Is Consuming Cheese Harmful for Dogs?
Can Dogs Eat Cheese? A Guide to Safe and Healthy Cheese Choices
Cheese can be a tasty treat for dogs, but it's important to choose the right kind and feed it in moderation. Some cheeses can provide valuable nutrients such as high-quality protein, calcium, essential fatty acids, vitamin B12, vitamin A, phosphorus, and zinc, which support a strong immune system and healthier skin and coat.
Low-fat cheese options like cottage cheese, mozzarella, soft goat cheese, Edam, and Swiss cheese (low lactose) are recommended for dogs. These cheeses are generally safer choices as they are easier on a dog's digestive system. Low-fat cottage cheese, in particular, is a good option for dogs with lactose intolerance as it is low in lactose.
However, not all cheeses are safe for dogs. Cheeses to avoid include high-fat varieties like cheddar, Swiss, and Colby, as they can cause health issues such as pancreatitis and weight gain. Blue cheese should be avoided as it is made from Penicillium molds and under the right conditions can produce toxins that cause tremors in dogs. Flavoured cheeses with onion, garlic, herbs, or spices should also be avoided as they can be toxic to dogs.
When introducing your dog to cheese, start with small amounts to minimize the risk of stomach upset. If any of these symptoms become severe, call your vet immediately: diarrhea, gas, bloating, nausea, reduced or absent appetite, vomiting, or increased thirst and urination.
It's also important to note that adult dogs do not have enough lactase in their intestine and are unable to digest large quantities of dairy. This means that it's best to avoid milk in adult dogs and give cheese, ideally low-fat cheese, only in small quantities.
If your dog is taking antibiotics, consult your veterinarian before adding cheese to its diet, as calcium in dairy can interfere with the absorption of some antibiotics.
A recent study showed that after 2 weeks of kefir administration, a dog's intestinal microbiota changed in a positive way. Cheese can contain beneficial bacteria for a dog's gut, such as Queso Blanco with Bifidobacterium longum.
In summary, many dogs can enjoy small amounts of certain low-fat, low-lactose cheeses as occasional treats that provide beneficial nutrients, but it is important to avoid toxic varieties like blue cheese and feed cheese cautiously to prevent digestive upset and other health problems. It's always best to consult with your vet before making any changes to your dog's diet.
References:
[1] PetMD. (2021). Can Dogs Eat Cheese? https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-cheese
[2] ASPCA. (2021). Can Dogs Eat Cheese? https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/virtual-pet-behaviorist/dog-advice/can-dogs-eat-cheese
[3] Hill's Pet Nutrition. (2021). Can Dogs Eat Cheese? https://www.hillspet.com/dog-care/nutrition-feeding/can-dogs-eat-cheese
[4] VCA Hospitals. (2021). Can Dogs Eat Cheese? https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/can-dogs-eat-cheese
[5] Banfield Pet Hospital. (2021). Can Dogs Eat Cheese? https://www.banfield.com/pet-healthcare/resources/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-cheese
Science reveals that certain low-fat and low-lactose cheeses, such as cottage cheese, mozzarella, soft goat cheese, Edam, Swiss cheese, and Queso Blanco with Bifidobacterium longum, can offer health benefits for dogs when fed in moderation as part of a balanced health-and-wellness routine, potentially contributing to a stronger immune system and healthier skin and coat. However, it's crucial to avoid high-fat varieties like cheddar, Swiss, and Colby, as well as flavored cheeses with onion, garlic, herbs, or spices, which can be detrimental to a dog's fitness and exercise capabilities due to their potential toxicity or digestive issues they may cause, potentially leading to health problems like pancreatitis and weight gain.
