Can Dogs Eat Cheese?

Verdict: CAUTION — a little is fine for most dogs, but many are lactose intolerant.

Cheese is a popular training treat because dogs love it. It's safe for most dogs in small amounts, but it's high in fat and salt, and many dogs can't digest lactose well. Some cheeses are also dangerous (blue cheese, cheese with garlic or onion).

Why it's risky for some

• Lactose: many adult dogs lack the enzyme to digest lactose, leading to gas, diarrhea and vomiting.
• Fat and salt: too much can cause weight gain and pancreatitis.
• Toxic additions: blue cheese can contain roquefortine (a mold toxin); garlic/onion cheeses are toxic.

How to serve

• Choose low-fat, low-salt options: mozzarella, cottage cheese, plain cheddar in small pieces.
• Cut into tiny training-sized cubes.
• Avoid blue cheese, and any cheese with garlic, onion or chives.

How much is OK?

A few small cubes is plenty for a medium dog. If your dog has never had cheese, start with a tiny piece and watch for digestive upset. Dogs with pancreatitis history should avoid cheese entirely.

FAQ

Are dogs lactose intolerant?

Many are — signs include gas, diarrhea and vomiting after dairy. Start small and watch.

Can dogs eat cottage cheese?

Yes — it's low in fat and salt; a spoonful is fine for most dogs.

Can dogs eat blue cheese?

No — it can contain roquefortine, a toxin that causes vomiting, tremors and seizures.

Can dogs eat cheese with garlic or onion?

No — garlic and onion are toxic to dogs.

Sources

• PetMD: Can Dogs Eat Cheese? (petmd.com)
• AKC: Foods Dogs Can and Cannot Eat (akc.org)