Can Dogs Have Lactose-Free Yogurt?

Yes, most dogs can have lactose-free yogurt, but keep the following in mind:

  • Always pay attention to the full ingredient list. For example, the artificial sweetener Xylitol is toxic to dogs. So make sure the yogurt is as natural as possible!
  • All dogs are unique, so your dog could have an intolerance to lactose free yogurt. You’ll know when you check their poo after they had some yogurt. If you have any concerns about this it’s best to consult your vet!

Are dogs lactose intolerant?

Yes, some dogs are lactose intolerant, but not all of them.

Lactose is found in milk, and dogs need an enzyme called “lactase” to break down “lactose”.

Puppies have a lot of this enzyme so they can drink milk from their mothers.

But when a puppy grows, they may produce less lactase. This can mean that it is hard for them to break down lactose. Then the puppy may have an intolerance to lactose.

dog licking yogurt
Image: Chris Slupski on Unsplash

What kind of yogurt can I give my dog?

It’s best to give plain, natural yogurt to your dog. Check the ingredient list to make sure the yogurt does not contain artificial sweeteners or preservatives.

If your dog is lactose intolerant, look for a plain, lactose free yogurt.

Can dogs eat lactose free strawberry yogurt?

No, it’s best to not feed your dog flavoured yogurts. They often contain ingredients that aren’t good for your dog.

You can, however, make your dog home-made strawberry yogurt from plain yogurt and fresh strawberries. But take it easy on the amount of strawberries you add, as they contain fruit sugar, which shouldn’t make up a huge amount of your pets diet.

How much yogurt do I give my dog?

It’s best to think of yogurt as a treat for your dog. It’s typically fine in small amounts but should not be given excessively.

If you have concerns or questions about giving your dog yogurt, it’s best to discuss the topic with your vet.

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