Can Dogs Eat Cheese?

Yes, in moderation

Serve small amounts, and not every day.

Is cheese safe for dogs?

Cheese is a dairy food made from curdled milk, from soft cottage cheese to hard cheddar. Small amounts of plain cheese are okay for most dogs, but it is high in fat and some dogs cannot digest lactose. Blue cheese should be avoided.

How to serve cheese to your dog

Choose plain, low-fat cheese such as mozzarella or cottage cheese
Cut it into tiny pieces
Offer a small cube first and watch for gas or diarrhea

What to avoid

Blue cheese, which can contain a mold toxin called roquefortine C
Cheese with garlic, onion, chives, herbs or raisins
Cheese for dogs with pancreatitis or weight problems

How much cheese can my dog have?

Treats, including cheese, should stay under about 10% of your dog's daily calories. As a rough starting point, small dogs can have 1 to 2 bite-size pieces, medium dogs 2 to 4, and large dogs a small handful. Introduce it slowly and do not make it a daily habit.

Signs your dog may be having a problem

Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.

Emergency? Call your vet or an animal poison hotline straight away: ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 (US numbers, a consultation fee may apply).

Frequently asked questions

Can puppies eat cheese?

Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding cheese. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.

What if my dog ate too much cheese?

The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".

How often can my dog have cheese?

Treat it as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult dog, and less for small ones.