Your dog is staring lustfully at your glass of milk and you're wondering - are dogs actually allowed to drink milk? Almost every dog ​​owner asks themselves this question at some point. At alphazoo, your expert for needs-based and healthy nutrition and nutritional supplements for dogs, we answer this question.

Lactose intolerance in dogs

When asked if dogs can drink milk, the answer is "it depends." Some dogs tolerate milk well, while others are lactose intolerant. Lactose is a type of sugar found in milk and dairy products. It is broken down by the enzyme lactase. Puppies produce enough of this enzyme because they feed on their mother's milk. However, lactase production may decrease in some dogs as they age, leading to lactose intolerance.

Symptoms of Lactose Intolerance in Dogs

Dogs with lactose intolerance may experience symptoms such as diarrhea, flatulence, vomiting and stomach pain. Therefore, it is generally not recommended to give the dog regular cow's milk.

Dimension of the problem: Some figures and facts

According to a study, about 50% of dogs are intolerant to milk. In concrete terms, this means that every second dog can expect health problems after drinking milk. Therefore, caution is advised if you plan to give your dog milk.

milk substitutes for dogs

However, there are special milk substitutes for dogs that are lactose-reduced or completely lactose-free. So if you really want to give your dog milk, you should use these products.

Choosing the right dairy products

It is important to know which milk substitutes are suitable and safe for dogs. Products with reduced lactose or lactose-free alternatives are often the best choice. These include special dog milk, goat's milk or lactose-free cow's milk.

Conclusion

• There is no harm in giving dogs small amounts of milk, but it is often better to avoid milk and prevent potential stomach problems.
• If you want to give your dog milk, do so in moderation and watch for any signs of lactose intolerance.
• There are many alternatives to milk that are nutritious and safe for dogs. However, your dog's primary source of hydration should always be fresh water.

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