can dogs drink milk

Can Dogs Drink Milk? Are Dogs Lactose Intolerant ?

by 
Milk consists of enriched amount of vital nutrients responsible for growth of our bones, muscles along with development of the body. But can we give milk to our dogs? Many a times we aren't aware of the risk that milk can poses and offer substantial volumes of milk to our waggy friends which is the cause of digestive discomfort for them. Ever asked yourself the following question- Is my dog lactose intolerant?

Can dogs have milk ? 

Dogs can drink milk, but it should be given on rare occasion and small quantity is preferable. Besides containing good quantity of essential packed nutrients as in proteins, carbohydrates, fats, calcium it also contains fats and sugar which could be unsafe for them. Whether our dogs enjoy having milk as it tastes good to them or not. We shouldn't make them habitual of it.

Fats in milk are hard for our dogs to metabolize while sugar on the other hand is naturally present in it, which is unhealthy in any form. Regular consumption of milk could lead to excess amount of fat and sugar percentage, which could possibly attain them weight and serve the way for inflammation of pancreas called pancreatitis. It could also result in gastrointestinal upset and it's most commonly seen in dogs with skin allergies and rashes that their protein intake from milk is high on consistent basis.

Are dogs lactose Intolerant ?

Indeed dogs are tolerant to lactose and for them to ingest plenty of milk is a bit of messed up concern. During the early age when they are born as puppies, an enzyme called lactase already exists in them and when they are fed with their mother's milk containing lactose. The lactase enzyme in puppies acts as a breaker of the lactose splitting it into glucose and galactose so that it's easily digestible. But slowly and steadily as time passes with progression of age, the capacity of dogs to produce sufficient lactase is also hampered thus resulting in indigestion.
Are Dogs Lactose Intolerant

Effects of milk on lactose intolerant dogs ? 

It should be acknowledged that some dog breeds are more vulnerable to lactose over others and can display varying symptoms from benign to harsh. Some are mentioned below-

• A sensation of pain or discomfort in the abdominal region.

• Bowel issues such as diarrhea.

• Excessive vomiting or an urge to vomit.

• Gaseous stomach.

• Bloating.

What are the milk alternatives that dogs can drink ?

A variety of safe options are available for dogs to have and thrive their health but it should be noted that, you must always consult a vet before introducing any new specific drink or product. Along with that, watch out for any signs or reactions after they have it.

• Coconut milk- is a plant derived form which is considered non toxic for dogs and it contains antioxidants which is beneficial for making their coat healthy and shiny. But it should be used in limited volumes without any extra additives like xylitol.

• Soy milk- it is a safer alternative for lactose intolerant dogs due to the absence of lactose but goodness thrives when given in moderation as sometimes ample amount could produce allergic responses.

• Goat milk- on comparing lactose levels, the goat's milk has lower volume of lactose with the inclusion of probiotics thus providing enhanced digestion, giving it an added advantage over cow's milk, making it favorable to consume.

• Almond milk- a good choice prepared from the blend of soaked almond along with water and is suitable for dogs intolerant to lactose but should be given once in a blue moon as it does contain some quantity of fats and calories.

Can I give my dog chocolate milk ?

As we discussed above, a little bit of milk is permissible but adding it with chocolate could be a terrifying experience for our pet companions, as chocolate itself in any form is poisonous for them. Chocolate is rich in theobromine and caffeine as its main ingredients which does not break down into energy easily and take long time gap along with large attempts for the digestion process. Thus allowing toxins to settle down and form a bond, which the body is not able to absorb, resulting in reactions and infections. Therefore, even small amount of chocolate milk is not advisable, as it could be deadly.

Other Posts

Leave a Comment