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Is dog milk OK?

Published in Dog Nutrition 1 min read

Dog milk is OK for puppies, specifically their own mother's milk or specially formulated puppy milk replacers. However, other types of milk, like cow or goat milk, are not suitable for puppies.

Here's a breakdown:

  • Dog Milk (from the Mother): This is the ideal food for newborn puppies. It provides the perfect balance of nutrients, antibodies, and hydration that they need to thrive.

  • Puppy Milk Replacers (e.g., Esbilac®): These are commercially available formulas designed to mimic the composition of dog milk. They are a safe and effective alternative when a puppy cannot nurse from its mother. They should be used according to the product's instructions.

  • Cow Milk/Goat Milk/Other Milks: These are generally not OK for puppies. They can cause digestive upset, diarrhea, and nutritional deficiencies. Dog milk has a much higher protein and fat content than cow's milk and a much lower lactose content. Feeding puppies cow's milk can lead to malnourishment and other health problems.

In summary, while dog milk (or specifically formulated milk replacers) is OK and even essential for puppies, other types of milk are not suitable and can be harmful.