Yes dogs can eat cheese in small amounts. Most dogs tolerate plain cheese but it is high in fat and some dogs are lactose intolerant. Always feed small portions and avoid cheeses with added ingredients like garlic or onion.
Last updated:
March 26, 2026
The table below highlights the key nutrients found in this food and how they may impact your dog’s health. Nutritional values can help determine whether a food is beneficial, should be fed in moderation, or is best avoided.
Many dogs have some degree of lactose intolerance so cheese should only be given in small portions. Avoid cheeses that contain garlic, onion, chives or strong spices. Blue cheeses should also be avoided as they can contain compounds that may cause illness in dogs. High fat cheeses can trigger pancreatitis in susceptible dogs so always feed sparingly. Keep in mind thar plain Greek yogurt is generally better for dogs than cheese because it is lower in lactose and fat.
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Every dog is different and reactions to foods can vary. If you have concerns about your dog’s diet or health, it is always best to speak with a qualified veterinarian.
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Here are answers to some of common questions that dog owners ask about this food's safety and nutrition
Dogs can eat cheese every day in theory but it is not recommended. Cheese is high in fat and calories so regular feeding can lead to weight gain or stomach upset especially in dogs with lactose intolerance. Most vets recommend keeping cheese as an occasional treat rather than a daily addition to your dog’s diet.
The amount of cheese a dog can eat depends mainly on body size and calorie needs. Small dogs may only tolerate a tiny cube while larger dogs can have a few cubes at most. Because cheese is rich it should stay well below ten percent of a dog’s total daily calories and be given as an occasional treat rather than part of regular meals.
If your dog eats a large amount of cheese monitor them for vomiting diarrhoea or stomach discomfort. Many dogs will simply experience mild digestive upset but very fatty cheeses can trigger pancreatitis in some dogs. If your dog shows persistent vomiting abdominal pain or lethargy contact your veterinarian for advice.
Puppies can eat very small amounts of plain cheese but it should only be an occasional treat. Their digestive systems are still developing and lactose can sometimes cause loose stools. If you use cheese during training keep the pieces extremely small so it does not replace balanced puppy food. Choose mild low salt cheese and avoid processed cheese slices which often contain extra salt and additives.
Small dogs are more sensitive to rich foods because even a tiny portion represents a larger part of their daily calorie intake. Cheese should be cut into very small pieces and used sparingly. High fat foods can upset their stomachs quickly and may lead to weight gain if given regularly. Choose lower fat cheeses where possible and limit it to occasional training rewards rather than daily snacks.
Older dogs can enjoy cheese in small amounts but it should be offered carefully because many senior dogs gain weight more easily and may have reduced digestive tolerance. Choose lower fat options like cottage cheese or small pieces of mozzarella. If your senior dog has kidney disease heart problems or needs a low sodium diet check with your vet before offering cheese regularly.
Cheese is calorie dense so it can quickly add excess calories to a dog’s diet. For dogs that are overweight it should only be used rarely and in very tiny portions. If you need a treat for training consider lower calorie foods such as small pieces of carrot or lean cooked chicken instead. If cheese is used keep it minimal and factor the calories into your dog’s daily food allowance.
