Can dogs eat milk?

Caution

Some dogs cope with a little milk, but many cannot digest it well. It can cause diarrhoea or other digestive upset.

Also searched as: cow's milk, dairy, lactose

When it is a problem

Dogs do not have much lactase, the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk, so milk and other dairy products can cause diarrhoea or digestive upset. AKC adds that individual dogs may not tolerate dairy products well.

Sources

ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets checked 8 October 2026 milk and other dairy-based products can cause diarrhea or other digestive upset.
American Kennel Club: Human foods dogs can and can't eat checked 29 October 2026 Dogs can have milk, but individual dogs may not tolerate dairy products well.

Last reviewed 29 October 2026. How we check foods

This is general information, not veterinary advice. If your dog ate something concerning, contact your vet or a poison helpline immediately.