A milk replacer is a powder or liquid fed to puppies and dogs who have lost their mother’s milk, are being hand-reared, or are unable to suckle from a teat. Milk replacer is available from most pet stores and online retailers.
A puppy or dog’s nutritional needs depend on a number of factors, including its breed, age, and level of activity. Some milk replacers are high-energy, designed for puppies who grow quickly and need more nutrients. Others are designed for puppies who are ill or recovering from surgery.
To help you determine which milk replacer is right for your puppy or dog, we researched the most popular products on the market, evaluating each on quality, palatability, and ease of use. Our top pick, PetAg Esbilac Powder Milk Replacer, is specially formulated to meet a puppy’s nutritional needs and is easy to mix with water.
Here are the best milk replacers for puppies and dogs.
Best Dog Milk Replacers: Editor Recommended
Our Editor’s Best Dog Milk Replacers Reviews
- Multi-purpose all milk protein nursing formula
- Grade A Ultra 24-Percent
- 4lb reseal able bag
- NUTRITION FOR PUPPIES & MOTHERS – Vets Preferred Dog Milk Replacer provides essential nutrients to support healthy growth in newborn puppies and recovery nutrition for pregnant and nursing dogs.
- ENRICHED WITH COLOSTRUM – Formulated with colostrum to help strengthen immune function and digestive health, giving puppies and nursing dogs a strong start in life.
- BALANCED PROTEIN, FAT & FIBER – Contains the ideal blend of protein, fat, and fiber to promote steady growth, energy, and development in puppies of all breeds and sizes.
- EASY-MIX MILK POWDER – Convenient 12 oz powder mixes smoothly with water to create a palatable milk replacer that is easy to feed during weaning, nursing, or supplemental nutrition.
- MADE IN THE USA, GMP QUALITY – Produced under strict GMP standards, lab tested, and proudly made in the USA to ensure safety, consistency, and premium nutrition for your dog.
- PUPPY MILK REPLACEMENT-When mom can’t nourish them, Esbilac can. Scientifically the next best to mother’s milk, Esbilac provides all the nutritional elements necessary for puppies, newborn to six weeks old
- COMPLETE, BALANCED NUTRITION-Our formula is closest to mother's milk in protein, fat, and carbohydrates. We’ve also added vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients; plus prebiotics and probiotics to support healthy immunity and digestion
- EASY TO DIGEST-Esbilac is highly palatable and formulated with a special fiber blend for easy digestion and improved gut health
- EASY-TO-MIX FORMULA-Whisk or shake 1 part powdered Esbilac into 2 parts warm water. Do not mix more Esbilac than can be consumed in 24 hours. Do not use a blender. Must be kept refrigerated after reconstituting
- ABOUT US-PetAg is a trusted leader in pet wellness, with science-backed formulas in our milk replacers, health supplements, and grooming products helping pet owners to proactively enhance the lives of their pets, for more healthy years together
- RICH IN MCTs & ESSENTIAL MINERALS FOR ENERGY: This organic goat milk powder delivers MCTs and minerals for quick, efficient energy. Protein converts easily to fuel, making it ideal for active pups and fast recovery.
- PROTEIN-PACKED FOR MUSCLE RECOVERY & VITALITY: Our powdered goats milk for dogs is a protein powerhouse that helps your dog maintain muscle tone and supports faster recovery after exercise or activity.
- EASY-TO-USE FOOD TOPPER TO BOOST HYDRATION: This versatile goat milk powder is a simple and delicious way to keep your dog hydrated. Just mix with water to create a creamy drink or sprinkle it over their dry or wet food for an instant flavor and nutrition boost.
- VETERINARIAN-APPROVED FOR HEALTH & IMMUNITY SUPPORT: This goat milk powder for cats and dogs is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins. A goat milk formula superfood that supports immune health, reduces inflammation, and boosts overall vitality.
- IDEAL FOR ALL DOG BREEDS & LIFE STAGES: This nutrient-packed goat milk for puppies nourishes both young and adult dogs, serving as a milk replacer for puppies and as dog food toppers for dry food to support healthy body composition and boost energy levels.
- Precisely formulated to match a mother dog’s milk
- Quick-mix powder blends easily with room temperature water for on-demand feeding; use with the Hartz Nursing Bottle (sold separately)
- Features calcium for strong bones, magnesium for heart and muscle health, Vitamin A for eye development and linoleic acid to support healthy skin and coat
- Can also be used as a food supplement for pregnant and nursing mothers, as well as convalescing dogs
- An optimal balance of vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients to support growth and development during the formative first 6 weeks of life
- MILK REPLACER WITH PROBIOTICS FOR LAMBS: Specially formulated lamb milk replacer enriched with probiotics to support healthy digestion, balanced nutrition, and steady growth; giving lambs the nourishment they need when mother’s milk is not available.
- FEED DAY 2 THROUGH WEANING: Balanced nutrition from day two through weaning; supporting steady growth, proper development, overall health while ensuring young animals receive the nutrients they need during early stages.
- ALL-MILK PROTEIN SUPPORTS GROWTH + DEVELOPMENT: Made with high-quality milk protein for healthy growth, muscle development, overall wellbeing; helping young animals thrive during early stages by providing essential nutrients for proper development.
- POWERED BY OPTI-GUT TO SUPPORT GUT HEALTH + DIGESTION: Formulated with Opti-Gut probiotics to promote healthy digestion and nutrient absorption; supporting overall gut health, growth, and development so young animals can thrive from the very start.
- EASY-TO-MIX FOR FAST PREP + OPTIMAL CONSUMPTION: Convenient, easy-to-mix formula designed for quick preparation, effortless feeding; ensuring young animals consume their feed efficiently while receiving balanced nutrition for growth & overall health.
- Milk Replacer With Probiotics for 5 Species of Young Animals
- Feed Day 2 through Weaning
- ALL-MILK PROTEIN Supports Growth + Development
- Powered by Opti-Gut to Support Gut Health + Digestion
- Easy-to-Mix for Fast Prep + Optimal Consumption
- MILK REPLACER WITH PROBIOTICS: Suitable for up to 9 young animal species including puppies, kittens, calves, lambs, goats, foals, piglets, llamas, and crias; providing probiotics and balanced nutrition to support healthy growth and development.
- MADE WITH PROTEIN AND FAT: Contains 24% protein and 24% fat; supporting fast, healthy growth, strong muscle development, and overall vitality for young animals during critical early stages of life.
- ALL MILK FORMULA WITH PROBIOTICS: Made with high-quality all-milk protein; supporting healthy growth, proper development, and overall performance for young animals during critical early stages of life.
- SUPPORTS HEALTHY DIGESTION FOR YOUNG ANIMALS: Powered by Opti-Gut probiotics; promoting gut health, nutrient absorption, and digestive balance to support overall growth, vitality, and wellbeing for young animals.
- EASY TO MIX FORMULA: Designed for quick and convenient preparation; ensuring fast mixing, effortless feeding, and optimal consumption so young animals receive balanced nutrition efficiently for healthy growth and development.
- PUPPY MILK REPLACEMENT - When Mom can’t nourish them, Esbilac can. Scientifically the next best to mother’s milk, Esbilac provides all the nutritional elements necessary for puppies, newborn to six weeks old.
- COMPLETE, BALANCED NUTRITION - Our formula is closest to Mother's milk in protein, fat, and carbohydrates. We’ve also added vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients.
- EASY TO DIGEST - Esbilac is highly palatable and formulated with a special Fiber blend for easy digestion and improved gut health.
- EASY-TO-USE FORMULA - Shake gently before use. Warm Esbilac to room or body temperature before serving. Opened Container must be refrigerated and discarded after 72 hours.
- ABOUT US - PetAg is a Trusted leader in pet wellness, with science-backed formulas in our milk replacers, health supplements, and grooming products helping pet owners to proactively enhance the lives of their pets, for more healthy years together.
- PUPPY MILK REPLACEMENT - When mom can’t nourish them, Esbilac can. Scientifically the next best to mother’s milk, Esbilac provides all the nutritional elements necessary for newborn puppies to 1 year old.
- COMPLETE, BALANCED NUTRITION - Our formula is closest to mother's milk in protein, fat, and carbohydrates. We’ve also added vitamins, minerals, and trace nutrients.
- EASY TO DIGEST - Esbilac is highly palatable and formulated with a special fiber blend for easy digestion and improved gut health.
- NEW TETRA PAK PACKAGING - Portable, resealable, and made with responsibly sourced paper. Lowers CO₂ emissions vs. plastic & uses an aseptic process for safety and freshness. Good for your pet and the planet.
- EASY-TO-USE FORMULA - Shake gently before use. Warm Esbilac to room or body temperature before serving. Opened container must be refrigerated and discarded after 72 hours.
Best Dog Milk Replacers Buying Guide
Before choosing the best dog milk replacer you should consider following options:
1. Protein Source: Look for a product that contains more protein than carbohydrates. Puppies grow quickly and need a good supply of protein to aid with muscle building and energy.
Cows’ milk contains a higher proportion of protein than carbohydrates, but some formulas contain almost equal amounts of both.
If the protein source is not clearly stated on the packaging, you can usually tell by looking at the ingredients list. Look for casein or whey protein powder at the top of the list.
2. Calorie Source: The type of calories a puppy needs will depend on what he will be doing. For example, a racing sled dog puppy would need more calories than a companion dog.
If your puppy will be hunting, pulling a sled, or working in the field, look for a formula that has a higher fat content.
If your puppy will be a family pet, then a medium-calorie formula will probably be sufficient.
3. Digestibility: Puppies grow quickly, and their tiny bellies can’t tolerate a lot of indigestible ingredients. Look for products that are easy to digest, such as a liquid form.
4. Palatability: A puppy’s sense of taste is very different from ours. What we think tastes awful, they find delicious.
If your puppy refuses to drink his formula, try warming it slightly, adding a pinch of salt, or adding some sweet flavoring.
What else you should know about the best dog milk replacers
1. What is the best dog milk replacer?
Some milk replacers that are commonly recommended include Esbilac, Just Born, and Puppy milk replacers. You should consult with your veterinarian to see which milk replacer would be best for your dog.
2. What are the benefits of using a dog milk replacer?
Some benefits of using a dog milk replacer include:
- Providing essential nutrients that puppies need for growth and development
- Easy to digest
- Can be tailored to meet the specific needs of different puppies
3. How do I choose the right dog milk replacer for my pup?
When choosing a dog milk replacer, look for one that is made with high-quality ingredients and that is designed to closely match the nutrient profile of mother’s milk. You may also want to consult with your veterinarian to see if they have any recommendations.
4. How do I prepare a dog milk replacer?
There are many recipes for dog milk replacers, but they all generally follow the same basic proportions. For every cup of whole milk, you will need 1 tablespoon of evaporated milk, 1 tablespoon of yogurt, 1 egg yolk, and 1 cup of water. Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth.
5. What are the potential risks associated with using a dog milk replacer?
The potential risks associated with using a dog milk replacer include diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best dog milk replacers. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best dog milk replacers will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.