Is Milk Safe for Dogs?

What do you do when you’re enjoying your glass of milk and your dog looks at you with those lovely puppy eyes? Do you give in and share the milk or resist and feel guilty the whole day? Can dogs have milk? This is one of the popular questions among dog owners and we seek to answer it in this article. 

Dairy is one of the common causes of food intolerance in dogs. Although milk is rich in calcium, vitamin D, and potassium, it's not recommended for dogs. If you must give your dog milk, it should be provided in small quantities.

For milk to be digested properly in dogs, their digestive system must produce lactase. This is a digestive enzyme responsible for digesting dairy products. Unfortunately, most dogs lack this enzyme, and feeding them milk will do more harm than good.

Is Milk Good for Dogs?

Although milk for dogs isn't toxic, to be on the safe side, it's best to not give your dog milk. 

Feeding your dog milk will result in health issues, including:

Lactose Intolerance

A dog's digestive system can't digest dairy products and feeding your dog with milk will lead to lactose intolerance. Symptoms of lactose intolerance are an upset stomach, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and bloating.

Digestive Issues

Milk contains saturated fat and natural sugar which can lead to digestive issues for your dog. Also, excess consumption of milk can lead to other health complications like pancreatitis and heart problems.

Obesity

Excess consumption of milk will result in extra calories for your dog which can lead to obesity. A healthy dog is required to eat fewer calories per day than humans. 

How Much Milk Can Dogs Drink?

When it comes to milk, moderation is key. For small dogs, the recommended amount is a tablespoon a day. For medium and large dogs, the recommended amount is a few tablespoons. But you should consult your veterinarian and follow the recommendations.

Lactose Intolerance in Dogs

Dogs are lactose intolerant because their digestive system can't digest dairy products. Because of this, dogs and milk products are considered an unhealthy combination. 

Intolerance and food allergy are two different things. An allergic reaction occurs when the immune system reacts to something it considers harmful. Intolerance on the other hand is a chemical reaction that occurs when the body reacts to eating a particular drink or food. The immune system isn't involved in intolerance. 

While some dog breeds will show mild symptoms of lactose intolerance, others will have chronic signs. Symptoms of lactose intolerance to look out for are:

• Abdominal pain

• Diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Loose stool

• Gas

• Bloating

If these symptoms persist for more than 12 hours or they become severe, take your dog to the vet immediately. 

Can Dogs Drink Milk Alternatives?

Although whole milk isn't good for your dog, there are other safe milk alternatives. These include oat milk, almond milk, coconut milk, and soy milk. Even with these milk alternatives, you should tread with precaution. Although they're plant-based, they contain excess fat and calories. Also, some contain sweeteners, which have Xylitol, an ingredient that's toxic to dogs. These milk alternatives should be given in moderation. Consumption of excess amounts can result in diarrhea and vomiting.

Goat milk for dogs isn't a good idea either. Its lactose content is high, just like cow’s milk. Milk for a puppy isn't recommended once they've been weaned. They shouldn't be given milk alternatives either.

The bottom line, the healthiest and safest way to keep your dog hydrated is by giving them water. 

Conclusion

We believe this article has adequately answered your question, “Can dogs have milk?” While milk is a popular and nutrient-packed beverage for humans, it's not safe for dogs. Dogs are lactose intolerant and feeding your dog milk will result in digestive issues. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can dogs have whole milk?

No. Dogs are lactose intolerant and giving your dog whole milk will cause digestive problems.

Is regular milk bad for puppies?

Yes. Puppies should be given dog milk or weaning formulas that are specifically designed for dogs.

Can dogs have dairy?

No. Dogs can't properly digest dairy. Dairy and dairy products shouldn't be given to dogs.