so I'm chilling on the couch with Bella after our BBQ, and she's eyeing my sour cream dip. Not sure if this is dumb, but is it cool for dogs to have a taste, or should I just stick to her treats?

Hey there! Bella sounds like quite the curious pup, and it’s great that you’re checking what’s safe before letting her indulge. Sour cream in small amounts is generally not toxic to dogs, but it's best to keep it as an occasional treat, if at all.

Here’s why: sour cream is high in fat, which can sometimes upset their stomachs, leading to symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. If Bella’s healthy and you want to give her a tiny taste – say, a teaspoon – she'll likely be okay. Just keep an eye on her afterwards.

If you notice any of the following signs, it’s time to pay a little more attention:

• Vomiting or diarrhea: Watch for how often and how severe. A couple of times might be okay, but more than that might need a vet’s attention.
• Excessive drooling or licking: This can indicate an upset stomach.
• Lethargy: If she seems more tired than usual or not interested in her usual activities, it’s worth monitoring.

An emergency would be if she starts showing signs of a severe reaction like swelling around the face, hives, or struggles to breathe – though this is very rare with sour cream. In such cases, you’d want to seek immediate veterinary care.

At home, if you notice mild stomach upset, make sure she has access to plenty of fresh water and maybe hold off on her rich treats for the rest of the evening. A little bland food like plain rice can help settle things, too.

Remember, if you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.