Colostrum for Dogs: A Vet Weighs In

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 and Should I Give It To My Dog?

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:

• Soft chews: These are palatable for your dog, easy to give, and are often formulated with a range of different beneficial ingredients intended to offer a broader range of nutrients. PetLabCo.’s Allergy & Immune Chews contain a proprietary blend of probiotics and premium-quality, skin-supporting ingredients, including bovine colostrum and omega fatty acids.
• Powdered colostrum: This is a common form of colostrum product for dogs. Since colostrum is a type of milk, this is essentially a nutrient-packed dried milk powder. It’s mixed with food or some liquid before feeding.
• Capsules: Capsules are another form of colostrum product for dogs. These can be given whole or can often be opened and sprinkled onto food.
• 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 a colostrum soft chew, which is easy to give and for your dog to eat, or powdered colostrum, which is another convenient option. 

PetLabCo. Allergy & Immune Chew: A Vet-Reviewed Daily Supplement That Supports Your Dog’s Wellbeing

PetLabCo.’s Tailored Allergy & Immune Chew is a soft, pork-flavored supplement formulated for daily use in dogs aged 12 weeks and older. This vet-reviewed formula includes colostrum, a naturally occurring, protein-rich compound that helps support gut and skin health.

When paired with the proprietary blend of probiotics, omega fatty acids, and postbiotics in PetLabCo.’s Allergy & Immune Chew, colostrum works as part of a comprehensive approach to supporting immune balance, digestive comfort, and skin integrity.

Designed to be part of a long-term wellness plan, this soft chew may be especially helpful for dogs during times of seasonal or environmental change.

Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new supplement, especially for dogs with existing health concerns or special dietary needs.

You can subscribe today for up to 40% off this bestselling allergy supplement.

8 Key Colostrum Benefits for Dogs  

Here are the 8 most common benefits associated with colostrum products for dogs:

1. 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 while they recover from illness or injury.
2. Digestive function aid: The IgA and IgG antibodies in colostrum support your dog’s gut environment and, together with lactoferrin and prebiotics, help to avoid diarrhoea, constipation, bloating or digestive upset.
3. 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.
4. Skin healing: If it is used as a topical application, colostrum can also be used to support skin healing and help you to keep your dog’s skin healthy.
5. 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, avoiding issues like dog joint swelling.
6. Inflammatory response management: The lactoferrin in colostrum helps maintain a balanced inflammatory response, controlling inflammation in your dog.
7. Allergic response moderation: 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.

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.

Side Effects of Colostrum for Dogs

The benefits and side effects of colostrum products for dogs haven’t yet been extensively studied, so there isn’t any official research on side effects. Some dogs may be sensitive to milk and could experience side effects such as an upset stomach. Colostrum products are generally considered safe, however, and most dogs are very unlikely to experience any significant side effects.

Colostrum is rich in fats and contains some lactose, so it should be fed in moderation to avoid any digestive upset.

How to Give Dogs Colostrum

One of the easiest and most palatable ways to give dogs Colostrum, is in the form of a soft chew – like Tailored Allergy & Immune Chew. Many dogs enjoy the soft texture and meaty flavor, making it an enjoyable part of their daily routine. It provides a consistent dose of colostrum alongside other supportive ingredients like probiotics, omega fatty acids, and postbiotics – all in a single daily supplement.

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. Always follow the feeding directions on the packaging and speak with your veterinarian if your dog has any existing health concerns or is on a restricted diet.

Frequently Asked Questions: Colostrum for Dogs

Q: Is colostrum safe for dogs?

Yes, colostrum is generally considered safe for most dogs when used as directed. It’s naturally rich in proteins, antibodies, and nutrients. However, because colostrum contains small amounts of lactose, it’s best to introduce it gradually—especially in dogs with sensitive digestion. Always check with your veterinarian before adding new supplements to your dog’s routine.

Q: What does colostrum do for dogs?

Colostrum is known for supporting immune balance, gut health, and skin wellness. It contains immunoglobulins (antibodies), growth factors, and compounds like lactoferrin that may help maintain normal digestive function and a healthy inflammatory response. Some pet parents also use colostrum as part of their dog’s wellness routine during seasonal changes or sensitivities.

Q: Can I give colostrum to my dog daily?

Yes—many colostrum supplements are formulated for daily use. For example, PetLab Co.’s Tailored Allergy & Immune Chew includes colostrum as part of a vet-reviewed soft chew designed for consistent daily support. Always follow the dosing instructions on the product label and consult your vet for individual recommendations.

Q: What type of colostrum is used in dog supplements?

Most colostrum products for dogs use bovine colostrum (from cows), although some use goat colostrum. Both are rich in nutrients, and while goat colostrum may be slightly lower in lactose, the two are functionally similar in many pet supplements.

Q: Can puppies have colostrum supplements?

Puppies receive natural colostrum from their mother in their first days of life. Supplemental colostrum products may be used under veterinary guidance in weaning or recovery scenarios, but always consult your vet before giving colostrum to a young puppy.

Q: Are there any side effects of colostrum for dogs?

Colostrum is well-tolerated by most dogs, but some may experience mild digestive upset, especially if they’re sensitive to dairy. It’s best to start with a small amount and monitor your dog’s response. If your dog has a history of food sensitivities or allergies, check with your vet first.

Q: What’s the easiest way to give colostrum to my dog?

Chews and tablets are often the easiest formats to give as treats. PetLabCo.’s Tailored Allergy & Immune Chew offers a palatable, once-a-day format that includes colostrum along with probiotics and omega fatty acids. For powdered products, you can mix them into food or a small amount of water, depending on label directions.

Conclusion: Is Colostrum Good for Dogs? Should I Give Colostrum to My Dog?

Colostrum is widely regarded as safe for most dogs and may offer meaningful support for gut health, immune function, and overall wellness, especially when included as part of a balanced, vet-guided routine. Rich in proteins, antibodies, and bioactive compounds like lactoferrin, colostrum is a naturally occurring ingredient that can be particularly helpful for dogs experiencing seasonal or environmental sensitivities.

Whether you choose a pure powdered colostrum product or a multi-functional supplement that combines colostrum with other supportive ingredients, like probiotics and omega fatty acids—it’s important to follow the product’s feeding directions and consult your veterinarian if your dog has specific health concerns or sensitivities.

Pet parents looking for an easy, palatable daily option may want to consider a vet-reviewed soft chew like PetLabCo.’s Tailored Allergy & Immune Chew, which delivers colostrum as part of a broader wellness formula designed to support immune balance, skin comfort, and digestive health.

As with any supplement, consistency matters – and a thoughtful, proactive approach can help your pup feel their best year-round.

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https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2667268522000389#

Sienkiewicz M, Szymańska P, Fichna J. Supplementation of Bovine Colostrum in Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Benefits and Contraindications. Adv Nutr. 2021;12(2):533-545. doi:10.1093/advances/nmaa120

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33070186

Vighi G, Marcucci F, Sensi L, Di Cara G, Frati F. Allergy and the gastrointestinal system. Clin Exp Immunol. 2008;153 Suppl 1(Suppl 1):3-6. doi:10.1111/j.1365-2249.2008.03713.x

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18721321

Satyaraj E, Reynolds A, Pelker R, Labuda J, Zhang P, Sun P. Supplementation of diets with bovine colostrum influences immune function in dogs. Br J Nutr. 2013;110(12):2216-2221. doi:10.1017/S000711451300175X

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23773360

Giffard CJ, Seino MM, Markwell PJ, Bektash RM. Benefits of bovine colostrum on fecal quality in recently weaned puppies. J Nutr. 2004;134(8 Suppl):2126S-2127S. doi:10.1093/jn/134.8.2126S

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