Yes, dogs can eat coconut yogurt safe in moderate amounts. Yogurt contains probiotics that can aid digestion in dogs 1. Coconut also has nutritional benefits, such as healthy fats, which are essential for a dog’s health. Studies show that the inclusion of coconut oil in a dog’s diet can even lead to significant weight loss (in obese dogs). However, owners should be careful because some dogs might have an allergic reaction to dairy products.
Safe: This food is generally considered safe by the veterinary community. Dogs can eat this food sometimes or in small amounts but contains little to no nutritional value.
| Food Safety | Safe in moderate amounts. |
| Nutritional Value | Excellent source of probiotics and enzymes for digestion. Vitamin D and healthy fats are also found. Good source of calcium and proteins. |
| Potential Risks | Allergic reaction in lactose-intolerant dogs, commercial brands might have toxic artificial sweeteners 2. |
How Much Coconut Yogurt is Safe for Dogs?
Coconut yogurt has some benefits for dogs but only in moderate amounts. It should only be given as a treat and not be a replacement for actual dog food.
The safe amount of yogurt to give to your dog also depends on your dog’s size, breed, age, and underlying health conditions.
Probiotics For Dogs
According to the American Kennel Club, probiotics are important for your dog’s overall well-being. Probiotics are good bacteria that are necessary in maintaining proper and efficient digestive health and in developing a strong immune system. These microorganisms help in maintaining the balance of the gut microbiome, which is vital for proper digestion and overall health. In a study conducted by China’s Department of Companion Animal Science, administration of probiotics has shown positive effects on the gut health and can alleviate some intestinal diseases and disorders in dogs and cats.
How to Feed Coconut Yogurt to Dogs?
When choosing a type of yogurt for your dog, pick an unsweetened, plain one to be safe from such sweeteners as xylitol. Coconut yogurt can be one of the best alternatives for those dogs who are lactose intolerant, since it is a non-dairy type. Hence, it acts as a safe way in which these important probiotics can be included in the diet.
While a spoonful of coconut yogurt now and then should be good enough for your dog, there are other innovative ways you can serve coconut yogurt to your dog. Freezing coconut yogurt in different popsicle molds for your dogs can keep them occupied and serve as an excellent treat on a hot summer day.
Citations
A.S., A., S., N., Shukri, R., M.H., A., Rashid, N., Ibdalluh, W., & R., N. (2019). Influence of raisins puree on the physicochemical properties, resistant starch, probiotic viability and sensory attributes of coconut milk yogurt. Food Research. https://doi.org/10.26656/FR.2017.4(1).185.
Vrese, M., Stegelmann, A., Richter, B., Fenselau, S., Laue, C., & Schrezenmeir, J. (2001). Probiotics–compensation for lactase insufficiency.. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 73 2 Suppl, 421S-429S . https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0002916523065085?via%3Dihub.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Fresh coconut contains oils that can cause gastrointestinal issues in dogs. However, this only becomes an issue if dogs eat coconut in huge amounts.
-
Greek yogurt remains the safest type of yogurt for dogs.
