Can dogs eat cheese?
✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last updated: 2026-06-17
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The full picture
Cheese is a useful high-value training treat because most dogs love it, but it should be used sparingly. Dogs don't produce much lactase, so dairy can cause digestive upset. Harder, lower-lactose cheeses like cheddar and mozzarella are better tolerated than soft cheeses. Blue cheese (stilton, roquefort, gorgonzola) must be avoided — it contains a mold that produces roquefortine C, which is toxic to dogs. Cheese is also high in fat and salt, so small amounts only, especially for dogs prone to pancreatitis.
Check individual ingredient safety at 247IngredientsCheck.
If your dog ate more than a safe amount
For a small accidental taste, watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, or signs of discomfort over the next few hours. For a large amount or if your dog is small or has existing health conditions, call your vet. When in doubt, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
Risks to watch for
- Lactose intolerance causing diarrhea
- Pancreatitis from high fat
- Toxicity from blue cheeses specifically
- Weight gain
Potential benefits
- Calcium and protein
- High-value training treat
- Useful for hiding tablets
Safe portion size
A small cube for small dogs, a larger cube for big dogs. Occasional treat only.
Safer alternatives
- plain Greek yogurt (small amount)
- cooked chicken pieces
Which cheeses are safest in small amounts?
Low-fat, low-sodium options like cottage cheese and mozzarella are gentler on the digestive system than hard, aged, or blue-veined cheeses. Avoid anything with added flavourings (garlic and onion cheese spreads are a genuine toxicity risk, not just a fat concern) and always check for lactose sensitivity with a very small first amount, since many adult dogs have reduced lactase production.
Does size or breed matter?
Small and toy breeds, and any breed with a known pancreatitis predisposition (Miniature Schnauzers especially), should treat cheese as a rare, small treat rather than a regular one — fat content is the main concern and it scales with quantity relative to body size.