Can Dogs Eat Cheese? Vet-Approved Answer & Feeding Guide

This content was reviewed and fact-checked by veterinarian Dr. Aukse Caraite, DVM.

Yes, dogs can eat cheese in moderation, and this dairy product can offer some benefits. However, before adding cheese to your pup’s diet, there are a few important factors to consider. While plain cheese without added ingredients is generally safe, some types—like those with high salt content or artificial additives—can be harmful to dogs. Plus, what about lactose intolerance? Are certain cheeses better options than others? Can too much cheese lead to digestive issues or weight gain? This guide will explore the benefits, potential risks, and the safest way to incorporate cheese into your dog’s diet.

Is Cheese Good For Dogs?

Dog-safe cheese types can be a tasty and nutritious dog treat in moderation.

Always ensure you feed plain, low-lactose cheese in small amounts. Avoid cheeses high in salt, fat, or artificial additives, and steer clear of flavored or moldy cheeses, such as blue cheese, which can be toxic to dogs.

Benefits

100 grams (3.5-ounce oz) of cheese contains the following nutrients:

Cheese Nutrition Chart (100g)

Nutrient Analysis

Risks & Considerations Before Feeding Cheese to Dogs

While cheese can be a tasty and nutritious treat for dogs when given in moderation, there are several risks and considerations to keep in mind before feeding it to your canine companion:

Cheeses Safe for Dogs

These cheeses are generally safe for dogs as occasional treats, provided your dog is not lactose intolerant:

1. Mozzarella – Low in fat, making it a better option than other cheeses.
2. Cottage cheese – Low in fat and sodium, and easier to digest due to lower lactose content.
3. Cheddar – Common and low in lactose, but should be given in small amounts.
4. Parmesan (small quantities) – Hard cheese with low lactose, but it’s salty, so limit portions.
5. Swiss cheese – Contains low levels of lactose, making it easier for dogs to digest.
6. Goat cheese – Generally lower in lactose and easier to digest than cow’s milk cheeses.
7. Provolone – Lower in lactose but should still be given in moderation.
8. Monterey jack – Has moderate fat content but is relatively low in lactose.

Cheeses That Are NOT Safe for Dogs

These cheeses contain harmful ingredients or excessive fat, salt, or lactose, making them unsafe:

1. Blue cheese (roquefort, stilton, gorgonzola, etc.) – Contains a mold that produces roquefortine C, which can be toxic to dogs.
2. Feta cheese – High in fat and sodium, which can lead to pancreatitis and dehydration.
3. Brie – High in fat, which increases the risk of obesity and pancreatitis.
4. Camembert – Similar to Brie, high in fat and difficult for dogs to digest.
5. Queso fresco (queso blanco) – High in lactose, which can cause digestive upset.
6. Flavored or processed cheeses (like cheese spreads, nacho cheese, or cheese sauce) – Often contain garlic, onion, or artificial additives that are toxic to dogs.
7. Cream cheese (especially flavored varieties) – High in fat and often contains harmful additives to dogs.

Are Dogs Allergic to Cheese?

Risks

The following symptoms may indicate a bad reaction to cheese.

What to Do If A Dog Reacts Badly to Cheese

Dogs showing worsening symptoms, such as blood in their vomit or stool, difficulty breathing, weakness, or collapse, should be taken to the veterinarian immediately.

1. Contact a veterinarian immediately: Even if your dog seems fine, contact your veterinarian or an emergency pet poison hotline right away. This includes services like the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center or Pet Poison Helpline at 1-855-764-7661. If you can’t reach your vet, you can chat live with a registered online veterinary professional via our online vet chat or video chat support (24 hours a day, 7 days a week). You can also schedule an at-home veterinary appointment with The Vets, a mobile veterinary service that provides at-home vet care nationwide for just about everything.

2. Gather important information:.When speaking to a vet, provide: Quantity consumed (estimate if unsure), time of ingestion and dog’s weight and breed (to assess potential risk).

3. Follow veterinary instructions: The vet may suggest monitoring at home, or emergency treatment at the clinic.

• Keep your dog calm and prevent them from eating anything else.
• Be prepared to transport your dog to the vet quickly if advised.
• Bring any remaining cheese or packaging to help the vet assess the situation.

How to Safely Feed Cheese to Dogs

When feeding cheese to your dog, it’s important to follow a few simple guidelines to keep them safe:

Ways to Feed Cheese to Dogs

As with any new food, starting slowly and feeding gradually is recommended to give the digestive system time to adjust. 

How Much Cheese Can Dogs Eat?

Treats should only constitute 10% of your dog’s diet, with the remaining 90% coming from well-balanced dog food. This guideline also applies to healthy treats like cheese. Below, you’ll find general guidelines for safely portioning cheese based on your dog’s weight.

Dog Size	Serving Size (Occasionally)	Breed Examples
Extra-small (2-15 lbs.)	1-2 small cubes (about ½ tsp diced)	Shih Tzu, Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Maltese
Small (16-25 lbs.)	2-3 small cubes (about 1 tsp diced)	Boston Terriers, Beagles, Dachshund
Medium (26-60 lbs.)	3-4 cubes (about 2 tsp diced)	Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, Border Collies
Large (61-90 lbs.)	5 cubes (about ¼ cup diced)	Golden Retrievers, Pit Bulls, Boxers, Labrador Retrievers
Extra-large (91+ lbs.)	6 cubes (about ⅓ cup diced)	Bullmastiffs, Great Danes, Saint Bernards, Great Pyrenees

Can Puppies Eat Cheese?

Yes, puppies can eat cheese, but in moderation and tiny amounts. Since puppies have more sensitive digestive systems, it’s best to start with just a tiny portion—such as a teaspoon of plain, low-lactose cheese (like cottage cheese or mozzarella)—to see how they react. Feeding too much cheese at once can lead to digestive upset, as puppies’ stomachs are still developing and may struggle to process the lactose and fat content in dairy products. Additionally, opt for plain, low-fat cheese without any added flavors, seasonings, or artificial preservatives—avoid processed cheese, blue cheese, or cheese with garlic, onions, or spices, as these can be harmful to puppies. When introducing cheese or any new food, avoid giving multiple new foods on the same day so you can monitor for any food sensitivities or allergies. If your puppy experiences digestive issues, introducing only one new food at a time makes it easier to identify the cause. Try offering a teaspoon of plain, unseasoned, diced cheese, then wait a few days to observe how your puppy’s digestive system reacts before considering offering more. Always cut cheese into tiny, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking, and be mindful of portion sizes to avoid excessive calorie intake.

Alternatives

Here’s a list of alternatives to cheese that are just as safe and nutritious.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Bottom Line

Yes, dogs can eat cheese, but it should always be given in moderation. Cheese provides valuable nutrients like protein, calcium, and essential vitamins, making it a tasty and rewarding treat. However, not all dogs tolerate cheese well, as some may be lactose intolerant, leading to digestive issues such as bloating, gas, or diarrhea. Additionally, cheese is high in fat and calories, which can contribute to obesity and even pancreatitis if consumed in excess. To ensure your dog enjoys cheese safely, opt for low-lactose, low-fat varieties such as cottage cheese, mozzarella, or Swiss cheese while avoiding processed, high-sodium, or flavored cheeses that may contain harmful additives like garlic or onions. Cheese should only be an occasional snack, not a daily staple, and it’s always best to monitor your dog’s reaction when introducing it to their diet. If your dog has any pre-existing health conditions or dietary sensitivities, consult your veterinarian before feeding cheese. While cheese isn’t a necessary part of a dog’s diet, it can be a delicious and safe treat for most dogs when fed responsibly.

Unexpected reactions can happen whether you’re introducing cheese or any new food. Having the right pet insurance ensures you can handle any vet visits with peace of mind. Check out our guide to the best pet insurance plans to keep your furry friend covered in every situation. If you’re looking for other healthy snack options, check out the best dog treats to find safe and nutritious alternatives.

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Sources

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