The mother dog can't nurse, or there are more puppies than she can feed, and now you're up at 2 a.m. wondering what to give them. Cow's milk is the wrong answer. A dog milk replacer is made to match a mother's milk. Here are the 5 best dog milk replacers in 2026, ranked by Amazon ratings and review counts. They include classic Esbilac, PetLac, a goat's milk version and a colostrum formula. We didn't personally test them, and none of this replaces your vet. Call a vet right away for newborns, since a puppy that isn't nursing can go downhill fast. We went through the listings and what buyers say. See also our dog thermometer guide for checking a sick puppy.

What to Look For in a Dog Milk Replacer

Age range. Many are for newborns to about six weeks. Others are for weaning puppies, nursing mothers or older dogs. Match the label to your dog.

Powder or liquid. Powder lasts longer on the shelf and is cheaper per feeding. You mix it with warm water.

Prebiotics and probiotics. They can help digestion, which matters for tiny stomachs.

Goat's milk. Some puppies do better on goat's milk formulas, especially with sensitive stomachs.

Feeding gear. You'll also need a puppy nursing bottle and a way to keep them warm. Formula alone isn't enough for newborns.

The 5 Best Dog Milk Replacers in 2026

1. PetAg Esbilac Puppy Milk Replacer Powder, 12 oz

Best for: newborn puppies to about six weeks old.

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A powdered milk replacer in a 12 oz can, from a brand vets know well.

What makes it stand out: It has 4.7 stars from nearly 5,000 reviews, the highest rating on this list. The listing says it's safe for puppies from newborn to 6 weeks and has prebiotics and probiotics.

Good to know: It costs more than some. Mix it exactly as the can says, and don't make a day's worth ahead.

2. PetAg PetLac Puppy Milk Replacement Powder, 10.5 oz

Best for: a lower-cost replacer for nursing or weaning puppies.

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A 10.5 oz can of powder for newborn to six-week-old puppies.

What makes it stand out: It has 4.5 stars from over 4,000 reviews. The listing says it's for nursing or weaning puppies and also for older dogs that need extra nutrition.

Good to know: It doesn't have the extra goat's milk or colostrum some others do. Check with your vet if the puppy is very small.

3. PetAg Goat's Milk Esbilac Powder, 12 oz, Pack of 2

Best for: puppies with sensitive stomachs, or a big litter.

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Two 12 oz packs of goat's milk Esbilac, with prebiotics, probiotics and vitamins.

What makes it stand out: It has 4.5 stars from about 3,800 reviews. The listing says it's made for newborns to six weeks, including sensitive digestion.

Good to know: The two-pack costs the most here. If you only need a small amount, the single can is cheaper.

4. PetAg Esbilac Healthy Development Puppy Supplement, 14 oz

Best for: weaning puppies and dogs that need a nutritional boost.

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A 14 oz can of supplement powder for weaning puppies and dogs.

What makes it stand out: It has 4.5 stars from nearly 3,800 reviews. The listing says it has omega-6 fatty acids and protein for healthy growth.

Good to know: This is a weaning-stage supplement, not a first-week newborn formula. Read the label.

5. Vets Preferred Puppy Milk Replacement Formula, Powder

Best for: puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs, and older dogs.

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A powder with colostrum and whey protein, made in the USA.

What makes it stand out: It has 4.5 stars from over 2,100 reviews. The listing says it's for all ages, including pregnant and lactating dogs.

Good to know: It has the fewest reviews on the list. It's a more all-purpose formula, so ask your vet if a newborn should use it.

How to Feed Orphaned Puppies

  1. Call your vet first. Newborns need a checkup and a feeding plan.
  2. Mix the powder with warm water exactly as the label says. Test it on your wrist. It should feel warm, not hot.
  3. Use a puppy nursing bottle. Hold the puppy on their belly, not on their back.
  4. Burp them gently after feeding, like a baby.
  5. Keep them warm. A chilled newborn can't digest food.

Newborn puppies feed every two to three hours, according to most guides. Your vet will tell you the right amount for the puppy's weight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best milk replacer for puppies?

PetAg Esbilac has the best rating on this list, at 4.7 stars. PetLac is a good lower-cost option. Ask your vet if the puppy is very small or sick.

Can I give a puppy cow's milk?

No. Cow's milk has a different balance than dog milk and can cause diarrhea. Use a puppy milk replacer.

How long do puppies need milk replacer?

Most are on it until about four weeks, when you begin adding soft food. By about eight weeks, most are weaned. Follow your vet's plan.

Is there a dog milk replacer recall I should check?

Recalls happen with pet foods from time to time. Check the FDA pet food recall page and the brand's website for your lot number before you buy.

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Final Thoughts

For most litters, PetAg Esbilac is the pick. It has the best rating and is made for newborns up to six weeks.

On a smaller budget? PetLac. Puppies with sensitive stomachs? The goat's milk Esbilac. Weaning? The Esbilac Healthy Development. Whatever you pick, call your vet about newborns.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Here's how we pick products.