It’s feeding time, and your tiny, wiggly puppy is ready for their next meal. You open the fridge, grab some cow’s milk, and pour it into a bottle—after all, milk is milk, right? Wrong. Using the wrong formula can lead to serious health issues including death for newborn puppies.
If you’re caring for an orphaned puppy, choosing the right milk replacer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Let’s break down why regular milk is harmful and what your puppy actually needs to thrive.
Why Cow’s or Goat’s Milk is a No-Go for Puppies
Many people assume that cow’s or goat’s milk is a suitable substitute for mother’s milk—but unfortunately, that’s not the case.
Missing Essential Nutrients
Mother’s milk is specifically designed to meet a puppy’s developmental needs, containing the perfect balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Cow’s milk, on the other hand, lacks the necessary fat and protein levels, which can lead to malnourishment and slow growth.
Digestive Issues & Diarrhea
Puppies’ digestive systems are delicate, and cow’s milk is too high in lactose, which can cause diarrhea, bloating, and dehydration. Goat’s milk is slightly lower in lactose but still doesn’t provide the right nutrient balance.
The Right Choice: Puppy-Specific Milk Replacers
If a puppy can’t nurse from their mother, they need a high-quality puppy milk replacer to grow strong and healthy.
Best Formula Options
Always choose a commercial puppy milk replacer, such as:
✅ Esbilac (puppy formula available in powder or liquid form)
✅ Puppy Bac (easily digestible and nutrient-rich)
✅ Breeder’s Edge Foster Care (a solid alternative for orphaned puppies)
How to Prepare Formula Correctly
Preparing formula the right way is just as important as choosing the right type. Always use a high-quality puppy milk replacer, and mix it according to the package instructions—too much water can dilute nutrients, while too little can make digestion difficult. Use warm (not hot) water around 110°F-130°F to dissolve the powder completely by mixing by hand for 5 minutes and let the mixture rest in the fridge for 8 hours before use for better absorption. Always serve formula at body temperature (around 95°F) and discard any unused portion after 24 hours. Never microwave formula—warm it in a water bath instead. By following these steps, you’ll ensure your puppy gets the nutrition they need for a healthy start!
What to Do If a Puppy Already Had the Wrong Milk?
Watch for Symptoms of Digestive Upset
If your puppy has already consumed cow’s or goat’s milk, keep an eye out for:
🚨 Loose stools or diarrhea
🚨 Excessive crying or discomfort
🚨 Dehydration (dry gums, weakness)
How to Help
🚑 Switch immediately to a proper puppy milk replacer.
🚑 Keep them hydrated—if they have diarrhea, dehydration can happen quickly.
🚑 If symptoms persist for more than 24 hours, contact a vet.
The Right Milk Saves Lives
Choosing the right formula isn’t just a preference—it’s a lifesaving decision. Newborn puppies rely on the proper balance of nutrients to grow, develop, and survive. Using cow’s or goat’s milk can cause serious digestive issues and malnourishment, so always stick with high-quality puppy milk replacers designed for their needs.
Your little one is counting on you—give them the best start possible!