Is Yogurt Okay for Dogs? Plus: A Tasty Treat For YoDoggy

• • Pets love yogurt!
  • Find out what experts say about yogurt for furry friends
  • Recipes for yogurt-powered pet biscuits!

We can see on social media that many of our fans have furry friends who love yogurt too! So what’s the deal, is yogurt good for your dog? We always encourage people to check with their veterinarian for what’s appropriate for their pet. For those of you who like to do their own research too, we’ve provided some resources below. 

When you’re ready, check out these Stonyfield Organic-powered recipes for yogurt-based pet treats!

Yogurt: Asking the Experts

From: Modern Dog: “DIY Eat: Why You Should Give Your Dog Yogurt“

“Dr. Martin Goldstein, author of ‘The Nature of Animal Healing,’ says that healing all starts with food. He writes of yogurt, ‘Just as it helps us by providing friendly bacteria for our digestive tracts, so it helps pets, especially those with gas or diarrhea, and should definitely be given in conjunction with antibiotics for digestive support.’ 

Adding yogurt to our dogs’ diet provides them with a valuable source of protein and calcium, along with … potassium, vitamin D, and [live and active cultures]. 

If your dog has been prescribed antibiotics … a dollop of yogurt can help to restore healthy intestinal flora thanks to strains of healthy bacteria that include Lactobacillus bulgaricus, Streptococcus thermophilus, Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidus, and Lactobacillus [paracasei]. It’s no wonder that yogurt is considered one of the world’s super foods.”

From: Whole Dog Journal: “Probiotics Boost Canine Overall Health“

“Give probiotics to any dog under chronic or acute stress, or who receives antibiotics.

For dogs with allergies or digestive problems, use a variety of probiotics with several strains of benefical bacteria.

When buying food sources of probiotics, look for the freshest products possible. The [live and active cultures] in products such as yogurt … [may] lose potency as they sit on shelves.”

Dogs can be sensitive to lactose, but Whole Dog Journal also points out, “Yogurt and cottage cheese are low in lactose and are good to feed.”

From: PetMD: “Healthy Foods Checklist: Yogurt for Dogs“

“Plain, low or non-fat yogurt provides probiotic benefits and serves as an excellent source of calcium for our canine companions. Adding a small spoonful of yogurt to your dog’s regular kibble at mealtime can provide digestive benefits and even help your dog stay full longer.

…Avoid flavored yogurts that are packed with sugar, and never feed yogurt that contains the ingredient xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is toxic for dogs. It’s also important to avoid yogurt that is chocolate flavored, since chocolate is also poisonous to dogs.

…Some dogs have a harder time digesting dairy products, so keep an eye out for any signs of lactose intolerance. These may include diarrhea, gas, and vomiting. If your dog displays any of these symptoms following yogurt consumption, follow up with your veterinarian.”

DIY Yogurt Biscuits!

Nothing gets the tails wagging like a pet biscuit, which means it’s time to bake! Check out this yogurt-powered treat for your dog. Great for gifts!

YoDoggy Biscuits

Ingredients

• 1 c quick oats
• ¾ c cornmeal
• 2 beef stock cubes (crushed)
• ½ c warm water
• 1 egg (beaten)
• ½ c Stonyfield Organic Lowfat Plain Yogurt
• ½ c shredded cheddar
• 2 c whole wheat flour
• 1/2-3/4 cup water

Steps

1. Preheat oven to 350°. Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, cornmeal and crushed stock cubes.
3. Add ½ cup warm water and stir to moisten. Let stand 10 minutes.
4. Add the beaten egg, yogurt and shredded cheddar. Stir until well blended.
5. Stir in flour. Add only as much water to make a rollable dough. I had to use ¾ cup, but conditions may be such that you would use less (high humidity being one).
6. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to ¼-inch thickness. Using dog bone cookie cutter or a 2.5-inch diameter glass, cut biscuits. Place on prepared sheets.
7. Gather up scraps, roll and repeat until all dough is used.
8. Bake at 350° for 30-35 minutes. Turn off oven, leaving biscuits in oven to cool completely (this dehydrates them for better storage).
9. Store in a covered container.

Yield varies by how big a shape is cut. A “medium” bone-shaped biscuit cutter = 36 biscuits.

This recipe was adapted from http://bakeatmidnite.com/greek-yogurt-dog-biscuits

Note that the views and opinions expressed in this post are solely that of authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions and views of Stonyfield. The content provided and in any linked materials are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If you have any questions about your pet’s health or nutrition, we always think it’s best to consult with your veterinarian.