If you already frequent the natural pet food stores that seem to be popping up in neighborhoods across the US, then I’m sure you have seen jugs of goat milk. Do you know why your dog needs raw goat milk?
There is a long list of benefits ranging from aiding in digestion to relieving your pup’s allergies.
Raw goat milk is a nutrient-dense treat that your dog will happily lap up. I personally use it as a food topper with Laila’s meals. She loves it almost as much as she loves her raw chicken feet. You can read about her love for those here.
The following are some of the reasons why your dog needs raw goat milk:
- Helps relieve seasonal allergies as well as food intolerances
- Aids in digestion
- Strengthens the immune system
- Reduces inflammation
- Calcium for strong bones and teeth
- Extra moisture – especially if feeding kibble
ALLERGIES
Raw goat’s milk is a natural anti-histamine that will help relieve those allergy symptoms when they pop up. Allergies are just an immune system response but some can be quite severe and bothersome for our pets. Adding some raw goat milk can help stabilize that reaction and reduce the inflammation it causes.
When our dogs have food allergies or food intolerances, it can show up as many different symptoms. Is your dog excessively gassy? Maybe their poop is too soft and not easy to pick up. It can also show up as itchy skin and ear infections. You know your pup, and none of the above are normal in a healthy dog.
Of course if you are concerned you should talk to your vet to rule out other possibilities. Just a warning though, they will most likely aim for meds and prescription kibble.
AIDS IN DIGESTION
Feeding raw goat milk is a natural way to support your dog’s digestive system. It is rich in probiotics which adds beneficial bacteria to the gut helping break down food and optimizing nutrient absorption.
Raw or fermented goat milk is easier on the digestive system than cow milk and is often used to bottle feed puppies.
Goat milk is considered one of nature’s perfect foods. On top of the probiotics and natural enzymes, it also provides an array of vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids. It’s the ‘perfect storm’ for a healthy, balanced gut microbiome.
STRENGTHENS THE IMMUNE SYSTEM
Because roughly 70% of the immune system lies in the gut, keeping the gut balanced is essential to your dog’s health. What you feed your best friend matters!
Probiotics of course are going to help keep the good and bad bacteria balanced, but this milk also contains immune boosting vitamins such as Vitamin A and Vitamin C. The antioxidant capabilities of these vitamins reduce the overall oxidative stress on your dog and help fight off illnesses.
REDUCES INFLAMMATION
The essential mineral selenium is one of the nutrients in goat milk that has anti-inflammatory properties. It fights free radicals that cause inflammation.
Goat milk is also a good source of zinc which interferes with the body’s inflammatory response. Selenium and zinc, along with the essential fatty acids can help reduce the pain and swelling caused by conditions like arthritis and other joint issues.
CALCIUM AND PHOSPHORUS
Goat milk is a great source of calcium and phosphorus. These minerals play an essential role in maintaining strong bones and teeth. Calcium promotes healthy teeth by helping prevent tooth decay. It is also responsible for maintaining the strength and density of bones.
Phosphorus in combination with calcium aids in strengthening teeth and bones. It also helps muscle function and other cellular processes.
ADDING MOISTURE AND ELECTROLYTES
If you feed kibble, this is why your dog needs raw goat milk…
Did you know that in the wild, dogs get most of their moisture from their food? This is another reason kibble is not the best source of nutrition for our dogs. Kibble contains very little, if any moisture. This is not good for kidney function. Kibble actually pulls water from the body for digestion when it is needed for other basic functions.
Adding goat milk or bone broth is a great way to add moisture and flavor to your dog’s meals. Especially if they don’t drink much water. Keeping your dog hydrated ensures the body can function properly.
The electrolytes found in raw goat milk help regulate body temperature and maintain hydration in the body. This is an added benefit that water does not have.
DOSING RAW GOAT MILK FOR DOGS
Like I said at the beginning of this post, most pet food stores sell goat milk in the freezer section. But if you have goats or know someone who does, even better!
Start off with a tablespoon or so and increase if your dog takes it well. You can add it daily or at least three times per week. Here is a basic guideline for adult pets:
Up to 20 lbs – 1/4 cup
20 lbs to 50 lbs – 1/2 cup
50 lbs and up – 3/4 cup
DISCLOSURES
Raw goat milk is higher in fat content than cow’s milk. When you decide to start supplementing with it add small amounts to your dog’s food and watch for any reactions. You can then add more until you have reached the proper dose.
It is also important to adjust the other contents to make up for the added calories. Goat milk is approximately 4% fat, mostly saturated fat. One half cup is about 85 calories. These calories can add up if you overdo it.
Your dog can truly benefit from the addition of raw goat milk. Variety is key for a balanced healthy gut. Feeding the same boring kibble for years wreaks havoc on the digestive system.
** If your dog has had pancreatitis it is imperative you speak with a vet before adding any supplement. Adding too much fat to their diet can cause flare-ups and even be dangerous.**
Please reach out with questions regarding your pup’s nutrition. Together we can create a balanced healthy diet by ditching the kibble!
Wag on my friends.
