Many dogs tolerate small amounts of plain cheese as an occasional treat or for hiding tablets. Low-lactose cheeses like cheddar are often better tolerated than soft fresh cheese. Stop if diarrhoea or gas develops.

Is cheese bad for dogs?

Cheese is high in fat and salt. Large amounts contribute to obesity and can trigger pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. It is fine in small portions for most healthy dogs — not as a staple food.

Can dogs eat blue cheese?

Avoid mould-ripened blue cheeses and any mouldy cheese — mould can produce toxins. Stick to plain cheddar, mozzarella, or cottage cheese in small amounts if tolerated.

Can puppies eat cheese?

A tiny piece of plain cheese for training is usually fine for puppies over weaning. Monitor for diarrhoea — puppies have sensitive digestive systems.

Dog Health

Can Dogs Eat Cheese UK?

Quick answer

**Most healthy dogs can eat small amounts of plain cheese occasionally.** Cheddar and mozzarella are common UK choices — low-lactose options often suit dogs better. Avoid blue cheese, mouldy cheese, and garlic/onion flavoured cheese. High fat means cheese is **not for daily feeding** — limit portions especially in dogs prone to [pancreatitis](/health/pancreatitis-in-dogs).

Key takeaways

Many dogs tolerate small amounts of plain cheese as an occasional treat or for hiding tablets. Low-lactose cheeses like cheddar are often better tolerated than soft fresh cheese. Stop if diarrhoea or gas develops.
Cheese is high in fat and salt. Large amounts contribute to obesity and can trigger pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. It is fine in small portions for most healthy dogs — not as a staple food.
Avoid mould-ripened blue cheeses and any mouldy cheese — mould can produce toxins. Stick to plain cheddar, mozzarella, or cottage cheese in small amounts if tolerated.

The full picture

Causes, home monitoring, treatment options and the exact signs that mean call your vet — in the complete guide.

Read the full guide Check symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dogs eat cheese?: Many dogs tolerate small amounts of plain cheese as an occasional treat or for hiding tablets. Low-lactose cheeses like cheddar are often better tolerated than soft fresh cheese. Stop if diarrhoea or gas develops.
Is cheese bad for dogs?: Cheese is high in fat and salt. Large amounts contribute to obesity and can trigger pancreatitis in susceptible dogs. It is fine in small portions for most healthy dogs — not as a staple food.
Can dogs eat blue cheese?: Avoid mould-ripened blue cheeses and any mouldy cheese — mould can produce toxins. Stick to plain cheddar, mozzarella, or cottage cheese in small amounts if tolerated.
Can puppies eat cheese?: A tiny piece of plain cheese for training is usually fine for puppies over weaning. Monitor for diarrhoea — puppies have sensitive digestive systems.

Reviewed 2026-06-25 against UK veterinary guidance · Information only — not a substitute for seeing your vet.