Did you know?
Most adult dogs are lactose intolerant, a fact that many pet owners may not realise. While this might come as a surprise to dog parents who love sharing dairy treats with their furry companions, the science behind this phenomenon is quite straightforward.
The Science of Lactase Production in Dogs
Puppies, like most mammalian babies, are born with the ability to produce an enzyme called lactase. This enzyme is produced by specialized cells called enterocytes that line the brush border of the small intestine. Lactase is crucial for breaking down lactose, the primary sugar found in milk, into its simpler components (glucose and galactose) that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.
During the nursing phase, puppies need this enzyme to properly digest their mother’s milk, which is their sole source of nutrition during early development. The enterocytes in their small intestine actively produce sufficient lactase to handle the lactose in their mother’s milk.
However, as puppies wean and transition to solid foods, their bodies naturally begin to decrease lactase production. The genes responsible for lactase production become less active, resulting in fewer lactase enzymes being secreted by the intestinal cells. By adulthood, most dogs produce significantly less lactase than they did as puppies, with many producing very little or none at all. This biological change makes perfect sense from an evolutionary perspective – canines have no need to digest milk after weaning, so maintaining lactase production would be energetically wasteful.
Without sufficient lactase, when a dog consumes lactose-containing milk, the undigested lactose passes into the large intestine where bacteria ferment it, potentially causing digestive upset.
The Problem with Pup Cups
Pup cups – those small cups of whipped cream that many coffee shops and drive-throughs provide free-of-charge for dogs – have become increasingly popular offerings. The enthusiasm with which dogs devour these creamy treats is undeniable, a fact that brings sheer delight to humans and dogs alike.
However, these dairy-based treats can cause digestive distress in lactose-intolerant dogs, which represents the majority of the adult canine population.
Signs of Lactose Intolerance in Dogs
If your dog has consumed dairy products and is lactose intolerant, you might observe the following symptoms within 30 minutes to several hours after consumption:
- Diarrhea: Often the most common sign, ranging from mild to severe
- Vomiting: Some dogs may regurgitate dairy products
- Gas and flatulence: Excessive gas is a classic sign of lactose fermentation in the gut
- Lethargy: Your dog may seem unusually tired or uninterested in activities
Many pet owners don’t connect these symptoms to the dairy treat they fed their dog hours earlier. Instead, they might blame it on something else or assume their dog has a sensitive stomach more generally. In reality, lactose intolerance is the likely cause.
Bring-Your-Own-Treats!
For dog owners who want to treat their pets during outings, your best bet is to stick with tried and true food options. That means BYOT - bring treats that your dog both loves and tolerates well! Keep a small resealable bag or container of your dog’s favourite healthy treats handy in your car or bag for any treat-worthy occasion. This way, you can ensure your pup receives consistent, nutritionally appropriate rewards without any digestive surprises or ingredient concerns.
Low-Lactose Cheese, please?
If you’re determined to occasionally share some dairy with your dog, opt for dairy products that are naturally low in lactose or lactose-free, such as a small piece of low-lactose cheese. According to Dr. Chris Cifelli, senior vice-president of nutrition research for the National Dairy Council, the following cheeses “are virtually lactose-free”:
- Monterey Jack
- Mozzarella
- Swiss
- Colby
- Cheddar
Remember that even with these low-lactose options, moderation is key. As with all treats, these should be fed occasionally and sparingly.
Pro Tip: Stay alert to signs that treats may be causing issues in your dog, which could appear as increased itchiness, excessive licking or scratching, loose stools, or diarrhea. When introducing new foods or treats to your dog’s diet, as a general rule start with a very small amount and observe for 24-48 hours before offering more. Keep in mind that even “safe” treats can affect individual dogs differently based on their unique digestive systems and potential sensitivities.
The More You Know
While sharing food experiences with our canine companions is one of the many joys of dog ownership, it’s important to make choices that support their digestive health. Understanding that most adult dogs are lactose intolerant can help us make better decisions about treats and avoid unnecessary digestive upset.
Remember, the best treat you can give your dog isn’t a pup cup: it’s your attention, affection and love.
If you’d like personalized guidance navigating the complex world of canine nutrition, I offer one-on-one consulting services tailored to your dog’s unique needs. Reach out today for a free 15-minute discovery call to see if my services are the right fit for you and your dog.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes and to help pet owners become more informed consumers.