According to the ASPCA, "because pets do not possess significant amounts of lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose in milk), milk and other dairy-based products cause them diarrhea or other digestive upset." The takeaway: Don't give your dog cheese as part of their regular meal plan or as a frequent treat.
Can I give my dog cheese every day?
While cheese can be safe to feed to your dog, there are some things to remember. Cheese is high in fat, and feeding too much to your dog regularly can cause weight gain and lead to obesity. Even more problematic, it could lead to pancreatitis, a serious and potentially fatal illness in dogs.
Should you give cheese to dogs?
Cheese is high in salt and fat, so it is best fed only in small amounts. Choose lower-fat types of cheese to limit the calorie intake of your dog. Unflavoured cheeses such as Gouda or Edam, Cheddar or Red Leicester are excellent choices for dogs. Cream cheese is fine to feed to dogs but choose the plain varieties.
Can dogs eat every cheese?
Yes, technically, your dog can eat cheese, including cheddar, mozzarella and cottage cheese. However, your dog should not consume any blue-veined cheeses, including Dutch blue, Stilton, Roquefort, Cabrales, or Gorgonzola, as it can be toxic for dogs. Because cheese is as fattening as it is tasty, moderation is key.
How much cheese will hurt a dog?
Most dogs can handle cheese in small amounts and it really depends on the type of cheese being given. “Like all supplementation, feeding dairy should be limited,” says Summers, who recommends that cheese and dairy snacks should make up less than 10 percent of a dog's total caloric needs to avoid dietary imbalances.
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