Which Cheeses Are Good For Your Dog? A Complete Guide to Cheesy Treats

Hey there, fellow dog lovers! If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably caught your furry friend giving you those irresistible puppy eyes while you’re enjoying a cheese board We’ve all been there – that guilty feeling when you’re not sure if sharing your snack is gonna help or harm your four-legged buddy. Well, I’m happy to tell you that yes, dogs can eat cheese – but there’s a whole lot more to the story!

As someone who’s spent way too many hours researching what my pup can safely eat (while he patiently waits for scraps), I’ve compiled everything you need to know about dogs and cheese. Some cheeses are fantastic occasional treats, while others should be avoided completely. Let’s dive into the gooey, delicious world of what cheese is good for dogs!

The Cheese Basics: Can Dogs Really Eat Cheese?

First things first – cheese isn’t toxic to dogs like chocolate or grapes In fact, many dogs absolutely LOVE cheese, and trainers often use it as a high-value treat for training sessions Those little cheese cubes can work wonders when teaching a stubborn puppy to sit!

But before you start sharing your cheese platter, we gotta consider a few important things:

1. Lactose intolerance – Just like humans, some dogs can’t digest lactose properly
2. Fat content – Cheese is typically high in fat, which can cause issues
3. Additives – Some cheeses contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs
4. Portion size – Even with safe cheeses, moderation is key

I learned this the hard way when I gave my dog Cooper too much cheddar during a training session Let’s just say the aftermath wasn’t pretty for either of us! A small amount goes a long way

Benefits of Giving Cheese to Your Dog

Cheese isn’t just yummy – it actually packs some nutritional benefits for your pup when fed in moderation:

• Protein: Helps build and maintain muscle mass
• Calcium: Supports healthy bones and teeth
• Vitamin A: Good for vision and immune function
• Essential fatty acids: Promotes healthy skin and coat
• B-complex vitamins: Support energy production and nervous system health

Many trainers (including myself) have found cheese to be an excellent motivator for treat-motivated dogs. I mean, who can resist a tiny cube of cheese? Not my dog, that’s for sure!

Another huge benefit? Cheese is amazing for hiding pills when your dog needs medication. I’ve tried everything from pill pockets to peanut butter, but nothing works quite as well as wrapping that pill in a small piece of cheese. It’s like magic – they don’t even notice the medicine!

5 Cheeses That Are Safe for Dogs

Now let’s get to the good stuff – which cheeses can you safely share with your furry friend? Here are the top 5 dog-friendly cheeses:

1. Cottage Cheese – The Digestive Friend

Cottage cheese is basically the superstar of dog-friendly cheeses. It’s:

• Lower in fat than most other cheeses
• Packed with protein
• Contains probiotics that can aid digestion
• Easier on sensitive stomachs due to lower lactose content

I give my pup a spoonful of low-fat cottage cheese mixed with his kibble sometimes, and he goes absolutely bonkers for it! Just remember to choose varieties without added sodium or flavorings.

2. Mozzarella – The Light Option

Who doesn’t love mozzarella? This mild, soft cheese is one of the most dog-friendly options out there because it’s:

• Mild in flavor
• Soft in texture, making it easy to chew
• Lower in fat than many other cheeses
• Provides calcium and protein for healthy bones

My dog actually learned to sit, stay, AND roll over in record time when mozzarella was the reward. That’s how powerful cheese motivation can be!

3. Cheddar – The Classic Choice

Good ol’ cheddar is a classic for a reason. It’s generally safe for dogs because:

• It has lower lactose content compared to other dairy products
• The aging process breaks down much of the lactose
• Most dogs can digest it without issues
• It’s easy to find and convenient to use

Just be aware that cheddar does contain fat, so moderation is important. A small cube here and there won’t harm your pup, but too much could lead to tummy troubles.

4. Swiss – The Digestible Option

Swiss cheese with its signature holes (which always fascinated me as a kid) is another good option because:

• It’s lower in lactose and easier for dogs to digest
• Has a mild, slightly nutty flavor that dogs enjoy
• Provides a unique texture that dogs find interesting
• Can be a nice change from other training treats

My neighbor’s dog is actually lactose intolerant, but can handle small amounts of Swiss cheese without any issues. It’s become their go-to cheese option!

5. Parmesan – The Flavor Booster

Parmesan has a strong flavor that goes a long way, which means:

• You can use very small amounts as a treat
• It’s higher in protein
• Contains less lactose than softer, less-aged cheeses
• Can be sprinkled over food to enhance flavor

I sometimes sprinkle a tiny bit of grated Parmesan on my dog’s food when he’s being particularly picky. Works like a charm every time!

5 Cheeses to AVOID Giving Your Dog

Not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to your dog’s health. Here are 5 types you should definitely keep away from your furry friend:

1. Blue Cheese – The Toxic Risk

That strong smell of blue cheese is a warning sign! Blue cheese should be avoided because:

• It contains mold that produces a toxin called roquefortine C
• This toxin can cause severe reactions in dogs
• It’s high in fat and sodium
• Can lead to serious digestive issues

I once accidentally left some blue cheese on the coffee table, and thankfully caught my dog before he could grab it. That was a close call!

2. Brie – The Fat Bomb

Brie might be delicious on crackers for us, but it’s not great for dogs:

• Extremely high in fat
• Can cause digestive upset
• May trigger pancreatitis in sensitive dogs
• The rich, creamy texture is difficult for dogs to digest

No matter how much your pup begs, keep the Brie to yourself. Your dog’s pancreas will thank you!

3. Cream Cheese – The Upset Stomach Maker

While it might seem soft and harmless, cream cheese is problematic because:

• Very high in fat and lactose
• Can lead to upset stomachs, especially in lactose-intolerant dogs
• Calorie-dense and can contribute to obesity
• Often contains additives that aren’t good for dogs

I learned this lesson when I gave my previous dog a tiny bit of cream cheese and spent the next day cleaning up messes. Trust me, it’s not worth it!

4. Feta – The Salt Concern

Feta cheese should stay on your salad and away from your dog because:

• Contains high levels of salt
• Dogs are much more sensitive to salt than humans
• Can lead to sodium ion poisoning in significant amounts
• Often preserved in brine which adds even more sodium

The salt content in feta can be especially problematic for dogs with heart conditions or those prone to bladder stones.

5. Goat Cheese – The Fat and Sodium Double Whammy

Despite being made from goat milk, this isn’t a better option:

• High fat content can lead to obesity and pancreatitis
• Contains significant sodium levels
• Not ideal for your dog’s digestive system
• Better alternatives exist with fewer risks

Even though goat cheese might seem like it would be different from cow’s milk cheese, it still poses similar problems for dogs.

Lactose Intolerance in Dogs: Is Your Pup at Risk?

Just like some humans, many dogs can be lactose intolerant. As puppies, dogs produce an enzyme called lactase that helps them digest their mother’s milk. But as they grow up, many dogs produce less of this enzyme, making dairy products harder to digest.

Signs that your dog might be lactose intolerant include:

• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Excessive gas
• Bloating
• General discomfort
• Abdominal pain

If you’re not sure whether your dog can tolerate cheese, start with a very small amount of a low-lactose option like cheddar. Watch closely for any negative reactions over the next 24 hours before offering more.

My dog seemed fine with most cheeses until I tried giving him some string cheese from my sandwich. Within a few hours, he was clearly uncomfortable. Every dog is different, so pay attention to how YOUR dog responds!

How to Feed Cheese to Your Dog Safely

If you’ve determined that your dog can handle cheese, here are some tips for offering it safely:

Portion Control is Everything

Even with “safe” cheeses, size matters:

• Small dogs (under 20 lbs): A small cube about the size of a dice or smaller
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): A cube about the size of two dice
• Large dogs (over 50 lbs): No more than a 1-inch cube

Remember that cheese should be an occasional treat, not a daily addition to meals. Treats of all kinds should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.

Start Small and Observe

When introducing any new food to your dog’s diet:

1. Begin with a tiny amount
2. Watch for any adverse reactions
3. Wait 24 hours before offering more
4. Gradually increase the amount if there are no issues

I always keep a “food diary” when introducing new treats to my dog. It helps me keep track of what works and what doesn’t.

Creative Ways to Use Cheese as a Treat

Cheese doesn’t have to be boring! Try these fun ideas:

• Freeze small cheese cubes for a refreshing summer treat
• Use a tiny bit as a reward during training sessions
• Hide pills inside for easier medication administration
• Stuff a small amount into a Kong toy for longer-lasting entertainment

One of my favorite tricks is to mix a little bit of grated cheese with plain, cooked vegetables. Suddenly, my dog thinks broccoli is the best thing ever!

When to Avoid Cheese Completely

There are some situations where cheese should be off the menu entirely:

Health Conditions

Dogs with certain health issues should avoid cheese:

• Pancreatitis (current or previous episodes)
• Obesity or weight management issues
• Kidney disease
• Severe lactose intolerance
• Heart conditions requiring sodium restriction

Puppies and Senior Dogs

Be extra cautious with:

• Very young puppies (under 12 weeks) – their digestive systems are still developing
• Senior dogs who may have more sensitive digestive tracts
• Dogs with changing nutritional needs due to age

Special Diets

If your dog is on a prescription diet for any reason, check with your vet before introducing cheese or any other treats. You don’t wanna mess up carefully planned nutrition!

FAQ: Everything Else You Wanted to Know About Dogs and Cheese

How often can I give my dog cheese?

Cheese should be an occasional treat – maybe 1-2 times per week at most, and in small amounts. It’s not something that should become a daily habit.

Can cheese help with training my puppy?

Absolutely! Many trainers use cheese as a high-value reward for training. The strong smell and taste make it extra motivating for most dogs.

Can puppies eat cheese?

Yes, but be extra cautious with portions and monitoring for adverse reactions. Their digestive systems are still developing.

What about cheese-flavored dog treats?

Commercial cheese-flavored dog treats are usually formulated to be safer than actual cheese, with less fat and lactose. They can be a good alternative if you’re concerned about using real cheese.

Can dogs eat string cheese?

String cheese is typically mozzarella, which is one of the safer options. Just be sure to give small portions and monitor for any digestive upset.

What if my dog accidentally eats a lot of cheese?

If your dog gets into the cheese plate at your party, don’t panic immediately. Monitor them for signs of digestive upset, and contact your vet if you notice concerning symptoms like prolonged vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or signs of pain.

Conclusion: Cheese Can Be a Treat, Not a Staple

So there you have it – the complete guide to giving cheese to your dog! While many cheeses are safe in moderation, they should never become a major part of your dog’s diet. The best options are low-fat, low-sodium varieties like cottage cheese, mozzarella, and cheddar given in small amounts as occasional treats.

Always remember that every dog is different. What works for one pup might not work for another. Pay attention to your own dog’s reactions and adjust accordingly. And when in doubt, check with your vet before introducing any new foods.

What’s your experience with giving cheese to your dog? Do they have a favorite type? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!