It is a well-known fact that dogs love dairy. There is nothing like wanting to reward your dog on a hot summer’s day with some ice cream or a milkshake to cool down and it’s understandable because that’s what we turn to. However, some ice cream contains chocolate and nuts which are toxic to our pets. Even frozen yogurts may contain Xylitol which is an artificial sweetener also very toxic for them. It may also come as a surprise to you to learn that some dogs are actually lactose intolerant.
There are some signs to look out for which could indicate that your dog is lactose intolerant -
Loose Stools
Diarrhea
Abdominal Pain
Gas
Vomiting
Dog Food Advisor gives a great explanation of what lactose is -
“Well, lactose is a kind of sugar. Not just one single sugar...but two sugar molecules chemically linked together. In order for a dog to digest milk, the lactose must first be broken apart into its two basic easy to absorb sugars and to do that... a dog’s body must be able to produce a special lactose splitting enzyme known as lactase.”
Some dog owners have bought lactose-free milk for their dogs but it should be remembered that a lot of dairy products are high in fats and sugar which when consumed too often could lead to obesity or pancreatitis in your dog. You may be thinking everything in moderation but at the end of the day, it is wise to know the facts about dairy before giving this to your dog. There are plenty of non-dairy treats which your dog can enjoy and if you want to know more speak to your Vet at their next check-up.