DNA Tells the Whole Story: Can Dogs Really Safely Drink Milk?

Fri, 08 May 2026 20:55:47 +0000

# DNA Tells the Whole Story: Can Dogs Really Safely Drink Milk? When it comes to our furry companions, every pet owner wants to make choices that keep their dogs healthy and happy. One of the most common questions is: Can dogs really safely drink milk? While the cliché “a dog’s milk is nature’s perfect treat” has been passed down for generations, the truth is more nuanced—and freshly revealed through science, including DNA research. ## The Myth vs. The Science For centuries, people believed that cows’ milk was ideal for dogs, based on old lore and anecdotal evidence. But modern science, including DNA studies, tells a different story. Contrary to popular belief, most adult dogs are lactose intolerant—meaning they lack sufficient levels of lactase, the enzyme needed to break down lactose, the sugar found in milk.