Can Dogs Eat Cheese?

Yes, dogs can eat cheese in moderation. Cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and fat. However, it is important to feed your dog cheese in moderation, as too much cheese can cause weight gain and other health problems.

The Benefits of Cheese for Dogs

Cheese Can Be a Good Source of Protein and Calcium

Cheese contains high-quality protein and calcium which are nutrients dogs need. The protein in cheese has all the essential amino acids dogs require. The calcium helps build strong bones. So cheese can provide nutritional value.

Hard Cheeses Are Easier to Digest

Hard, aged cheeses like cheddar and Swiss contain less lactose than soft cheeses. Lactose is the tough-to-digest milk sugar that gives some dogs gas. The aging process in hard cheese converts the lactose into lactic acid, making it easier on canine stomachs.

Cheese Makes a Tasty Occasional Treat

Most dogs love the taste of cheese. The creamy texture and salty flavor make it an appealing treat. As long as cheese is only an occasional snack, it can be a nice reward in training or for good behavior. Just don’t overdo it.

The Risks of Cheese for Dogs

Cheese Has High Fat Content

While cheese has nutrients dogs need, it is also high in saturated fat. Too much fat can lead to obesity and pancreatitis in dogs. So cheese should only be a small part of a balanced canine diet. Limit cheese to 10% or less of your dog’s daily calories.

Milk Sugar Can Cause Digestive Upset

Even though hard cheeses are lower in lactose than soft cheeses, they still contain some. Too much lactose can give a dog gas, diarrhea, or vomiting. Start with small amounts of cheese to see how well your dog can tolerate it.

Some Dogs Are Allergic to Cheese

Dairy allergies or intolerances are fairly common in dogs. Symptoms include digestive issues, itchy skin, ear infections, and foot licking. If your dog shows signs of allergy, stop cheese and see a vet.

How Much Cheese Can Dogs Eat?

Cheese should be no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. For example, if your dog needs 1,000 calories per day, cheese should provide no more than 100 of those calories. Here are some cheese serving sizes to give you an idea:

• Small dog (10 lbs): 1 tsp shredded cheese or cheese cube (20 calories)
• Medium dog (25 lbs): 1 tbsp shredded cheese (30 calories)
• Large dog (75 lbs): 2 tbsp shredded cheese (60 calories)

These are just general guidelines. Calorie needs vary based on your dog’s age, breed, and activity level. Check with your vet for the ideal cheese portion size.

What Types of Cheese Are Safe for Dogs?

The best cheeses for dogs are lower in fat and aged to reduce lactose content. Here are some good options:

• Cheddar: Mild cheddar is a great choice. Aged, sharper cheddars may be too rich.
• Mozzarella: Fresh mozzarella has high moisture content, so opt for part-skim low moisture versions.
• Swiss: A good option but high fat, so give small portions.
• Feta: Tangy feta crumbles make a nice training treat.
• Cottage Cheese: The curds and whey are highly digestible.
• Parmesan: Grate this as a flavor topper in moderation.

Avoid soft cheeses like brie, goat cheese, and cream cheese. Their high fat content can cause stomach upset.

How to Feed Cheese to Your Dog

Follow these tips for safely feeding cheese to dogs:

• Gradually introduce cheese. Start with a small piece and increase slowly over a few weeks while watching for signs of intolerance.
• Stick to 10% or less of daily calories from cheese. Too much can lead to obesity or diarrhea.
• Cut cheese into small cubes for easier chewing and digestion.
• Supervise your dog when eating cheese to prevent choking on large pieces.
• Choose low or reduced fat versions when possible.
• Serve cheese as an occasional treat, not a daily meal feature.
• Avoid cheese with added spices, onions, chives, or otherflavorings.

Signs Your Dog Is Allergic to Cheese

If your dog shows these signs after eating cheese, a dairy allergy or intolerance could be the cause:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Increased gas or abdominal pain
• Itchy skin, ear infections, or excessive licking of paws
• Skin rash or hives

Stop giving cheese and see your veterinarian if symptoms persist. They can help identify the allergy and recommend treatment.

How to Treat Cheese Allergies in Dogs

If your dog has a cheese allergy, follow these steps:

• Eliminate all dairy products from the diet. Check labels carefully.
• Feed a hypoallergenic dog food prescribed by your vet.
• Avoid foods and treats with wheat, soy, corn, eggs, and chicken which can trigger additional food allergies.
• Your vet may prescribe a hydrolyzed protein diet.
• Medications can help control itching, digestive issues, and skin infections caused by food allergies.
• Desensitization involves slowly reintroducing small amounts of the allergen. This may eventually reduce sensitivity. Consult your vet before trying this.

Conclusion

Most dogs  can eat cheese in moderation as a treat. But it is important to be aware of the risks associated with doing so. Cheese is high in fat and calories, so it can contribute to weight gain if your dog eats too much of it. It is also important to choose cheeses that are low in lactose, as dogs with lactose intolerance may experience digestive problems after eating cheese.

If you are unsure whether or not cheese is safe for your dog, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you determine the best way to incorporate cheese into your dog’s diet.