As a dog owner, it's natural to wonder if your dog can enjoy the same foods as you. It’s not easy to eat something while your dog is looking at you and wanting a bite. One popular question is, "Can dogs eat cheese?". While cheese is not toxic to dogs, it still may pose health problems to some dogs. Here is a complete guide to know everything about cheese for dogs and how can you safely feed them.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese?
Yes, dogs can eat cheese. Cheese is a dairy product made from milk that provides protein, calcium, and essential fatty acids that benefit your dog. It's also a good source of vitamins A and B12. Cheese is also used as a dog training treat for dogs. While cheese are safe for dogs to consume, there are some conditions to consider.
Is Cheese Bad for Dogs?
While cheese is not exactly bad for dogs, it can be unfavorable if consumed excessively. Some cheese are high in fat and their frequent consumption can lead to digestive issues and can contribute to weight gain and obesity in dogs.
Some dogs are dairy-intolerant and consumption of cheese, a dairy-product may lead to allergy and health issues like gas, diarrhea, or vomiting. Certain types of cheese are high in sodium or contain additives, which should be avoided.
Safe and Healthy Cheese for Dogs to Consume
Cottage Cheese
Cottage cheese is a great option for dogs as it's low in lactose and high in protein. It's also a good source of probiotics, which can aid in digestion. However, make sure to choose a plain, unflavored variety to avoid added sugars and spices.
Mozzarella Cheese
Mozzarella cheese is another safe option for dogs due to its low fat content and lower levels of lactose compared to other cheeses. It can be a tasty and occasional treat if given occasionally.
Cheddar Cheese
Cheddar cheese contains beneficial nutrients such as protein and calcium. While it contains higher fat compared to cottage or mozzarella cheese, it contains less sodium and can be given to dogs in small quantities.
Yak Cheese
Yak cheese, often found in the form of hard chews, is another excellent option for dogs. The chews are usually long-lasting and made from natural ingredients. They provide both mental stimulation and essential nutrients, like protein and calcium.
Less Favorable Cheese for Dogs to Avoid
Blue Cheese
Blue cheese is a type of soft cheese that's made with mold cultures. While it's not toxic to dogs, it's not recommended due to its strong flavor and potential to cause digestive upset.
Feta Cheese
Feta cheese is a type of brined cheese that's high in sodium. While very small amounts are unlikely to harm your dog, additional consumption can lead to electrolyte imbalances and other health issues. It's best to avoid feta cheese or limit it to rare occasions.
String Cheese
String cheese is a type of processed cheese that's often high in sodium and preservatives. While it's not toxic to dogs, it's not a healthy option due to its low nutritional value and potential to cause digestive issues.
Cheese with Herbs/Spices
Cheese with added herbs, spices, or other seasonings can be harmful to dogs, as some ingredients like garlic and onion can be toxic. It is best to avoid such cheese and choose plain and simple cheese for your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Yak Cheese Puffs?
Yak cheese puffs, like other forms of yak cheese, are generally safe for dogs to eat. However, it's essential to check the ingredients list. Ensure there are no added spices, seasonings, or other harmful ingredients in cheese puffs. Tibetan Cheese Puffs contain all-natural ingredients and no added preservatives. These cheese puffs are high in protein and contain only a small amount of sodium.
Safety Guidelines for Feeding Cheese to Your Dog
If you decide to feed your dog cheese, follow these guidelines for the safety of your dog:
- Never give cheese to overweight dogs, dogs with kidney problems, or dairy-intolerant dogs.
- Avoid high-fat and high-sodium cheese. Prefer plain, unflavored cheese to feed your dog.
- As cheese is considered a treat, they should not consume more than 10% of total calorie consumption.
- Observe your dog after feeding cheese. If they show any signs of allergy or discomfort, consult a vet.
- Use cheese occasionally and incorporate it into meals to avoid excess calorie intake.
General Cheese Portion for Each Size Dog:
Here are the suggested general cheese portion sizes for dogs of different sizes. Remember that this is a general guideline and it may change according to the type of cheese you are using.
Extra-small (2-15 pounds) Dogs
- Examples: Japanese Chin, Yorkshire Terrier, Maltese, Affenpinscher , Papillon, Havanese, Brussels Griffon, Miniature Pinscher.
- How much to feed: A small piece of cheese roughly the size of a pea (about 1-2 grams).
Small (15-30 pounds) Dogs
- Examples: French Bulldog, Pug, Beagle, Boston Terrier, Basenji, Shiba Inu, Jack Russell Terrier.
- How much to feed: A piece of cheese around the size of a small marble (about 3-5 grams).
Medium (30-50 pounds) Dogs
- Examples: Border Collie, Cocker Spaniel, Brittany, Miniature Bull Terrier, Portuguese Water Dog, Vizsla
- How much to feed: A piece of cheese the size of a cherry (about 5-10 grams).
Large (51-70 pounds) Dogs
- Examples: Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, Border Collie, Chesapeake Bay Retriever, Dalmatian, Samoyed, Basset Hound, Boxer, Bulldog, Siberian Husky
- How much to feed: A piece of cheese approximately the size of a grape (about 10-15 grams).
Extra Large and Giant (71+ pounds) Dogs
- Examples: Great Dane, German Shepherd, Rottweiler, Doberman, Bullmastiff, Bernese Mountain Dog, Irish Wolfhound, Mastiff
- How much to feed: A piece of cheese roughly the size of a small plum (about 15-25 grams).
Conclusion
Dogs can eat cheese in moderation, but it's essential to understand the potential risks as well. Remember to prioritize your dog's health and safety, and always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns. You can enjoy sharing cheese with your furry friend with the right knowledge and precautions.
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2 comments
This guide is exactly what I was looking for! 🧀 I’ve always been curious about whether cheese is safe for my furry friend, and your post cleared up so much for me. Your breakdown of the dos and don’ts is super helpful—I feel more confident now! 🐶 I also found some fantastic details on Dogs Life Hacks about feta cheese that added even more clarity. Thank you for sharing such valuable info! ❤️
What an informative and engaging post! 🧀 I’ve been wondering about cheese for my dog, and this guide answered all my questions perfectly. Your advice is invaluable, and I also found some fantastic tips on DogsLifeHacks. Thanks for helping me keep my pup happy and healthy! I’m excited to visit your blog again for more great tips!