Are you wondering if it’s a good idea to give your dog skim milk?
First thing’s first:
Despite the reduced cream and fat, it is still a dairy product.
Yup! Skim milk contains proteins and sugars even after the removal process.
So feeding your dog this type of milk may result in some digestive disruption. It depends on the level of lactose intolerance and how much you provide.
Careful Giving Your Dog Skim Milk
Thankfully sharing is usually uneventful, at least when given in small amounts.
To be clear, skim milk has its benefits. There is plenty of riboflavin, vitamin B12 and D, phosphorus and calcium among others.
And some dogs aren’t so sensitive to lactose, but plenty do experience gas and/or vomiting.
Still on the fence?
Consider that once your buddy has been weaned off mother’s milk, or a replacement, there is usually no reason to go back.
If you do give your dog skim milk be sure to watch for the runs which is a clear sign they can’t handle it so well.
Skim Milk Skepticism
Each skim milk calorie packs more protein than the regular stuff.
That is true!
It is much less fattening because the cream has been removed. In that sense, it is more appropriate for a pet pooch.
Indeed, there is a good argument that skim milk is better than whole regular milk.
But the following is also true:
Your dog can get plenty of protein and the same nutrients from solid food sources.
Why not keep things simple and avoid dairy all-together?
Besides, unless there’s a valid medical reason, liquids generally aren’t how valuable calories should be added to a healthy dog’s diet.
1 or 2 Percent Milk
If giving skim milk achieves anything it will be comparatively less fat intake. This is the case just as 1% milk is less fatty than 2% milk.
But, again, having less cream doesn’t mean it is a good idea for a pet dog.
All thing’s being equal, skim milk is still questionable.
On the other hand, if your dog tolerates diary well then a bit of skim milk could be no harm done. It’ll keep the calorie count and fat intake down.
Skim or No Lactose?
Lactose-free milk is another option.
By comparison, skim milk while perhaps better than whole milk is probably somewhat more problematic than the lactose-free variety.
Lactose intolerance is very much relevant to canines.
Our opinion is that skim milk, lactaid or regular cow’s milk only make sense for dogs in unique cases. By all means, get your vet’s viewpoint.
For now, it cannot be stressed enough:
Take into account your dog’s particular digestive sensitivity before making a feeding decision.
The Bottom Line
Giving skim milk to your dog is not a great idea.
Low fat is better than regular milk, but feeding it still doesn’t make sense. Reintroducing dairy is rarely beneficial.
At the same time, a modest amount of skim milk likely won’t be an issue.
