Can dogs eat yogurt?
Yes, in small amounts, if it is plain and unsweetened and your dog tolerates dairy. Some dogs get tummy upset from lactose. Never give yogurt with xylitol or other sweeteners, or with added sugar.
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Why
Many dogs have trouble digesting lactose, which can cause gas, diarrhoea or vomiting. Greek-style yogurt has less lactose, so it is usually the better choice. Some sweeteners, especially xylitol, are toxic to dogs, and too much dairy fat can upset the stomach or cause pancreatitis.
What to do
Start with a small amount and watch for gas, diarrhoea or vomiting; stop if they appear. If the yogurt contained xylitol, contact your vet or a pet poison helpline right away.
How to give it
Plain yogurt with no added sweeteners, ideally Greek-style; check the label for sugar and xylitol.
Questions and answers
Is Greek yogurt better for dogs?
Usually yes: plain Greek-style yogurt has lower levels of lactose than regular yogurt.
Why check the label?
Some yogurts contain sweeteners such as xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, or added sugar.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- Can Dogs Eat Yogurt? — American Kennel Club, Katherine Ripley (updated 2025-10-31)
- Which Human Foods Can Dogs Eat and Which Are Dangerous? — American Kennel Club (Updated Oct 21, 2026)
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control (no date; ©2026)
- What foods are toxic to dogs and the human foods you can feed them — Dogs Trust (no date; ©2026)
- Paws Off Xylitol; It's Dangerous for Dogs — U.S. FDA Consumer Update (2025-12-17)
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic dog: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.