Can Dogs Eat Goat Cheese?

While dogs can eat several dairy products, you need to be careful as they can react to the foods. Common reactions include allergies and lactose intolerance. Eating dairy products is good if your dog does not have any of these conditions.

Is goat cheese good for dogs? Well, this is a polarizing subject, with some people saying it is safe while others think otherwise. A look at the relationship between dogs and goat cheese will give a conclusive answer.

An Introduction to Goat Cheese

Goat cheese is common, and there is a high chance that most of us have encountered it. As its name implies, it comes from goat milk.

Goat cheese has a rich history, seeing that goats were among the first domesticated animals. It is also widespread, with different regions having distinct varieties. For instance, we have Rubing from China, Yagi from Japan, Chevre from France, and Caprino from Italy. They vary in texture, consistency, and age.

Is Goat Cheese Safe for Dogs?

Goat cheese is very nutritious and tasty; no wonder it is a must-have in many households. If it is nutritious, why the confusion about whether dogs should or should not eat it? We will look at both sides of the debate to get the logic.

Benefits of Goat Cheese to Dogs

A little serving of goat cheese will provide the following nutrients to dogs.

1. Proteins

Your pup needs a decent serving of proteins for body growth and hormone production. This nutrient is also essential for tissue repair and fluid balance. Goat cheese provides a decent serving of proteins for your canine.

2. Vitamins

Goat cheese is a good source of vitamins A, B2, and B3, which are crucial for the body’s immune function. A regular supply of these vitamins guarantees your dog immunity against illnesses.

3. Minerals

Like cottage cheese and other dairy products, goat cheese is mineral-rich. Among the most abundant are calcium and phosphorous, vital for bone and teeth formation.

Other minerals present are iron, copper, and magnesium. Your dog needs these minerals for various biochemical processes.

4. Fats

Your dog can benefit from capric acid, a medium-chain fatty acid with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Fats are also an excellent energy source for your canine.

5. Probiotics

L. acidophilus and L. plantarum are some of the probiotics in goat cheese. They are essential for your dog’s digestive health. Additionally, they reduce inflammation and will strengthen your dog’s immunity.

Risk of Dogs Eating Goat Cheese

The following are reasons for keeping goat cheese off your dog’s diet.

1. Allergy to Dairy Products

Dairy products are common allergens in dogs. Your furry friend may be allergic to lactose, and eating goat cheese may trigger a reaction. The allergy symptoms include itching, weakness, diarrhea, vomiting, rashes, and swellings. You should contact your pet doctor if you notice these signs.

2. Lactose Intolerance

Besides allergies, your dog may be intolerant to lactose, which is present in dairy foods. Consumption of goat cheese may cause disturbances in the digestive system. This condition manifests through digestive system problems, like diarrhea, gas, vomiting, and tummy upsets.

3. The Salt Content

Goat cheese may contain spices that are not dog-friendly, like salt. Dogs should not eat salt, as it can cause sodium ion poisoning in large quantities. This is a major reason why people are against dogs eating goat cheese.

4. Addiction

Dogs, like humans, can get addicted to cheese. Casein, a protein in dairy products, is the culprit. The body breaks down this protein into casomorphins, which attach themselves to dopamine receptors. It explains why some dogs find cheese so irresistible. Managing pet addiction is a challenging affair.

Moreover, too much cheese can make your dog obese. An obese dog has a weak immune system and is susceptible to infections.

4. Problematic for Dogs with Ulcers

Dairy products stimulate the stomach to release acid. It may upset dogs with peptic ulcers due to the influx of gastric juices. This will compound issues such as abdominal pain, loss of appetite and general body weakness.

Preparing Goat Cheese for Dogs

If you decide to feed your dog goat cheese, you should go for the plain option, with no spice, herbs, or other additives. Organic cheese is the best option. Break a chunk off the cheese and give it to your furry friend.

An excellent alternative is adding grated cheese to your canine’s food. Optionally, you can bake it into doggy treats or blend it with boiled carrots.

How Much Goat Cheese Should Dogs Have?

Looking at the risks of dogs having goat cheese, a chunk is more than enough for them. Please do not give your dogs spiced goat cheese, as it may have toxic ingredients.

Dog food fortified with cheese, served once a week, is ideal for your pet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can My Dog Fall Sick from Eating Goat Cheese?

Goat cheese can make your dog sick if it is lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy products. Plus, too much cheese may harm your dog due to the high sodium content.

Symptoms of lactose intolerance include bloating, diarrhea and vomiting. Signs of milk product allergies in dogs are itchiness, lethargy, vomiting, and swelling.

Signs of sodium poisoning are excess urination, thirst, appetite loss, and in severe cases, tremors and seizures. See your veterinarian if your dog falls sick after eating goat cheese.

Is Goat Cheese Healthier than Cow Cheese for Dogs?

Goat cheese has a higher nutritional content than cow cheese. Despite its nutritional value, it is better to keep the cheese away from dogs due to its fat and sodium content.

Is Frozen Goat Cheese Good for Dogs?

Your dog should not eat frozen foods as they may cause tummy upsets or oral injuries.

Verdict

As a dog owner, you are 100% responsible for what your dog eats. Dogs are not picky eaters and may snack on something they shouldn’t, prompting an impromptu visit to the veterinarian.

It is evident that the risks of dogs eating goat cheese outweigh the benefits. While you may want to give your dog some cheese, it is better to desist from this move. If you insist on sharing goat cheese with your dog, consult your vet for your pet’s safety.