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What kind of milk can puppies drink?

Understanding Puppy Nutrition: The Milk Dilemma
When it comes to the dietary needs of puppies, the question of whether they can drink milk is a common concern among pet owners. While the image of a puppy lapping up a bowl of milk is endearing, the reality is more nuanced.
Puppies and Lactose Intolerance
First and foremost, it’s essential to recognize that many puppies, like adult dogs, can be lactose intolerant. This means that their digestive systems may struggle to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk. For these puppies, consuming milk can lead to digestive upset, including diarrhea and stomach discomfort.
The Best Milk for Puppies
For newborn puppies, the ideal source of nutrition is their mother’s milk, which is specifically formulated to meet their needs. However, if the mother is unavailable, commercial puppy milk replacers are the recommended alternative. These products are designed to mimic the nutritional profile of canine milk, providing the necessary calories and proteins that puppies require for healthy growth.
It’s crucial to avoid giving puppies cow’s milk or other human milk products. Cow’s milk lacks the essential nutrients that puppies need and can lead to digestive issues. Furthermore, store-bought milk intended for human consumption can cause diarrhea in puppies, which can quickly lead to dehydration.
Goat Milk: A Cautionary Note
Some pet owners may wonder about goat milk as an alternative. While it is often considered more digestible than cow’s milk, it is still not a complete or balanced source of nutrition for puppies. Veterinarians generally advise against using goat milk as a primary food source for young pups.
Conclusion: Stick to Puppy-Specific Formulas
In summary, while the idea of giving puppies milk may seem appealing, it is essential to prioritize their health and nutritional needs. The best approach is to use commercial puppy milk replacers specifically formulated for their dietary requirements. This ensures that they receive the right balance of nutrients without the risk of digestive issues associated with cow’s milk or other dairy products. Always consult with a veterinarian if you’re unsure about your puppy’s diet or if they have specific health concerns.

What kind of milk can I give my puppy?

It is not safe to give a newborn puppy regular cow’s milk, as it can cause digestive upset. Instead, use a commercial puppy milk replacer formulated specifically for puppies, which provides the necessary nutrients. If the mother is unavailable, feed the puppy with a bottle specifically designed for newborns.

What is homemade milk formula for puppies?

Homemade milk replacer for puppies2 • 1/2 cup (120 ml) cow’s or goat’s milk • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water • 2 to 4 egg yolks • 1 to 2 teaspoons vegetable oil • 1,000 mg calcium carbonate, if available. + Blend uniformly and warm to 95-100°F.

What alternative milk is good for puppies?

Oat milk: A highly digestible alternative to regular milk and possesses no toxic elements, making it a very safe option for dogs. It also contains higher nutritional components such as vitamin B-complex, calcium, riboflavin and Vitamin D in comparison to other plant-based milk products.

How to make puppy formula?

Homemade milk replacer for puppies2 • 1/2 cup (120 ml) cow’s or goat’s milk • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water • 2 to 4 egg yolks • 1 to 2 teaspoons vegetable oil • 1,000 mg calcium carbonate, if available. + Blend uniformly and warm to 95-100°F.

How do you make emergency milk for puppies?

Emergency home- formulated replacer1 • 1 cup (240 ml) cow’s milk • 3 egg yolks • 1 drop high quality oral multivitamin solution, if available. * • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) corn oil • Small pinch of salt Blend uniformly and warm to 95-100°F. ** Refrigerate between uses.

What can you substitute for puppy milk?

In the absence of puppy milk replacer, you can try feeding the puppy a homemade milk substitute using ingredients such as goat’s milk or a mixture of egg yolks and water. Use a syringe or dropper to carefully feed the puppy every few hours, ensuring they receive adequate nutrition and hydration.

What baby milk is good for puppies?

The pup should ideally get to feed on its mother’s milk. If that is not possible then only feed puppy milk formulas purchased from a veterinary store. Don’t cow milk or milk from any other animal as that may cause indigestion and diarrhoea. If you live in India, then you can purchase ‘Samolac Pro’ puppy milk.

What human milk is good for puppies?

Adult dogs are likely to be lactose intolerant, which means pretty much any milk will be devastating to their tummies. At the very least, human milk isn’t nutritionally adequate to support growing puppies. Alternatively, goat’s milk contains less lactose than other types, making it a safer choice for dogs of all ages.

What is an alternative milk for dogs?

Oat milk: A highly digestible alternative to regular milk and possesses no toxic elements, making it a very safe option for dogs. It also contains higher nutritional components such as vitamin B-complex, calcium, riboflavin and Vitamin D in comparison to other plant-based milk products.

Is evaporated milk good for newborn puppies?

Evaporated milk is very sugary and fatty, so this isn’t the best food to feed a puppy. It could also cause digestive issues as most dogs don’t tolerate lactose well.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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