Can a Dog Eat Curd? (Reasons Why and When Not To)

Diet is one of the important considerations to keep in mind when taking care of a pet dog. Many dog owners wonder if it’s a good idea to feed curd to their canine partner. 

Yes, dogs can eat curd as it is full of nutrition and is usually safe for dogs. In fact, even dogs that are unable to digest milk are mostly able to tolerate curd because of its lower lactose content. 

Most dogs simply love the flavor and texture of curd. What are the benefits of feeding it to your dog? And how much curd is good for them? This article will tell you all you need to know about incorporating curd into your dog’s diet. 

Can Dogs Eat Curd?

Dogs can eat curd and benefit from its nutritional advantages without any risks. Even dogs that are allergic to high amounts of lactose in milk can safely have curd. This is because milk when fermented into curd has lower levels of lactic acid. 

Of course, in some cases, highly sensitive dogs may be unable to digest curd too. Overall, it can be a great addition to your pet dog’s diet and there is no harm in letting your doggo try it. 

Benefits of Curd for Dog’s Health

Here are the main health advantages of feeding curd to your dog:

Rich in calcium and phosphorus

Both puppies and older dogs require calcium and phosphorus to stay healthy and fit. And curd is packed with high amounts of these. Calcium and phosphorus are essential for preventing bone defects, and their deficiency can even result in hip dysplasia. Curd can help provide these nutrients and keep your dog’s bones strong and healthy. 

A high amount of protein

Curd can also provide your dog with the protein required to supply amino acids that build muscles, cartilage, tendons, and ligaments. It keeps the hair, skin, and nails healthy and supple. Plus, protein is important for hormone production in dogs. 

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Acts as a probiotic

Curd is a natural probiotic which makes it super beneficial for a dog’s immune system. It is loaded with good and healthy bacteria which promotes gut health and prevents stomach-related disorders and infections. 

Antifungal and antibacterial properties

If your dog has a skin infection, curd can help soothe the affected area and even treat it.

Keeps Weight Under Control

Curd is low in calories and a good source of energy for overweight dogs. The probiotics in curd also improve digestion and metabolism which helps maintain a healthy weight.

How Much Curd Should Dogs Eat?

As with any other food, moderation is key for maintaining good health in dogs. Feeding too much curd is not a good idea, so be careful not to go overboard. It is always recommended to provide a balanced diet on a regular basis. This should consist of meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and dog food.

Ideally, a small amount of curd mixed into water works just fine for dogs. One or two dollops of curd should be an adequate amount.

You can rely on the 10 percent rule to guide you on feeding curd. This means that curd should not make up more than 10% of the calories your dog eats on a daily basis.

Health Risks of Overfeeding Curd

Feeding too much curd to your dog can result in indigestion. This can make their stomach upset and give them loose stools. Plus, curd with high-fat content can also be unhealthy when given in large amounts.

Too much curd in your dog’s diet can even lead to dangerously high levels of magnesium and calcium, resulting in seizures, gastrointestinal diseases, and heart problems.

Remember, curd alone is simply not enough to meet all of your dog’s nutritional requirements. It should be given in addition to other healthy foods and not as a substitute. 

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What Type of Curd Should Dogs Eat?

It is best to look for curd with a high amount of live cultures, and plain Greek-style curd. This is the healthiest option for your dog. You can also make it more flavorful and nutritious by adding healthy toppings. 

Some tasty additions to curd include fresh fruits, veggies, or even regular dog food. Your dog will surely gobble it down like a treat!

You must ensure that the curd is free from natural or artificial sweeteners or additives. These sweeteners are unhealthy and even toxic for dogs. 

Can Puppies Have Curd?

Yes, puppies can also eat curd and they mostly love it. In fact, it works as a great weaning method for puppies.

They can easily switch from their mother’s milk to curd. You can introduce it to pups when they are about 40 days old. Simply mix it with some of their regular food to make it soft and easier to chew. 

Curd Recipes for Dogs

It is usually not advised to give curd to dogs during the winters. However, it is a perfect snack for your pet in the summer months. You can make curd popsicles to make them even more enjoyable for your pet.

All you need to do is mix a small amount of curd with some sweet potato and water and then freeze it in small moulds. 

Another healthy recipe ideal for the summer is curd, honey, and poured vegetables frozen in small cups. Your doggo will love the taste and slurp it down and feel cooler in the heat.

Final Words

We hope this article was informative and helpful for you in understanding how curd can be a healthy part of your pet dog’s diet. 

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It is important to again clarify that curd should only be an addition to your pet’s diet, not a substitute for regular dog food. Keep it as a healthy snack to serve from time to time.

Also, observe your dog for any reactions or signs of intolerance after offering curd for the first time. If your dog has any underlying health conditions, it’s always best to consult your veteranian before introducing any new food to their diet.