Can Dogs Eat Cheese? A Vet-Backed Guide
Cheese is tasty — but is it safe for dogs? Learn which cheeses dogs can eat, which to avoid, how much is safe, and risks for puppies.
Nutrition
4 mins
22 Dec 25
Can Dogs Eat Cheese?
Is Cheese Safe for Dogs?
What Types of Cheese Can Dogs Eat?
What Cheeses Should Dogs Avoid?
Can Puppies Eat Cheese?
Serving Guidelines and Portion Sizes
FAQs About Dogs Eating Cheese
Conclusion
Can Dogs Eat Cheese?
Yes — dogs can eat cheese in moderation. It’s a high-value treat, often used for training, hiding pills, or rewarding good behaviour. But not all cheeses are equal, and too much can lead to tummy issues due to fat, sodium, or lactose sensitivity.
Below, we break down which cheeses are safe, which to avoid, how much to give, and what to watch for — backed by nutrition guidance.
Is Cheese Safe for Dogs?
Can dogs eat cheese?
Yes — small amounts are generally safe for healthy adult dogs. Choose mild, low-fat cheeses and introduce them slowly.
Are dogs allowed cheese?
Yes, but only as an occasional treat. Cheese should never replace balanced dog food.
Is cheese bad for dogs?
It can be if:
your dog is lactose sensitive
- you choose high-fat cheeses
- you give too much
Side effects include gas, diarrhoea, soft stools, or vomiting.
Too much cheese can cause gas, diarrhoea, or vomiting in sensitive dogs.
What Types of Cheese Can Dogs Eat?
Can dogs eat cottage cheese?
Yes — it’s one of the best options. Low fat, mild, and easy to digest.
Can dogs eat mozzarella?
Generally yes, especially low-moisture mozzarella, which is lower in salt.
Can dogs eat feta cheese?
Not recommended. Feta is high in sodium and can upset digestion.
Can dogs eat parmesan?
Small amounts only. Parmesan is salty and hard, which can be difficult for some dogs.
Can dogs eat cheddar?
Yes, in small portions. Opt for mild cheddar with lower fat.
Best cheese for dogs
- cottage cheese
- mild cheddar
- mozzarella
- low-fat soft cheeses (plain only)
Mild, low-fat cheeses are generally easier for dogs to digest.
What Cheeses Should Dogs Avoid?
Is blue cheese safe for dogs?
No — blue cheeses can contain roquefortine C, a toxin dangerous to dogs.
Can dogs eat stilton?
Avoid. It’s a type of blue cheese and poses the same risks.
Can dogs eat brie or camembert?
Best avoided. These are high in fat and can cause pancreatitis if overfed.
Is cheese poisonous to dogs?
Cheese itself isn’t poisonous, but mould-ripened varieties can be toxic.
Avoid blue and mould-ripened cheeses as they can be toxic.
Can Puppies Eat Cheese?
Can puppies have cheese treats?
Only tiny amounts. Their digestive systems are more sensitive.
Can puppies eat cottage cheese?
Yes — it’s one of the gentlest options. Still, introduce slowly.
Puppies should only have tiny amounts of gentle cheeses like cottage cheese.
Serving Guidelines and Portion Sizes
How much cheese can my dog have?
A simple rule:
- Small dogs: 1–2 small cubes
- Medium dogs: up to 3 cubes
Large dogs: up to 4 cubes
(Think “treats only,” never more than 10% of daily calories.)
How often can I give cheese?
Occasionally — not daily. 2–3 times per week is enough.
Signs you fed too much cheese
- gas
- diarrhoea
- vomiting
- bloating
FAQs About Dogs Eating Cheese
Why do dogs love cheese?
It’s rich, savoury, and high in fat — irresistible for most dogs.
Can cheese cause diarrhoea?
Yes, especially if your dog is lactose intolerant or overeats.
Is cheese good for dogs?
It’s not harmful when fed correctly, but it’s not a nutrient-dense food. Think “treat,” never “meal.”
Conclusion
Cheese can be a safe and delicious treat when given properly — especially mild, low-fat varieties. Avoid blue cheeses, rich moulded cheeses, and anything highly processed.
If you’re using cheese to improve appetite, hide a pill, or reward good behaviour, moderation is key.
If you’re using cheese to improve appetite, hide a pill, or reward good behaviour, moderation is key.
At Tuggs, we believe real food is the foundation of a longer, healthier life.
Our fresh meat, vegetables, and sustainable insect protein are carefully balanced to give your dog the nutrients they need every single day.
Want to see what fresh can do?
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Written and reviewed by Lucy, Head of Recipe Innovation at Tuggs.
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