Can Dogs Eat Yogurt?

Yes, dogs can eat yogurt! The best type of yogurt for dogs is unflavored and unsweetened, and it’s even better if you give them the low-fat version. Yogurt is great for soothing an upset stomach, it’s beneficial to gut health, and it’s rich in calcium and healthy fats.

Greek yogurt is always on my grocery list as I use it for salad dressings, stews, and soups, and I eat it with fruit—I absolutely adore it. My dog loves licking the yogurt cup or the bucket, and he always patiently waits for his treat! I’m okay with giving him Greek yogurt in moderation because I know it’s good for his stomach, and he never has any digestive issues after eating yogurt. If your dog is lactose intolerant, you need to talk to your vet before sharing, but most dogs can tolerate yogurt just fine. Unlike sour cream, which is so high in fat, yogurt can be a light snack for your dog!

Is yogurt good for dogs?

Yogurt can be good for dogs. It’s a great source of protein, probiotics, and of course calcium!

Probiotics, in particular, support your dog’s gut health. What we call “good bacteria” help balance the gut microbiome in your dog’s stomach (the same thing happens with us). A healthy gut microbiome leads to better digestion, improved absorption of nutrients, and, ultimately, a stronger immune system.

Probiotics in yogurt also help with digestive issues like gas, bloating, and even diarrhea.

So, yogurt is good for dogs, but only if you choose plain, unsweetened varieties without harmful additives.

Benefits of yogurt for dogs

Along with supporting the growth of healthy bacteria and promoting healthy digestion, yogurt has other benefits for dogs!

Yogurt is rich in nutrients: It’s a good source of calcium which is important for strong teeth and bones. It’s also high in protein which is important for your dog’s muscle health.

It boosts immune health: Probiotics in yogurt can strengthen your dog’s immune system.

Yogurt soothes upset stomachs: Your dog will enjoy licking some yogurt if they have an upset stomach or can’t eat much. It’s high in healthy fats, so it provides them with the necessary energy.

Should dogs eat yogurt, and how do dogs tolerate lactose?

There’s a common belief that dogs can’t tolerate lactose, but more and more studies prove that most dogs have evolved, just like humans, to be able to eat dairy products. I wrote about this briefly when I analyzed whether dogs can eat Parmesan cheese and found a fascinating study called Whole-Genome Sequencing Reveals Lactase Persistence Adaptation in European Dogs.

The study shows that while it’s true some dogs struggle with digesting dairy due to low levels of lactase, the enzyme needed to digest lactose, many dogs have actually adapted genetically to process dairy! Can you believe that? By living with us, dogs picked up on habits like eating dairy and experienced full genetic adaptations.

Dogs from regions like Europe and the Middle East often have a genetic mutation that allows them to continue producing lactase even as adults, similar to humans who can tolerate dairy. This mutation is present in nearly 92% of European dogs, indicating that many dogs have evolved alongside humans to digest milk and dairy products effectively.

So, back to our question—should dogs eat yogurt? Well, it really depends. Mine does, my parents’ dog eats yogurt, and all the dogs I know enjoy licking yogurt bowls. Yogurt is usually easier for dogs to digest than other dairy products because the fermentation process lowers the lactose content. Plus, the probiotics in yogurt support your dog’s gut health, which is a nice bonus.

Dogs can process yogurt, but some dogs simply can’t tolerate lactose

Not every dog handles dairy the same way. Some might do great with a little yogurt, while others could get an upset stomach. The best approach? Start with a small amount of plain, unsweetened yogurt and see how your dog reacts. Despite what many people think, a lot of dogs can handle lactose just fine, and yogurt can be a healthy, occasional treat.

How to give your dog yogurt

As I mentioned, I like to give my dog a yogurt cup once it’s almost empty so he can play with it and lick it. I also give him some Greek yogurt with his veggies (he usually eats carrots and cooked pumpkin). I always choose plain, unsweetened yogurt that sometimes has 10% fat or more.

If you’re giving your dog yogurt for the first time, you should follow these steps to make sure it all goes okay:

Start small: Give your dog a teaspoon or tablespoon of yogurt, depending on their size, to see how they handle it.

Stick to plain yogurt: Always choose unsweetened, unflavored yogurt without any weird additives or artificial sweeteners—those can be harmful.

Serve as a treat or topper: You can give your dog yogurt on its own, or you can combine it with some dog-friendly fruit like apples, blueberries or bananas.

Don’t overdo it: Too much yogurt can upset your dog’s stomach, so keep it as an occasional snack.

What kind of yogurt can dogs eat?

Not all yogurt is safe for dogs. I’ve already mentioned plain, unsweetened, and unflavored yogurt as the best option. But here’s a breakdown of different types!

Greek yogurt

Dogs can eat Greek yogurt, and it’s one of the best yogurts you can give to your dog (and eat yourself). It’s best when it’s plain and free from all added sugars and extra fruits. It’s quite thick and has a great texture, so it mixes well with lots of cooked vegetables—this can even make a good meal for your dog!

Greek yogurt is high in protein, healthy fats, and probiotics. There are several popular brands out there, each known for different things, but most plain Greek yogurts are safe for dogs.

Now, even though vanilla or strawberry Greek yogurt isn’t toxic to dogs, you shouldn’t give these to your dog. If they find your flavored fruit yogurt and eat some, don’t worry—it’s not the end of the world, and nothing bad will happen to them. But you shouldn’t give these to your dog on purpose.

If you buy sugar-free Greek yogurt, please check the label, as it can’t contain xylitol (a sugar substitute), which is extremely dangerous to dogs.

Let’s look at some brands of Greek yogurt

Almost all famous brands of Greek yogurt have super interesting flavors, but you need to choose the plain ones for your dog!

Chobani Greek yogurt

Dogs can eat Chobani Greek yogurt, as it’s really nice, high-quality, and safe for dogs. They come in so many different flavors, but you need to remember that only unsweetened Chobani Greek yogurt is safe for dogs. Flavored options, like strawberry or vanilla, often have added sugars or artificial sweeteners that are not good for dogs.

Oikos Greek yogurt

Dogs can also eat Oikos Greek yogurt as it’s very rich in protein and has many non-fat options that can be good for your dog. Now, when it comes to Oikos Triple Zero and other yogurts with zero sugar, check their labels before you share them with your dog. They usually have “stevia leaf extract,” which sounds like a safe natural sweetener, but I’m not sure what the “extract” includes or how your dog might react. Again, stick to plain yogurt as the best option!

Fage Greek yogurt

Fage is known for its thick, creamy texture and options like 0% fat yogurt without added sugar, as well as yogurts with more fat. Their plain yogurt options are safe for dogs, but avoid flavored varieties and the fruity Split Cups—they’re not made for dogs.

Non-dairy and lactose-free yogurts

If your dog doesn’t tolerate regular yogurt, non-dairy and lactose-free options can be a safe alternative. Coconut yogurt, for example, is made from coconut milk and is naturally lactose-free. And technically, dogs can eat coconut yogurt.

I wouldn’t give my dog coconut yogurt or anything sweet, but if you’re sure it doesn’t have added sugar or artificial sweeteners, a small lick might be fine. Just remember, these options don’t offer the same benefits as regular dairy yogurt.

Almond milk yogurt is another choice, but you should always start with a small amount to see how your dog reacts. Other dairy-free yogurts, like oat or cashew milk yogurt, are also becoming popular, but the same rules apply: plain, unsweetened, and minimal ingredients are best.

Where I do see these yogurts coming in handy is for making fun treats, like frozen bites or that viral yogurt ice cream with some dog-safe fruit—perfect for keeping a lactose-intolerant dog cool during the summer!

Can dogs eat fruit yogurt?

Fruit yogurt isn’t the best choice for dogs unless you’re using plain yogurt and adding fresh fruit yourself. If you want to share something fruity with your dog, skip the pre-flavored stuff and keep it simple by making your own.

Store-bought fruit yogurt isn’t toxic to dogs as long as it doesn’t contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that’s extremely dangerous for dogs. But even if it’s xylitol-free, fruit yogurt isn’t really a great treat for them.

Most fruit yogurts have added sugar and artificial flavors, which your dog doesn’t need and can’t benefit from. If you’re set on giving your dog a fruity yogurt treat, it’s better to use plain yogurt and mix in fresh fruit yourself. This way, you avoid the extra sugar and weird ingredients, and your dog gets a healthier snack.

Are all flavors bad? Pretty much. Can dogs eat strawberry yogurt? Sure—dogs can eat strawberry yogurt as long as it’s not sugar-free, but they really shouldn’t. They also shouldn’t eat vanilla yogurt, mango, peach, or other flavored options—they’re really not made for dogs.

Probiotic yogurts

Yogurt is a healthy and simple source of probiotics for dogs. Probiotics improve digestion, maintain a healthy gut microbiome, and strengthen the immune system.

They are beneficial bacteria that help balance your dog’s digestive system, which can be especially helpful after illnesses or taking antibiotics. However, not all yogurts have a lot of good probiotics. To get the most benefits, look for yogurt labeled with “live and active cultures” and stick to plain, unsweetened varieties without added sugars or artificial sweeteners.

Don’t choose flavored probiotic yogurts like strawberry or vanilla, as they include added sugars and other ingredients that aren’t good for dogs. Plain versions of these yogurts are okay in small amounts, but they’re not guaranteed to have enough probiotics for significant benefits.

If your dog has gut health issues, talk to your vet before giving them probiotic yogurt!

For an added boost, you can combine yogurt with prebiotic-rich foods like bananas, apples, or sweet potatoes to create a gut-friendly treat that nourishes both the good bacteria and your dog. I eat this as well!

How often can dogs eat yogurt?

Dogs can enjoy yogurt as an occasional treat or a fun topper for their meals, but moderation is key. Here’s what to keep in mind:

Stick to occasional servings: Once or twice a week is plenty to let your dog enjoy the benefits without overdoing it.

Daily yogurt isn’t necessary: Unless your vet recommends it for something specific, like gut health, it’s best not to feed yogurt every day.

Start small: Offer just a teaspoon or tablespoon, depending on your dog’s size, and see how they handle it. Too much yogurt can upset their stomach or add unnecessary calories.

Get creative: Combining plain yogurt with fresh, dog-safe fruits like blueberries or bananas makes a healthy and tasty treat.

Try summer treats: Yogurt is perfect for making frozen snacks or viral yogurt ice cream with fruit—great for keeping your dog cool in the warmer months!

Yogurt can be a fun and healthy addition to your dog’s diet. Just make sure it’s plain, unsweetened, and free from harmful ingredients.

The risks of dogs eating (too much) yogurt

While yogurt can be a healthy treat in moderation, too much or the wrong kind can cause problems for dogs. Here are some things to watch out for:

Artificial sweeteners: Some yogurts, especially low-calorie and “sugar-free” varieties, may contain artificial sweeteners that are not very good for your dog. If they have xylitol, a toxic sweetener that can cause life-threatening health issues in dogs, then you have to keep that yogurt away from your dog. Always read the label carefully.

Lots of sugar: Many flavored yogurts are full of sugar. While regular sugar is not toxic to dogs, too much sugar can cause health issues, and dental problems, and if your dog eats a lot of it, that can cause weight gain and diabetes.

Lactose intolerance: Some dogs struggle to digest lactose in dairy products, even yogurt. This can cause bloating, gas, diarrhea, or stomach upset. If your dog shows these symptoms, avoid yogurt entirely. Test with very small amounts first, and consult your vet if you’re unsure.

Milk allergies: While rare, dogs with milk allergies can experience skin irritation, itching, or gastrointestinal issues after consuming yogurt. If you suspect an allergy, call your vet.

Pancreatitis: Yogurts high in fat or given in large amounts can trigger pancreatitis, a painful and serious condition. Always choose low-fat, plain yogurt and serve in moderation. While yogurt alone won’t cause pancreatitis, high-fat foods can contribute to this serious inflammation of the pancreas.

Yogurt is healthy for your dog—and when you add fruit, it can be their version of dessert! Just remember to keep it simple, plain, and in moderation. Whether you’re topping their dinner, mixing it with fresh fruit, or whipping up some cool yogurt ice cream for the summer, there are plenty of fun ways to share this snack without any tummy trouble.

Love, life, and fur forever!

FAQs

Can dogs eat expired yogurt?

Nope, don’t give your dog expired yogurt. Old yogurt can grow bacteria that might upset your dog’s stomach or even cause food poisoning. If it’s past its date, it’s better to toss it than take the risk. However, if you didn’t know and your dog ate some expired yogurt, they’ll probably be fine. Did you eat that yogurt, too? If you did and you were fine, then your dog will likely be fine, too!

Can dogs eat soy yogurt?

Soy yogurt isn’t toxic, but it’s not the greatest option for dogs. Soy can sometimes mess with their stomach, and most store-bought soy yogurts are full of added sugar or artificial sweeteners, which aren’t safe. If you’re set on trying it, make sure it’s plain and unsweetened, and only give your dog a little to see how they handle it. If your dog ate soy yogurt by accident, don’t worry—it’s not toxic to them.

Can puppies eat yogurt, too?

Yep, puppies can have yogurt in small amounts! Just like with adult dogs, stick to plain, unsweetened yogurt with live cultures. Puppies have more sensitive tummies, so keep the portions tiny, and check with your vet if you’re unsure.

Can dogs eat whey from yogurt?

Whey—the watery stuff that separates from yogurt—is safe for dogs in small amounts. It’s low in fat and lactose, so it won’t harm them, but it’s not exactly packed with nutrients either. If your dog laps up a little, it’s fine—just don’t make it a regular thing.

Can dogs eat skyr yogurt?

Yes, plain, unsweetened skyr yogurt is okay for dogs if they tolerate dairy. Skyr is thicker and higher in protein than regular yogurt, so it can be a great option. Just make sure it’s free from added sugars, artificial sweeteners, and flavorings before giving it to your dog. A spoonful here and there is perfect!