Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!
Become a member today!
Members-only pricing and offers, personalized care notifications, Vital Care points back on every purchase and more!
Become a credit card member today!Earn 2X Pals Rewards points at Petco
when you use Petco Pay!APPLY NOWLearn More About Petco Pay Benefits
Can Dogs Eat Cheese? What Pet Parents Should Know
Published on August 18th, 2022
Updated on June 16th, 2026
Do you have questions about whether it is okay to give your dog cheese? Petco has the answers to this & other canine diet questions!
Yes, dogs can eat cheese but only in moderation and if it’s appropriate for their unique health status. You should always consult your vet before adding any new food item to your dog’s diet—and that includes snacks. If your dog experiences any adverse reactions to eating cheese, contact your veterinarian or pet poison control immediately.
Whether you’re offering a charcuterie board to houseguests, throwing around some mozzarella while making a pizza or handing out cheese cubes as a snack to your children, you may have plenty of this dairy product in your household. If you also have dogs, you may be wondering,”Can dogs eat cheese?”
In short, yes. It’s fine for most dogs to enjoy some plain, low-fat cheese as a tasty occasional snack or consume some scraps that have fallen on the floor. However, there are some exceptions for dogs who experience food sensitivities, and you’ll need to know some essential facts about what cheeses are safe for dogs. How much cheese can a dog eat? That’s another question we’re here to answer.
Is Cheese Good for Dogs?
Cheese is well known for containing calcium, protein, essential fatty acids, and vitamins A and B12 — nutrients that play a role in supporting your dog's overall wellbeing. Many dogs love the taste, and many pet parents find it to be a highly effective reward during training. So yes, dogs can eat cheese — but whether they should, and how much, deserves a closer look.
The Nutritional Upside
The nutrients in cheese are genuinely valuable. Calcium supports bone health, protein contributes to muscle maintenance, and B12 plays a role in healthy nerve and blood cell function. That's part of why cheese has earned its reputation as a go-to high-value training treat — it's aromatic, palatable, and easy to break into tiny pieces. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals
The Risks to Keep in Mind
Cheese also comes with real drawbacks that every pet parent should understand before making it a regular part of their dog's routine:
- High fat content. Some cheeses contain as many as 100 calories per ounce. Fed too often, the extra fat and calories can contribute to weight gain and, in more serious cases, pancreatitis — a painful and potentially dangerous inflammation of the pancreas. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals
- Lactose intolerance. Dogs don't naturally produce as much lactase as humans do, which means nearly all dogs are at least mildly lactose intolerant. Too much cheese can cause moderate to severe gastrointestinal upset — think loose stools, gas, or vomiting. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals
- Calorie creep. Because cheese is calorie-dense, even small amounts can add up quickly — especially for smaller breeds or dogs already managing their weight.
If your dog has a known sensitivity to dairy, pancreatitis in his history, or is on a low-fat diet, skip the cheese entirely and talk to your veterinarian about lower-risk treat alternatives.
How to Feed Cheese to Your Dog
Knowing that dogs can eat cheese — just sparingly — makes portion control and preparation the most important part of the conversation.
Portion Size: The 10% Treat Rule
Treats of any kind, including cheese, should make up no more than 10% of your dog's total daily calorie intake. https://petnutritionalliance.org/ The remaining 90% should come from a complete and balanced dog food that meets your dog's life-stage needs.
What does 10% look like in practice? It depends on your dog's size and daily calorie needs, but the table below gives a general sense:
| Dog Size | Approximate Daily Calories | Max Treat Calories (10%) | Rough Cheese Equivalent |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small (under 20 lbs) | 200–400 kcal | 20–40 kcal | ~¼ to ½ oz |
| Medium (20–50 lbs) | 400–900 kcal | 40–90 kcal | ~½ to 1 oz |
| Large (50–90 lbs) | 900–1,400 kcal | 90–140 kcal | ~1 to 1½ oz |
| Extra Large (90+ lbs) | 1,400–1,800 kcal | 140–180 kcal | ~1½ to 2 oz |
Calorie estimates are general guidelines only. Your veterinarian can give you a precise daily calorie target for your individual dog.
Feeding Tips
- Start small. Introduce cheese gradually and watch for any signs of digestive upset — loose stools, excessive gas, or a gurgling stomach — especially the first few times.
- Size it right. Crumbles are ideal; pea-sized bits work well too. Keeping pieces small helps you stay within the 10% limit without your dog even noticing the difference.
- Choose lower-fat options. Mozzarella, cottage cheese, and soft goat cheese tend to be lower in fat than aged or processed varieties like cheddar or American cheese — a better choice for dogs who are prone to weight gain.
- Avoid flavored or seasoned cheeses. Cheeses containing garlic, onion, chives, or other seasonings can be toxic to dogs. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
- Skip processed cheese products. Cheese spreads, cheese sauces, and highly processed slices often contain added sodium, preservatives, and ingredients that aren't appropriate for dogs.
When used thoughtfully — in small amounts, as an occasional reward — cheese can be a perfectly reasonable addition to your dog's treat rotation. Browse dog treats for lower-calorie options that can complement or replace cheese on days when you want to keep fat intake in check. And as always, if you have any questions about what's right for your individual dog, your veterinarian is your best resource.
Cheese-Flavored Dog Treats and Foods Worth Exploring
If your dog goes wild for cheese flavor but you want to keep portions in check, cheese-flavored dog treats give you a practical middle ground. They deliver that irresistible savory taste your dog loves while letting you control exactly how much dairy — or dairy-derived ingredient — actually goes into his bowl.
When browsing options, look for a few things on the label:
- Short ingredient lists with a named protein (chicken, beef, turkey) at the top
- Real cheese or cheese meal listed as a flavoring rather than the primary ingredient, so fat and sodium stay at a reasonable level
- Treats sized for your dog's weight — remember, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily caloric intake https://wsava.org/global-guidelines/global-nutrition-guidelines/
- AAFCO statement of nutritional adequacy if the product is intended as more than an occasional reward https://www.aafco.org/consumers/understanding-pet-food/
What to Look for in Cheese-Flavored Treats
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Named protein as first ingredient | Confirms the treat leads with quality nutrition, not filler |
| Cheese or cheese meal (not "artificial cheese flavor") | Means actual dairy is present; watch sodium content |
| Low sodium (under ~35 mg per treat for small dogs) | High-sodium snacks can stress kidneys over time |
| No xylitol or artificial sweeteners | Xylitol is toxic to dogs even in small amounts https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control |
| Appropriate calorie count per treat | Keeps you on the right side of the 10% treat rule https://wsava.org/global-guidelines/global-nutrition-guidelines/ |
Cheese as a Flavor in Complete Dog Foods
Some dry dog foods incorporate cheese or dairy ingredients — typically dried cheese, cheese powder, or whey — as a palatability enhancer rather than a primary protein source. Because dogs are omnivores, a well-formulated dry food can include small amounts of dairy alongside animal proteins, grains or legumes, and vegetables to meet their full nutritional needs https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals. The cheese component in these recipes is usually minor enough that lactose content is not a concern for most dogs — but if your dog has a sensitive stomach, check with your veterinarian before switching foods.
A Note on Lactose-Sensitive Dogs
Not every dog tolerates dairy equally well. If your dog shows loose stools, gas, or stomach upset after cheese-flavored treats, he may have lower lactase activity — the enzyme needed to digest lactose https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals. In that case, look for treats that use cheese flavor derived from fermentation (such as dried Parmesan or aged cheddar powder), which are naturally much lower in lactose, or choose a dairy-free alternative altogether. When in doubt, your veterinarian can help you find a treat your dog can enjoy without the digestive drama.
Browse Petco's full selection of dog treats and dog food to find cheese-flavored options that fit your dog's size, life stage, and dietary needs.
Cheese Types for Dogs: Quick-Reference Safety Guide
Not all cheeses are created equal when it comes to sharing a bite with your dog. Fat content, sodium levels and lactose concentration vary widely by variety — and those differences matter for your dog's digestion and waistline. Use this table as a fast reference before you reach for the cheese drawer.
| Cheese Type | Safety for Dogs | Approx. Calories (per 1 oz) | Fat (per 1 oz) | Lactose Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cottage cheese | ✅ Best choice | ~25–30 cal | ~1–2 g | Low | Low-fat, low-sodium; one of the gentlest options for sensitive stomachs |
| Mozzarella (part-skim) | ✅ Good choice | ~70 cal | ~4–5 g | Low–Moderate | Mild flavor, lower fat than aged cheeses; good for training treats |
| Cheddar (mild, low-fat) | ✅ Acceptable | ~110 cal | ~9 g | Low | Aged cheeses have less lactose, but fat content is high — keep portions tiny https://sites.tufts.edu/petfoodology/ |
| String cheese (part-skim) | ✅ Acceptable | ~70–80 cal | ~4–5 g | Low–Moderate | Convenient to break into pea-sized pieces; watch sodium |
| Swiss | ⚠️ Use sparingly | ~105 cal | ~8 g | Very Low | Very low lactose due to aging, but high in fat and calories |
| Parmesan | ⚠️ Use sparingly | ~110 cal | ~7 g | Very Low | Very high sodium (~450 mg/oz) — a significant concern for dogs https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control |
| Cream cheese | ⚠️ Use sparingly | ~95–100 cal | ~9–10 g | Moderate | High fat; plain only — flavored varieties (garlic, chive, onion) are toxic to dogs https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control |
| Brie / Camembert | ⚠️ Use sparingly | ~95 cal | ~8 g | Moderate–High | Soft, high-fat rinds; rich enough to trigger digestive upset or pancreatitis risk https://sites.tufts.edu/petfoodology/ |
| Blue cheese (Roquefort, Gorgonzola) | 🚫 Avoid | ~100 cal | ~8–9 g | Moderate | Some blue cheeses produce roquefortine C, a compound that can be toxic to dogs https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control |
| Cheese with add-ins (garlic, onion, chive, raisins, jalapeño) | 🚫 Never | Varies | Varies | Varies | Garlic, onion, chive and raisins are toxic to dogs regardless of the cheese base https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control |
Key rule of thumb: The lower the fat and sodium, the safer the cheese — and even the safest options should stay within the 10% treat guideline for your dog's total daily calories. https://sites.tufts.edu/petfoodology/ When in doubt about a specific variety, check with your veterinarian before offering it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat cheese every day? It's best to offer cheese only occasionally rather than as a daily staple. Because cheese is high in fat and calories, frequent feeding can contribute to weight gain and digestive upset over time. Treats of any kind — including cheese — should make up no more than 10% of your dog's total daily caloric intake. https://sites.tufts.edu/petfoodology/
Why does cheese sometimes upset my dog's stomach? Dogs produce less lactase than humans do, which means most dogs have at least some degree of lactose sensitivity. When a dog consumes more lactose than his digestive system can comfortably break down, the result can be gas, loose stools or vomiting. Choosing lower-lactose aged cheeses like mild cheddar or Swiss, and keeping portions very small, can help reduce the likelihood of GI issues. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals
Is cheese a good training treat for dogs? Many pet parents find that cheese is a highly motivating reward during training sessions — dogs tend to find the smell and taste irresistible. Part-skim mozzarella or small crumbles of low-fat cottage cheese work well because they're lower in fat and easy to break into tiny, pea-sized pieces. Just be sure to account for those extra calories in your dog's daily food budget. https://wsava.org/global-guidelines/global-nutrition-guidelines/
What cheeses are toxic or dangerous for dogs? Blue cheeses such as Roquefort can produce a substance called roquefortine C that may be harmful to dogs. Any cheese containing garlic, onion, chives, jalapeño or raisins is dangerous and should never be shared with your dog — those ingredients are toxic regardless of the amount of cheese involved. If your dog has eaten any of these, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center right away. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Can puppies eat cheese? Puppies have more sensitive digestive systems than adult dogs, and their nutritional needs are more precisely calibrated for growth. While a tiny taste of plain, low-fat cheese is unlikely to cause serious harm, it's best to consult your veterinarian before introducing any treat — including cheese — to a puppy's diet. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals
Can dogs with lactose intolerance eat any cheese at all? Some dogs with mild lactose sensitivity can tolerate very small amounts of aged, low-lactose cheeses like mild cheddar or Swiss, since the aging process breaks down much of the lactose. However, every dog is different, and a dog with a known sensitivity or a diagnosed gastrointestinal condition should only eat cheese — if at all — under guidance from a veterinarian. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals
Frequently Asked Questions
Can puppies eat cheese? Puppies can have tiny amounts of plain, low-fat cheese as an occasional training reward, but their digestive systems are still maturing, which can make them more sensitive to lactose than adult dogs. Start with a crumb-sized piece and watch closely for loose stool, gas or vomiting. Because puppies have precise nutritional needs during growth, always check with your veterinarian before introducing any human food — including cheese — to a puppy's diet. https://www.merckvetmanual.com/management-and-nutrition/nutrition-small-animals/nutritional-requirements-of-small-animals
What if my dog is lactose intolerant? Dogs naturally produce less lactase than humans do, so virtually all dogs have some degree of lactose sensitivity. Signs of a problem include diarrhea, bloating, gas or vomiting within a few hours of eating dairy. If your dog shows any of these reactions after even a small amount of cheese, skip dairy treats entirely and talk to your veterinarian about suitable alternatives. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
Is cottage cheese a better option for dogs? Cottage cheese is lower in fat and lactose than many aged or processed cheeses, which makes it a gentler choice for dogs who tolerate dairy. It still counts toward your dog's daily calorie budget, however, and treats of any kind — including cottage cheese — should make up no more than 10 percent of total daily calories. Plain, low-sodium cottage cheese with no added herbs or flavorings is the safest pick. https://sites.tufts.edu/petfoodology/
Which cheeses should dogs never eat? Avoid any cheese that contains added ingredients toxic to dogs, including garlic, onion, chives, or artificial sweeteners such as xylitol. High-sodium varieties like feta, Roquefort and processed cheese spreads are also poor choices. Blue cheeses contain roquefortine C, a compound that can cause serious neurological symptoms in dogs — keep these well out of reach. When in doubt, plain and low-fat is the rule. https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control
How much cheese can a dog safely eat in one day? There is no universal "safe" amount because portion size depends on your dog's size, weight, overall diet and individual health status. As a practical guideline, treats — cheese included — should never exceed 10 percent of your dog's total daily caloric intake. For a small dog, that may mean a single pea-sized crumble; for a larger dog, a few small cubes. If you are unsure what is appropriate for your dog specifically, your veterinarian is the best resource. https://wsava.org/global-guidelines/global-nutrition-guidelines/
Can cheese be used as a pill pocket or training reward? Yes — cheese's strong aroma and rich flavor make it one of the more motivating high-value rewards for training, and a small smear or crumble can help disguise medication. Just account for those calories within the 10-percent treat limit and choose a low-fat, plain variety. If your dog is on a prescription diet or has a diagnosed health condition, confirm with your veterinarian that cheese is appropriate before using it as a pill pocket. https://sites.tufts.edu/petfoodology/
This article was created with assistance from AI tools and reviewed for accuracy by Petco's content team.
FAQs About Dogs Eating Cheese
A few different outcomes are possible depending on your particular pup and the amount of cheese they eat. In canines with average lactase production, small amounts of low-fat cheese aren’t likely to cause any adverse reactions, and your dog will be able to enjoy a tasty treat.
Suppose your dog finds a way to consume a large amount of cheese, however. In that case, they may experience diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and diminished appetite. Dogs with high lactose intolerance may experience these symptoms after just a small amount of dairy.
Some cheeses should never be fed to dogs as they can cause serious adverse reactions that could necessitate immediate medical attention. Read on to find out more about the types of cheeses that are safe and unsafe for dogs to consume.
Since many cheeses are high in lactose—which can cause stomach upsets—and fat—which can lead to obesity or pancreatitis—some cheeses are better for canines than others. What kind of cheese can dogs eat relatively guilt-free? Your veterinarian will know what’s best for your dog, but here are some common options that are relatively low in lactose and fat.
It is important to note that while many kinds of cheese are unlikely to harm your dog, those that contain added flavoring are strictly off-limits. Herbs, garlic and raisins are all toxic to canines, and blue cheeses must be avoided because they contain a dangerous mycotoxin called roquefortine C. Off-limits cheeses include:
How much cheese can a dog eat? While table scraps of approved cheeses are typically harmless, crumbles that are no larger than pea-size are ideal. When in doubt, ask your veterinarian to recommend an appropriate portion size for your particular pet. Remember, treats should make up no more than 10 percent of your dog’s total daily calorie count.