Can Dogs Eat Cheese?

Which cheeses are safest?

Low-fat, low-sodium options are best. Mozzarella, cottage cheese, and plain goat cheese tend to be well-tolerated. Cheddar is fine in small amounts but is higher in fat. Avoid blue cheese and other mold-ripened varieties, as the mold can produce roquefortine C, which is toxic to dogs. Also skip anything with added herbs, garlic, onion, or chives, since those are all harmful to dogs.

How do I know if my dog is lactose intolerant?

Dogs produce less lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose) as they age, so some degree of lactose intolerance is actually common. If your dog gets gassy, bloated, or has loose stools after eating cheese, they are probably not processing the lactose well. Start with a very small piece and wait 24 hours. If there are no digestive issues, your dog can handle cheese. If there are, stick to lactose-free treats instead.

How much cheese is too much?

Cheese is calorie-dense and high in fat, so portions need to stay small. A few small cubes as a training reward or a thin slice as an occasional treat is the right range. Dogs that eat cheese regularly in large amounts are at risk for weight gain and pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas often triggered by high-fat foods. Think of cheese as a reward, not a snack, and the portions stay naturally reasonable.