Cheese
CautionVerdict
Small amounts OK — high in fat and lactose.
Source: ASPCA
Verdict
Cheese is a common training reward and most dogs tolerate small amounts. However, it is high in fat and lactose, which can cause GI upset, obesity, and pancreatitis with regular overfeeding. Low-fat cheeses like cottage cheese or mozzarella are better choices. Avoid processed cheeses with added spices, onion, or garlic. Blue and Roquefort cheeses are toxic (see blue cheese).
Symptoms to watch for
- • diarrhea
- • vomiting (if lactose intolerant or overfed)
- • pancreatitis symptoms with large fatty servings
What to do
Keep portions tiny — a pea-sized piece as a treat. If your dog has a history of pancreatitis or digestive sensitivity, avoid cheese entirely. Never feed seasoned, onion/garlic-flavored, or blue cheeses.