What should I do if my dog has lactose intolerance

In the days spent with dogs, we always hope to give them the best care and share various delicious foods with them. However, when we happily feed our dogs milk, we only realize that they may have lactose intolerance when we notice that they are experiencing discomfort. This makes every dog lover feel heartbroken and eager to find a solution to restore their dog's health.

1、 The principle of lactose intolerance

Dogs are lactose intolerant because they lack a key enzyme in their bodies - lactase. Lactase can break down lactose into glucose and galactose, which are then absorbed and utilized by the body. However, lactose intolerant dogs are unable to effectively break down lactose due to insufficient secretion or reduced activity of lactase. When dogs consume food containing lactose, lactose cannot be fully digested and absorbed in the intestine, and will enter the large intestine. In the large intestine, lactose is fermented and broken down by bacteria, producing a large amount of gas and acidic substances that stimulate the intestines, leading to accelerated intestinal peristalsis, reduced water absorption, and a series of discomfort symptoms.

2、 Symptoms of lactose intolerance

The symptoms of lactose intolerance in dogs usually appear within a period of time after consuming lactose containing foods, which may include diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, abdominal pain, and excessive bowel sounds. Diarrhea is the most common symptom, and dogs' feces can become soft and even watery, with a significant increase in bowel movements. Vomiting is also a more obvious manifestation, as dogs may vomit undigested food or acidic liquids. When there is bloating, the dog's abdomen will significantly expand, and when touched, you can feel more gas in the intestines. Abdominal pain can cause dogs to exhibit behaviors such as restlessness, hunchback, curling up, and may also frequently lick their abdomen.

Once upon a time, there was a dog owner who couldn't bear to see his dog eagerly watching him drink milk, so he fed his dog some. Not long after, the dog began to experience frequent diarrhea and became mentally lethargic. The owner only realized that the dog may have lactose intolerance and quickly took it to see a veterinarian. After treatment and dietary adjustments, the dog gradually recovered its health.

3、 Treatment methods for discovering lactose intolerance in dogs

Once symptoms of lactose intolerance are detected in dogs, the first step is to immediately stop feeding foods containing lactose. This is like stepping on the brake in time to prevent the dog's body from continuing to be injured. Then, closely observe the changes in the dog's symptoms. If the symptoms are mild, such as only mild diarrhea, the dog can temporarily fast for 4-6 hours to allow its digestive system to rest. But it is important to provide dogs with sufficient warm water to prevent dehydration.

If the symptoms of a dog are severe, such as persistent diarrhea, frequent vomiting, and mental fatigue, it is important to take it to a pet hospital for treatment in a timely manner. Veterinarians will conduct examinations and diagnoses based on the specific condition of the dog, and may perform blood tests, fecal tests, etc. to determine the dog's physical condition. Then, appropriate treatment should be given, such as intravenous fluids to supplement water and electrolytes, and medication to alleviate symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting.

4、 Adjustment of daily diet and selection of alternative foods

For lactose intolerant dogs, adjusting their daily diet is crucial. Avoid feeding your dog any food containing lactose, such as milk, regular dairy products, etc. You can choose some low lactose or lactose free alternatives, such as pet specific goat milk powder. The nutritional composition of sheep milk powder is similar to that of breast milk, and its lactose content is lower, making it easier for dogs to digest and absorb. There are also some foods specifically designed for lactose intolerant pets on the market, which have been optimized in formula to remove lactose while ensuring a balance of other nutrients.

In addition to dairy products, it can also provide dogs with a variety of other foods. High quality dog food is the main source of food for dogs, and it is important to choose dog food that is nutritionally balanced, suitable for the age and breed of the dog. Meat is also an important source of protein for dogs, such as chicken, beef, fish, etc. These meats can be cooked and fed in moderation. In addition, vegetables and fruits can also provide vitamins and dietary fiber for dogs, such as carrots, broccoli, apples, etc., but it is important to feed them in moderation to avoid excessive intake that can lead to nutritional imbalance.

Although lactose intolerance in dogs can have a certain impact on their health, as long as we detect it in a timely manner and adopt the correct treatment methods, adjust our diet, we can help dogs recover their health and continue to live happily. Dogs are our most loyal companions, providing us with endless love and companionship. We also need to be careful and patient to take care of their healthy diet. Let's work together to create a healthy and happy living environment for dogs, accompanying them through every wonderful time.