Can Dogs Eat Cheese? Effects of Cheese for Dogs as a Dog Food

Yes, dogs can eat cheese. There are more than a thousand different types of cheese worldwide, some more beneficial for dogs’ health than others. Most dogs love cheese, which contains calcium, protein, B-complex vitamins, zink, riboflavin, phosphorus, essential fatty acids, and glutathione, a powerful antioxidant critical for cell survival.

Although dog trainers use bits of cheese as rewards, and pet parents often use cheese to conceal medication, caution is necessary. Along with the healthy nutrients, cheese also contains enough fat to risk weight gain and obesity if dogs are given too much cheese. Furthermore, many dogs are lactose intolerant, and although not deadly, dogs with dairy sensitivity could develop severe GI problems.

What are the Benefits of Cheese for Dogs?

Cheese has multiple benefits, but only when given in moderate amounts. The key benefits are listed below:

• Probiotics: Some types of cheese, like cottage cheese, contain probiotics. Cheese with a low-fat content that is easily digestible can benefit dogs with gastrointestinal problems.
• Nutrient-rich: The high calcium, protein, vitamin A, and B are all beneficial to pups of all breeds.
• Training: Cheese is an irresistible snack for most dogs. In small portions, It makes an effective tool for training dogs. 
• Concealing medication: Cheese has a strong flavor that makes it the ideal vessel for administering medicine to a sick dog. Their love for cheese usually makes doggies gulp up the cheese without even realizing what was hidden inside.
• Researchers report that the casein peptides in cheese may increase dogs’ salivation, raising acidity and neutralizing tooth decay-causing bacteria.

How Can Cheese Harm Dogs?

The harms cheese can cause dogs are listed below:

• High salt content: Some of the harder cheese types contain very high levels of salt. Excessive salt could cause sodium poisoning in dogs. Dogs would typically drink lots of water to dilute the salt in their systems, but it might be a sign of sodium poisoning if they don’t.
• Toxic additives: Dog owners should check cheese labels for harmful additions like chives, onions, or garlic. Cream cheese often contains these additional flavors without realizing that they are toxic to dogs.
• Lactose intolerance: Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which means their digestive systems cannot metabolize the lactose in dairy products. Dog owners who are unsure about their dogs’ tolerance level for dairy products should start with tiny bits of cheese and then look out for adverse effects that might indicate lactose intolerance.
• Weight problems: Some types of cheese have high levels of fat. Dogs that overeat fat could gain weight, which could lead to obesity and even pancreatitis.

Although these are potential harms to dogs, managing the types of cheese, the quantities and frequency of giving doggies cheese treats could allow them to enjoy cheese without health risks.

Do Dogs Like Cheese?

Yes, most dogs love cheese. It is likely the flavorful fragrance that attracts dogs. Dog owners often find themselves looking into the begging eyes of their pups when they nibble on a piece of cheese, begging for even a tiny bit to fall to the floor. 

Some dog owners say their dogs have favorites when it comes to cheese. Dog parents can make their dogs happy and healthy by ensuring the treats they give their dogs do not exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake.

When Should a Dog Eat cheese?

Dogs can eat cheese at any time, regardless of the time of day, and at any age. However, there are so many different types of cheese. Some are safe for dogs, and some are not. Therefore, pet owners might be wise to limit portions when introducing new cheese types to pick up on any side effects such as lactose intolerance.

Puppies can benefit from the calcium necessary for strong bones and teeth, and old dogs might have problems digesting high-fat cheeses.

Dog owners may want to check with veterinarians when their pups are on antibiotics because cheese might affect how their bodies react and absorb the medication.

Older dogs could have problems digesting some cheese types, so owners should be selective when giving senior dogs cheese snacks.

When it comes to the time of day best to hand out cheese treats for dogs, it makes no difference. A small cheese snack could benefit a pup’s sleep. Calcium in cheese helps the doggy’s brain use tryptophan to manufacture the sleep-triggering hormone melatonin.

Besides cheese and other foods’ effects on dogs, To learn what dogs can eat, read the related guide.

How Much Cheese can a Dog Eat per Day?

How much cheese a dog can eat is not easy to answer because of the variety of cheeses, each with its own level of fat, salt, and other nutrients. The primary thing to remember is that a dog can eat cheese, but not as part of its diet. It is a treat and should not be more than 10% of the dog’s daily caloric intake.

Based on the 10% rule, a small 10-pound dog may not have more than 35 calories in treats per day. Assuming the pup gets only cheese and no other goodies, the allowed size of cheese is tiny. A 1-inch cube, one string cheese, or one thin slice equals 90 calories for most cheeses. So, the 10-pound dog may only have about one-third of any of the three examples given.

When it comes to cottage cheese, medium-sized breeds should not have more than two spoonfuls per day.

However, dog size will make a difference, and so will the canine’s age, health condition, and the type of cheese. Owners of dogs with lactose intolerance must ensure cheese treats are very small and only occasionally.

Which Nutrients in Cheese are Beneficial for Dogs’ Health?

The various beneficial nutrients in cheese for dogs are listed below:

• Calcium: An essential mineral that builds strong teeth and bones in dogs. It helps with blood clotting, healing wounds, and it maintains a dog’s normal blood pressure.
• Vitamin B12: This vitamin is also known as cobalamin, an essential B complex vitamin for supporting a dog’s nervous system and brain, the maintenance and formation of blood cells, and a strong digestive system.
• Vitamin A: Dogs need this essential vitamin for maintaining a healthy coat and skin, optimal functioning muscles, and a stable nervous system.
• Vitamin K: A vitamin only found in cows’ milk obtained from 100% grass-fed cows and benefits the blood clotting ability in dogs.
• Phosphorus: A mineral that works with calcium in the shaping and strengthening of rigid bones and teeth. Together, phosphorus and calcium also support the growth of tendons and ligaments.
• Zinc: This is another mineral that supports dogs’ healthy coat and skin, immune system, and thyroid function.
• Glutathione: Known as the “King” of antioxidants, glutathione supports other antioxidants like beta-carotene and Vitamin C in a dog. It is essential for optimized cell health, effective liver functioning, and support for the dog’s immune system.
• Riboflavin: A coenzyme for breaking down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates to produce energy.
• Omega-3 fatty acids: These fatty acids are also only present in the milk of 100% grass-fed cows. So, cheeses made from such milk can significantly benefit a dog’s heart and brain health.

Cheddar cheese is the favorite cheese of most dogs. To underscore the importance of limiting cheese consumption by dogs, look at the nutritional profile of one ounce of cheddar cheese listed below:

• Calories: 120
• Vitamin A: 400 mg
• Calcium: 200 mg
• Cholesterol: 30 mg
• Carbs: 0
• Fat: 10g (6g is saturated fat)
• Protein: 7g
• Sodium: 190 mg

Which Nutrients in Cheese are Harmful to Dogs’ Health?

The nutrients in cheese that are harmful to dogs are listed below:

• Gastrointestinal Upset.: Like humans, some dogs can be sensitive to lactose, the naturally occurring sugar in milk. It can cause GI problems, such as vomiting and diarrhea. Even if your pet isn’t lactose intolerant, too much cheese can cause an upset stomach. If you have concerns about your dog’s gastrointestinal response, contact your veterinarian immediately.
• High in Fat: Fat is an essential part of any dog’s diet, but too much can lead to health problems. Obesity can develop in dogs that consume excessive fat. It could progress into pancreatitis, a serious disease in dogs that can see them hospitalized for several days.
• Excessive sodium: Most cheese varieties contain added salt. All dogs are at risk of developing high blood pressure if their sodium intake is too high. Therefore, owners of canines on low-sodium diets due to kidney or heart disease should hold back on cheese treats. 
• Added flavors and spices: Many kinds of cheese contain added spices and flavors that could be toxic for dogs. Garlic, chives, and onion are some of the additives that could harm the health of dogs.
• Mycotoxin: The process of making blue cheese involves the adding of a safe-to-eat fungus. However, left to get too ripe allows the formation of mycotoxin in the cheese, called roquefortine. It is a potentially fatal condition for dogs that eat overripe blue cheese. Symptoms include diarrhea, vomiting, and seizures.

Can Cheese Affect a Dog’s Mood?

Yes, cheese can affect a dog’s mood. The calcium in cheese helps a dog’s body use tryptophan to produce the hormones serotonin and melatonin. These hormones are vital in stabilizing a dog’s mood, feelings of wellbeing, and happiness. The tryptophan content in cheese is not as high as the levels found in meat and milk, but cheddar cheese has 91 mg per ounce.

Can Baby Dogs (Puppies) Eat cheese?

Yes, puppies can eat cheese safely. Puppies are not lactose intolerant while still nursing. However, as they grow older, they might develop lactose intolerance issues. Because dogs of all ages love cheese, many dog owners use small cheese treats as rewards in dog training. Yet, caution is necessary. Some added ingredients like onions and garlic could be toxic, and staying away from blue cheese for puppies is essential. Low-fat cheeses like mozzarella, cheddar, and cottage cheese are safe options.

However, limit the portions because puppy dogs’ immune systems are not fully developed, so don’t give a puppy any cheese until it is weaned.

Can Old Dogs Eat Cheese?

Yes, old dogs can eat cheese safely. But, they are not as active as they used to be, and there are issues to consider when treating a senior dog with bits of cheese. Older dogs are more likely to have medical conditions like liver or kidney disease and special diets to limit salt and fat consumption.

Choosing a low-fat option like cottage cheese with 0.1g of lactose and 28 calories per ounce is a healthy choice to feed older dogs. Compared to most other cheese varieties, it has little lactose. It also is an excellent source of protein and calcium to help keep them healthy as they age. 

Can Different Dog Breeds Eat Different Amounts of cheese?

All dog breeds can eat cheese in amounts to suit their size and health condition. Too much cheese, especially high-fat cheese, could cause gastroenteritis in any breed of dog. Note that some breeds are significantly more prone to digestive problems. 

Commonly diagnosed illnesses are acute gastroenteritis, infection, or inflammation of the intestines and stomach. The vulnerable breeds include German Shepherds, Great Danes, Collies, and Golden Retrievers. This does not mean these breeds should not receive the occasional cheese treat. As long as owners of these breeds control the portions and the frequency of the treats, they should be safe.

For Which Dog Breeds are Cheese More Beneficial?

Cheese is not more beneficial for some dog breeds.

For Which Dog Breeds are Cheese Less Beneficial?

Cheese is less beneficial for dog breeds who are more vulnerable to being affected by food and treats with high-fat levels. If the owners of German Shepherds, Great Danes, Collies, and Golden Retrievers, and some other large breeds don’t take the necessary care, the dogs would be at risk of developing GI, which might even lead to pancreatitis.

However, if they ensure their canines eat low-fat and low-sodium cheese, not too often, they will be able to share cheesy treats with their canines without problems.

Which Cheese Recipes and Parts can Dogs Eat Safely?

There are more than a thousand different cheeses eaten across the world. Dogs can eat many of them safely, some with owners’ caution and others not at all because they are toxic. Some of the most popular cheeses shared between owners and their dogs are listed below:

Can Dogs Eat Cottage Cheese Safely?

Yes, a dog can eat cottage cheese safely. Healthy dogs benefit from the high levels of calcium in cottage cheese. The low-calorie count of cottage cheese is another benefit for dogs. A 2-ounce portion of cottage cheese has about 55 calories, compared to 240 calories in a 2-ounce portion of cheddar cheese.

For dogs with lactose intolerance issues, cottage cheese is the best option. Because it is a fermented cheese, the lactose content is 0.1g per ounce. It has a bland flavor, ideal for dogs recovering from stomach problems.

Can Dogs Eat Cream Cheese Safely?

Dogs can eat cream cheese safely but under supervision. Cream cheese should never be where a dog can get hold of it because many varieties contain toxic additives. Cream cheese with added garlic, onion, or other spices or additives is toxic for dogs and could cause death. Furthermore, cream cheese is fatty, rich, and high in calories, and choosing a low-fat version will be healthier for a doggy’s snack. Giving a dog only two tablespoons of cream cheese adds 6 grams of saturated fat, 9 grams of fat, and 100 calories.

Can Dogs Eat Mac and Cheese Safely?

Yes and no. Dogs can eat mac and cheese, but it poses many risks. The homemade version might be too rich for a dog’s gut, and lactose could be a problem, as can gluten, depending on the type of pasta used.

Boxed mac and cheese pose significantly more health hazards for dogs. It is the worst kind of treat for a dog. They typically contain artificial flavors, colors, and even the cheese may contain dangerous preservatives that could jeopardize a dog’s health. If a dog eats processed foods, it will risk reactions like constipation, diarrhea, and vomiting. Some additives can even cause skin irritation or other allergic reactions.

Can Dogs Eat Mozzarella Cheese Safely?

Yes, dogs can eat mozzarella cheese safely. It is a healthy option for dogs because mozzarella is one of the cheese types with lower sodium and fat content than many other varieties of cheese. Mozzarella’s lactose levels of 0.3g per ounce might cause problems for dogs with issues digesting lactose. One ounce of mozzarella has 78 calories.

Can Dogs Eat String Cheese Safely?

Yes, dogs can eat string cheese safely. String cheese is the same as mozzarella cheese, in a different shape. Small amounts of string cheese have several health benefits for dogs. String cheese contains calcium, protein, vitamin B-12, healthy fats, and vitamin A. So, as far as treats go, string cheese is a healthy way to incorporate some dairy into a pup’s diet. It promotes bone health, reduces risks of blood pressure problems, and could reduce the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

Can Dogs Eat Blue Cheese Safely?

No, dogs cannot eat blue cheese safely, especially if the cheese is a few days old. Cheese manufacturers add a safe-to-eat fungus to get the blue vein in blue cheese. If a dog owner allows the cheese to become overripe, a toxic substance called roquefortine C is produced in the cheese. Dogs are especially susceptible to this toxin, which is deadly. Symptoms of the poisoning include diarrhea, vomiting, fever, and seizures. 

Can Dogs Eat Dried Cheese Safely?

Yes, dogs can eat dried cheese safely. However, dog owners should check the list of ingredients before buying dried cheese. Some cheese powders contain no real cheese at all. Freeze-dried real cheddar has natural minerals and vitamins locked in. Approved quality dried cheese contains calcium, protein, vitamin A and B-complex, and essential fatty acids. Dog owners typically sprinkle dried cheese over kibbles or other dog food for canines of all ages. 

Can Dogs Eat Parmesan Skin Safely?

No, dogs can not eat parmesan skin, or rather, they should not. Parmesan is pungent, hard, and crumbly cheese. It has a very tough skin containing everything that is in the cheese. Although parmesan’s lactose level is low, its sodium level is exceptionally high. Some dog owners think parmesan skins are the perfect chewy treat for their dogs, but the health consequences of excessive salt can be serious.

Can Dogs Eat Cheddar Cheese Safely?

Yes, dogs can eat cheddar cheese safely. However, dog owners should give it in moderation. Cheddar is likely one of the most popular cheeses for dog owners to give their pups. However, the salt, fat, and lactose content of 0.1g per ounce pose health risks. Cheddar cheese has 120 calories per ounce. Dogs with lactose intolerance face even higher risks of health damage, so cheese treats should be small and given under supervision.

Can Dogs Eat Feta Cheese Safely?

No, dogs cannot eat feta cheese safely. Feta has high levels of sodium and saturated fats and a lactose concentration of 1.14g per ounce. The feta calorie count is 75 per ounce. Therefore, it is not a good choice for doggy treats. Additionally, feta often contains other potentially toxic additives for dogs like herbs and garlic.

Can Dogs Eat Swiss Cheese Safely?

Yes, dogs can eat Swiss cheese safely. Bubbles form the well-known holes in Swiss cheese during the process of fermentation. It is an aged, hard cheese, making it low in lactose at 0.4g per ounce. All in all, dog owners can safely share this nutty-flavored cheese with their pups, as long as they keep moderation in mind because Swiss cheese has 108 calories per ounce.

Can Dogs Eat Goat Cheese Safely?

Yes, dogs can eat goat cheese. For a lactose-sensitive dog, goat cheese can provide another low-lactose option. Goat milk is an excellent, almost complete, source of nutrients. It contains proteins, carbs, fat, minerals, and vitamins. Although goat milk’s lactose level is high, the fermenting process to make cheese converts lactose into lactic acid, making it almost lactose-free. That makes goat cheese a sensible option for dogs with lactose intolerance, as long as treat portions are small.

Can Dogs Eat Cheese Balls Safely?

No, dogs cannot eat cheese balls safely. Traditional cheese balls are made with a mixture of cream cheese and other shredded semi-soft cheese, whipped with added herbs and spices. The mixture is shaped into a ball with a cube of cheese in the center, rolled in nuts or crumbs, and deep-fried. A favorite snack for humans but not for dogs. High-fat cream cheese, herbs, spices, and the oil in which the cheese balls are fried are all too much for a dog’s digestive system.

Can Dogs Eat Cheese Puffs Safely?

No, dogs cannot eat cheese puffs safely. Not because it is toxic, but because it contains harmful ingredients for dogs. Cheese puffs have zero nutritional value for dogs, providing nothing but empty calories.

Enriched cornmeal, yellow number 6 coloring derived from petroleum, MSG, high saturated fat and salt levels, and artificial cheese seasonings all pose health risks for dogs. One or two pieces will not harm a dog, but frequent cheese puff treats could eventually cause heart disease, diabetes, obesity, kidney disease, and arthritis.

Can Dogs Eat Cheese Sticks Safely?

No, dogs cannot eat cheese sticks safely. What many humans eat for snacks or treats might not be healthy choices for dogs. Cheese sticks are typically made by slicing mozzarella cheese into sticks, coated with batter or crumbs, and then baked or deep-fried. 

This might sound perfectly safe for canines; however, mozzarella cheese is quite bland, and added spices and herbs might be what make it tasty for humans. Dog’s have problems digesting spicy foods, and if the cheese sticks have added garlic or onion, it could be life-threatening for dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Provolone Cheese Safely? 

Yes, dogs can eat provolone cheese. It is a low-carb cheese, with no more than 0.5 g of sugar and 0.2g of lactose per ounce of cheese. During the cheese-making process of provolone, lactose is broken down into galactose and glucose, making it more tolerable for dogs with lactose sensitivities. However, owners should limit portion sizes of provolone treats for their dogs because it is quite salty and has 100 calories per ounce.

Can Dogs Eat Ricotta Cheese Safely?

Yes, dogs can eat ricotta cheese safely. It is rich in nutrients, making it a good snack for dogs and their owners. Like all cheeses, caution is necessary when giving a pup a ricotta cheese treat. Ricotta is rich in calcium and protein but reasonably low in salt content. Dog owners should note that one ounce of ricotta has 47 calories, but the fat and sugar content could make it unsuitable for overweight or obese dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Brie Cheese Safely?

Yes, dogs can eat Brie cheese safely. Dog owners should be cautious and treat their pups with small Brie treats on special occasions only. The reason is that Brie has the highest saturated fat levels of all cheeses. It has 95 calories per ounce. However, the lactose concentration of Brie is only 0.1g per ounce. Excessive consumption of fats could cause life-threatening diseases like pancreatitis in dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Gouda Cheese Safely? 

Yes, dogs can eat gouda cheese safely. Gouda cheese has reasonably low lactose levels at 0.6g per ounce, and it has 101 calories per ounce. Still, owners of dogs with problems digesting lactose should limit the portion size and frequency of handing out gouda cheese treats to their dogs. Any dog that eats too much gouda cheese might suffer constipation or diarrhea.

Can Dogs Eat Grilled Cheese Safely? 

Yes, dogs can eat grilled cheese safely, but pet parents should keep in mind that it provides no health benefits for dogs. Grilled cheese is typically one or more slices of different cheese varieties between two buttered slices of bread. Depending on the type of bread and cheese choices, a grilled cheese sandwich can have between 250 and 400 calories. 

Although none of the ingredients is toxic for dogs, the combination could cause stomach aches, vomiting, and diarrhea. Dogs with lactose intolerance, pancreas problems, or obesity should not be allowed to eat grilled cheese.

Can Dogs Eat Muenster Cheese Safely? 

Yes, dogs can eat Muenster cheese safely. Although its lactose concentration is low at 0.3g per ounce, it has 104 calories per ounce. Muenster also contains high levels of salt, cholesterol, and fat. Dogs with tendencies to be overweight should not eat Muenster cheese as it could cause obesity and, ultimately, the potentially fatal pancreatitis illness.

What is Lactose Intolerance in Dogs?

Lactose intolerance could affect dogs of all breeds. To deal with their mother’s milk, the bodies of nursing pups produce lactase, an enzyme that helps them digest lactose in milk. However, once weaned and moving on to solid foods, their bodies begin making less lactose. If the lactose production stops altogether, the dog will be lactose intolerant. Some dogs’ systems continue to produce low levels of lactase, making them sensitive but not intolerant to dairy products.

The symptoms of lactose intolerance are listed below:

• Lack of appetite
• Abdominal discomfort or bloating
• Gas
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Milk allergies in dogs are often mistaken for lactose intolerance. Milk allergies have different signs and symptoms as listed below:

• Redness of the skin
• Hives
• Excessive itching around the ears
• Excessive paw licking
• Lack of appetite
• Facial swelling
• Breathing problems
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Dogs with total lactose intolerance should eat only lactose-free cheese. However, dogs with sensitivities to dairy can eat small portions of cheese varieties with low lactose concentrations. Dog owners should always begin with very small portions and check for adverse reactions. The safest is to discuss cheese treats for dogs with the vet first.

Do Different Types of Cheese Cause Diseases in Dogs?

Different types of cheese could cause diseases in dogs. The following cheese types should not form a part of any dogs’ treat routine.

• Processed cheese: Any processed foods, including cheese, are packed with additives like sodium (salt), artificial coloring, preservatives, and more. An example is American cheese containing 50% additives and 50% cheese. Dogs could get sodium poisoning or other health effects caused by synthetic additives.
• Roquefort and other blue cheese: The manufacturing process of blue cheese varieties involves added mold cultures. That means there is penicillium in the cheese. As the cheese ripens, that penicillium changes into a toxic component, roquefortine. If a dog owner gives a dog even a small piece of overripe blue or Roquefort cheese, the pup can become very ill.
• Added flavors, garlic, and herbs: Dogs should only eat natural cheese without other additives. Synthetic flavorings and sweeteners could be toxic, and certain herbs, chives, onions, and garlic could be deadly.

Which Dog Food Brands Add Cheese to their Dog Foods?

Some dog food manufacturers include cheese in their recipes for making dog treats. Examples are listed below:

Healthy Spot Dehydrated Cheese Treats — Stack That Cheddar

Contains just 1 All-Natural ingredient: Cheddar Cheese. Healthy Spot Cheddar Cheese Dog Treats are made with a single-source protein and are ideal for dog diets that need limited-ingredient treats.

Mouth-Watering and Health: Flash-frozen to maximize flavor while preserving nutrients, these delicious treats are packed full of essential proteins and minerals.

This manufacturer also produces a Gouda cheese variety called It’s All Gouda.

4 Oz yakyCHURRO Cheese Dog Chews

When you know your farmer, you know your food. yakyCHURRO starts with cheese made using our deeply rooted, traditional Himalayan cheese recipe, with milk sourced from a third-generation dairy farm in the heart of Washington State. Here is what yakyCHURRO says about their products.

“We grow our own feed and use only the milk from our cows — which lets us guarantee milk that is 100% pure.

We control the process of production from seed to feed to cheese. yakyCHURRO is a hearty consumable treat with a toothsome texture and a playful shape. YakyCHURRO comes in four delicious flavors — original, chicken, bacon, and peanut butter.”

Ingredients: Potato Starch, Cheese, Vegetable Glycerine, and Potassium Sorbate.

Raw Paws Wisconsin Freeze Dried Cheese Dog Treats – Crunchy Dog Cheese Puffs

Freeze-Dried Dog Treats: Your furry best friend will love our freeze-dried cheddar cheese dog treats. Our gentle freeze-drying method locks in natural vitamins and minerals, making our whole-food freeze-dried cheese bites delicious and nutritious. Certified human-grade dog treats are made with 100% Real Wisconsin Cheese.

High In Calcium: Cheddar cheese for dogs is rich in protein, calcium, vitamin A, essential fatty acids, and B-complex vitamins. Calcium is an essential mineral that supports dog heart health, aids digestion, and builds and maintains strong muscles, bones, and teeth. Cheesy dog treats are excellent for your canine’s health and wellbeing, helping him live a happier, longer life.

Can Eating Cheese Cause Diseases in dogs?

Cheese can cause serious diseases in dogs. While most cheese types are safe to use as treats for dogs, dog parents must always keep moderation in mind because most adverse medical conditions in dogs result from too much cheese.

Some of the diseases that could develop in dogs are listed below:

• Lactose intolerance: Many dogs lack the lactase enzyme that breaks down lactose when dogs eat dairy products like cheese. Dogs who are lactose intolerant will show symptoms like abdominal discomfort, bloating, and diarrhea within 30 minutes after eating cheese. The symptoms can only turn into a life-threatening condition if the owner continues to give the dog cheese over an extended period, allowing an undigested lactose buildup in the dog’s intestines.
• Pancreatitis: Giving dogs frequent treats of cheese with high-fat levels could turn out to be fatal. Although dogs need some fatty acids, too much can cause inflammation in their pancreas, which might lead to pancreatitis. It is a severe condition that could be fatal. Symptoms include an upset stomach, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, needing immediate veterinary care.
• Obesity: Coupled with the pancreatitis risk is the danger of obesity in dogs that eat too many fatty cheese treats.
• Gastrointestinal disease: Processed cheese and snacks mostly contain a host of artificial ingredients. For example, dyes, colors, flavors, MSG, salt, and artificial sweeteners like xylitol, many of which are toxic. Dogs typically have more severe reactions to these ingredients than humans. They could develop conditions including constipation or diarrhea and vomiting. Some dogs have allergic reactions like skin conditions and hives.
• Sodium-ion poisoning: Giving dogs cheese treats with high salt contents can have severe consequences. The first sign of potential sodium ion poisoning is excessive water drinking. That will soon be followed by diarrhea, vomiting, fever, tremors, depression, and seizures. If this condition is not promptly diagnosed and treated, the dog can die.

Can Dogs Eat Cheese When Sick?

Yes, dogs can eat cheese when sick, but not any cheese. The only cheese recommended for dogs in poor health is low-fat cottage cheese. Any cheese with high levels of lactose, salt, or fat would not be recommended for sick dogs.

Can An Anemic Dog Eat cheese?

No, anemic dogs cannot eat cheese. A dog with anemia needs iron, and cheese contains almost no iron. Cheese actually makes it harder for the dog’s body to absorb iron from other foods.

Can Dogs With Kidney Disease Eat cheese?

No, dogs with kidney disease cannot eat cheese. The high amounts of protein, potassium, and phosphorus could weaken the bones of dogs with kidney disease. Additional reasons include the danger of salt in cheese that could increase the dog’s blood pressure, worsening the damage to the kidneys.

Can Dogs Eat Cheese to Help With Diarrhea?

Yes, dogs can eat cheese to help with diarrhea. Even dogs with lactose intolerance can eat small portions of cottage cheese. The fermentation process in the making of cottage cheese gets rid of almost all the lactose. Many dog owners have been advised by their vet to give their dog a bland diet like cottage cheese and rice, boiled potatoes, or boiled chicken to settle their stomachs and help them rebound from a stomach illness. 

Can a Nursing Dog Eat cheese?

No, a nursing dog should not eat cheese. Dog owners may be tempted to treat nursing mamma dogs cheese treats to supplement the calcium in their diets. However, vets say that is not a good idea. Adding extra calcium could cause the opposite. It could suppress the production of parathyroid hormones, which will exacerbate the risk of reduced calcium levels.

Does the Fat in Cheese Cause Weight Gain in Dogs?

Yes, fatty cheese causes weight gain in dogs. Although dogs need fatty acids, owners who spoil their dogs with high-fat cheese treats might find their once healthy pup gaining weight. If the dog continues eating fatty cheese treats, it could lead to obesity.

Is the Salt in Cheese Bad for Dogs?

Yes, salt in cheese could harm a dog’s health. Cheese types with high salt content are usually aged and hard varieties. Dogs who eat too much cheese with high salt content or those who frequently eat salty cheese treats could develop sodium poisoning, which might be fatal. The salt will naturally cause the dog to be very thirsty, and if the dog drinks enough water, he may prevent being poisoned by the salt.

What Else can Dogs Eat together with cheese?

Some of the people food that is often shared with dogs are listed below:

• Bread: Although bread is not toxic for dogs, it also has no nutritional value for dogs. An occasional bread treat would not cause harm, but weight problems are possible when it becomes a frequent thing. Importantly, what is put on the bread to make the treat special should be considered with caution. A piece of low-fat, low-salt cheese will be safe. can dogs eat bread?
• Pasta: Plain, cooked noodles like tortellini or penne could be tasty treats for dogs. However, portions should be moderate, and adding a small portion of shredded cheese is enough. Owners should not be tempted to add spicy sauces. Also, be aware that some dogs have gluten or wheat allergies to consider. can dogs eat pasta?
• Egg: Dogs can eat eggs, and a scrambled egg treat, free of any additives, except a bit of cheese, is a perfectly healthy combination for a pup.
• Popcorn: Air-popped plain popcorn is a safe treat for dogs to share with a bit of cheese. However, as with all treats for dogs, keep portions small. A note of caution — salt and fat in popcorn can cause dehydration and ultimately lead to obesity in the long run.

Which Dog Treat Recipes Contain Cheese?

There are numerous recipes available for making dog treats containing cheese. The following three-ingredient combination recipes are widely available:

Cheddar Dog Treats – a wheat-free, high protein dog treat

Combine 1 cup of rolled oats and 1 cup of shredded cheddar in a blender, add two eggs and shape the doggy treats as you wish. Bake for about 15 minutes at 350 F.

Cheesy Pupsicles

Put cheese cubes or shredded cheese in the cubes of an ice tray and fill the tray with low sodium broth. Freeze to have the perfect treats for pups on a warm day.

Cheddar and Bacon Doggy Treats

Blend 4 strips of crispy fried bacon (fat drained) with ½ cup shredded cheddar and 1 ½ cup milled oatmeal. Add two large eggs, shape the cookies on a lined baking tray and bake at 350F for 20 minutes.