Dairy & eggs · updated 2026-09-12
Can dogs eat cheese?
Small amounts of low-fat cheese — many dogs are lactose-intolerant.
Why
Cheese is a superb high-value training treat, but it's fatty and salty and many adult dogs don't digest lactose well. Cottage cheese and mozzarella are gentler; blue cheeses contain roquefortine and should be avoided; anything with garlic, onion or chives is toxic.
How to serve it
Pea-sized cubes of low-fat cheese for training. Watch the stools.
If they eat too much
Gas, diarrhoea, vomiting from lactose; pancreatitis in fatty amounts; roquefortine (blue cheese): vomiting, tremors.
How much cheese for my dog?
A daily maximum for a healthy adult dog, kept inside the 10% treat rule. Enter body weight.
Up to 8 g a day — about 1 tablespoon · low-fat, pea-sized cubes.
Treats of all kinds should stay under about 10% of daily calories. Puppies, kittens, seniors and pets with a medical condition: ask your vet first.
And for cats?
In moderation. A crumb is fine; most adult cats are lactose-intolerant. Can cats eat cheese? →
Related foods for dogs
- EggsSafe
- MilkIn moderation
- YogurtIn moderation
- BananasIn moderation
- BreadIn moderation
- BroccoliIn moderation
See the whole list: Can dogs eat…? · printable fridge chart
This guide is general information for healthy adult dogs, based on published veterinary guidance (ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, AKC, VCA). It is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your dog's weight, age and medical history. If you are unsure, ask them before sharing any human food.