You’ve probably wondered, seeing your dog ogling insistently at the piece of pizza you were about to devour, whether or not dogs can eat cheese. In fact, you just want to know if cheese is good or bad for dogs. After all, since cheese is so nutritious for humans, it’s natural to wonder if it’s also the case for our dog friends. So here are the pros and cons:
The benefits of cheese
Cheese is packed with nutrients such as calcium, protein, phosphorus, zinc, and vitamins A and B12. These nutritional benefits of course apply to humans, but what is good for us is not necessarily good for our dogs.
That said, cheese may have other benefits. For example, you can use it to reward your dog during his training. A delicious piece of cheese can also be used to conceal medications that your dog is reluctant to swallow.
Is cheese bad for dogs?
Not necessarily, however it is important to point out that its consumption can lead to health problems such as obesity and pancreatitis.
According to the ASPCA (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals), “Pets without enough lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk), milk and dairy products can cause them to have bouts of diarrhea and other digestive upsets. The bottom line: don’t give him cheese on a regular basis with his meals or as a reward. Even if it seems innocuous, cheese can cause serious digestive problems.
Apart from the lactose problem, the other disadvantage of cheese is its high fat content. By feeding fatty foods too often, your dog could gain weight and even risk becoming obese, which can lead to other health problems. According to the American Kennel Club, cheese consumption is the cause of pancreatitis, especially in dog breeds prone to this inflammation of the pancreas, such as schnauzers or cockers. Pancreatitis is a serious condition that most often causes stomach problems, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and in the most serious cases can even be fatal.
What about fresh cheese and other types of cheese?
Not all cheeses are created equal. Low fat cheeses such as mozzarella, whipped cheese or fresh goat cheese are healthier choices than high fat cheeses. If you are buying cheese that you intend to feed your dog, check the ingredient list as well. Some cheeses contain herbs and plants such as chives or garlic that can be toxic to dogs.
Finally, before deciding to give your dog a piece of cheese from time to time, ask your veterinarian for advice. He can confirm if it is suitable for your dog and if so, the type of cheese that would be best to give him. Remember that the food you give him outside of meals (including treats) should never be more than 10% of his daily caloric intake. Just like for us humans, too much calorie intake can lead to weight gain, which is the source of many other health problems.
