Yogurt

Question
Lots of hype about the benefits of yogurt for digestive symptoms for humans.  Wondering the positive/negative use of yogurt for a dog.
The dog is female, 9 years, fixed.  Have given her some with her dog food and she seems to really like it mixed it with her regular food.

Answer
Many of the people caught up in the hype for human food extend it to their dogs.  Unlike people, most dogs are eating a dog food carefully formulated to provide a complete and balanced diet.  A little yogurt or some vegies might improve my diet adding nutrients it is otherwise short on.  My dog is already eating a much better diet than most people.  Adding yogurt or anything else to your dog's food will only upset its careful balance.  A little certainly won't hurt.  I didn't have to pass up that piece of cake at lunch today.  However, I was pleased the last time I weighed myself and I am hoping the next is even lower.  

The best thing for most dogs is less of what they are eating.  Your dog definitely should be narrower at the waist than the hips and chest. You should be able to easily feel the ribs, but not see them. Each dog is different. Standard recommendations are a good place to start, but each dog must have its food and exercise adjusted to its individual needs. Here is a link to a good illustrated guide, http://www.longliveyourdog.com/twoplus/RateYourDog.aspx