Are yoghurts good for your dog? Read on and know more about yoghurt and dogs from trusted pet trainers in UAE, Pets Kingdom.

There has been a growing interest in feeding dogs with natural food products. Yoghurt is one of the most favoured options. Yoghurt is good for dogs because it aids in better digestion of food and at the same time, helps in treating different dog ailments. So if you are asking, ‘can dog eat yoghurt’, the answer is a definite yes, states Pets Kingdom. One of the leading pets grooming and trainers in Saudi Arabia explains why Yoghurts are good for your puppies or dogs.

If it is your first time to feed your dog with yoghurt, ideally, start with a small amount to avoid stomach upset. The right quantity is one teaspoon for a puppy and one tablespoon for a medium-sized dog. Yoghurt is perfect for dogs as it is a natural source of protein, calcium, magnesium and potassium. In addition, it has healing bacteria such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, the digestive tracts’ natural inhabitant. It produces niacin and folic acid that are important vitamins that can also help in keeping the digestive system of your dog running in an optimal manner.

Yoghurt has also been found to help in reducing intestinal disorders and at the same time, enhance the consistency of solid wastes, boost overall health and control anxiety. During summertime, give your dog frozen plain yoghurt. It will serve as a nice treat to soothe the gastrointestinal system of your pet. But remember to give it in moderation and essentially, on every alternate day. If you want to put your dog on yoghurt supplements, make sure to check first with your vet.

There are many benefits your dog can get out of eating yoghurt:

• It changes the gut’s microflora
• It enhances your dog’s immunity level
• It reduces levels of cholesterols
• It helps heal certain GI conditions such as diarrhoea, infection, irritable bowel movement and constipation

Before giving your dog any yoghurt, there are important things that you have to consider. Lactase production, an enzyme required to break down lactose is less in dogs. Therefore when dairy products containing lactose are ingested, the digestion of your dog may become difficult and it may result in regurgitation problems. Only unflavored, plain yoghurt should be given to your dog. This is very easy to prepare at home. But if it is too much of a hassle, you can purchase plain varieties of yoghurt in the stores.

Plain yoghurt is a rich source of calcium which is ideal for the bones of your dog. But consider the amount of calcium your dog gets as an overdose may result in abnormalities on the bones. It is very important to check the label to make sure the yoghurt you give your dog has active L. acidophilus, an organism known to aid in the digestion process by inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria.

Some dogs like flavoured yoghurt but it could be high in sugar content, much more than what your dog should be taking. Excess sugar may cause bacterial imbalance. You should avoid giving your dog flavoured yoghurt which contains artificial sweeteners as most dogs are allergic to sugar substitutes that may lead to different side effects like seizures, depression and disorientation.