Colostrum, or first milk, is a protein-rich fluid produced by female mammals to support the healthy development of their newborn babies in the first few days after birth. Some pet owners add colostrum to their dogs’ diet in a powdered, liquid or tablet form, as a way of supporting gut microbes, promoting healthy skin and helping with allergies. But is colostrum good for dogs, and is it safe? In this article, we’ll break down the nutritional facts and potential benefits of colostrum for dogs to help you decide if it’s right for your pet.
What is Colostrum?
Colostrum is the first milk produced by mammals, usually for two to four days post-partum. Rich in nutrients, including antibodies, it provides essential nutritional and immune support to newborn animals and is absorbed into the body during the first hours of life.
All female mammals produce colostrum, including dogs. Canine colostrum is rich in antibodies, or immunoglobulins, which help protect newborn puppies from infection. These antibodies can be absorbed into the puppy’s body in the first hours of life. There is currently no complete canine colostrum substitute that provides newborn pups with the same energy and immunity benefits as colostrum produced by their mother.
Older dogs can’t absorb antibodies by the gut, but colostrum still provides a wide range of key nutrients and potentially beneficial compounds. In addition to being rich in protein, fats, and carbohydrates, colostrum also contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and various antimicrobial molecules such as lactoferrin.
Types of Colostrum for Dogs
Most colostrum products for dogs use bovine colostrum (from cows), although some do offer goat colostrum instead. This typically has a slightly lower lactose content, and some sources suggest that it may be more easily digestible than bovine colostrum. However, bovine and goat colostrum are relatively similar overall. One of the main differences is that cows produce more milk, meaning bovine colostrum can be a more affordable choice.
Colostrum for dogs comes in different forms and is designed to be added to your pet’s diet. Options include:
Powdered colostrum: This is the most common form of pure colostrum product for dogs. Since colostrum is a type of milk, this is essentially a nutrient-packed dried milk powder. It’s usually easiest to mix this with either food or some liquid before feeding it.
Capsules: Capsules are another form of colostrum product for dogs. These can be given whole or can often be opened and sprinkled onto food.
Tablets and chews: These are less likely to offer pure colostrum. Instead, they’re often formulated with a range of different ingredients intended to offer a broader range of nutrients.
Pastes or liquids: These are less common, but include some products intended for young puppies
The best colostrum for dogs will depend on the benefits you are looking for, and the type of product that is easiest and most convenient for you to incorporate into their diet. Most pet owners opt for powdered colostrum, or a colostrum chew, both of which are convenient options.
6 Key Colostrum Benefits for Dogs
Research into the potential colostrum benefits for dogs (and humans) remains ongoing, assessing potential effects ranging from immune system support to topical use to promote skin health.
One study showed that dogs given bovine colostrum as part of their daily routine experienced a stronger response to vaccination against distemper virus, and also had increased gut microbiome diversity. Another study in young puppies found that colostrum powder may help to promote firm, healthy stools.
Here are the 6 most common benefits associated with colostrum products for dogs:
- Immune system support: Colostrum contains immunoglobulins (antibodies) and growth factors that can help to maintain healthy immune function and build up your pup’s natural defences
- Digestive function aid: The IgA and IgG antibodies in colostrum support your dog’s gut environment and, together with lactoferrin and prebiotics, help to support with occasional diarrhoea, constipation, or bloating
- Promotion of overall well-being: With its overall benefits to your dog’s health, colostrum can support your pup’s overall health and well-being
- Skin support: If it is used as a topical application, colostrum can also be used to help keep your dog’s skin healthy
- Joints and mobility support: Colostrum helps support cellular and tissue health, as it contains MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane). When used regularly as part of your dog’s diet, colostrum can help maintain muscle mass and bone density
- Seasonal allergic support: Colostrum is an immune modulator, so lots of pet owners give their pups colostrum for dog allergies to help manage inflammation that causes rashes, itching and discomfort
How to Give Dogs Colostrum
Palatable tablets and chews can be easy to give as a treat, but colostrum powders are also often palatable and can be easily mixed with liquid or food. Capsules can be given whole or may be designed to be sprinkled onto food. The packaging should clearly indicate if this is the case.
Colostrum products for dogs come in many forms, and it’s best to stick to the guidelines on your specific product’s packaging. This is especially important if it’s combined with any ingredients that could be unsafe if too much is given. If you’re in doubt about how much to use or whether to give colostrum to your pup, it’s always a good idea to check with your vet before giving it.
Conclusion: Colostrum for Dogs Can Help Support Overall Wellbeing
Colostrum for dogs is widely regarded as safe and may help to support gut health and immunity. It’s typically pretty palatable too, so whether you choose a pure colostrum product or one combining a broader range of ingredients, it can be an easy addition to your pet’s diet.
Sources
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