In this review by First Steps Nutrition Trust they share information on the composition of different animal milks; revisit current dietary guidelines for milk consumption by young children in the UK; outline the potential issues of lactose intolerance and cows’ milk allergy; present data on milk consumption by 1-4 year olds; consider the nutritional contribution made by cows’ milk, and suggest that current guidance on recommended milk volumes for 1-4 year olds may need review in light of the potential risks associated with large intakes. They end by considering how well aligned the dietary recommendations for animal milk consumption in young children are with dietary sustainability.