Can dogs eat cheese?

Caution

A small piece now and then is fine for most dogs. Choose lower-fat cheese, and avoid it if your dog does not digest dairy well.

Also searched as: cheddar, mozzarella, cottage cheese, cream cheese

When it is a problem

Cheese can be high in fat, and some dogs have trouble digesting dairy. AKC suggests lower-fat varieties such as cottage cheese or part-skim mozzarella, and PDSA notes that blue cheese is made with a fungus that dogs can be sensitive to.

Sources

American Kennel Club: Human foods dogs can and can't eat checked 29 October 2026 Dogs can eat cheese in small to moderate quantities Cheese can be high in fat, so look for lower-fat varieties like cottage cheese or part-skim mozzarella Some dogs can have trouble digesting dairy products, so offer cheese based on your individual dog's tolerance.
PDSA: Poisons and hazards for your pets checked 8 October 2026 Blue cheese is made using a fungus, which dogs can be sensitive to.

Last reviewed 29 October 2026. How we check foods

This is general information, not veterinary advice. If your dog ate something concerning, contact your vet or a poison helpline immediately.