Can Dogs Eat Cottage Cheese?

Generally speaking, it is never recommended that we feed our dogs a steady diet of the same foods that we eat. They have different nutrition needs and some of the foods we eat, even ones that are healthy for us, may be harmful or even toxic to your pup. As a lean source of protein and calcium, you might wonder whether dogs can eat cottage cheese. And if it’s safe, is cottage cheese actually good for dogs?

Cottage Cheese For Dogs

There are some human foods that are perfectly healthy for dogs to consume, and luckily, cottage cheese is one of them. However, this tasty treat should not be the primary part of their diet. Cottage cheese can be given, in moderation, as a treat to your pups on a daily-basis.

Benefits of Dogs Eating Cottage Cheese

Food experts oftentimes advise that eating yogurt, cottage cheese, and other foods that have live bacterial cultures, i.e. probiotics, is good for people – similarly, probiotics are good for dogs as well. These live bacterial cultures can help encourage good digestive health in both humans and dogs. Cottage cheese is also rich in calcium, protein, and a number of key vitamins that dogs need to have strong bones and muscle development.

How Much Cottage Cheese Can My Dog Eat?

While dogs love cheese, many of them are not healthy for dogs. Many kinds of cheese have high-fat content, and shouldn’t be a part of your dog’s everyday diet. Sparingly slipping your dog a piece of cheese won’t harm your pup, but if you’re concerned about fat content in your dog’s diet, it’s a better choice to treat them to cottage cheese. Not only does it have a lower fat content than most other cheeses, but it’s also lower in sodium than other types, making it a healthier alternative. Seeking out brands that are low-fat or have no salt added can also benefit your dog’s diet. Typically, cottage cheese can be given, in moderation, as a treat to your pups on a daily-basis.

Make Sure Your Dog Is Not Lactose Intolerant

There are many benefits to feeding your pets cottage cheese, however, it’s important to be aware that your animal isn’t lactose intolerant. A lot of dogs – and cats, too – do not have the lactase enzyme, the chemical in their body that helps them break down and digest lactose. Cottage cheese tends to have less lactose than other dairy products, but it still includes lactose. If your dog is lactose intolerant, it is best to avoid giving him any type of cheese or dairy product. The main symptoms to look for include upset stomach and diarrhea.

Yes, Dogs Can Eat Cottage Cheese in Moderation

It is typically fine to give your dog cottage cheese. However, like anything new in your dog’s diet, you should give your pup a small amount to see how he or she reacts to it before giving full servings. Cottage cheese is high in calcium, protein, antioxidants, and other nutrients that your dog needs to stay healthy, and it can be a tasty treat to give your pet. Giving your dog cottage cheese occasionally is a great way to add variety to his diet while keeping him healthy.