Whether it’s creamy, tangy, or nutty — straight out the wrapper or melted — cheese is the ultimate comfort food and indulgence.

It’s no secret that dogs dig cheese. We see their sweet puppy-dog eyes staring at the charcuterie board and our grilled cheese sandos!

But can dogs eat cheese? And is it good for them? Let’s find out and have a gouda time learning more.

In Most Cases, Dogs Can Eat Cheese 

 

The key words here are “in moderation.” No throwing a brick of cheese to your pup as a reward. A little piece here and there is not only a delicious, protein-packed treat — cheese is helpful when training or distracting your dog. More on that later.

Beyond moderation, it’s also important to remember:

 - Dogs can’t eat every kind of cheese

- Some ingredients in cheese must be avoided

Health Benefits of Cheese for Dogs

Cheese is more than just a creamy dream-food. It’s also packed with nutrients like: calcium, protein, phosphorus, zinc, and essential fatty acids — all helpful in maintaining your dog’s health and wellness. 

It’s also an excellent source of vitamin A and vitamin B-complex. Gimme a “C” for cheese! Big cheers all around.

But before you go replacing your great quality, complete dog food, dogs can’t survive (or thrive!) on cheese alone. Make sure they’re getting the kibble and wet food they adore as well.

Think of cheese as a little extra. 

What Cheeses are Safe for Dogs?

While your dog is clearly your best friend, not all cheeses are their best pal. Ingredients in some cheeses can upset their tummies or cause uncomfortable or even allergic reactions. No cheesy treat is worth that!

Best to feed your dog low-fat cheeses like:

• Mozzarella

• Soft goat cheese

• Cottage cheese

• Cream Cheese (low fat)

• Cheddar (not too aged, low fat)

Cottage cheese is a triple-win for dogs as it’s lower in fat, has less sodium (both help avoid obesity), and it’s lower in lactose so not as likely to cause your dog stomach problems — and messy poops later! 

When to Give Your Dog Cheese

Whether it’s a training reward, pillowy pill pocket (for sneaky medication delivery), or a special birthday snack — there are oh-so-many occasions to offer cheese to your pup. Just be sure to give them dog-safe options and small portions!

Dog Training

Given cheese is pretty irresistible, it’s an ideal option for a “high-value reward” when training your pup. 

While it’s tempting to give high-value rewards every time your dog shows small signs of learning, it’s best to save high-value rewards (like cheese!) for big moments when you’re ever-so-pleased by their behavior. 

If your dog struggles with recall and they finally return when called… It’s cheese time, baby! But only give them a small cube or loving spoonful.

TLDR: Use cheese sparingly and give nutritious, delicious training treats more often.

Concealing Medication

There’s a reason humans cover their kid’s veggies in cheese — to disguise what lies beneath! If your dog is resisting medication because of the taste, cut up a small cube of cheese (cheddar works like a charm!), push the tablet into the center, and offer it to your dog. They’ll gobble it down — and adore you for the gift.

But before you go popping every pill into cheese, it’s important to know this:

Never hide antibiotics in cheese. Getting a wee-bit scientific here: Anti-b’s can bind to the calcium in dairy making it hard for your dog’s system to absorb the medication.

If your dog is fully resisting antibiotics in pill form, speak to your vet. They may give your dog a shot instead. 

Boredom Buster

Life’s a bit dull when you’re left alone! And some dogs are prone to boredom behaviors like constant barking or wreaking havoc on your home. Cheese can be a great way of occupying your pup in your absence.

Pro tip: Smearing cream cheese on the inside of a hollow toy or Kong will not only keep your dog occupied, it’s helpful in teaching them to be left alone.

Can’t deny your buddy a reward for hangin’ solo! Cheese can help them feel settled and work through separation anxiety.

When is Cheese Bad for Pups?

Most of the time, cheese is safe to feed your dog, but! Yes, there’s often a but, so here are a few things to remember:

Cheese is not a low-cal treat. While many cheeses claim to be low-fat, they still contain fats which are fine in moderation. If you’re looking to treat your dog often (they certainly deserve it!), opt for smaller treats with fewer calories. Adding unnecessary pounds and risking obesity is not what you want for your pooch.

Another reason to give cheese sparingly is that too much fat can lead to pancreatitis, a serious and potentially fatal illness in dogs.

No Cheese with Herbs

Garlic, onions, chives — all big no-no’s, as are any herb additions to cheese in general. While cream cheese and goat cheese are fine to give your dog, make sure they are herb-free.

Which Dogs Should Skip the Cheese

Chubby pups – If your dog’s carrying a little (or lot) of extra weight, cheese is a no-go. It’ll add pounds, not help shed them. Instead, treat your dog to lean goodies like actual chicken or tuna, and oh-so-satisfying Salmon Jerkey Tenders.  

Lactose-intolerant pooches – Dogs with dairy sensitivities should steer clear of cheese altogether. No one wants a tummy ache — or messy business to clean up later.  

Dogs with sensitive stomachs – Same as above. If your pup’s belly does not love surprises, stick to their usual diet.

Pups with kidney concerns – Cheese can pack a fat-and-salt double punch, no bueno for compromised kidneys! Best to keep it off their snack list.

Cheesy Questions? We’ve Got Answers

Q: Can I give my puppy cheese?

Absolutely, but here’s the deal: only a little, here and there. As we’ve said, it can work wonders when training your puppy (they’ll do just about anything for a cheese treat!) but tiny cubes or a small spoonful is best, so they’re just getting a lil’ nibble.

Don’t forget: Treats should only make up 10% of your puppy (or adult dog’s!) diet. Nutritious wet food and kibble is where they’ll get all the good stuff to grow up big and strong, happy and healthy.

Q: Can my dog eat cottage cheese?

A: They sure can. Cottage cheese wins the dog cheese prize because it’s lower in fat and sodium, making it a healthier option. You’re already your dog’s biggest fan, but serve them cottage cheese as an occasional, high-reward treat and they’ll love you for eternity.

After reading this post, you’ve gotta brie-lieve in the magic of cheese for dogs. On a final note, we’ll leave you with a cheesy joke (we never said it was funny).

How do you make a dog smile for a photo?

Say cheese!

 

At Jinx, we're here to upgrade the way you care for your dog by providing holistic nutrition made with thoughtful formulation, real ingredients, and a whole lot of love.