What happens if my dog drank milk? Here’s What to Expect

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Many canine companions love dairy products. But can dogs drink milk? In short, maybe. Like many human foods, it should only be given to your dog in moderation. Also, a lot of pups are lactose intolerant, and drinking milk can cause intestinal upset.

How Much Milk Can Dogs Drink?

Milk is a safe treat in small quantities. A few tablespoons of cow’s milk or goat’s milk on an occasional basis can be a nice reward for your dog. But, you should probably hold off on offering your dog an entire bowl in one sitting, as it can cause unpleasant reactions, including diarrhea, vomiting, and loose stools.

The beverage is high in fat and natural sugars. Too much of these in your dog’s diet can lead to obesity and pancreatitis, which are serious conditions.

Dairy products are a leading source of food intolerance in dogs. Many canines are lactose intolerant, which means they have difficulty digesting milk. Some lactose intolerant dogs have trouble drinking milk, but can handle dairy products like cheese and plain yogurt, which are typically easier to digest. Other pups may have adverse reactions to dairy in general.

What happens if my dog drank milk?

Offer your dog a substitute in the future, like canned milk or milk formulated for dogs.

Tom Ryan is a freelance writer, editor and English tutor. He graduated from the University of Pittsburgh with a degree in English writing, and has also worked as an arts and entertainment reporter with “The Pitt News” and a public relations and advertising copywriter with the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh.

Take him out for frequent bathroom breaks. If he experiences gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea, hes going to be going No. 2 more than usual.

Take away any milk to which your dog has access. If a glass spilled, for example, clean it up before he can drink any more — while it can upset his stomach, all he understands is that it tastes great.

Give your dog plenty of fresh, cool and clean water to drink. Depending on his level of intolerance and how much milk he drank, he may experience diarrhea or vomiting, which will quickly dehydrate him.

Can Dogs drink milk? Is Milk harmful for your puppy?

Does your canine companion give you those hard-to-resist puppy eyes while youre indulging in a tall glass of milk? You might wonder “can dogs drink milk?” as you take another sip, debating whether or not you should share.

After all, dogs drink their mothers milk as puppies … but what does that mean for cows milk or dairy-free alternatives?

While milk is not toxic to dogs—meaning your pup can technically have a lick!—its not recommended that they drink it, and the reasons why might surprise you.