Can Dogs Drink Human Breast Milk? A Quick Guide

1. Many people are aware that dogs should not consume milk, as it can lead to lactose intolerance in them, which in turn may cause vomiting and diarrhea. Lactose is a type of sugar found in the milk of humans and other mammals, providing essential nutrients and energy to "newborns." However, the digestion and absorption of lactose rely on the presence of lactase, an enzyme. Without lactase, lactose can't be properly digested, resulting in digestive discomfort. Newborns produce lactase to aid in the digestion of lactose in breast milk. As they wean, the production of lactase decreases, and if there's an excess of lactose in the intestines, it can ferment, causing diarrhea and bloating, a condition known as lactose intolerance. Therefore, both humans and animals cannot digest dairy products without lactase.

2. Yet, some dogs maintain a certain level of lactase activity even after adulthood, which may prevent them from experiencing lactose intolerance with milk. Additionally, a dog's reaction to lactose depends on the amount consumed. While both milk, sheep milk, and human breast milk contain lactose, their concentrations vary. Human breast milk has the highest lactose content, followed by cow's milk, with sheep milk having the lowest. Dogs that cannot be breastfed can often be given sheep milk as an alternative. Human breast milk can be given to dogs, but it's not recommended unless the owner is certain their dog is not lactose intolerant. Otherwise, the high lactose content in human breast milk can easily lead to gastrointestinal issues in dogs.

3. Besides lactose intolerance, drinking human breast milk can also trigger an allergic reaction in dogs, leading to itchy, red, and dry skin. Dogs and humans have different nutritional structures, and excessive intake of human breast milk can cause dogs to become overweight, potentially leading to orthopedic diseases, heart conditions, and urinary system issues.

It's important to note that by providing a scientifically balanced diet, you can meet a dog's nutritional needs without the need for additional dairy products. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to consult an online veterinary expert.