Randy Chandler
Spray cheese is a popular treat for dogs, often used as a distraction during vet visits or as a reward during training. While some dogs seem to enjoy the taste, others may be fearful of the noise made by the spray can. Additionally, there are health concerns regarding the high levels of processing and additives such as sodium phosphate, glutamic acid (MSG), artificial colours, and preservatives. These additives can cause various issues in dogs, including elevated phosphate levels, behavioural problems, and even cancer. As such, it is recommended to use spray cheese sparingly and to opt for dog-specific formulas when possible.
Is spray cheese bad for dogs?
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Taste | Dogs seem to enjoy the taste of spray cheese. |
| Distraction | Spray cheese can be used as a distraction when giving dogs vaccines. |
| Reinforcement | Spray cheese can be used as a food reinforcer for dogs. |
| Health | Spray cheese can cause food intolerances and hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) in dogs. |
| Health | Spray cheese contains additives such as glutamic acid (MSG), sodium phosphate, and artificial colors, which can be harmful to dogs. |
| Health | Spray cheese is highly processed and may contain less than 51% real cheese. |
| Availability | Spray cheese may be difficult to find in certain areas. |
| Cost | The price of spray cheese can vary, with some brands being more expensive than others. |
| Alternatives | There are alternative cheese products that can be used instead of spray cheese, such as cheese in tubes or squeeze bottles. |
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What You'll Learn
- Spray cheese is highly processed and contains toxic ingredients
- Spray cheese can cause food intolerances and hypoglycaemia in dogs
- Spray cheese can be used as a training tool for dogs
- Spray cheese may contain high levels of sodium phosphate, which can lead to health issues
- There are dog-specific spray cheese products with lower calories
Spray cheese is highly processed and contains toxic ingredients
While spray cheese can be a great food reinforcer for dogs, it is highly processed and contains toxic ingredients. Processed foods often contain harmful chemicals that are known to cause cancer and other major diseases in humans, let alone in dogs, whose smaller bodies mean they are more susceptible to harm.
Spray cheese is often less than 51% real cheese, and contains additives such as glutamic acid, or monosodium glutamate (MSG), which can alter your dog's brain response. It also often contains sodium phosphate, which can elevate your dog's phosphate levels and lead to serious health problems or even death.
Spray cheese is also likely to contain artificial colours, which can cause hypersensitivity and behaviour issues, and are linked to allergies and cancer. One such colour is annatto, a yellow-orange pigment, which has been shown to cause hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) in dogs, which can be life-threatening.
If you are set on giving your dog spray cheese, there are some dog-specific versions that are lower in calories and specially formulated for dogs. However, it is recommended that you always check the label and ingredient list, and give your dog a small amount first to ensure they do not have a bad reaction.
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Spray cheese can cause food intolerances and hypoglycaemia in dogs
Spray cheese is a highly processed food product, often containing less than 51% real cheese. It is often used as a treat or training aid for dogs, and some people consider it a handy food reinforcer. However, spray cheese can pose several health risks to dogs, including food intolerances and hypoglycaemia.
Spray cheese often contains additives and artificial ingredients that can be harmful to dogs. For example, monosodium glutamate (MSG), found in spray cheese as glutamic acid, can alter a dog's brain response and lead to other health risks. Sodium phosphate, another common additive, can elevate phosphate levels in dogs, leading to potential health problems or even death.
Artificial colours, such as annatto, added to enhance the colour of the cheese, can cause hypersensitivity, behavioural issues, allergies, and even cancer. While annatto is considered safe in small amounts, larger quantities can lead to hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar) in dogs, which can be life-threatening.
Spray cheese is also high in lactose, which can cause lactose intolerance in dogs, especially those with severe intolerance. It is important to introduce cheese in small amounts and monitor for any adverse reactions over 24 hours. Additionally, spray cheese may contain high levels of salt and fat, which can be detrimental to a dog's health.
Some dog owners have reported success in taming feral or reactive dogs using spray cheese. However, it is essential to be cautious and aware of the potential health risks associated with this highly processed food product. It is always advisable to consult with a veterinarian to determine appropriate treats and training aids that prioritise the dog's health and well-being.
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Spray cheese can be used as a training tool for dogs
Spray cheese has been described as a "great food reinforcer" for dogs and has been used by dog owners and vets alike to help with training and to make certain procedures, like vaccinations, less stressful for dogs. It has even been used to help countercondition and tame formerly feral dogs. Its convenience as a treat that does not need refrigeration and can be easily carried around is also a plus.
However, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with spray cheese. It is a highly processed food, often containing less than 51% real cheese, and is loaded with additives and preservatives that can be harmful to dogs. These include glutamic acid (MSG), sodium phosphate, artificial colors, GMO oils, GMO sugar, and chemical preservatives, which have been linked to various issues in dogs, from behavioral problems to cancer.
Therefore, while spray cheese can be an effective training tool for dogs, it should be used sparingly and with caution. Dog owners should always check the ingredient lists and opt for dog-specific versions that are lower in calories and specially formulated for canine consumption. Additionally, squirting the cheese onto a finger or letting it dangle from the can before presenting it to the dog can help prevent any negative associations with the sound of the can.
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Spray cheese may contain high levels of sodium phosphate, which can lead to health issues
Spray cheese is a highly processed food that may contain high levels of sodium phosphate, which can lead to serious health issues in dogs. While spray cheese can be an effective training tool for dogs, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with its consumption.
Sodium phosphate is added to spray cheese to prevent the ingredients from separating, but it has been linked to elevated phosphate levels in dogs, which can result in health problems or even death. The absorption of sodium phosphate in spray cheese differs from that of natural phosphate, which can further increase the risk of health complications.
Additionally, spray cheese may contain other additives and ingredients that are harmful to dogs. For example, some spray cheeses contain artificial colors, which have been linked to hypersensitivity, behavior issues, allergies, and cancer. Another common additive in spray cheese is glutamic acid, also known as monosodium glutamate (MSG), which can alter brain function in dogs and lead to other health risks.
Furthermore, spray cheese is often high in salt content, which may not be suitable for dogs, especially those with underlying health conditions. It is important to monitor the amount of spray cheese given to dogs and to provide them with a balanced diet to ensure their overall health and well-being.
To minimize the potential risks associated with spray cheese, it is recommended to use it in moderation and to opt for dog-specific formulations that are lower in calories and specially designed for canine consumption. It is also advisable to check the ingredient labels and choose products with more wholesome ingredients. By being mindful of the potential dangers, dog owners can make informed decisions and ensure that spray cheese is used as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their dog's diet.
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There are dog-specific spray cheese products with lower calories
While cheese is a safe treat for dogs when fed in moderation, it is not a necessary part of their diet. Dogs can be lactose intolerant, and cheese contains fat and calories that can contribute to weight gain and other health issues. Spray cheese, in particular, may contain additives, colouring, and salt that can be harmful to dogs. Therefore, it is recommended to exercise caution when feeding your dog spray cheese and opt for dog-specific spray cheese products that are lower in calories.
Spray cheese can be a convenient and mess-free treat for dogs, and it is often used by vets and dog trainers as a distraction or reward during procedures or training. However, some dogs may develop a phobic response to the sound of the can or experience digestive issues due to the ingredients in spray cheese. It is important to remember that one bad experience with spray cheese can set back months of training.
There are dog-specific spray cheese products available that are lower in calories and specially formulated for dogs. These products are a healthier alternative to regular spray cheese, which may be high in fat, calories, and sodium. By using a dog-specific spray cheese, you can still enjoy the convenience of spray cheese while providing a treat that is better suited to your dog's nutritional needs.
When introducing any new food to your dog's diet, it is important to start with small amounts and monitor their response. This is especially true for dairy products, as you won't know if your dog is lactose intolerant until they try them. If your dog handles cheese well, you can continue to give it to them as an occasional treat.
Overall, while spray cheese can be a useful tool for dog owners, it is important to be mindful of the potential risks and opt for dog-specific, lower-calorie alternatives when possible. By being cautious and informed, you can provide your dog with a tasty treat while maintaining their health and well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
Spray cheese can be a great food reinforcer for dogs, but it should be used with caution. While it can be a handy treat to have around, it is highly processed and may contain additives such as sodium phosphate, glutamic acid (MSG), artificial colours, and preservatives that can be harmful to dogs. It is best to check the label and offer spray cheese only occasionally, in small amounts.
There are some healthier alternatives to spray cheese that dog owners can consider. These include:
- Cheese made from raw or A2 milk, which may be easier for lactose-intolerant dogs to digest.
- Wholesome cheese slices or spreads with natural ingredients.
- A mixture of Cheez Whiz and pure canned pumpkin, which can be put into a food tube and kept refrigerated.
- Primula cheese spread, which comes in tubes and is available in the UK.
If you choose to give your dog spray cheese, there are a few precautions you can take to do so safely:
- Always start with a small amount and wait 24 hours to see if your dog has any negative reactions.
- Avoid giving spray cheese directly from the nozzle, as the sound of the sputter can be scary for dogs. Instead, squirt it onto your finger or let it dangle from the can before presenting it to your dog.
- Be mindful of the potential for food intolerances, hypoglycaemia, and elevated phosphate levels associated with spray cheese consumption.
