Ever caught your dog eyeing your cheese snack like it’s the tastiest thing on earth? You’re not alone. Many dog owners wonder “Can dogs eat cheese?” The short answer is yes — most dogs can enjoy a small amount of cheese as an occasional treat. However, there are a few important things to keep in mind to ensure it’s a safe and healthy choice. Let’s take a closer look.
Is Cheese Good for Dogs?
For many dogs, cheese can be a tasty and generally safe treat. It’s rich in protein, calcium, B-complex vitamins, essential fatty acids, and other nutrients that can offer health benefits in small amounts. Most dogs love the soft texture and strong smell of cheese, making it a popular choice among pet owners.
Cheese is also highly palatable, which makes it a useful tool for training. The American Kennel Club even recommends using cheese to hide pills when giving medication to dogs.
But should dogs eat cheese regularly? That depends on the individual dog, their overall health, and how much cheese you’re offering. In moderation, cheese for dogs can support muscle development and help maintain strong bones and teeth. The fatty acids in cheese can promote healthy skin and a shiny coat, while vitamin A can help boost the immune system.
Is Cheese Bad for Dogs?
While cheese can be a safe treat for many dogs, it can cause problems in certain situations. Some dogs have difficulty digesting dairy, which can lead to an upset stomach, gas, or diarrhea. High-fat cheeses may contribute to weight gain or even trigger pancreatitis — a serious and painful condition. Even more concerning, some cheeses contain harmful ingredients like garlic or onion, which are toxic to dogs.
A small piece of low-fat, plain cheese may be a perfectly safe snack for some dogs. However, it’s important to know your individual dog’s dietary needs and limits — a harmless treat for one pup could be risky for another.
Health Conditions to Consider
Dogs with the following health conditions should avoid cheese or eat it only in strict moderation:
Pancreatitis
Obesity
Kidney disease
Cheese is high in fat and sodium, which can worsen these conditions. Always consult your veterinarian before giving cheese to a dog with any of these health issues — even in small amounts.
Cheeses to Always Skip
Avoid feeding your dog the following types of cheese:
Blue cheese
Feta cheese
Roquefort cheese
Cheeses with garlic, onion, or herbs
Any cheese with spices
Cheeses with high salt content
These varieties can cause anything from mild digestive upset to more serious symptoms like vomiting, tremors, or diarrhea. Mold-ripened and aged cheeses, in particular, pose a greater risk and should be completely avoided.
Lactose Intolerance and Cheese
Many dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning their digestive systems have trouble breaking down lactose, the natural sugar found in dairy products. Cheese and dogs can be a risky mix. For these pups, cheese can lead to unpleasant side effects and digestive upset.
Signs of lactose intolerance in dogs include:
Gas
Diarrhea
Bloating
Vomiting
Not all cheeses contain the same amount of lactose. Aged cheeses like Cheddar, Swiss, and Parmesan typically have lower lactose levels and may be better tolerated in small amounts. In contrast, soft cheeses like cream cheese or ricotta contain more lactose and are more likely to cause problems.
If you suspect your dog is lactose intolerant, it’s best to avoid dairy altogether or consult your vet before offering even small pieces of cheese.
What Cheese Can Dogs Eat Safely?
Not all cheeses are the same. According to PetMD, the type of cheese determines whether it is okay for a pup or not. Some stores even sell special dog cheese that is safe for sensitive stomachs. Here’s a guide to what's safe (and what's not).
Can dogs eat cheddar cheese?
Yes, in moderation. Cheddar has a lower lactose content, making it generally safe for most dogs. However, it’s high in fat and calories, so overfeeding can contribute to obesity or pancreatitis. Limit portions. Bonus: Zoetis offers a homemade treat recipe using cheddar!
Can dogs eat mozzarella cheese?
Yes, in small amounts. Mozzarella is soft, mild, and lower in fat than many other cheeses, making it a better option. Still, too much can lead to digestive upset.
Can dogs eat cottage cheese?
Yes, but only in moderation. Cottage cheese is lower in both fat and lactose and is often recommended for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Choose plain, low-sodium versions. Avoid any with added flavors, especially garlic or onion.
Can dogs eat feta cheese?
No. Feta is very high in salt and lactose. It poses a risk of salt toxicity, which can lead to vomiting, seizures, or worse. Best to avoid it completely.
Can dogs eat American cheese?
Not recommended. American cheese is highly processed and often contains additives, preservatives, and excess sodium. It’s not a healthy option for dogs.
Can dogs eat sharp cheddar?
Only in tiny portions. Sharp cheddar has more concentrated salt and fat than mild cheddar. Use sparingly and only as an occasional treat.
Can dogs eat cream cheese?
Only rarely and in very small amounts. Cream cheese is high in fat, which increases the risk of obesity and pancreatitis. If you offer it at all, make sure it’s plain and unflavored — and serve a tiny portion.
Can dogs eat blue cheese?
Absolutely not. Blue cheese contains Roquefortine C, a substance toxic to dogs. It can cause vomiting, tremors, and seizures. According to Blue Cross, blue cheese should never be given to dogs under any circumstances.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese Every Day?
Not at all. Cheese should be treated as an occasional snack — not a daily part of your dog’s diet. For most healthy adult dogs, a few small pieces per week is plenty. Puppies and senior dogs may have different dietary needs, so it's best to consult your veterinarian first.
Feeding too much cheese can lead to:
Weight gain
Stomach upset
Long-term health issues (e.g. pancreatitis or obesity)
How to Feed Cheese to Dogs the Right Way
Use cheese as a special treat or training reward.
It’s a great tool for hiding pills or medications.
Cut cheese into tiny pieces to prevent overfeeding.
Avoid feeding cheese daily.
Steer clear of processed or flavored cheeses.
Training Treats vs. Snacks
Cheese is a favorite among dog trainers for a reason — it’s what’s known as a high-value reward. Its strong smell and rich flavor capture a dog’s attention quickly, making it ideal for reinforcing desired behaviors. Plus, cheese can be easily cut into tiny bite-sized pieces so your dog doesn’t get full too fast during training sessions.
However, there’s an important distinction between using cheese intentionally for training and handing it out as a casual snack. Training treats have a purpose: they reward specific actions and help shape behavior. Random snacking, on the other hand, adds unnecessary calories and offers little behavioral benefit. Be mindful of how and why you're using cheese in your dog’s routine.
Tips for Serving Size and Preparation
Dog Size | Suggested Serving Size | Preparation Tips |
Toy (under 10 lbs) | ¼ tsp – ½ tsp (tiny cube) | Dice into small bits; limit to 1–2×/week |
Small (10–25 lbs) | ½ tsp – 1 tsp | Use as training reward or pill-wrapper |
Medium (25–50 lbs) | 1 tsp – 2 tsp | Grate or cube for portion control |
Large (50–90 lbs) | 2 tsp – 1 tbsp | Serve occasionally as a treat, not a regular snack |
Giant (90+ lbs) | Up to 1.5 tbsp | Combine with kibble or use as high-value training bait |
Can Puppies Have Cheese?
Yes — but only in very small amounts, and only if they tolerate it well. Puppies have sensitive digestive systems, so it’s important to start slowly and monitor for signs of intolerance, such as gas or loose stools. Always consult your veterinarian before offering cheese to very young or sensitive puppies.
Cheese Alternatives for Dogs
Some dogs love cheese but can’t tolerate it well. If your pup struggles with dairy, consider these dog-friendly, lower-fat alternatives:
Carrot sticks
Apple slices (no seeds)
Small amounts of plain, cooked chicken
Store-bought dog training treats
These options are generally easier to digest and still offer flavor and variety during training or snack time.
Conclusion
Can dogs eat cheese? The general answer is a cautious yes. A quick search will confirm that cheese is usually safe for dogs — but only in moderation. It can be a fun and tasty treat, but it should never become a regular part of your dog’s diet.
Always consider your dog’s health, weight, and tolerance before offering cheese. Stick to small amounts of dog-safe cheeses, and use them as training rewards or special treats. Avoid high-fat, salty, or flavored varieties, and skip cheese entirely if your dog has known health issues or lactose intolerance.
As with all treats, moderation is key to keeping your pup happy, healthy, and tail-wagging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cheese safe for dogs? Is it safe for dogs to eat cheese?
It is generally okay as long as given in small quantities. There are some varieties that may be toxic. Always check before buying.
How much cheese can a dog eat?
A few small pieces a week are more than enough. This is for most healthy dogs. A dog with health issues should not eat cheese under any condition.
What cheeses are safe for dogs?
Low-fat and low-lactose options are good. These include cheddar, mozzarella, Swiss, or cottage cheese. Any flavoured cheese is out.
Why do dogs love cheese?
The savory and creamy flavor is appealing to dogs. Some canines also like the strong smell.
Can puppies eat cheese?
Yes, they can, just like adult dogs. Check first if they can tolerate dairy. Even then, only give them small bits.
Can dogs eat cream cheese?
Occasionally eating cream cheese is okay. Make sure it is in tiny amounts though. Otherwise your dog will gain weight.
What cheeses should dogs avoid?
There are certain cheeses like Blue cheese, feta and Roquefort that should be avoided. Also keep away from any cheese with added herbs, garlic, or onion.
