Patrick Oconnell
Dogs are known to be intolerant or allergic to a variety of foods, including dairy products such as cheese. While most dogs can eat cheese in moderation, some dogs can develop an allergy to it. Cheddar cheese is generally considered safe for dogs, but artificial coloring and high phosphate levels in processed cheese can be harmful. Additionally, dogs with lactose intolerance or kidney problems should avoid cheese due to its high-fat content and potential to elevate phosphate levels. Symptoms of a cheese allergy in dogs include itching, hair loss, dermatitis, vomiting, diarrhea, and bloating.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Can dogs eat cheddar cheese? | Yes, dogs can eat cheddar cheese but only in limited quantities as an occasional treat. |
| Dogs allergic to cheddar cheese | Dogs with a lactose allergy or intolerance, who need special diets, or are prone to tummy upsets should not eat cheddar cheese. |
| Symptoms of lactose intolerance in dogs | Loose stool, bad gas, vomiting, diarrhoea, and bloating. |
| Other types of cheese that dogs can eat | Mozzarella, Swiss cheese, feta cheese, cottage cheese, string cheese, and Himalayan Yak Cheese. |
| Types of cheese that dogs should not eat | Processed cheese, blue cheese, cream cheese, and moldy cheese such as Roquefort cheese. |
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What You'll Learn
Dogs can be intolerant to cheddar cheese
While most dogs can eat cheese, some dogs can be intolerant to cheddar cheese. Dogs with a lactose allergy or intolerance, who need special diets, or are prone to tummy upsets should not eat cheese. Lactose intolerance in canines can range from mild to severe, and usually manifests through loose stool and bad gas. Some dogs are lactose intolerant because they don't produce the lactase enzyme, which is necessary for lactose digestion. Others might be allergic to the proteins present in milk, which can cause an allergic reaction to cheese.
Cheese is also high in fat and sodium, so it should only be fed to dogs in moderation. High sodium and fat content can cause health issues in dogs. The high amount of sodium found in certain types of cheese can lead to increased blood pressure in dogs and, eventually, cause organ damage. In addition, cheese may lead to weight gain and obesity in dogs, and even more problematic, it could lead to pancreatitis, a serious and potentially fatal illness in dogs.
Some dogs may also have an allergic reaction to the artificial coloring used in cheese. Just because cheese is white doesn’t mean it's safe. Some manufacturers add titanium oxide to make it whiter. Always look at the product label to check for artificial coloring.
If you suspect your dog is lactose intolerant, eliminate dairy from their diet and they should be fine. If you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction to cheese, stop feeding them anything dairy and call your vet.
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Cheddar cheese can be used as a training treat
Cheese is a popular training treat for dogs because it is packed with nutrients such as protein, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, vitamin A, and vitamin B12. It is also a great way to conceal pills for dogs that require medication.
However, cheese is high in fat and sodium, so it should only be given to dogs in moderation as an occasional treat. It may not be appropriate for dogs who have had pancreatitis, kidney problems, are overweight, have sensitive stomachs, or are lactose intolerant. Some dogs are allergic to the proteins in milk, which can cause an allergic reaction to cheese. As such, it is recommended to start with a small amount of cheese and see how your dog reacts before giving them more.
Some types of cheese are also not safe for dogs to eat. For example, blue-veined cheeses, such as Roquefort, contain mycotoxins that can be toxic to dogs. Processed cheese should also be avoided as it can elevate your dog's phosphate levels, which can cause potential health complications and even kidney failure.
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Lactose intolerance in dogs
While dogs can eat cheese, it is important to be cautious as some dogs are allergic to cheese or are lactose intolerant. Lactose intolerance means your dog cannot digest dairy products, specifically lactose, the sugar in milk. Lactose intolerance in dogs is common but manageable, and your dog can still lead a happy and healthy life without dairy.
If your dog is lactose intolerant, they will likely experience symptoms such as bloating, stomach pain, diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and excessive flatulence within thirty minutes to twelve hours of consuming dairy. It is important to note that these symptoms can be exaggerated in cases of lactose intolerance, progressing to vomiting and diarrhoea. If you suspect your dog is lactose intolerant, you should eliminate dairy from their diet, and their symptoms should quickly resolve.
Unlike lactose intolerance, a dairy allergy is an immunological response, and the consequences could be fatal. If your dog is allergic to cheese or dairy, they may experience skin irritation, sneezing, or difficulty breathing. In addition, some cheeses contain herbs or other products that are toxic to dogs, such as garlic and onions. Therefore, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian if you have any doubts or concerns about feeding your dog cheese.
If your dog is lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy, there are still ways for them to enjoy cheese and dairy products. Cheese is generally safe for dogs in small amounts and when fed occasionally and in moderation. However, it is important to start with a small amount to observe how your dog reacts. Additionally, some cheeses, such as goat cheese and feta cheese, have high lactose and fat content and should be avoided.
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Allergic reactions to cheddar cheese
While most dogs can eat cheese, some dogs are allergic to it. Cheddar cheese is one of the cheeses that dogs can eat in moderation. However, some dogs may be allergic to cheddar cheese, and it is always good to be cautious when giving your dog cheese for the first time.
In addition to lactose intolerance, dogs can also be allergic to the protein in cheese and dairy products. Since allergic reactions are immunological responses, the consequences could be fatal. Some of the symptoms of a dairy allergy in dogs include itching, hair loss, and dermatitis. Canine allergies to dairy can also cause inflammation, ear infections, and skin infections.
If you suspect that your dog is allergic to cheddar cheese or any other type of cheese, it is important to consult your veterinarian. They may recommend an elimination trial, which involves removing cheese from your dog's diet for up to three months. It is important to strictly adhere to the elimination trial by checking all sources of food, treats, supplements, and medications to ensure they do not contain cheese or other dairy additives.
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Safe and unsafe cheeses for dogs
While cheese is not toxic and is completely fine for most dogs, some dogs can be allergic to it or lactose intolerant. Lactose intolerance in dogs can cause flatulence, discomfort, diarrhoea, or vomiting. Therefore, it is recommended to give a small amount of cheese to your dog for the first time and observe them closely for signs of intestinal upset.
Cheese is often used as a training treat for dogs, but it should be fed in moderation. It is high in fat, and regular consumption can lead to weight gain and obesity. It could even lead to pancreatitis, a serious and potentially fatal illness in dogs. Additionally, some cheeses contain herbs or other products that are toxic to dogs, such as garlic, onions, and chives.
Processed cheese, for example, can elevate your dog's phosphate levels, resulting in health complications and, in extreme cases, even death. Artificial colouring added to cheese can also cause hypersensitivity or trigger allergies.
Cheeses that are generally safe for dogs include low-fat cheeses like mozzarella, cottage cheese, or soft goat cheese. Cottage cheese is lower in fat, sodium, and lactose content than other cheeses. It is also a great source of calcium and protein. Skim mozzarella string cheese has one of the lowest amounts of lactose found in cheese, but the stringiness can be a choking hazard or cause intestinal blockage.
Cheeses that are unsafe for dogs include mouldy cheeses like Roquefort cheese, which contains mycotoxins that can be harmful. Cream cheese often contains certain additives that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, nutmeg, xylitol, garlic, and onion.
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Frequently asked questions
Dogs can be allergic to cheddar cheese. Allergies to cheese and dairy products are one of the most common types of allergies in dogs. Dogs with a lactose allergy or intolerance should not eat cheese.
Symptoms of a cheese allergy in dogs include itching, hair loss, dermatitis, vomiting, diarrhoea, and bloating.
If your dog is allergic to cheese, you should eliminate it from their diet. If you suspect your dog has an allergy, you should consult your veterinarian.
Cheddar cheese is high in fat and salt, which can cause weight gain and obesity in dogs. It can also lead to pancreatitis, a serious and potentially fatal illness in dogs.
Some alternatives to cheddar cheese that you can give your dog include chicken, ham, and tuna, and low-fat cheeses like mozzarella and cottage cheese.
