Can dogs eat Cheddar cheese?

Overview

Yes. Cheddar cheese is generally safe for dogs, including those with mild lactose intolerance, thanks to its low lactose content. However, it's best to stick to plain cheddar. Flavored varieties often contain ingredients like onions and garlic, which are toxic to dogs. Serve in moderation due to the high fat and sodium levels.

Benefits

Cheddar cheese has lower lactose content than many other types of cheese. It is less likely to cause adverse side effects in dogs.
Significant amounts of calcium, phosphorus, selenium, vitamin A, and vitamin B12 can be found in cheddar cheese. These nutrients promote good liver and kidney function as well as proper bone growth in dogs.

Risks

Cheddar cheese has fairly high concentrations of saturated fat, which can cause weight gain and obesity when consumed excessively.
Too much cheddar cheese can increase sodium content in a dog’s body, leading to kidney problems.
Flavored cheddar cheese has added ingredients such as onions and garlic, which are toxic to dogs.
Shredded cheddar cheese often contains unhealthy ingredients for dogs, including corn starch and artificial additives.