“Can dogs eat cheese?” Is an oft-posed question. Especially, from people who have just come to own their very first dog.
The short answer here is yes.
Dogs can have cheese.
But like all other dog foods, one needs to be careful of a few important factors.
So, let us try and look at what these factors are, and all the common questions that arise on a dog owner’s journey to finding out if dogs can eat cheese, how it should be fed and what, if any, are going to be the health effects of it.
Is Cheese Safe for Dogs?
Mostly, yes.
A lot of dogs can eat cheese without getting sick. Sadly, however, just like humans, some dogs too can be lactose intolerant.
This means that while a little dose may not be lethal, making cheese a part of their diet can cause serious damage to your dog’s health. But this is only if their body cannot safely digest it.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese: A Test Trial
We believe it’s best to be safe when it comes to our precious pets. So, to answer the question “Can dogs eat cheese?” for your pet in particular, why not test and see whether your dog can eat cheese before giving it to them?
To do this, we suggest you perform a little trial before you incorporate anything into your dog’s diet.
Begin by simply taking a little cheese and feeding it to your dog. Cottage or mozzarella cheese are highly suggested since these tend to fall in the category of safe cheeses for dogs.
Make sure, however, that the amount isn’t too high.
Once given, monitor them over the next one day to see any signs of distress.
Should your dog display any discomfort, we recommend taking them to the vet immediately to get an in-time diagnosis. But if they don’t, you’re good to go!
Can Dogs Eat Cheese for Treats?
Yes!
Most pet owners know how difficult it can be to train a pet. Delicious treats like cheese though can be easily used as a guiding tool for your dog to differentiate between good and bad behaviors.
In fact, this is the primary way in which cheese should be included in a dog’s diet.
Puppies especially, can and should have cheese as a playful treat every now and then to make them learn appropriate behaviors early on.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese Regularly?
Unfortunately, no.
This is because dairy products like cheese are high in fat content and should, therefore, only be offered in moderation, such as for treats.
But if you’re thinking about giving them huge chunks of cheese every day, then we’re sorry but that just won’t do.
Remember, no matter what food group we talk about, when it comes to dogs, the rule of thumb is always the same:
‘Give your dog a healthy, balanced diet. And do not depend on one food group alone.’
How Cheese Can Impact a Dog’s Health
Dogs love cheese. That is why it is perfect for treats.
But many pet owners want to know more. If you’re a concerned dog parent then it might help to know that cheese contains a lot of nutrients like calcium, vitamin A, B- complex vitamins, and essential fatty acids.
So, all good right?
Wait….
Final Verdict:
Can Dogs Eat Cheese: Yes. But only in moderate amounts
Why do we say that given that cheese has so many nutrients in it?
Well, because while it has some nutritional value, it can also put your dog on a path to obesity.
Therefore, it must be used wisely. Too little and you’re depriving your dog of a delicious treat. Too much and you’re setting them up to have health problems in later life.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese With Pills?
Cheese tastes amazing. This is why it is the perfect hiding spot for a little bitter pill. Many dogs hate their pills. One neat little trick is to simply hide the pill inside a little cheese treat.
Can Dogs Eat Cheese: Delicious Recipes
Ingredients:
- Ground Chicken- 1lb;
- Coconut Oil- 1 tbsp;
- Cooked Brown Rice- 1 cup;
- Egg- 1 egg;
- Peas- 1 cup;
- Spinach – 1 cup;
- Cottage cheese.
Recipe:
- Add oil to a pan and let it heat.
- To this, add in the ground chicken and allow it to cook until brown.
- Next, add the rice and mix.
- Beat an egg and add it in.
- Also, add the peas and spinach.
- Cover the pan with the lid and allow to cook.
- Once done, add in the cheese and mix.
Video Recipe:
More Info: To read more about the best kinds of dog foods, be sure to check out the following!
Can Dogs Eat Peaches? Are Peaches Safe For Dogs?
Best Dog Foods for Specific Breeds
Can Dogs Eat Cheese: Fun Facts about Cheese!
- Many lactose intolerant people (and sometimes dogs) can eat cheese. You just have to find the right type!
- Most cheeses are made with bacteria from the Lactococcus, Lactobacillus, or Streptococcus genera. In fact, these bacteria make cheese the way it is.
- The cheese was accidentally discovered while storing milk in the gut of an animal, about 4000 years ago!
FAQs:
Can dogs eat cottage cheese?
Yes. It is in fact the most recommended cheese treat for dogs.
What about mozzarella?
Yes. This is also another healthy type.
Can dogs eat cheese daily?
They can. But cheese is fattening, which is why its quantity should be limited!
