Does A 6-Week-Old Puppy Still Need Milk? A Comprehensive Guide

Feeding cow’s milk to 6-week-old puppies is not recommended due to its potential difficulty in digestion. This is primarily because most adult dogs are lactose intolerant, which means they lack enough of the enzyme called lactase required to properly break down lactose, a sugar present in milk. This can lead to digestive discomfort and upset stomach in puppies. It’s important to provide specially formulated puppy milk replacers that are designed to meet their nutritional needs during this early stage of development. This information was last updated on April 17, 2023.

How much milk should you provide for a 6-week-old puppy? Typically, a general guideline is to offer about 15 milliliters (ml) of specially formulated puppy milk for every 2 ounces (oz) of the puppy’s body weight per day. It’s crucial to choose a high-quality puppy milk formula from a reputable brand, preferably one recommended by your veterinarian. As your puppy continues to grow, their nutritional needs will increase, so it’s essential to keep a close eye on their weight at home to ensure they receive the appropriate amount of nourishment.