Yes — most cheese is safe for dogs in small amounts as an occasional treat. However, blue cheese and mould-ripened cheeses are toxic to dogs. Additionally, some dogs are lactose intolerant and may experience digestive upset. Safe options include cheddar, mozzarella, cottage cheese, and cream cheese in moderation.

Is blue cheese dangerous for dogs?

Yes — blue cheese is toxic to dogs. It contains roquefortine C, a substance produced by the mould that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, fever, and even seizures in dogs. If your dog eats blue cheese, contact your vet immediately or call the Animal Poison Line on 01202 509000.

How much cheese can I give my dog?

Cheese should be given sparingly as a high-value treat. For small dogs (under 10kg): a pea-sized amount (5-10g). For medium dogs (10–25kg): a thumbnail-sized piece (10-20g). For large dogs (25kg+): up to a matchbox-sized piece (20-30g). Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. Cheese is calorie-dense and high in fat.

Can puppies eat cheese?

Puppies can have very small amounts of cheese as a training treat, but their digestive systems are more sensitive. Use only plain, low-fat varieties like cottage cheese or mild cheddar, and give tiny amounts (pea-sized). Many puppies are lactose intolerant, so watch for any signs of digestive upset and discontinue if you notice loose stools or vomiting.

What should I do if my dog eats blue cheese?

Contact your vet immediately or call the Animal Poison Line on 01202 509000. Blue cheese contains roquefortine C which is toxic to dogs. Watch for symptoms including vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive panting, muscle tremors, or seizures. Note the amount eaten, the type of cheese, and when it was consumed to help your vet assess the risk.

Are dogs lactose intolerant?

Many dogs are lactose intolerant to some degree. After weaning, dogs produce less lactase (the enzyme that breaks down lactose). Signs of lactose intolerance include diarrhoea, gas, bloating, and vomiting after consuming dairy. Low-lactose cheeses like cheddar, Swiss, and parmesan are often better tolerated than high-lactose options like cream cheese or cottage cheese.

Can cheese cause pancreatitis in dogs?

Yes — high-fat cheeses can trigger pancreatitis, especially in dogs prone to the condition or those already overweight. Pancreatitis is a serious inflammation of the pancreas that causes vomiting, abdominal pain, and lethargy. If your dog has had pancreatitis or is overweight, avoid cheese entirely or use only very low-fat options like cottage cheese in tiny amounts.

What cheese is best for hiding pills?

Soft, malleable cheeses work best for hiding pills. Cream cheese, soft mozzarella, or mild cheddar can be moulded around tablets. Cottage cheese works for capsules that can be mixed in. Avoid strong-flavoured cheeses that might put your dog off. Always check that the cheese doesn't contain garlic, onion, or chives, which are toxic to dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Cheese? The Complete UK Guide (2026) | UrPetPals

✅TL;DR — The Quick Answer

✓Most cheese is safe in small amounts — cheddar, mozzarella, cottage cheese
✗NEVER blue cheese or mould-ripened varieties — toxic to dogs
⚠️Avoid garlic/onion/herb cheeses — common additives are toxic
ℹ️Some dogs are lactose intolerant — start with a tiny amount and watch for reactions
ℹ️High in fat and calories — use sparingly, especially for overweight dogs

🚨

CRITICAL: Blue Cheese is Toxic to Dogs

Blue cheese (Stilton, Roquefort, Gorgonzola, Danish Blue) contains roquefortine C, a toxin produced by the Penicillium mould. This can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, and seizures in dogs.

If your dog eats blue cheese:

Contact your vet immediately or call the Animal Poison Line on 01202 509000. Note the amount eaten and when.

Safe Cheeses for Dogs (in moderation)

Cheese Type	Safety	Notes
Cheddar	✅ Safe	Low lactose, widely available. Use mild varieties.
Mozzarella	✅ Safe	Lower in fat than many cheeses. Good for training.
Cottage Cheese	✅ Safe	Low-fat option. Higher lactose — watch for intolerance.
Cream Cheese	⚠️ Caution	High fat. Never use garlic & herb varieties.
Parmesan	⚠️ Caution	Very salty — use tiny amounts only.
Feta	⚠️ Caution	High sodium. Small amounts occasionally.
Blue Cheese	❌ NEVER	Toxic — roquefortine C can cause seizures.
Garlic/Onion Cheese	❌ NEVER	Toxic — alliums damage red blood cells.

Lactose Intolerance in Dogs

Many dogs are lactose intolerant to some degree. After weaning, dogs produce less lactase — the enzyme needed to break down lactose (milk sugar). This can cause digestive upset when they consume dairy products.

Signs of Lactose Intolerance:

• Loose stools or diarrhoea
• Excessive gas

• Bloating or stomach discomfort
• Vomiting

Tip: Low-lactose cheeses (cheddar, Swiss, parmesan) are often better tolerated than high-lactose options like cottage cheese or cream cheese.

How Much Cheese Can Dogs Eat?

Dog Size	Max Amount	Frequency
Small (under 10kg)	Pea-sized (5-10g)	Occasional treat
Medium (10-25kg)	Thumbnail-sized (10-20g)	Occasional treat
Large (25kg+)	Matchbox-sized (20-30g)	Occasional treat

Remember: Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily calorie intake. Cheese is calorie-dense — cheddar contains ~400 calories per 100g. A small piece for you is a large calorie hit for your dog.

High-Fat Cheese & Pancreatitis Risk

High-fat cheeses can trigger pancreatitis — a serious and potentially life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas. Dogs with a history of pancreatitis, those who are overweight, or certain breeds (Miniature Schnauzers, Yorkshire Terriers, Cocker Spaniels) are at higher risk.

Symptoms of Pancreatitis:

• Vomiting
• Severe abdominal pain (hunched posture)

• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy and weakness

If you suspect pancreatitis, contact your vet immediately. This is a medical emergency.

Best Uses for Cheese with Dogs

🎓

High-Value Training Treat

Cheese is incredibly motivating for most dogs. Use tiny pieces for recall training, crate training, or teaching new commands.

💊

Pill Hiding

Soft cheeses work perfectly for concealing medication. Mould a small amount around tablets — most dogs swallow without noticing.

🧊

Frozen Cheese Cubes

Freeze small cheese cubes for a refreshing summer treat. The freezing process also makes them last longer mentally.

🔧

Kong Stuffing

Mix a small amount of cream cheese with kibble or treats and stuff into a Kong for extended enrichment.

When NOT to Give Cheese

🚫

Overweight or Obese Dogs

Cheese is high in fat and calories. Use low-calorie treats instead.

🚫

History of Pancreatitis

High-fat foods can trigger recurrence. Avoid cheese entirely.

🚫

Lactose Intolerant Dogs

If your dog gets diarrhoea from cheese, stop giving it.

🚫

Dogs with Kidney Disease

High sodium in some cheeses is problematic for kidney health.

Hidden Dangers: Flavoured Cheeses

Many popular UK cheese varieties contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Always check the label before sharing.

❌ NEVER These Additives:

• Garlic or onion powder
• Chives or spring onion
• Leeks (Welsh rarebit)
• Raisins or sultanas
• Nutmeg (in some spreads)

✅ Plain Varieties Only:

• Mild cheddar (not mature)
• Plain mozzarella
• Unflavoured cream cheese
• Plain cottage cheese
• Low-fat Swiss cheese

🚨 Emergency Contacts

Animal Poison Line

01202 509000

24/7 veterinary poison helpline

RSPCA

0300 1234 999

Animal welfare emergencies

Related Safety Guides

🍫

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Can Dogs Eat Cheese?The Complete UK Guide (2026)