Can Dog Eat Cheese? – Pet Help Reviews UK

Yes, dogs can eat cheese. Cheese is a good source of protein for dogs and can be fed to them as a treat or as part of their regular diet.

When feeding cheese to your dog, make sure to choose a variety that is low in fat and salt and avoid giving them too much, as this could lead to weight gain or other health problems.

Can Dogs Eat Cheddar Cheese?

Dogs love cheese! While cheddar is a tasty treat for our furry friends, it’s important to know that not all cheeses are created equal. Here’s what you need to know about feeding your dog cheddar cheese.

Cheddar cheese is safe for dogs to eat in moderation. It’s important to feed your dog cheddar cheese in moderation and keep an eye out for any potential allergies. Cheddar cheese is high in fat, so it’s not the best choice for dogs who are overweight or have digestive issues.

If you’re looking for a healthy treat for your pup, try giving them small pieces of raw fruits or vegetables instead of processed snacks like cheddar cheese.

Can Dogs Have Mozzarella Cheese?

Yes, dogs can have mozzarella cheese as a treat. Mozzarella cheese is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. It is important to note that mozzarella cheese is high in fat and calories.

It should only be given to your dog as an occasional treat. You should always check with your veterinarian before feeding your dog any new food, including cheese.

Can Dogs Eat Processed Cheese?

Yes, dogs can eat processed cheese, but it’s not the best food for them. Processed cheese is full of salt and preservatives, which can be harmful to your dog’s health. It’s also very high in fat and calories.

It’s not a good choice if you’re trying to keep your dog at a healthy weight. If you do give your dog processed cheese, make sure to give it in moderation and as part of a well-balanced diet.

What Cheeses Should Dogs Not Eat?

While many dogs can enjoy cheese in moderation, there are some types of cheese and cheese-related products that dogs should avoid due to potential health risks or toxic ingredients.

Here are some cheeses and cheese-related items that are not recommended for dogs:

Blue Cheese: Blue cheese contains a type of mold called Penicillium roqueforti, which can be harmful to dogs if ingested in large quantities. It may lead to gastrointestinal upset or other adverse reactions.

Cheeses with Additives: Cheeses that contain additives like garlic, onions, chives, or other seasonings are not safe for dogs. These ingredients can be toxic to dogs and may cause digestive problems or other health issues.

Processed Cheese Spreads: Processed cheese spreads often contain high levels of salt and other additives that are not suitable for dogs. The high sodium content can lead to thirst, increased urination, and sodium ion poisoning if consumed in excess.

Cheeses with High Fat Content: Some cheeses, particularly aged or sharp varieties, can be high in fat, which can contribute to weight gain and digestive upset in dogs if consumed in excess. Moderation is key.

Soft and Moldy Cheeses: Soft cheeses like brie or camembert can spoil more quickly and develop mold, which can be harmful to dogs. Moldy cheese should be avoided altogether.

Cheese with Xylitol: Some cheese products may contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and other serious health issues.

What Happens When a Dog Eats Cheese?

When a dog eats cheese, several things can happen, depending on the dog’s tolerance for dairy products, the type and quantity of cheese consumed, and the dog’s individual health and dietary factors.

Here are some possible outcomes when a dog eats cheese:

Gastrointestinal Upset: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which means they have difficulty digesting lactose, the sugar found in milk and dairy products like cheese. If a lactose-intolerant dog consumes cheese, it can lead to gastrointestinal upset, including symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, gas, or abdominal discomfort.

Allergic Reactions: Some dogs may be allergic to specific proteins or components in cheese, leading to allergic reactions. These reactions can vary and may include skin issues, itching, hives, or digestive problems.

Caloric Intake: Cheese is calorie-dense, so if a dog consumes large amounts of cheese regularly, it can contribute to weight gain and obesity, especially if not factored into their overall diet.

Sodium Intake: Certain cheeses, particularly processed or salted varieties, can be high in sodium. Excessive sodium consumption can lead to increased thirst, urination, and potential health issues.

Fat Content: Some cheeses are high in fat, and if consumed in excess, they can lead to digestive upset and weight gain.

Enjoyment and Dietary Variety: On the positive side, many dogs enjoy the taste of cheese, and when given in moderation, it can be a tasty and enjoyable treat that provides dietary variety.

To minimize the risk of adverse effects, it’s important to offer cheese to dogs in moderation and to choose plain, unsalted, and unseasoned varieties.

How Much Cheese is Ok for Dogs?

The amount of cheese that is ok for dogs depends on the size of your dog.

For a small dog, 1-2 ounces of cheese is a good treat portion.
For a medium sized dog, 2-4 ounces of cheese makes a good treat.
For large dogs, 4-8 ounces of cheese can be given as a treat.

It’s always best to check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new food, especially if your dog has any allergies or sensitivities.

Are Any Cheeses Toxic to Dogs?

While most cheeses are not inherently toxic to dogs, some cheeses and cheese-related products can be harmful to them due to certain ingredients or components. It’s essential to be aware of these potentially harmful factors to keep your dog safe. Here are some examples:

Moldy Cheese: Soft cheeses like brie or camembert can spoil more quickly and develop mold. Moldy cheese should be avoided altogether as the mold may produce mycotoxins that can be harmful to dogs if ingested.

High Salt Content: Cheeses that are particularly high in salt (sodium) can lead to increased thirst, urination, and sodium ion poisoning if consumed in excess. Processed cheese spreads, for example, can contain high levels of salt.

Cheese with Nuts or Raisins: Cheese that contains nuts, such as macadamia nuts, or raisins should be avoided as these ingredients can be toxic to dogs and may lead to various health problems, including kidney damage.

Blue Cheese Mold: Blue cheese contains a type of mold called Penicillium roqueforti, which can be harmful to dogs if ingested in large quantities. It may lead to gastrointestinal upset or other adverse reactions.

Conclusion

Yes, dogs can eat cheese. Cheese is a great source of protein for dogs. Some dogs are lactose intolerant and may experience digestive problems after eating cheese. If your dog is lactose intolerant, you can give them lactose-free cheese or cottage cheese.