Overview
No, Ashta is not recommended for dogs. This rich Arabic clotted cream is high in lactose and fat, which can be difficult for dogs to digest and may lead to digestive discomfort and weight-related health issues.
Can dogs eat Ashta?
Risks
- Ashta is a rich Arabic clotted cream made by skimming the top layer of boiled milk and often combined with rose water or orange blossom water. It’s often used in a stuffing for many Middle Eastern desserts, such as Qatayef and Halawet El Jibn. Ashta is a staple in Levantine sweets and is enjoyed during religious holidays and festive meals.
- Ashta, being a coagulated dairy product, poses a problem for lactose-intolerant dogs.
- The high levels of saturated fat can make dogs susceptible to pancreatitis, especially in smaller breeds or older dogs.
- Once sugar or syrup is added to sweeten the Ashta, it increases the sugar load, especially when used as filling to a sweet base (such as bread or dough). Too much sugar can lead to obesity, tooth decay, and diabetes in dogs.
- Commercial or pre-made Ashta may contain preservatives, emulsifiers, thickeners, and other additives that can be harmful to dogs.
