Home › Foods for dogs › Yogurt
Can Dogs Eat Yogurt?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Is yogurt safe for dogs?
Yogurt is fermented milk, sold plain or with added flavors. Plain, unsweetened yogurt is fine in small amounts for most dogs, but you must check the label for xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
How to serve yogurt to your dog
- Choose plain, unsweetened yogurt
- Check the ingredient list for xylitol
- Offer just a spoonful
What to avoid
- Any yogurt containing xylitol (dangerous even in small amounts)
- Flavored or sweetened yogurt
- Yogurt if your dog is lactose intolerant
How much yogurt can my dog have?
Treats, including yogurt, should stay under about 10% of your dog's daily calories. As a rough starting point, small dogs can have 1 to 2 bite-size pieces, medium dogs 2 to 4, and large dogs a small handful. Introduce it slowly and do not make it a daily habit.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat yogurt?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding yogurt. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my dog ate too much yogurt?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
How often can my dog have yogurt?
Treat it as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult dog, and less for small ones.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Yogurt?