Written by

Tara Farmer

April 4, 2025

Edited by

Jennifer Carlson

Fact-checked by

Kristen Cramer

Can dogs have cheese?

As dog owners, we often wonder if our furry friends can safely enjoy the same foods we love. Cheese is one of those tempting human foods that many dogs seem to go crazy for! But is it safe for them to eat?

Yes, most dogs can eat cheese, but with some important caveats. Dogs should eat cheese in moderation, and some dogs should avoid it entirely. Like many human foods, cheese has its benefits and risks when it comes to our canine companions. Let's explore everything you need to know about dogs and cheese.

Is cheese bad for dogs?

In some cases, cheese can be bad for dogs. Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which means they can't properly digest dairy products. This can lead to digestive issues like bloating, stomach pain, diarrhea, nausea, or vomiting.

Cheese also has high fat, calorie, and salt content, which can be problematic for certain dogs. For this reason, cheese should never be given to:

• Overweight dogs or dogs with kidney problems

• Dogs with severe lactose intolerance

• Dogs who have had pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening digestive disease

Signs of lactose intolerance

If your dog is lactose intolerant, you may notice these symptoms after they consume dairy products:

• Diarrhea (usually within 12 hours of dairy consumption)

• Vomiting

• Lack of appetite

• Bloating

• Gas

Lactose intolerance is common in dogs of any breed, age, sex, and size. Puppies often lose their ability to digest lactose as they mature, typically after reaching 4 weeks of age.

Can cheese be good for dogs?

If your dog is not lactose intolerant, cheese contains several nutrients that can be beneficial for dogs when served appropriately. It's packed with protein, calcium, vitamin A, essential fatty acids, and B-complex vitamins, all of which contribute to your pup's overall health.

• Many dog owners use small pieces of cheese as high-value training treats. The strong smell and delicious taste make cheese an enticing reward that can motivate even stubborn pups during training sessions.

• Cheese can also be a clever way to hide medications. If your dog resists taking pills, wrapping them in a small piece of cheese might make medicine time much easier for both of you.

What cheeses are good for dogs?

Not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to canine consumption. Some varieties are better choices than others if you want to share with your four-legged friend:

Avoid any cheese with added ingredients like garlic, onions, chives, or other seasonings. These ingredients can be toxic to dogs, potentially causing serious health issues including damage to red blood cells.

Can dogs eat cottage cheese?

Yes! Cottage cheese is an excellent low-fat option that many dogs love. It's a good choice since it's low in fat and calories, making it less heavy for your dog. It also contains probiotics that support digestion and has a lower amount of lactose compared to other cheeses.

Can dogs eat cream cheese?

According to some experts, dogs can eat cream cheese. However, other sources advise against it because cream cheese is very high in fat, which can contribute to dogs being overweight or obese. If you do offer cream cheese, it should be in very small amounts and only occasionally.

Can dogs eat mac and cheese?

Mac and cheese is not recommended for dogs. It's typically high in fat, salt, and dairy, all of which can cause digestive issues for many dogs. Additionally, some mac and cheese recipes may contain ingredients like garlic or onions, which are toxic to dogs.

How to safely introduce cheese to your dog's diet

If you want to include cheese in your dog's diet, follow these guidelines:

• Choose a low-fat cheese like cottage cheese or mozzarella.

• Avoid spicy cheese varieties like pepper jack as they may cause an upset stomach.

• Start small. If your dog has never had cheese before, begin with a tiny piece to see how they react.

• After giving cheese for the first time, monitor your dog for 24 to 48 hours. Watch for any signs of digestive distress, such as gas, diarrhea, vomiting, or discomfort.

• If your dog shows no adverse reactions, you can occasionally include small amounts of cheese as part of their treat rotation. Remember that variety is important in treats just as it is in their regular diet.

Consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog's diet, especially if they have health conditions.

Other safe foods

If you're looking for healthy alternatives to cheese, consider these safe human foods for dogs:

• Lean meats like turkey, chicken, and white fish (without bones, skin, or seasoning)

• Fresh vegetables such as carrots, green beans, and cooked sweet potatoes

• Fresh fruits including bananas, blueberries, and watermelon (remove seeds and rinds)

• Cooked white rice (especially good for upset stomachs)

These foods can provide healthy alternatives to traditional dog treats, which tend to be high in fat, salt, and preservatives. Remember, cheese and other human foods should only be occasional treats, alongside a balanced diet specifically formulated for dogs.