Can Dogs Have Almond, Oat, Coconut or Soy Milk?

Can Dogs Have Almond Milk, Oat Milk, Coconut Milk or Soy Milk?

Your guide to plant-based dairy and milk alternatives for dogs.

You love your dog and only want the best for them. So, when it comes to their food and treats, you make sure to do your research to ensure you are giving them the best possible diet. But what about their type of milk? Is plant-based milk for dogs a good option over cow and goat milk?

The short answer is that it depends. Just like with humans, each dog is different and will react differently to plant-based milk products. Some dogs may be able to tolerate it well, while others may have digestive issues or other health issues. If you are considering switching your dog to plant-based milk, here are some things to keep in mind.

The Pros of Plant-Based Milk For Dogs

There are a few potential benefits of feeding your dog plant-based milk. For one, it is a good option for dogs who are lactose intolerant. If your dog has trouble digesting cow's milk or goat milk, plant-based milk may be easier on its stomach.

Another advantage of plant-based milks is that they tend to be lower in calories than cow's milk. This can be helpful if your dog is trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, plant-based milks can be fortified with vitamins and minerals, which can provide your dog with a nutritional boost.

The Cons Of Plant-Based Milk For Dogs

Of course, there are also some potential downsides to feeding your dog plant-based milk. One concern is that most plant-based milks do not contain as much protein as cow's milk. Protein is an essential nutrient for dogs.

Another worry is that some plant-based milks contain added sugars, which could lead to weight gain or other health problems if fed to dogs in large quantities.  In addition, some contain harmful additives so always read the labels.

Now we are going to review the types of plant based milks.

Is Almond Milk ok for my Dog?

You love to drink almond milk and think your pup would love it too—but can dogs have almond milk? Is almond milk safe for dogs? The short answer is yes, in moderation as an occasional treat and not in large quantities However, there are a few things you should keep in mind before adding almond milk to your dog's diet.  

Almond milk is a good source of vitamins A and E, which are important for maintaining your dog's coat and skin health offering other nutritional benefits. Additionally, almond milk is low in calories and fat, which makes it a good choice for dogs who are overweight or suffering from obesity. However, almond milk does not contain any calcium.

As with anything else, moderation is key when feeding your dog almond milk. Too much almond milk can lead to gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or vomiting. Start by giving your dog a small amount of almond milk and see how they react before giving them more.  You can incorporate it into recipes such as frozen treats or even our Shepherd's Pup Pie Recipe has a small amount to give it a milky texture.

Dog Child Essential Nutrient Mix

If you’re looking for another easy way to boost your dog’s meals then try the Dog Child Essential Nutrient mix which is filled with vitamins and nutrients your dog needs to thrive. Get your paws on our Nutrient Mix today! 

Dangerous Ingredients

Look out for almond milk that has xylitol as it is extremely toxic to dogs even in small amounts. Same for artificial sweeteners, dogs should always enjoy unsweetened almond milk.   Always ask for veterinary advice if your dog has any health issues or health risks. 

Is Oat Milk okay for my Dog?

We drink oat milk almost every morning and are wondering if this human food can be shared with our dogs?  Its popularity is due to its creamy texture and nutty flavor, which makes it a delicious addition to coffee, smoothies, and baking recipes. But what about our furry friends? 

Can dogs safely consume Oat Milk? Let's find out!

Good news is that oat milk is generally safe for dogs to consume in small quantities. This is because oat milk is low in lactose and cholesterol, and high in fiber and essential vitamins and minerals. However, there are a few things to keep in mind when feeding your dog oat milk.

First, make sure to check the ingredients list on the carton of oat milk before purchasing. Some brands add sugar or other sweeteners to their products, which can be harmful to dogs in large amounts. Secondly, since oat milk is high in fiber, it can cause digestive issues if your dog consumes too much of it. If you do decide to give your dog oat milk over cow’s milk, start with a small quantity and observe how they react before giving them more.

In conclusion, oat milk is safe for most dogs to consume in small quantities. However, it's important to check the ingredients list for added sugars or sweeteners and start with a small amount to avoid any digestive issues. Have you ever given your dog oat milk? How did they like it? Let us know in the comments below!

Check out our doggy frozen yogurt bites for a fun recipe or blueberry yogurt bites.

Is Coconut Milk Good for Dogs?

More and more dog parents are wondering if they should be giving their four-legged friends coconut milk. Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of feeding dogs coconut milk.

The Pros of Coconut Milk for Dogs

There are a number of benefits that have been associated with feeding dogs coconut milk. One of the biggest benefits is that it can help improve a dog's coat and skin. Coconut milk is rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, all of which can help keep a dog's coat looking shiny and healthy.

Finally, coconut milk can also help boost your dog's immune system. The lauric acid in coconut milk has antimicrobial properties that can help fight off viruses, bacteria, and other pathogens. In addition, the vitamins and minerals in coconut milk can help keep your dog's immune system strong and healthy.

The Cons of Coconut Milk for Dogs

While there are many potential benefits of feeding dogs coconut milk, there are also some potential drawbacks that you should be aware of. One of the biggest potential drawbacks is that some dogs may be allergic to coconuts or have trouble digesting them. 

Another potential downside of feeding dogs coconut milk is that it is high in calories and fat. If you're concerned about your dog gaining weight or becoming obese, you may want to talk to your vet about other options. 

Overall, there are a number of potential benefits associated with feeding dogs coconut milk. In addition, make sure to watch your dog's calorie intake if you're concerned about weight gain.

Can My Dog Have Soy Milk?

But before you start offering your pup soy milk as a treat, there are a few things you need to know.  While soy milk may be a healthy choice for humans, it's not necessarily the best option for dogs. The main reason is that soy milk contains plant estrogens, which can throw off your dog's hormone levels and cause health problems. In addition, soy milk is often sweetened with sugar, which can lead to weight gain and tooth decay in dogs.

If you're looking for a healthy, dairy-free alternative to cow's milk for your dog, the plant-based milks above are better bets. 

Plant-Based Yogurts for Dogs

We also love to use plant-based yogurt such as almond, coconut and oat milk when making our dogs delicious treats.  These creamy bases are easy to incorporate with healthy fruits and vegetables such as pumpkin, apples, blueberries to name a few.  We love to freeze these healthy treats and use them as a nutrient rich snack with our dogs that your dog is sure to love.  As always please read the ingredient list carefully and choose an unsweetened yogurt.

Check out our recipe page for more home cooked dog recipes on how to incorporate plant based dairy into your dog’s meals and snacks. Home cooking for your dog has never been easier with our dog recipe community.