yogurt Nutritious For Dogs?
When consumed in reasonable amounts, yogurt can be nutritious for your pooch and even help alleviate digestive issues. Some of the health benefits yogurt provides dogs include:
- Supports digestion The probiotics found in yogurt can help support Spots healthy digestion.
- Good source of protein Yogurt is an excellent source of protein for helping your hound maintain his muscles and stay energized.
- Packed With Calcium Calcium helps your canine build strong bones and teeth. Thankfully, yogurt has plenty of this essential nutrient so you dont have to worry about dog calcium supplements.
- Control Cholesterol Levels Yogurt can help reduce cholesterol levels for dogs struggling with hyperlipidemia.
- Yummy Dont forget that yogurt is just a tasty treat! And ensuring that our dogs get the chance to enjoy some safe and nutritious foods from time to time is important.
While yogurt does have its benefits, it may not be the best fit for some dogs due to its dairy content; unfortunately, most dogs are lactose intolerant. That said, the bacteria contained in yogurt can actually allow some dogs to digest it more easily than some other dairy products.
Youll just have to see how your individual doggo handles it.
Bottom line: Yogurt may be a good occasional treat or meal topper for your pooch, but check with your vet before adding it to your dogs diet.Also, when you are introducing yogurt into your dogs diet, be sure to do so slowly and steadily.
The Five Best Yogurts for Dogs
Without further ado, here are five of the best yogurts for dogs.
While these arent the only options available, these yogurts are pooch-approved due to their minimal ingredient list, lack of added sweeteners, and abundance of active cultures. Just remember to stick to dog-safe recipes when picking a yogurt for your floof if you stray from our recommendations.
1. Seven Stars Yogurt
Best Regular Yogurt for Dogs
Seven Stars Yogurt
USDA-certified organic, low-fat, plain yogurt thats packed with plenty of probiotics.
About: If you cant find a suitable Greek yogurt option for your four-footer, this regular yogurt from Seven Stars Dairy is the next best thing. The organic yogurt is made with just whole milk and probiotics making a pure treat for your pooch.
Features:
- Organic, non-GMO yogurt option
- Yogurt comes in a generous 2-pound container
- Plain yogurt has 8 grams of protein per serving
- Added probiotics and active cultures help support doggie digestion
Pros
- Users were impressed with the consistent quality of this yogurt
- Contains added probiotics
Cons
- This yogurt naturally produces a collection of cream, or a cream line towards the top of the product. While this can be mixed in to adjust consistency, some dogs may prefer a different texture.
2. 365 Organic Greek Yogurt
Best Greek Yogurt for Dogs
365 Organic Greek Yogurt
Plain, affordably priced, organic Greek yogurt featuring five live probiotic cultures.
About: This organic Greek yogurt from 365 by Whole Foods is an excellent, plain yogurt option at an affordable price. With 16 grams of protein and no fat, this is a nutritious option that is sure to get your pups tail wagging.
Features:
- 2 pounds of organic, Greek yogurt derived from nonfat milk
- Features five different active and live cultures
- 16 grams of protein per serving
- Affordable price point for pure, Greek yogurt
Pros
- Customers loved the consistent quality and texture of this yogurt
- Organic yogurt features five active cultures
Cons
- This yogurt had very few critical reviews, though it may have a thinner texture than other Greek yogurt options since its derived from non-fat milk, which some pups may not enjoy as much
3. Chobani Non-Fat Greek Yogurt
Best Low-Fat Yogurt for Dogs
Chobani Non-Fat Greek Yogurt
Non-GMO, low-fat Greek yogurt with 19 grams of protein per serving.
About: While its important to stay away from diet or light versions of yogurt since they may contain artificial sweeteners toxic to dogs, a low-fat yogurt can be ideal for pups with weight concerns. This low-fat yogurt from Chobani is perfect for pups looking to pack in some protein without the excess fat.
Features:
- Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt
- 19 grams of protein per serving
- Processed from non-fat milk with added cultures
- Non-GMO yogurt with no added ingredients
- Large 2-pound container of yogurt
Pros
- Thick and creamy texture is great for pups
- Great Greek yogurt option for dogs with weight issues
Cons
- Some users found that this Greek yogurt was thinner than other Greek options, though this is to be somewhat expected, given that its a low-fat product.
4. Siggis Whole Milk Yogurt
Best Protein-Packed Yogurt for Dogs
Siggis Whole Milk Yogurt
Plain, whole milk yogurt loaded with 25 grams of protein per serving.
About: This yogurt from Siggis is made with whole milk giving it an ultra-thick, creamy texture. The yogurt is packed with 25 grams of protein per serving and five active probiotic cultures.
Features:
- Thick, whole milk yogurt has creamy consistency most pups love
- 25 grams of protein per serving
- Yogurt features five active cultures
- Non-GMO yogurt comes in large 1.5-pound container
Pros
- Whole milk yogurt has notably thicker texture which some dogs may prefer
- Yogurt is protein packed with 25 grams of protein per serving
Cons
- This yogurt comes with the a higher fat content than other yogurt options
5. Happy Belly Greek Yogurt
Most Affordable Yogurt for Dogs
Happy Belly Greek Yogurt
Protein-packed and affordable yogurt made from grade-A nonfat milk.
About: This affordable Greek yogurt from Happy Belly is super affordable and perfect for introducing yogurt into your dogs diet. The 5.3-ounce cups are made solely from grade-A nonfat milk.
Features:
- Small sized 5.3-ounce cups for convenience
- Made from a single ingredient (nonfat milk)
- Protein-packed affordable snack
- Compact container is easier to take on the go
Pros
- Compact container is great for testing whether or not this yogurt is a good fit for your pooch.
- Non-fat yogurt is derived from just milk and includes 15 grams of protein per serving
Cons
- There are no added active cultures to this yogurt.
How Much Yogurt Should I Give My Dog?
The ideal serving size for Spot depends heavily on his size, diet, underlying health issues, and activity level. Therefore, its best to consult your veterinarian to obtain a personalized recommendation for your pooch.
But generally speaking, yogurt shouldnt take up more than 5 to 10 percent of your dogs daily caloric intake (assuming your doggo doesnt get other tasty treats your pooch shouldnt get more than 10 percent of his daily calories from anything besides good ol dog food).
Because your pooch probably wont be consuming more than a tablespoon or two on a daily basis, there are a number of ways to incorporate yogurt into his diet. Here are a few ideas:
- Pupsicles You can freeze yogurt to create a fun frozen treat for your furry friend. You can also use yogurt to make DIY doggie ice cream to cool off your canine.
- Topper If your pooch isnt crazy about his dry food, you could add a small spoonful of plain, unsweetened yogurt to the top of his bowl to liven things up.Yogurt is a great bonus ingredient to mix with dry kibble to make your pups eats a little more exciting.
- In Pupcakes Yogurt is included in many dog cake pops, homemade dog cupcakes (aka pupcake), and other canine-friendly treats as a cake ingredient or a simple frosting for Fido.
- Sweetening The Deal If your dog doesnt enjoy taking his daily supplement or medication(s), disguising it within a spoonful of yogurt can entice him to gobble it down without issue.
- As A Treat You can also serve plain, unsweetened yogurt directly to your four-footer as a treat. You can also use it to fill a KONG, or put it on a lickimat for extra pooch enrichment.
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Yogurt can serve as a delicious, nutritious treat for your furry friend. Just be sure to select a dog-safe formula and adhere to your veterinarians recommended feeding instructions.
Does your dog enjoy yogurt? Whats his favorite way to chow down on this tasty treat? Wed love to hear all about it in the comments below!
FAQs About Dogs Eating Yogurt
Can dogs eat yogurt?
Yes, dogs can eat yogurt. Many dogs have some kind of lactose intolerance though, so while a bit of yogurt can make a great snack for a dog, you wont want to go overboard and give your dog too much yogurt. When choosing a yogurt for dogs, choose plain yogurt without added flavoring, sweeteners, or sugar.
Can dogs eat greek yogurt?
Yes, dogs can eat greek yogurt. In fact, greek yogurt is the best yogurt for dogs to eat since it contains less lactose than non-greek yogurt.
Can dogs eat plan yogurt?
Yes, plain yogurt is the best option for dogs. You want to avoid any yogurt with added flavoring, sugar, or fake sweeteners. The plainer, the better! Also avoid fat-free or low-fat varieties, as these often have added sweeteners that can be toxic for dogs.
Can puppies have yogurt?
Yes, puppies can have yogurt, but only give them a small amount since most pups have trouble digesting lactose.
Is Yogurt Good for Dogs on Antibiotics? Quick Answer
This article will explain all the questions that may arise in your mind regarding yogurts benefits and side effects on dogs.
If your dog is on antibiotics, you might be wondering if yogurt is good for him. But what exactly is yogurt good for dogs? And is yogurt good for dogs while on antibiotics?
Lets answer these questions one by one. Read on to learn more. This article will explain the benefits and safety of yogurt for dogs.Can Dogs Eat Yogurt?
A dog on antibiotics can safely consume yogurt. The bacteria in the yogurt help the dogs digestive system and can increase its immune system. While yogurt is high in lactose, which can be harmful to dogs, it contains beneficial nutrients for dogs.
It also contains high amounts of calcium, protein, zinc, and other nutrients that aid in growth, development, and physiological processes. A dog can eat yogurt as a treat or add it to kibble.If your dog is taking antibiotics for diarrhea, a daily serving of yogurt can help the digestive system. The acidophilus in yogurt can alleviate indigestion in dogs, but its important to keep in mind that many dogs cannot tolerate dairy products.
If you notice any stomach upset or flatulent digestion after introducing yogurt to your dog, reduce the serving size. And, if you suspect your dog has lactose intolerance, skip the yogurt entirely.How Does Yogurt Treat Digestive Problems in Dogs?
Many dog owners have come across the issue of how to treat diarrhea. You may have read about yogurts potential benefits on dogs in online forums, but is it really a good treatment?
Here are some pros and cons of yogurt. First, its not a cure-all. It may only relieve diarrhea and not balance the bacteria in the digestive tract. Its not the best option for all dogs, though.Lactose, a naturally occurring sugar found in yogurt, is not a good choice for dogs with gastrointestinal issues.
Most dogs arent capable of producing this enzyme, and the result is a buildup of lactose. This buildup in the digestive tract can lead to gas, diarrhea, and bloating, and may eventually lead to pancreatitis.
Although some dogs may tolerate small amounts of yogurt, some cant. A dogs digestive system may be able to handle a little bit of yogurt, but its important to watch for potential toxicity from the bacteria.Does Yogurt Provide Good Bacteria to Dogs?
Is yogurt good for dogs on antibiotics? Yes! Yogurt is a great source of probiotics, the beneficial bacteria that our bodies need in order to function.
Although the digestive process can be unpleasant, yogurt can actually help soothe your dogs upset stomach. But, not all yogurts are created equal.
Some contain harmful ingredients, including xylitol, which is harmful to dogs. It is best to look for plain yogurt with live cultures and milk solids.Some brands of yogurt contain live cultures, which are necessary for the good bacteria in our bodies. It is best to buy yogurt with live cultures as pasteurizing destroys enzymes and bacteria.
Also, make sure to choose a yogurt that is unsweetened and without artificial sweeteners. Other sources of live probiotics include fermented foods like raw goat milk, tempeh, and vegetables. Probiotic powders are often available in packet form and can be fed to dogs.Yogurt for Dogs During Antibiotic Treatment
Although there are few scientific studies on the benefits of yogurt for dogs on antibiotics, yogurt can be beneficial for dogs that have certain health conditions. Moreover, dogs on antibiotics may also benefit from the probiotic boost that yogurt can offer.
Antibiotics destroy all bacteria, including good ones. Probiotic foods can help your dogs gut remain healthy. If you give yogurt to your dog, make sure to do so two hours before the antibiotic.For a healthy digestive system, your dog should eat plain Greek yogurt without any added sugars or flavorings.
Greek yogurt contains significantly less lactose than regular yogurt. Another good choice is kefir, a smooth cousin of yogurt. Kefir contains no sugar and is low in lactose.
Avoid sugar-free yogurt, which often contains xylitol, which is toxic to dogs and is not recommended.Does Yogurt a Good Source of Probiotics for Dogs?
Greek yogurt is a healthy treat for your dog, but be careful with the sugars in it. Greek yogurt contains double the protein of regular yogurt, but less sugar and salt.
Yogurt is safe for your dog if it is plain, and you should avoid artificial sweeteners, including sucralose, which is dangerous for dogs. Greek yogurt also contains live active bacteria, which promote digestive balance.Luckily, there are many ways to get probiotics into your dogs diet. Your veterinarian can recommend a regimen that is safe for your dog.
He or she will also recommend green tripe, the nutrient-rich lining of ruminants stomachs. Green tripe contains beneficial bacteria and enzymes that dogs can easily digest.
You can even get probiotics through green tripe, which is commonly found in foods.