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Lactose intolerance is common in adult dogs, so it’s not recommended for them to consume dairy milk. Fortunately, your dog can enjoy many different alternatives, including almond milk, in moderation. In general, almond milk is safe for dogs to drink, but you have to be careful and vigilant with the type that you give to your dog. Some can contain ingredients that can be toxic to dogs.
Neither almond milk nor almonds are necessary for your pup’s diet, so it’s best to only offer them as occasional treats. Here’s what you need to know before giving almond milk to your dog.
Why Can Dogs Drink Almond Milk?
Nut allergies are rare in dogs, and most dogs can safely have almond milk without experiencing any health issues. It’s a much safer alternative to dairy milk, as it doesn’t contain any lactose.
Dogs don’t need almond milk, but it can be used when baking homemade dog treats. Otherwise, almond milk should only be an occasional treat, as your pet doesn’t really need it. While it’s safe for canines to have almond milk in moderation, it’s not a necessary part of their diet. So, if your dog doesn’t enjoy the taste, you can skip this drink and give your dog other treats that they prefer instead.
Benefits of Feeding Almond Milk to Dogs
Plain almond milk is a low-calorie beverage and can be a viable dairy-free option for dogs that can’t digest dairy products well. It’s also a good source of magnesium and vitamin E. You can also help your dog stay cool and hydrated on hot summer days by freezing almond milk in ice cube trays and giving one to your pup as a frozen treat.
Dangers of Feeding Almond Milk to Dogs
Almond milk itself isn’t dangerous for dogs, but it can contain additional ingredients that are either unhealthy or harmful to them. When feeding almond milk to your dog, look through the ingredient list beforehand, as it’s extremely rare to find store-bought almond milk that only contains almonds. Many contain additional flavors and preservatives, and they also usually have emulsifiers and stabilizers to prevent the milk solids and liquids from separating.
Sometimes, almond milk can also contain ingredients that are safe for humans but toxic to dogs. One particular ingredient to watch out for is xylitol. This sugar substitute is commonly included in low-calorie foods and drinks. It’s harmful to canines, and even a small amount can lead to hypoglycemia, seizures, or liver failure.
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Choosing Almond Milk for Dogs
The best kind of almond milk that you can give to your dog is homemade almond milk because you know exactly what’s in it. It can be made with just almonds and water and requires little equipment. However, homemade almond milk is much more expensive than the store-bought variety.
So, when shopping for almond milk, stick to plain. Check the ingredient list, and be on the lookout for certain artificial ingredients and preservatives. Choose unsweetened almond milk over sweetened versions and those with added flavors.
Again, your dog doesn’t need almond milk, but you may choose to use it in homemade treats or as the occasional snack.
Conclusion
Overall, almond milk is safe for most dogs to drink. Just be careful with the kind of almond milk that you give to your dog. If you have the time, you can try making your own homemade almond milk. Your dog will appreciate this tasty drink and can have it as an occasional snack.
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Featured Image Credit: Wichy, Shutterstock
