Can dogs drink almond milk? You may be asking this because you’ve hopped on the alternative milk bandwagon and want to get your pup in on the action. Humans can drink almond milk, so is it also safe for dogs to drink?
There is no short yes or no answer as to whether dogs can drink almond milk. Almonds themselves are not toxic to dogs, but the ingredients in the almond milk may be.
As with all human drinks, be sure to contact your veterinarian before letting your dog have a sip of your beverages. Here’s what you should know about almond milk and dogs.
When Is Almond Milk Okay For Dogs To Drink?
As a rule, dogs do not need any frills when consuming human foods or drinks. That is, they don’t need spices or sweeteners.
Plain almond milk is safe for your dog to drink in moderation, but there aren’t necessarily many health benefits that your dog couldn’t get from just eating plain almonds.
There is debate in the veterinary world about whether almonds are worth giving to your pup in the first place, since they can easily cause gastrointestinal upset.
A few licks of plain, unsweetened almond milk every now and then is fine for your pup, but it shouldn’t be a regular occurrence. If you want to give your doggo a treat that is rich in healthy fats and fiber, try flaxseed instead.
When Is Almond Milk Unsafe For Dogs?
Almond milk with additives is unsafe for your pup. A lot of commercial almond milks contain xylitol, which is a natural sugar substitute. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause hypoglycemia in dogs, which can lead to death.
There are plenty of firsthand accounts of xylitol causing death in dogs. If your dog has had a sip of almond milk with xylitol, take them to the vet immediately. Don’t wait for your dog to exhibit any symptoms.
If you suspect that your dog may have taken a sip of almond milk with xylitol, it’s better to err on the side of caution and take them to your vet.
Has your dog ever had plain, unsweetened almond milk? Did they like the taste? Let us know in the comments below.
