Goat’s milk has a wide variety of uses. From cheeses to ice cream and even as an ingredient in all-natural soap, goat’s milk is versatile and is touted for its beneficial features.
In addition to making different products with it, humans often drink goat’s milk because it is creamy, easy to digest, and contains a long list of vitamins and nutrients, but you may be wondering, is goat milk good for dogs, too?
Our pets are family, so let’s talk about whether your dogs can have goat’s milk and whether it is good for them.
Can Dogs Drink Goat Milk?
The short answer is yes. Dogs can drink goat’s milk and many of them enjoy it. However, it is important to remember that dogs have different nutritional needs than humans, and their diet should be primarily made up of dog-specific foods. With that being said, goat’s milk can provide some nutritional benefits for dogs.
Is Goat’s Milk Good For Dogs?: Potential Benefits of Goat’s Milk For Dogs
Goat’s milk has the potential to help dogs with their digestive health, immune support, and hydration.
Digestive Health
Goat milk contains probiotics and enzymes that can help promote healthy digestion in dogs, particularly those with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues. Goat’s milk in general is easy to digest for dogs, so if your furbaby has trouble keeping their food down, soaking the kibble in goat’s milk might be a good option.
Immune Support
The nutrients in goat milk, including vitamins, minerals, and higher levels of medium-chain fatty acids, can help support immune function in dogs. Like us humans, dogs need to have a strong immune system to fight off nasty germs. Goat’s milk gives them a hefty dose of the nutrients a dog's immune system uses to put up a good fight.
Hydration
Goat's milk is high in moisture and contains electrolytes. It can help keep dogs hydrated, particularly in hot weather or during periods of increased activity. Plus, they will be more inclined to drink it since it's nice and tasty.
Skin & Coat Health
The fatty acids in goat's milk can help nourish and moisturize a dog's skin and coat, promoting a healthy, shiny appearance. This can also potentially help with itching and irritation as dogs often become restless and itchy when their skin and coats are dry.
Considerations of Goat’s Milk For Dogs
Like with humans, it's important to note that not all dogs can tolerate goat's milk, particularly those who are lactose intolerant or have other digestive sensitivities. Additionally, some dogs may be allergic to goat milk proteins, which can cause adverse reactions. Always introduce new foods slowly to any pets, monitor them closely, and consider checking with a professional first.
How To Get Goat’s Milk For Dogs
There are many brands of goat's milk that are available commercially. You can also find goat's milk at some health food stores. When choosing a brand, look for one that is made with all-natural ingredients and does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.
The other option for sourcing goat’s milk for dogs is to raise your own dairy goats. Though goats require space, attention, and care, they are quite versatile pets or addition to any farm especially if you use goat’s milk regularly for your dogs or to make soap.
See If Your Dog Likes Goat’s Milk
Though the only way to find out if your dog will enjoy and tolerate goat’s milk is to give them some, it’s important to talk to a veterinarian first to determine whether it's a good choice for your pet, and to ensure that your dog's overall nutritional needs are being met.