The Benefits of Yogurt for Dogs

 



Yogurt is a natural source of calcium and it contains bacteria like Lactobacilos Acidophilus which are the natural inhabitants of the digestive tract. L. Acidophilus is a probiotic that helps in the process of digestion by inhibiting the growth of other harmful bacteria. Yogurt helps in certain gastrointestinal conditions like yeast infection, diarrhea, constipation and irritable bowel movement. It also produces folic acid and niacin which are important vitamins in pregnancy of humans as well as dogs. Benefits of yogurt for dogs are:

• Enhances the immune system


• Changes the microflora of the gut


• Reduces cholesterol levels


• Reduces incidence of yeast infection

Yogurt for Yeast Infection in Dogs

Yeasts are single cellular organisms, which are the normal inhabitants in a dog’s body. One of the family of yeast called Candida Albicans are known to survive on sugars and fats, and release toxins that affect the dog’s immune system, nervous system and the endocrine system. Yeast toxins cause a hot of health problems, the symptoms of some of which are listed here.

• Food Allergies


• Hives and other skin eruptions


• Itching and skin rashes


• Diarrhea


• Scratching in and around the ears


• Constipation


• Depression


• Hair loss


• Chewing paws


• Offensive body odor

For the treatment of yeast infection in dogs, an anti-yeast diet is recommended. Anti-yeast diet includes meat, mostly vegetables and some diary products. Yogurt for dogs has been highly recommended in the treatment of yeast infection. It is known to treat most of the yeast infection symptoms like skin rashes and allergies. Yogurt for dogs ears have also been recommended for fast relief from itching. There are certain shortcomings of yogurt for dogs in the treatment of yeast infection. Yogurt cannot cure yeast infection but only provides temporary relief. The active bacteria present in yogurt can only target yeast cells but not the cause that promotes the growth of yeast.

Yogurt for Dogs with Diarrhea

Acute bout of diarrhea in dogs can emerge for no apparent reason. That gets most of us worried and we tend to rush him to the vet. Diarrhea is caused by harmful bacteria, parasites and viruses present in the body. Ignoring the symptoms of diarrhea can lead to serious consequences, like dehydration and weakening of the immune system. Normally, vets recommend a bowl of low fat plain yogurt to treat diarrhea. Being pro biotic in nature, the microorganism present in yogurt releases hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid which destroys or inhibits the harmful bacteria responsible for diarrhea in dogs.

The Best Yogurt for Dogs

Only plain, unflavored yogurt is the best for your dog. You can easily make plain yogurt at home. But, if it is too much hassle for you, then varieties of plain yogurt are available in the stores. Check the label to be sure that the yogurt contains active L. acidophilus. Your dog may like the flavored yogurt, but it contains high sugar content, much more that your dog can consume. Too much sugar can cause bacterial imbalance as bacteria thrives on sugar. Yogurt which contains artificial sweeteners has to be avoided as the dog might be allergic to sugar substitutes. These can produce side effects like depression, seizures and disorientation.

But how much yogurt for dogs is required?

You know that yogurt is beneficial for your dogs. You also need to know how much yogurt should your dog consume. Yogurt contains calcium which is good for the bones of your dog. But overfeeding your dog with calcium supplements is known to cause bone abnormalities in dogs. The quantity of yogurt should be 1 tsp to 1tbsp depending on the size of your dog. If you are giving yogurt for the first time, start with small amounts to prevent stomach upset.

If you intend to put your dog on yogurt supplement, do check up with your vet. Yogurt for dogs sound a bit unrealistic in the beginning, but this article must have definitely helped you to conclude that yogurt is a dog’s best friend.

Source: Buzzle.com

The  benefits of yogurt include a boost to immunity and it is high in calcium (so use it sparingly with dogs).  Commercial yogurt coating also contains sugar, another reason to use it when using it as an icing or frosting for dog treats.

For our treats, we use natural plain yogurt coating instead of sweeter sugary candy coatings with a tasteful touch in their different designs and flavors.

Spoil your dogs and given a healthy life at the same time with Oh my Dog! Holistic Doggery