Yogurt for Dogs

Yogurt is a natural source of calcium and it contains bacteria like Lactobacillus 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. Benefits of yogurt for dogs are:

• Enhances the immune system
• Changes the microflora of the gut
• Reduces cholesterol levels
• Reduces incidence of yeast infection

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 immume 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, an anti-yeast diet is recommended. Anti-yeast diet includes meat, mostly vegetables and some dairy products. Yogurt is known to treat skin rashes and allergies. It has been recommended for fast relief from itching. There are certain shortcomings as it cannot cure yeast infection, but only provide temporary relief.

Acute bout of diarrhea 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 can lead to serious consequences, like dehydration and weakening of the immune system. Normally, vets recommend a bowl of yogurt to treat diarrhea. Being probiotic in nature, the microrganism present in it releases hydrogen peroxide and lactic acid which destroys or inhibits the harmful bacteria responsible.

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 than 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. 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. 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. It sound a bit unrealistic, but it is true that yogurt is a dog's best friend.