You Probably Didn’t Know Your Dog Could Enjoy This Tasty Snack Too

Yogurt has long been seen as a healthy and tasty snack for humans. Yogurt is packed with calcium, protein, probiotics, and other helpful nutrients. It is eaten as a snack or a breakfast treat by thousands of people every day — did you know that dogs can join in on this too? A small cup of yogurt is a great option for dogs! It contains many helpful nutrients that most dog owners have no idea about. Let’s walk through each of the surprise benefits that dogs can gain from eating yogurt.

BENEFIT #1: IMPROVED DIGESTION

One of the most well-known benefits of consuming yogurt is that it can help improve digestion. This is thanks to the live and active cultures found in yogurt (i.e. the probiotics) that help promote a healthy gut microbiome. When your gut is healthy, everything else tends to fall into place — including regular bowel movements and a decreased risk of gastrointestinal issues. Adding yogurt to your dog’s diet can help keep its digestive system running smoothly.

BENEFIT #2: STRONGER IMMUNE SYSTEM

Another benefit of those all-important probiotics found in yogurt is that they can help boost your dog’s immune system. Probiotics have been shown to increase the production of white blood cells, which are key players in fighting off infection and disease. If you’re looking for a way to help your pup ward off illness, look no further than a simple and wholesome bowl of yogurt.

BENEFIT #3: SHINIER COAT & HEALTHIER SKIN

Yogurt doesn’t just do wonders for your pup’s insides —  it can also work wonders for their outsides! The proteins found in yogurt can help promote shiny, healthy, and thick fur. The lactic acid will also act as a natural exfoliator for your dog’s skin, which can be especially beneficial for dogs that are prone to allergies or rashes. If your dog’s coat is looking a little dull and their skin is feeling dry and irritated, giving them some extra yogurt may be just what the doctor ordered.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT YOGURT FOR YOUR DOG

Not all yogurts are created equal. In fact, some yogurts may actually be harmful to dogs. When choosing a yogurt for your pup, be sure to choose one that is plain, unsweetened, and made with all-natural ingredients. You should always avoid yogurts that contain harmful ingredients such as artificial sweeteners, flavorings, and colorings.

TIPS FOR FEEDING YOUR DOG YOGURT

Once you’ve selected the perfect yogurt for your pup, it’s time to start feeding! Here are a few tips to help you get started:

Start small

Dogs have sensitive stomachs, so it’s important to start slowly when introducing yogurt to their diet. Give them just a few spoonfuls at first, and then gradually increase the amount over time.

Mix with food

Another way to start slowly is to mix the yogurt with your dog’s regular food. This will help them get used to the taste and texture of yogurt without having too much at once.

Add some flavor

If your dog is having trouble adjusting to the taste of plain yogurt, try adding some flavors like peanut butter, honey, or fruit. Just be sure to avoid any yogurts with artificial sweeteners, as these can be dangerous for dogs.

YOGURT: THE SUPERFOOD

Don’t rely on artificial treats to please your dog’s sweet tooth! A quick trip to the grocery store can provide you with a cheap and natural alternative that will provide a ton of nutrients for your furry friend. Just remember to purchase yogurt that is free from any artificial ingredients, and contains all-natural ingredients. Overall, a small cup of yogurt can change your dog’s life for the better and provide them with a tasty treat as well.