Can Dogs Have Lactose-Free Milk?

A few tablespoons of milk once in a while are fine for many dogs. A whole bowl is not. The AKC says many dogs have trouble digesting lactose, the sugar in milk, so too much can cause diarrhea and vomiting. Lactose-free milk is not a proven fix, and milk is never something your dog needs.

Can dogs drink lactose-free milk?

Maybe, but no source we read tested it for dogs. The AKC article on milk does not mention lactose-free milk at all.

Here is what we can say. Lactose-free milk has the lactose taken out or broken down, so it may be easier on the belly. But the AKC says milk is also high in fat and natural sugar. Too much of either can lead to weight gain and pancreatitis, a painful swelling of the pancreas, an organ that helps with digestion. Taking out the lactose does not take out the fat.

If you want to try it, offer a small taste and watch your dog. Ask your vet first if your dog has had stomach trouble or pancreatitis.

Why does milk upset some dogs?

The AKC says many dogs cannot digest lactose well, and dairy is a common cause of food intolerance in dogs. Reactions range from mild to serious. Lactase is the body’s tool for breaking down lactose. The AKC says dogs make less of it after they stop nursing. The Merck Veterinary Manual adds that dogs and cats can also lose lactase after damage to the gut.

Merck’s advice for pets that already have diarrhea is to avoid dairy products.

How much milk is okay for a dog?

The AKC says a few tablespoons of cow’s milk or goat’s milk once in a while can be an okay treat. It warns against a full bowl at one time, because that can cause diarrhea, vomiting, and loose stool, even in dogs that are not lactose intolerant.

Many owners only learn their dog cannot handle milk after giving some. If your dog gets gas, loose stool, or an upset belly after a small amount, pick a different treat.

What signs mean milk did not agree with my dog?

The AKC lists these signs of a milk problem:

• Loose stool or diarrhea
• Gas
• Vomiting
• Belly pain

The AKC says to check with your vet before adding anything new to your dog’s food. If the signs are strong or do not go away, call your vet.

Should I give my dog milk after it eats something bad?

No. Pet Poison Helpline says milk does not work as an antidote. Nothing in milk cancels out a poison or a medicine. Because most pets are lactose intolerant, milk can add stomach upset. Call your vet or a poison hotline before trying any home treatment.

What can my dog have instead of milk?

For a dairy treat, the AKC says some dogs who cannot handle milk do fine with a little cheese or plain yogurt, because they are usually easier to digest. Other dogs react to all dairy, so try only a small bite first.

For more, see our guides on cheese for dogs, yogurt for dogs, almond milk for dogs and ice cream for dogs.

Is milk a problem for dogs that are not lactose intolerant?

It can be. The AKC says milk is high in fat and natural sugar, and too much of either can add to weight gain and pancreatitis. That is true even for a dog that digests lactose well. So a small amount is the limit for every dog.

Treats of any kind should be no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily calories.