Can Dogs Eat Cheddar Cheese? What Your Vet Isn’t Telling You

Imagine you just made yourself a grilled cheese sandwich and are about to take the first bite. And then your dog looks at you with its pleading eyes. At this point, you may ask, “Can dogs eat cheddar cheese?” Well, the answer is yes, but with a catch.

Give a 5-minute read to completely learn about cheddar cheese and its relevance with dogs. You will find out the perks and risks of cheese for dogs. Further, we will also guide you about the optimal quantity of cheese, how to feed, and cheddar cheese recipes that your dog will love. Find out more below:

Quick Answer – Is Cheddar Cheese Good for Dogs

Quickly put, dogs can eat cheddar cheese – but only in moderation. It has nutrients like calcium, magnesium, fatty acids, and vitamins. These minerals are beneficial for dog health. However, feeding in large quantities or making it a mainstay diet is bad for dogs as it can cause health issues such as dehydration, vomiting, and bad gas.

What is Cheddar Cheese?

Made of milk (goat or cow), cheddar cheese is a naturally occurring substance. The name is due to its origin in a small town in England, Cheddar. It exists in a color range of white to pale yellow and has a creamy and buttery flavor.

As cheese ages, the taste shifts from mild to sharp, producing a firm texture. It is abundant in minerals like calcium, magnesium, vitamins, and fatty acids, as well as fibers, and can be used to make a wide range of dishes. All these things collectively make it one of the favorite cheeses for humans and pets alike.

Can Dogs Eat Cheddar Cheese?

Yes, dogs can eat cheddar cheese. As per the American Kennel Club, or AKC, a small quantity of cheese is recommended for dogs, as they love to have a snack like this. A cheese with a low quantity of sodium, fat, and salt would work like magic. Hence, you should opt for one that is fresh and has an age of less than 9 months.

Perks of Cheddar Cheese for Dogs

Cheddar cheese is not only tasty for dogs but also offers various benefits. We have compiled a list of the exact benefits of this cheese for your pooch:

1. Training

Many dog experts, such as Dr. Antje Joslin, a veterinarian with 15 years of experience, recommend using cheddar cheese as a tool for dog training. It has a strong smell and delicious taste, making dogs, puppies, and similar animals crave it. Therefore, you can use it as a reward to reinforce positive behaviors and enhance their learning curve.

2. Nutrients

Cheddar cheese is abundant in nutrients such as fat, calcium, and protein. Protein is required for the growth and development of dogs. The animals need calcium to strengthen their bones and bones. Similarly, vitamins develop the brain and promote the growth of the nerves and blood cells.

With the help of a veterinarian, we have compiled the following table that lists the essential minerals in cheese:

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	403 kcal
Total Fat	33.14 g
– Saturated Fat	21.092 g
– Monounsaturated Fat	9.391 g
– Polyunsaturated Fat	0.942 g
Cholesterol	105 mg
Sodium	621 mg
Total Carbohydrates	1.28 g
– Sugars	0.52 g
– Dietary Fiber	0 g
Protein	24.9 g
Vitamins
– Vitamin A	265 mcg
– Vitamin B12	1.1 mcg
– Vitamin D	0.6 mcg
– Vitamin E	0.71 mg
Minerals
– Calcium	721 mg
– Phosphorus	455 mg
– Zinc	3.6 mg
– Selenium	28.5 mcg
– Iron	0.68 mg
– Potassium	98 mg

3. Low Lactose Contents

Although cheddar cheese is not lactose-free, it has comparatively low amounts of the substance. A fresh piece of 100 grams contains only 2-3 grams of lactose. On the other hand, types such as ricotta or cottage cheese have a lactose quantity of up to 5 grams for the same quantity. This makes it the best option for animals, especially for those dogs that are lactose intolerant – but only in moderation quantity.

4. Tool to Give Medicines

A nuanced perk of cheddar cheese is that you can use it as concealment for hard pill delivery to your moody dogs. It doesn’t interact with the contents of the medicines. Further, the strong taste and smell make it easy for dogs to ingest the dose without any issues.

Risks of Cheddar Cheese for Dogs

Animals like canines are not naturally habituated to cheddar cheese. Therefore, you can’t choose this cheese as a mainstay course for the dogs. Let’s take a closer look at the risks of cheese for the dogs. Shall we?

1. Higher Contents of Fats

One of the major drawbacks of cheddar cheese is that it has a high-fat content. Now why does this matter a lot? A 100-gram piece contains almost 33% (33.14 g) of fats. This large fat and calorie-dense diet can cause obesity, especially when consumed regularly. Further, it can lead to pancreatitis.

The best way is to give a moderate amount to your dog and that too less frequently. Monitor your doggo and report to your vet immediately if you spot any signs of pancreatitis. As per AKC, the following are symptoms of this disease in the dogs:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Fever
• weakness/lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Dehydration

2. High Amounts of Sodium

Some varieties of cheddar cheese, especially the ones that are older than 2 years have higher sodium contents. This can cause dehydration and make your pet drink more water, leading to frequent urination.

Further, too much Na can also be a reason for sodium poisoning and kidney problems. In rare cases, sodium ion poisoning can also occur in small dogs. This can cause tremors, seizures, and even death.

To prevent sodium toxicity, the best practice is to go with moderate quantities. Prefer fresh cheese as it has a low amount of sodium due to less concentration buildup.

3. Additives

While choosing cheddar cheese for your dog, always consider added ingredients. Different varieties of cheese contain elements, such as:

• Garlic
• Onions
• Chives
• Other herbs

All of the above-mentioned ingredients are harmful to the dog’s health and cause toxicity, or Allium toxicosis. As a general rule of thumb, anything more than 0.5% of the dog’s weight is not suitable for their health. Watch your pup closely. Consult your doctor if you spot any symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, tachypnea, low blood sugar, and reduced appetite.

Vet’s Tip: Is your dog too lean, and do you want it to increase the weight? You should never give cheddar cheese for weight gain, as it may cause dehydration as well as pancreatitis. Instead, read this guide to learn how to help your dog gain weight.

What Type of Cheese Your Dog Can Eat?

Cheddar cheese exists in various types, each one having different characteristics. Not all of them are suitable for dogs. The following table sums up the varieties of cheese that are suitable for your puppy:

Cheddar Cheese Types	Dog Safety	Reason
Mild Cheddar Cheese	Safe, but in moderation	Lower lactose and sodium contents
Medium Sharp Cheddar Cheese	Safe, but in moderation	Lower lactose and moderately low sodium content
Extra Sharp Cheddar Cheese	Safe, but need caution	Very low lactose but could have higher sodium
White Cheddar Cheese	Safe in moderation	Same as mild cheese
Smoked Cheddar Cheese	Possibly safe, caution needed	Ensure that there are no added preservatives
Spicy Sriracha Cheddar	Not safe	Have additives like onion or garlic
Vegan Cheddar Cheese	Safe, check ingredients	No lactose but ensure that there is no xylitol
Rindless Cheddar Cheese	Moderate quantities are safe	Ensure that there is less lactose and no xylitol
Waxed Cheddar Cheese	Safe but remove wax	Wax can cause choking

What are Ideal Amounts of Cheddar Cheese for Dogs?

This is one of the most common questions asked by visitors at our clinic: What are the ideal amounts of cheddar cheese for pups? A golden rule of thumb is that the amount of feeding cheese should not exceed 10% of the total calorie intake.

The given table provides comprehensive help on the optimum amount of cheese for dogs as well as examples of breeds:

Dog Size	Portion Size	Examples of Breeds
Extra-Small Dogs	1-2 pieces (1/2-inch wide by 1/4-inch thick)	Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Pugs
Small Dogs	2-3 pieces (1-inch wide by 1/4-inch thick)	Basenjis, Beagles, Miniature Australian Shepherds
Medium Dogs	5-6 pieces (1-inch wide by 1/4-inch thick)	Basset Hounds, Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs
Large/Extra-Large Dogs	5-6 pieces (1-inch wide by 1/4-inch thick)	Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers

How to Feed Cheddar Cheese to Your Dog?

To feed cheddar cheese to your dog properly, you need to know the optimal quantity. Choose the right cheese, start with small doses, and avoid overfeeding. Let’s explore these factors in detail:

• Consult a Vet: First things first, you need to consult a pet doctor. They will determine the dog’s allergy to cheese, ideal feeding quantity, and other dietary restrictions.
• Know the Optimal Quantity: You must know the optimal amount of cheese as per the weight, size, and breed of your mutt. Always keep in mind that the quantity should not exceed 10% of the calorie requirements of your dog.
• Start with Small Doses: Regardless of the size of your dog, always start with small doses and observe the reaction of your dog. If he shows any abnormal behavior, consult a doctor immediately.
• Select the Right Cheese: Choose the right type of cheese. For instance, find out whether you need to go with a low-fat, low-sodium, or aged cheddar cheese.
• Feed in Small Pieces: Always cut cheese into small pieces before feeding it to your dog. This will prevent choking and make it easier for the dog to digest.
• Avoid Overfeeding: This is an obvious guideline that you shouldn’t overfeed your dog for a number of reasons. For starters, it prevents choking. Further, it also protects the puppy from issues such as toxicity and other hazards due to sodium and lactose.
• Go with a High-Quality Cheddar Cheese: Always choose a high-quality cheddar cheese piece for your dog. Ensure it is not older than 6 months and doesn’t contain any additives, flavors, or excessive salts.

Tips For Buying Cheddar Cheese for Dogs

We have compiled a list of tips that are helpful for those who want to have the best cheddar cheese for their dogs:

• Organic Cheese: Organic cheese is the one that doesn’t contain any additives or chemicals. Shop at the brands that have non-GMOs (genetically modified organisms) or are at least certified as organic by the USDA-ORGANIC.
• Block Cheese: We recommend buying cheese in blocks. This is not only cheap as compared to shredded versions, but also free from most corn additives or other flavors.
• Check the Expiry Date: Ensure that the cheddar cheese has not expired and has freshly arrived in stores. Feeding spoiled cheese to your dog can upset his digestive tract, leading to food poisoning.
• Give Attention to the Label: Read the label carefully to find the sodium, xylitol, and lactose contents. Read about other ingredients such as additives, salts, enzymes, and allergens.

Cheddar Cheese Products for Dogs

If you have a busy schedule and are not able to make cheddar cheese products for your pup, you can go with the ready-made packs. A list of such products is mentioned below:

• Raw Paws Freeze Dried Cheese for Dogs: This product contains cheese bites made of cheddar cheese. Made of a freeze-drying method, it ensures that the product maintains its natural contents.
• Pure Bites Cheese Freeze Dried Dog Treats: It is made of American-sourced milk and is quite good for the dog’s health.
• Pup Corn Plus: This treat includes both cheddar cheese and chicken, making it a perfect yet delicious bite for your pet. It also comes inclusive of prebiotics and probiotics, adding more for the dog food.

Alternatives to Cheddar Cheese for Dogs

Alternatives to cheddar cheese are available for those dogs that are sensitive to this type or are lactose intolerant. In some cases, your dogs just don’t like eating cheddar cheese. Our vets recommend the following substitutes to the dog parents:

Low Lactose Cheese

Different options such as Mozzarella, Cottage, Goat, and Swiss cheese are easy to digest for dogs, and they also have low lactose content. Ensure that you start with a pea-sized dose for your pups.

Non Dairy Options

If your dog has severe lactose intolerance, non-dairy alternatives should be a no-brainer. These include pumpkin puree, carrots, seedless apples, and sweet potatoes.

Apart from that, you can also go with other recipes such as homemade treats. Try making DIY cheese dog treats to please your pup. Don’t forget to take the advice of your vet before opting for an option.

Important Things to Know About Cheddar Cheese for Dogs

Since the dog’s body is not innately accustomed to cheddar cheese, you need to ensure a safe feeding for the pups. We have compiled a list of things that will help your pooch to get the most out of cheese. Let’s explore these nuances below:

Large Quantities of Cheddar Cheese

You should never feed your puppy large quantities of cheddar cheese. Owing to high fat and sodium contents, this will not only cause stomach upset but also lead to pancreatitis and obesity. Always stick to the vet’s recommendations or the doses mentioned in the above table.

Lactose Intolerance

The lack of enzyme “Lactase” may cause the indigestion of cheese and other dairy products. If you suspect your dog to be a lactose intolerant animal, be sure to test it. For DIY testing, fast your dog for 8-12 hours. After that, feed a small amount of cheese and observe the animal. If you spot any symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, or bloating, it’s time to check with your vet.

Puppies and Senior Dogs

Puppies and senior dogs need additional precautions for cheddar cheese feeding. Small dogs have a fast metabolism and need more protein or calcium to cope with their bodies’ needs. Avoid high sodium and fat doses.

On the other hand, senior or older dogs have a slow metabolism. Plus, their stomach is also not very good at taking extra things, like cheese or vegetables. For proper care of these canines, we advise you to either cut cheese or go with a low-calorie diet. In any case, personalized counseling from a vet would be highly beneficial for these dogs.

Age of Cheese

The age of cheddar cheese is an important factor that you should consider while feeding your dog. You should prefer mild cheddar cheese, which is aged for 2 to 3 months. They have fewer quantities of sodium and also offer a creamy texture with a delicious taste.

In contrast, moderate cheddar has a life of 6 to 9 months. This variation offers a little bit of crispiness and a tangier taste. Likewise, sharp or extra-sharp cheddar cheese is usually aged at 6 months – 2 years old. This type is not suitable for dogs at all due to a very high content of sodium and a tough texture.

Long Terms Effects of Cheddar Cheese for Dogs

Dogs love cheddar cheese but they shouldn’t be given this treat on a regular basis. Long-term use of cheese can lead to the following effects on the life of the puppy:

• Obesity
• Pancreatitis
• Kidney straining
• Poor dental health

Feeding in moderation, giving breaks, and monitoring the dogs are the best ways to treat your dog with cheddar cheese without affecting the animal’s health.

Vet Advice

If you are craving a cheddar cheese sandwich and want your dog to enjoy a delicious bite, moderation is the key. Follow the 10% rule, where the dose shouldn’t exceed the puppy’s daily calorie intake. Choose mild cheese or varieties with low sodium and fat content. Keeping a close eye on the pet is highly recommended and consult your nearby vet if you spot any abnormal behavior.

Bottom Line

The bottom line is that dogs can eat cheddar cheese. It offers many perks to the pets such as high nutritional value, comparatively low lactose contents, and a tool to train the dogs. However, it also has potential risk factors as it can cause obesity as well as pancreatitis.

Therefore, you should always factor in the amount for a safe diet. Ensure that the fed amount doesn’t exceed 10% of the daily calorie intake. Avoid the extra-sharp varieties or the types with additives.

Last but not least, always get a non-GMO cheese with low sodium and fat content. Be sure to stay in check with the dog’s doctor for a healthy and long life for the puppy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What will Happen if a Dog Eats Cheese Daily?

A: If your dog eats cheese daily, he may get obesity, pancreatitis, sodium ion toxicity, and indigestion. Feed the animal with regular pauses in tolerable quantities.

Q: Is Cheddar Cheese Okay for My Dog?

A: Yes, cheddar cheese is okay for your dog. It is a great source of calcium, protein, and other minerals, required for the growth of the animal.

Q: Why do Dogs Appreciate Cheese so Much?

A: Dogs love cheese so much because of its acceptable taste, high palatability, and savory aroma.