Can I give my dog activia?
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Eating yogurt, like Activia, can improve digestive health due to the live bacteria cultures. It’s good for stomach infections, indigestion as well as bowel irritability. Sounds like it would be great for dogs, right?
If your pet pooch is regularly experiencing loose bowel movements or diarrhea, it’s unfortunately unlikely that Activia will cure whatever is ailing them. Such long term problems should be addressed with a vet in order to come up with a more effective treatment plan.
We aren’t saying this brand isn’t good. Nor are we against the use of healthy bacteria such as probiotics. Just as yogurts have helped people, these products can improve your dog’s digestive tract or at least the symptoms. However, a proper diagnosis is preferable. Using Activia may be hit or miss.
Video: Activia Dog Shit
Can I Give My Dog Activia? Answer: Yes, but there are better options
There’s no harm in giving a few tablespoons of yogurt such as Activia.
Video: Otis shamelessly plugs Activia yogurt
Although dogs may require a different type of probiotics than the type found in yoghurt, it may still be beneficial albeit questionable and unproven. Nevertheless, an unflavored, unsweetened, and non-fat yogurt is generally healthy and dogs usually enjoy it.
If you are looking for a good probiotic for your dog’s diarrhea then you may be in luck. There are products on the market, although also unproven, that have been created specifically for pets. Manufacturers develop these to also fit your dog’s nutritional needs. Besides, Activia has a relatively high sugar content, which can be some cause for concern.
Activia, Probiotics & Controversy
Dannon emphasizes that Activia is a healthy yogurt because of the nutrients and probiotics contained in it. However, these claims are not without some controversy. The scientific studies used are said to be questionable.
One thing is certain, more study is needed to definitively prove that live cultures found in Activia, as well as other yogurts, really support good digestive health. Additional research should be carried out for the benefit of both humans and dogs.
Quality Probiotic vs. Yogurt
While it isn’t conclusive, specialized probiotics mixed in with dog food could be a better way to treat various digestive issues. In theory, it replaces the good bacteria that your dog loses during a bout of diarrhea. Although Activia does contain beneficial bacteria to aid digestion, dogs have a different set of bacteria that’s better suited for them.
So again, Activia may work to soothe the digestive tract for some dogs. And yes, yogurt is mostly considered to be a safe human food for canines, as long as they are non-fat and given in reasonable amounts. However, there are probiotics on the market that have been particularly manufactured for dogs which can probably work more effectively than a yogurt.
Food Solutions For Dog Diarrhea
There are other foods you can provide to your dog if they are having continuously loose stools. First, fast your dog for at least 24-hours but don’t forget to give them water. Dehydration is something to look out for with diarrhea and you must sustain their water supply during such as critical time.
Afterwards, bland and low-fat foods might help them to regain the nutrition they’ve lost. Feed boiled foods such as pumpkin or chicken with rice to help regulate their bowel movements back to normal. Of course, what’s better than trying any of these ideas is consulting with your vet.
Other Health Foods You Can Share
Aside from yogurt, which is rich in calcium, protein, and of course probiotics, there are other people food options. Salmon is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids which promote a healthy immune system. This can also help their skin and coat to look healthier.
Video: Activia dog
Sweet potato is high in fiber and other essential vitamins which makes it an idea for maintaining a healthy digestive tract. Eggs are also a great source of protein for dogs and they can give them an energy boost. Finally, apples contain phytochemicals, vitamins A & C and fiber. All of these suggestions may support good digestion and wellness when given in moderation.