Can dogs eat cheese?

Updated 18/04/2024

So can dogs eat cheese safely or is it in any way poisonous to dogs? Well we're glad to let you know that if your pup has nibbled on a morsel of plain cheese recently, they should be in the clear. Like with all so-called 'human' foods though, there are a few precautions you should take when feeding your pup cheese. Before sharing your favorite treat with your doggo, be sure to check whether the type of cheese is safe for dogs - there are so many varieties out there, afterall. Also, if you know your pup is allergic to lactose, you should never feed them cheese.

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Is cheese poisonous to dogs?

So can dogs eat cheese safely or is it in any way poisonous to dogs? Well we're glad to let you know that if your pup has nibbled on a morsel of plain cheese recently, they should be in the clear. Like with all so-called 'human' foods though, there are a few precautions you should take when feeding your pup cheese. Before sharing your favorite treat with your doggo, be sure to check whether the type of cheese is safe for dogs - there are so many varieties out there, afterall. Also, if you know your pup is lactose intolerant, you should never feed them cheese, naturally.

Related article: Can dogs eat oatmeal?

Is cheese good for dogs?

So can dogs eat cheese and get any health benefits? Well we'll explore the micro and macronutrient make up of cheese later on, but firstly, is cheese in any way good for our canine companions? Well like with any food other than your dog's food, it's not an essential part of your dog's diet. As long as you're feeding your pup a well-rounded dog food that's right for their breed, age and health needs, you shouldn't need to reach for any other ingredients to keep them healthy, unless your vet says so. 

Is cheese bad for dogs?

Small morsels of cheese shouldn't do your pup any harm, but as you'll probably already know, cheese is incredibly high in fat. And what does that mean for your dog? Lots of cheese can cause weight gain and a high-fat diet could lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called pancreatitis. Therefore, don't make a habit of feeding your pup cheese, and certainly never give them handfuls of the stuff.

And as we've mentioned, there are a few precautions to take when feeding your dog cheese.  Firstly - the type of cheese. Blue cheese is toxic to dogs due to the fungus that it's made with, so avoid that altogether. Secondly, if your pup is overweight, suffers from kidney problems, has previously been diagnosed with pancreatitis, or is known to be lactose intolerant, steer completely clear of cheese, even as a small snack. And lastly, only serve plain cheese to your doggo. There are quite a few ingredients (like dried fruit and garlic) that are often found in flavored cheese that could poison your dog.

Related article: Can dogs have honey?

Health benefits of eating cheese for dogs

So, now you know to be careful with how much cheese to feed your pup, are there any health benefits of cheese for dogs, given that your pup is safe to munch on the stuff? Let's take a look at the micro and macronutrients that make up cheese, and that can benefit us humans and your pooch.

• Protein
• Calcium
• Vitamins A, D, K and B complex
•  Zinc 

Related article: Can dogs eat green beans?

Feeding your dog cheese: what kinds of cheese can dogs eat?

If you're an avid cheese eater yourself, you'll know that not all cheeses are made equal. Some are great snacks for dogs if fed in moderation, whereas others could have nasty side effects. Take a look below to find out whether your dog can eat cheeses of a few common varieties.

Can dogs eat cheddar cheese?

Cheddar cheese is perfectly safe for your pooch if fed infrequently and in moderation - remember, it does have a high-fat content. 

Can dogs eat cottage cheese?  

Yes, they can- cottage cheese can be a high-protein, low-fat cheese option for your pup.

Can dogs eat Swiss cheese? 

Swiss cheese is a good option for dogs - it's plain so should be safe when fed in moderation.

Can dogs eat string cheese?

We wouldn't advise feeding string cheese to your pup due to the risk of choking - dogs swallow incredibly quickly, so there's a chance your pup won't chew the long, stringy pieces quickly enough. 

Can dogs have cream cheese? 

And can dogs have soft cheese or is cream cheese bad for dogs? Well luckily for your pup, it's safe for dogs, but make sure to only serve plain cream cheese in very small amounts. Additional flavorings such as onions, garlic, and chives are toxic to dogs.

Can dogs eat mozzarella cheese?

Mozzarella is safe for dogs - it's often served completely plain, which is of course perfect for your pooch.

Can dogs eat parmesan cheese?  

Can dogs eat the smelly feet varieties or is parmesan cheese bad for dogs? We'd advise avoiding this one - it's high in salt which is never good for our friends of the canine persuasion.

Can dogs eat feta cheese?  

Yes - in fact, feta cheese can be a good choice for pups because it's traditionally lower in lactose than cheeses made with cow's milk. 

Can dogs eat brie?

Brie is safe for dogs, but as with any other cheese, is very high in fat, and should only be given in tiny amounts as a treat every now and then.  

Can dogs have blue cheese?  

And can dogs have cheese with mold like stilton or gorgonzola? It's a definite no on this one - the fungus used to develop the cheese produces a substance that is toxic to dogs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and a high temperature.

Can dogs have goat cheese?

Yes, dogs can safely eat goat cheese in moderation. 

Can dogs eat ricotta cheese? 

Ricotta cheese is safe for dogs if fed in moderation, but steer clear of sharing your meals that contain ricotta cheese - often laden with garlic and onions, your home cooked dishes are likely toxic to your pup.

Related article: Can dogs eat cashews?

Other cheese products

Can dogs eat pizza?

And can dogs eat cheese on a pizza? It's a hard no on this one - pizza is often made with all sorts of ingredients that are toxic to dogs, like garlic and onions.

Can dogs eat mac and cheese? 

Steer clear of feeding your pup mac and cheese altogether. Why? Well it's often made with salt, butter and other flavorings and ingredients that are bad news for our furry friends. 

Can dogs eat cheesy garlic bread?

Certainly not - garlic (like other alliums) is toxic for dogs, and should be avoided altogether. 

Other foods that are safe for dogs

So now we've settled the question - can dogs have cheese - explore our blog for more foods dogs can eat.

• Bananas
• Unsweetened yogurt
• Mushrooms

Meet our veterinary expert, Gemma

This article has been checked by veterinarian Gemma Cliffin BSc BVSc MRCVS. Gemma is an experienced small animal vet who combines her love of writing alongside working in practice. Since her graduation from the University of Liverpool in 2014 she has worked in a wide variety of roles including first opinion practice, as a night vet, and as a locum vet. She has also spent time working at a charity clinic in the Cook Islands which was a challenge but also immensely rewarding. She loves all aspects of veterinary work, but she especially enjoys medicine cases and diagnostic imaging. She is passionate about pain management, particularly in her more senior patients. She currently works in a first opinion small animal practice in North Yorkshire where she deals with both routine and emergency cases.