Can Dogs Eat Almond Milk?

A lick of plain, unsweetened almond milk is unlikely to hurt most dogs. But it isn’t a healthy drink for them either. The ASPCA says non-dairy products are better given only in moderation, and the label matters. Check for xylitol, a sweetener that is dangerous to dogs, and skip flavored kinds.

Is almond milk safe for dogs?

Plain almond milk is not known to be toxic to dogs. We didn’t find a vet source that gives almond milk its own rule, so this advice comes from the ASPCA’s general guide to dairy substitutes. It says that even when the ingredients are safe, it’s better to give non-dairy products to pets in moderation. It also says many people foods can still cause vomiting and diarrhea.

Think of almond milk as a rare lick, not a drink to pour into your dog’s bowl. Your dog doesn’t need it.

What should I check on the label?

Read the whole ingredient list before your dog gets a taste. The ASPCA says these products often include extra ingredients, such as sweeteners, thickeners, and added vitamins and minerals. Look for:

• Xylitol. The ASPCA says it is not common in dairy substitutes, but you should still check.
• Chocolate. Chocolate flavors are a problem for dogs.
• Macadamia nuts. The ASPCA lists them as an ingredient to avoid. They can cause weakness, vomiting, tremors, and a high body temperature in dogs.
• Other sweeteners and flavors. The sources we read don’t say how safe these are, so skip sweetened and flavored kinds.

Why is xylitol such a big deal?

Xylitol is a sugar substitute. The Merck Veterinary Manual says that in dogs, it causes a fast release of insulin. That can make blood sugar fall very low. Signs include vomiting, weakness, wobbling, tiredness, and seizures. Low blood sugar can start within 30 minutes. In bigger doses, xylitol can also hurt the liver, and signs of that can take 24 to 48 hours to show.

Merck lists sugar-free gum, candy, peanut butter, and baked goods as common sources. It also says to check the ingredient list on anything labeled “sugar-free.”

Can almond milk upset my dog’s stomach?

It can. The AKC says many dogs are lactose intolerant, so cow milk is hard for them to digest. Almond milk has no lactose, but any new food can upset a dog’s belly. The AKC lists loose stool, gas, vomiting, belly pain, and diarrhea as signs of stomach upset from milk. It also says milk is high in fat and natural sugar, and too much can lead to weight gain and pancreatitis, a painful swelling of the pancreas.

We did not find a vet source on how much fat is in almond milk or how it affects dogs. Whole almonds are a different matter. See our article on whether dogs can eat almonds.

How much almond milk can a dog have?

No vet source we read gives an amount. Because of that, we can’t give you a number. A small lick of a plain, unsweetened kind is the most we would suggest. Ask your vet before making it a regular treat.

What should I do if my dog drank almond milk?

• Plain and unsweetened, small amount: Watch your dog. Call your vet if vomiting or diarrhea starts or doesn’t stop.
• Large amount: Call your vet for advice, since the fat and the label’s extras can upset the stomach.
• The label lists xylitol, chocolate, or macadamia nuts: Call a vet or poison hotline right away, using the numbers above.

Bring the carton with you or have the ingredient list ready. It helps the vet or hotline give you the right advice.

Better drink choices

• Fresh water. It is the best drink for your dog.
• Dog-friendly treats. For something creamy, see whether dogs can eat yogurt. The AKC says some lactose-intolerant dogs can handle plain yogurt.

The AKC says a few tablespoons of cow or goat milk once in a while can be a treat for dogs that handle it well. For the full list of dangerous foods, see our guide to foods that are toxic to dogs. Treats of any kind should stay under about 10% of your dog’s daily calories.