Why only in moderation for dogs
Milk is made of water, protein, fat and a milk sugar called lactose. Puppies digest lactose well because their bodies make the enzyme that breaks it down while they suckle. Once grown, they make less of it, so in some dogs milk causes diarrhoea, bloating or vomiting.
If your dog is fine after a little milk, it can be given now and then. Full-fat milk, cream and sweetened dairy products add calories. Cow's milk is not suitable for puppies either: it does not replace their mother's milk.
How to give it
- The first time, give very little and watch how your dog feels.
- Choose plain skimmed milk or lactose-free milk.
- Do not give milk instead of water: your dog should always have fresh water.
- Give it only now and then.
What to watch out for
- Lactose can cause diarrhoea, bloating or vomiting.
- Full-fat milk and cream add calories and can upset digestion.
- Cow's milk does not replace a mother's milk for puppies.
- Cocoa and chocolate milk drinks are dangerous for dogs, and sweetened drinks are high in sugar.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Cream and condensed milk
Not safeThey are high in fat or sugar, so it is better not to give them to a dog.
What to give instead
- Yoghurt Yes, in moderation: a little plain yoghurt without sugar or sweeteners is fine, but sweetened yoghurts and yoghurts with xylitol are not. In moderation
- Cottage cheese Yes, in moderation: a little low-fat, unsweetened cottage cheese is a fine treat, but sweetened curd desserts and glazed curd bars are not. In moderation
- Eggs Yes, well-cooked eggs without salt or seasoning are a nourishing treat for a dog, but do not give raw eggs. Safe
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