Most dogs absolutely love cheese, and many owners use it as a high-value training reward or a clever way to hide medication. The good news is that cheese is generally safe for dogs in moderation. However, not all cheeses are created equal, and some dogs may not tolerate dairy well. Understanding which types of cheese to offer and how much is appropriate will help you share this tasty treat responsibly.
Key Takeaways
- Most cheeses are safe for dogs in small amounts, making them useful training treats and pill pockets.
- Low-fat, low-sodium options like mozzarella, cottage cheese, and plain goat cheese are the best choices.
- Some dogs are lactose intolerant and may experience gas, bloating, or diarrhea after eating cheese.
- Avoid blue cheese, cheese with garlic or herbs, and highly processed cheese products.
- Cheese is calorie-dense, so it should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calories.
Is Cheese Good for Dogs?
Cheese does offer some genuine nutritional benefits for dogs. It is a good source of protein, calcium, vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, and essential fatty acids. These nutrients support bone health, muscle function, and coat quality.
Beyond nutrition, cheese serves several practical purposes for dog owners:
- Training reward: Small cubes of cheese are high-value treats that most dogs find irresistible, making them perfect for training sessions.
- Hiding medication: Soft cheeses like cream cheese or a small piece of cheddar can disguise pills that your dog might otherwise refuse.
- Mental enrichment: Spreadable cheese can be smeared inside puzzle toys or lick mats to provide mental stimulation.
That said, cheese is also relatively high in fat and calories, so it should always be given as an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.
Best Types of Cheese for Dogs
When choosing a cheese to share with your dog, opt for varieties that are lower in fat, lower in sodium, and lower in lactose. Here are the top choices:
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is one of the best options for dogs. It is lower in fat and sodium than most hard cheeses and contains less lactose, making it easier to digest. The high protein content and mild flavor make it a great food topper. Choose plain, low-fat varieties without added herbs or seasonings.
Mozzarella
Fresh mozzarella is relatively low in fat and sodium compared to aged cheeses. Its soft texture makes it easy to tear into small training-sized pieces. Stick with plain mozzarella rather than varieties packed in seasoned oil.
Plain Goat Cheese
Goat cheese contains less lactose than cow's milk cheese, which can make it a better option for dogs with mild dairy sensitivities. It is also generally easier to digest. Use plain, unflavored goat cheese only.
Swiss Cheese
Swiss cheese is naturally lower in lactose due to its aging process and contains less sodium than many other varieties. It can be a good occasional treat in small amounts.
Cheddar
Aged cheddar contains very little lactose and is a favorite among dogs. However, it is higher in fat than some other options, so keep portions small. Sharp or mild cheddar is fine as long as it does not contain added flavors.
Cheeses to Avoid
Not all cheeses are safe for your dog. Some can cause digestive issues or even be toxic. Always avoid the following:
Blue Cheese (Roquefort, Gorgonzola, Stilton)
Blue cheeses contain a substance called roquefortine C, which is produced by the mold used in the aging process. This compound can be toxic to dogs and may cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and in severe cases, seizures. Never give your dog any type of blue cheese.
Cheese with Garlic, Onion, or Herbs
Many flavored cheeses contain garlic, onion, chives, or other ingredients from the allium family, all of which are toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can damage red blood cells over time. Always read the ingredient list before sharing cheese with your dog.
Brie and Camembert
These soft-ripened cheeses are very high in fat, which can contribute to digestive upset and increase the risk of pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. Their rich texture and high fat content make them a poor choice.
Processed Cheese and Cheese Spreads
Highly processed cheese products like cheese whiz, spray cheese, and processed cheese slices often contain additives, preservatives, artificial flavors, and high levels of sodium that are not appropriate for dogs.
Lactose Intolerance in Dogs
Like some humans, many dogs have difficulty digesting lactose, the natural sugar found in dairy products. After puppyhood, dogs produce less of the enzyme lactase, which is needed to break down lactose. This means that while cheese is not toxic, it can cause uncomfortable symptoms in lactose-intolerant dogs.
Signs of lactose intolerance in dogs include:
- Gas and bloating
- Diarrhea or loose stools
- Stomach gurgling or discomfort
- Vomiting (in more sensitive dogs)
If your dog shows any of these symptoms after eating cheese, they may be lactose intolerant. Consider switching to lower-lactose options like aged cheddar or cottage cheese, or explore non-dairy treats like small pieces of cooked chicken or hard-boiled egg.
How Much Cheese Can Dogs Eat?
Cheese should be an occasional treat, not a regular part of your dog's meals. Follow the 10% rule: treats of all kinds, including cheese, should make up no more than 10% of your dog's total daily caloric intake.
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): One or two small cubes (about half an ounce) per day maximum
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Two to three small cubes (about one ounce) per day
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): A few cubes (up to one and a half ounces) per day
Remember that cheese is calorie-dense. A single ounce of cheddar cheese contains around 110 calories, which is significant for a small dog whose total daily needs might only be 300 to 400 calories. For dogs that are overweight or prone to pancreatitis, it is best to choose lower-calorie treat options instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use cheese to give my dog medication?
Yes, cheese is one of the most popular ways to hide pills for dogs. Wrap the pill in a small piece of soft cheese like cream cheese or a slice of American cheese. Just make sure the cheese does not interact with the medication. Some antibiotics, for example, can have reduced effectiveness when taken with dairy. Ask your vet if you are unsure.
Can puppies eat cheese?
Puppies can eat small amounts of cheese, and many puppy training classes recommend it as a high-value reward. Start with a tiny piece to make sure your puppy tolerates it well. Since puppies still produce more lactase than adult dogs, they generally handle cheese better, but moderation is still important.
Is string cheese safe for dogs?
Plain string cheese (mozzarella) is safe for dogs and makes a convenient, portion-controlled treat. Tear it into small pieces rather than giving your dog a whole stick, as swallowing large pieces could pose a choking risk, especially for small dogs.
My dog ate a large amount of cheese. What should I do?
If your dog got into the cheese and ate a large quantity, watch for signs of digestive upset like vomiting, diarrhea, or bloating over the next 12 to 24 hours. The high fat content could potentially trigger pancreatitis in some dogs, which causes severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and lethargy. If your dog shows these symptoms, contact your veterinarian promptly.