HowPetCare is here to dig into this article and provide you with all the information you need about dogs and milk. Can dogs drink milk? What kind of milk is safe for them? Is it even good for them? We'll answer all these questions and more, so keep reading!
Is Milk Safe for Dogs?
Yes, most of the time. While all types of milk are technically safe for dogs unless they are specifically allergic to one of the ingredients, not all milk is good for them. Cow's milk, the most common type readily available in grocery stores and restaurants, contains lactose and complex proteins that can be difficult for dogs to digest. Dairy is also one of the most common food sensitivities in dogs. However, a cube of cheese or a slurp of milk now and then won't hurt them.
Goat milk, on the other hand, is typically the best type of milk to give to your dog. It lacks the complex proteins that make cow's milk difficult to digest. Even so, it should still be given sparingly or as a dietary supplement.
Common Types of Milk
Before we dive into the different types of milk and whether they are safe for dogs, it's important to note that many milk substitutes like soy milk, oat milk, and coconut milk contain additional preservatives, sweeteners, and flavorings that are not good for your dog. Never give your dog flavored or sweetened milk.
Type of Milk | Where's It From? | Common Uses | Safe for Dogs? |
---|---|---|---|
Cow | Drinking, creamer, cheese, ice cream, in recipes | Yes, occasionally | |
Goat | Cheese, drinking | Yes! | |
Sheep | Cheese | Yes, in moderation | |
Oat | Drinking, creamer, in vegan recipes | Yes, in moderation when unsweetened | |
Almond | Drinking, creamer, in vegan recipes | No | |
Cashew | Drinking, creamer, in vegan recipes | Yes, very occasionally when unsweetened | |
Soy | Drinking, creamer, in vegan recipes | Yes, in moderation when unsweetened | |
Rice | Drinking, creamer, in vegan recipes | Yes, in moderation when unsweetened | |
Coconut | Drinking, creamer, in vegan recipes | Yes, in moderation when unsweetened | |
Hemp | Drinking, creamer, in vegan recipes | Yes, in moderation when unsweetened |
Nutritional Value of Milk
Cow, goat, and sheep's milk are all good sources of fat, protein, and essential vitamins. However, since your dog should only be given milk products occasionally, they won't benefit from these nutrients. Goat milk is sometimes included in a dog's diet as a nutritional supplement. It is slightly more digestible than cow's milk and lower in fat than sheep milk. It also contains key probiotics that can help promote healthy gut flora.
If you're interested in giving your dog goat milk, be sure to consult with your vet first. They can recommend the right amount and source for your furry friend.
How Much Milk Can I Give My Dog?
Letting your dog drink pure milk isn't a great idea. However, if you want to give them a little to moisten their food, keep it to a tablespoon or two. If you're adding goat milk to your dog's food, follow the directions from your vet or the instructions on the packaging of the goat's milk you've purchased.
Can Dogs Drink Milk? The FAQ
What Milk Is Best For Dogs?
- Goat's milk is widely considered the “best” milk for dogs. However, even goat's milk should only be an occasional treat or dietary supplement, never a key source of nutrition.
What Happens If A Dog Drinks Milk?
- Usually, nothing! Most dogs won't have any problems after drinking a little milk. However, some may experience symptoms of lactose intolerance like a stomach ache, diarrhea, gas, and discomfort. If you're concerned, contact your veterinarian.
Can Dogs Drink Milk Every Day?
- No. It's not a good idea to give your dog milk or dairy products every day. Goat's milk may be safe for daily use in moderation, but consult with your vet about whether your dog could benefit from the probiotics.
Can Dogs Drink Milk For Poison?
- No! If your dog has ingested poison, call your vet or an emergency vet immediately. Milk does not work to neutralize toxins, nor is it an appropriate treatment option after a dog has come in contact with something toxic or poisonous.
What Can Dogs Drink Besides Water?
- Water is best! It's the only thing you should give your dog for basic hydration. However, some other liquids can be given to dogs in moderation, including milk (as discussed here), low-sodium chicken, beef, or pork broth, and cucumber water!
Which Is Better? Warm Or Cold Milk For Dogs?
- It makes no difference whether the milk you give your dog is hot or cold. Whether your dog prefers milk warmed or cold will depend on their preference.
Is It Good To Put Milk in Dog Food?
- Sometimes. If your dog needs additional probiotics, your vet may recommend adding goat's milk to their food. Other types of milk should not be added to your dog's food. Baked goods and recipes made with milk should also be given to your dog in moderation and not as a key source of nutrition or calories.
Can Dogs Drink Lactose-Free Milk?
- In moderation. Cow's milk with the lactose removed may still cause gastrointestinal issues for dairy-intolerant dogs. Treat it the same as regular cow's milk, feeding only occasionally as a treat.
Can Dogs Have Milk & Cereal?
- No. Cereal contains carb-heavy grains, added sugars, and chemical preservatives, flavorings, and colors. None of these ingredients are good for dogs and can make them quite sick.
Best Ways to Give Your Dog Milk
If you're looking for a fun way to share a dairy-licious treat with your pup, try one of these options:
- Make a puppuccino
- Add goat's milk to your dog's food
- Give your pup a yak milk dog chew
Just venturing into the world of human food for your dog? Check out this list of vegetables dogs can safely eat and absolutely love!
Key Points
- Dogs can drink milk, but it should be given sparingly and as an occasional treat or dietary supplement.
- Goat's milk is the best type of milk for dogs.
- Other types of milk should be given in moderation, if at all.
- Always consult with your vet before giving your dog any new food or drink.
- Water is the best beverage for dogs' basic hydration.
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