You may have seen memes online of dogs with cheese or heard people say that giving your dog a little bit of cheese as a treat is okay. But is this true? Can dogs eat cheese without any adverse side effects?
First, it’s important to know that not all dogs are the same regarding their ability to digest dairy. Some canines seem to have no problem-consuming cheese and other dairy products, while others may experience digestive upset or even vomiting and diarrhea after eating just a small amount. This is because, unlike humans, dogs lack the ability to produce the enzyme lactase, which is responsible for breaking down the milk sugar lactose.
That said, certain types of cheese are easier for dogs to digest than others. For example, hard cheeses like cheddar and Swiss tend to have lower levels of lactose than softer cheeses like mozzarella and cream cheese.
In addition, fermented cheeses like Parmesan and aged cheddar can also be easier for dogs to digest since the fermentation process breaks down much of the lactose.
So, can dogs eat cheese? The answer is yes, but it’s important to choose the right type of cheese and feed it in moderation. Start with a small amount of cheese and see how your dog reacts. If he tolerates it well, then you can slowly increase the amount. And as always, make sure to consult with your veterinarian before making any major changes to your dog’s diet.