We’ve all been there, haven’t we? You’re sitting on the sofa with a bit of cheese when those loving puppy eyes start pleading with you. The question is: can you share that piece of cheese with your four-legged friend? The short answer is yes, but there are some important caveats to consider.
Why dogs find cheese appealing
Cheese holds the same attraction for dogs as it does for us: it’s full of flavour and contains protein and calcium. Many dog trainers even use small pieces of cheese as reward treats during training sessions. The strong smell and taste make it a real treat for your dog.
From a nutritional perspective, cheese does offer some benefits. It’s packed with proteins that are good for your dog’s muscles, plus calcium for strong bones. But that’s not the whole story.
The problems with cheese for dogs
This is where it gets interesting. Most adult dogs are lactose intolerant. Just like many humans, they can’t properly digest milk sugar. I regularly see it in dogs around me: after a piece of cheese, they suffer from diarrhoea, flatulence or stomach pain.
Additionally, cheese contains a lot of salt, much more than is good for dogs. Too much salt can lead to dehydration and in extreme cases even salt poisoning. Aged cheeses like parmesan are particularly high in salt.
The fat content is also a concern. Cheese is quite rich in fat, which can cause problems for dogs prone to pancreatitis or those already overweight.
Which cheeses are safer than others
If you do want to share a bit of cheese, choose wisely. Young hard cheeses like mild cheddar contain less salt than aged varieties. Cottage cheese is also a better option as it contains less fat and salt.
Goat’s cheese or sheep’s cheese can sometimes be better tolerated because they naturally contain less lactose. But be careful: this doesn’t apply to all dogs.
Absolutely avoid cheeses with additives such as garlic, herbs or artificial sweeteners. These can be toxic to dogs.
How much and how often
The quantity is crucial – sorry, important. Think one or two small cubes of no more than a centimetre, and then at most a few times a week. For small dogs, you should limit this even further.
I always recommend starting very cautiously the first time. Give a tiny piece and see how your dog responds. Just as you would when introducing rice into your dog’s diet.
When to avoid cheese altogether
Some dogs should not be given cheese at all. Dogs with sensitive stomachs, overweight issues, pancreatitis or known food allergies are better off skipping cheese.
Puppies are often more sensitive to lactose than adult dogs, so I’m extra cautious with young dogs.
Symptoms to watch for
If your dog vomits, gets diarrhoea, becomes lethargic or unusually restless after eating cheese, stop giving cheese immediately. These can be signs of lactose intolerance or, in the worst case, salt poisoning.
For severe symptoms such as trembling, vomiting or confusion, contact your vet immediately.
Better alternatives
Honestly, there are many better treats for your dog than cheese. Special dog biscuits, pieces of carrot or apple (without seeds) are much safer and often just as delicious.
For training, you can also use small pieces of cooked chicken or liver. These have the same ‘wow effect’ without the risks associated with cheese.
So cheese for dogs is possible, but with moderation and common sense. A very small piece occasionally as a special treat is fine, but don’t make it a habit. Your dog is ultimately happiest with food specially made for them.