Can Dogs Eat Cottage Cheese? Do Curdles & Canines Mix?

We have to be careful with the foods our dogs eat, especially foods produced for us. So can dogs eat cottage cheese? And if they can… should they?

As pet owners, we want to provide the very best for our furry friends, and this of course extends to their diet. It’s completely natural to wonder if human foods are safe for them, since there are often opportunities for dogs to eat them.

As a part of my series on such foods, this post is focussed upon cottage cheese. Can dogs eat it and if so should they be allowed to?

In this article, we’ll explore the potential risks, nutritional benefits and expert opinions on whether dogs can eat cottage cheese and how to add it to their diets safely.

Can Dogs Eat Cottage Cheese?

To answer straight away… yes dogs can eat cottage cheese. As cheese goes, it’s low in fat and salt and can be given as a treat occasionally. This isn’t a cue to start loading your dogs bowl with kilos of cottage cheese, but in moderation it shouldn’t cause harm to most dogs.

Of course, cottage cheese doesn’t form the basis of a dog’s natural diet, so it’s not something a dog needs. However, for most dogs a little variety should be okay… as long as it doesn’t amount to more than 10% of a dog’s daily calorie requirement.

Having said this, there are certain dogs who might not react well to it, and others who may have a health condition that means they shouldn’t eat cottage cheese at all.

So if you are ever in any doubt about allowing your dog to eat cottage cheese (or any other food for that matter) check with your veterinarian to be on the safe side.

What Foods Can Dogs Eat?

Nutritional Benefits of Cottage Cheese for Dogs

Let’s run through the nutrition profile of cottage cheese for starters. Simply put, cottage cheese is a dairy product made from the curds of cow’s milk. It’s quite popular among humans, known for its high protein content and health benefits. When it comes to pooches, there are a few reasons why cottage cheese might benefit their diets:

• High Protein Content: As mentioned, cottage cheese is a great source of protein. As it so happens, protein’s essential for dogs. It supports their overall health, muscle development, and tissue repair.

• Calcium and Phosphorus: Do you want your pooch’s bones and teeth to stay strong and healthy? Well, that’s exactly what calcium and phosphorus support. An average half-cup serving of cottage cheese has around 100 mg of calcium and 150 mg of phosphorus.

• Probiotics: Healthy guts are important for humans and our furry companions. Some types of cottage cheese have live cultures or probiotics. These ingredients help support a healthy gut and promote digestion.

• Low-Fat Option: Are you trying to stick to a weight-loss-oriented doggy diet? There’s a cottage cheese option for that! Low-fat cottage cheese could be a relatively low-calorie snack or treat to keep your pooch at a healthy weight.

Is Cottage Cheese Bad for Dogs?

As you can see, cottage cheese can provide some benefits. However, there are also potential risks associated with feeding it to dogs.

• Lactose Intolerance: Just like humans, some dogs are lactose intolerant. So, feeding cottage cheese to a lactose-intolerant dog can spell trouble. It may cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, gas, and bloating.

• Sodium Content: You may not think of cottage cheese as “salty” but it does, in fact, contain sodium. If your dog consumes too much sodium, she may experience health problems like high blood pressure or even heart issues. So, if you’re going to let your dog eat cottage cheese, always pick a low-sodium option.

• Allergies: Now, this risk is very rare, however it’s something to consider and be aware of. Some dogs are allergic or sensitive to dairy products like cottage cheese. Be very mindful of signs of an allergic reaction. If you see your dog itching more, getting red blotchy skin, or suffering from an upset stomach after eating cottage cheese, seek veterinary advice.

17 Foods Dogs Should Avoid

Can All Dogs Eat Cottage Cheese?

Most dogs can safely eat small amounts of cottage cheese. However, dogs with certain conditions should avoid it.

If your dog has kidney issues, heart problems, or obesity, avoid feeding it cottage cheese because of its sodium content. Cottage cheese may make such existing health concerns worse. Naturally, worsening your dog’s health is the last thing you want as a pooch parent.

Other canine groups that should stay away from this dairy treat are puppies and senior dogs. Dogs in these age groups have special nutritional need, so feeding them cottage cheese may not be ideal.

If you’re unsure about introducing cottage cheese to your dog’s diet, talk to your veterinary centre beforehand.

What Can Dogs Drink?

How to Feed Cottage Cheese to Your Dog Safely

Giving cottage cheese to your dog safely should be done slowly and attentively. If you’d like to add it to your dog’s diet, do so gradually. Stay vigilant for any signs of distress after your dog eats a little bit for the first time.

The safety steps below should help to ensure your pup’s well-being.

Provide a Small Portion

Starting with small portions applies to introducing any type of new food to your dog. That way, you can effectively monitor your dog. Small portions also allow you to note negative reactions without things getting too serious. During the introduction phase, it’s your responsibility to identify potential allergies or other issues.

Monitor Reactions

Watch your dog like a hawk! This is especially true after they’ve consumed cottage cheese for the very first time. Look for signs of an upset stomach. If you witness diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive gas, stop feeding your dog cottage cheese. And, to be on the safe side, consult your vet.

Mix With Standard Dog Food

Slowly mixing new foods into your dog’s old diet can make the transition smoother. Try adding a small amount of cottage cheese to your dog’s normal dinner so they can get a taste for it.

Use Cottage Cheese as a Treat

While humans may not think of cottage cheese as a treat, dogs most certainly might! You can use cottage cheese as a tasty and nutritious treat for your dog. Offering it as a reward during training or as a special snack strengthens the bond between you and your pal.

What Can’t Dogs Drink

Expert Opinions on Dogs Eating Cottage Cheese

So, what do the experts have to say?

Veterinarians and canine nutritionists have a range of opinions on whether cottage cheese is a healthy treat for dogs. Some believe the high protein content, calcium, and probiotics can safely deliver valuable nutrients into a dog’s diet.

On the flip side, others warn against feeding dairy products to dogs, particularly if they have lactose intolerance or sensitivities.

Your dog’s specific dietary needs should always be the priority. Talk to your vet about whether cottage cheese is appropriate for your dog. Your vet can provide expert advice on factors like age, breed, size, and health conditions.

If your vet gives you the green light, follow their recommendations on portion size and frequency. Always remember moderation is key.

Most importantly, cottage cheese shouldn’t replace a balanced and complete doggie diet.

Summary – Can Dogs Eat Cottage Cheese?

In summary, cottage cheese offers nutritional benefits for some dogs, but it’s not appropriate for all.

As best practice, talk to your veterinarian who can guide you on your dog’s unique needs before adding cottage cheese to her diet.

Of course, always prioritise a balanced diet and follow responsible feeding guidelines to keep your dog happy and healthy!

Do you let your dog eat cottage cheese? Or perhaps you had a bad experience when your dog ate some? Please let me know in the comment section at the bottom of this page.

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