- Dogs can enjoy a bit of cheese as a treat. Its important to keep the portions small and not make it a regular part of their diet. However if your dog has an allergy, dietary needs or is prone, to stomach issues it’s best to avoid giving them cheese altogether.
- Using cheese as a high value reward during dog training can be effective. It can also come in handy when you need to give your dog medication. They’re hesitant to take it – simply hide the pill in a bit of cheese.
- Avoid feeding your dog cheese as the mold in it can make them sick and cause health problems.
In general whether dogs can eat cheese depends on each dog. While most cheeses are safe for dogs in moderation some varieties may contain ingredients like onion or garlic that should be avoided. It’s essential to provide your friend with a diet tailored for their species. Opt for complete foods – either wet or dry or a combination of both – to ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients. Cheese should only be given occasionally as a treat, alongside their meals.
If your furry friend happens to devour a block or a hefty portion of cheese they might end up vomiting. Keep a watch, on them. Seek advice from your veterinarian if they start feeling unwell.
Which types of cheese should dogs avoid?
It’s better to play it and steer clear of cheeses like stilton when it comes to your pet. The mold used in making these cheeses produces a substance called roquefortine C, which can trigger sensitivity in dogs. This substance can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, fever and even seizures. The risk of experiencing these symptoms is higher if your dog consumes a quantity of cheese. If you observe any of these signs after your dog indulges in cheese contact your vet promptly.
Cheeses with content can result in vomiting and diarrhea especially if your pet consumes them excessively. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your vet if you have concerns.
These are the pooches who should not eat cheese
- Overweight dogs; Since cheese is rich in fat its best kept away from dogs who need to shed some pounds. For training treats leaner options like chicken, ham and tuna are choices.
- Dogs with intolerance: Canines that have an allergy or intolerance to dairy should avoid eating cheese
- Dogs, with stomachs; If your furry friend has trouble digesting anything outside their meals it’s best to avoid giving them cheese as it might cause stomach issues, like sickness or diarrhea.
- Dogs with kidney concerns. Some cheeses have a salt content, which’s n’t ideal for dogs dealing with kidney problems.
Using cheese for dog training
Many dogs can’t resist the taste of cheese making it a great choice for rewarding behavior during training sessions. A high value reward is one that expresses your delight when your dog follows your instructions so it should be used sparingly. For instance if your pup struggles with coming when called but enjoys cheese offering a piece as a reward can reinforce the positive behavior.
At Blue Cross we utilize chunks of cheddar cheese or cheese in a squeeze tube to train dogs at our adoption centers.
Filling a Kong toy with cheese from a tube can also serve as a soothing treat, for your canine companion especially if you’re looking to calm them down or help them cope with separation anxiety.