Can Dogs Eat Feta Cheese? Here’s 7 Cheat Code Tips
Your Guide To: Can Dogs Eat Feta Cheese?
Fact checked and reviewed by:
Dr. Joseph Menicucci, DVM, MBA
In this article, you’ll get an answer to the question of “Can Dogs Eat Feta Cheese?” and the advantages and disadvantages of giving our dogs this delicious dairy product.
Dogs are not just pets; they are key members of our families. That’s why we want to share everything we have with them.
Feta cheese is a common ingredient in our kitchens because of its flaky texture and acidic flavor, but is it suitable for our pets?
As a pet owner, your worries are valid. That’s why we’re here.
Can Dogs Eat Feta Cheese?
Yes, dogs can eat feta cheese. However, they have to take it in moderation.
Feta cheese is a popular dairy product that has raised concerns over dog eating. This is because feta cheese can be toxic to dogs when not fed in moderation. Not all dogs can take in dairy, as some are sensitive to it*.
As they age, dogs become more lactose intolerant, and their ability to digest feta cheese diminishes. Usually, dogs can take in dairy products, but as they age, the enzyme responsible for breaking down lactose reduces.
Too many dairy products can cause upset stomachs and other digestive problems, including diarrhea. So, it’s important to gradually add feta to your dog’s diet and watch for adverse reactions.
Can Puppies Eat Feta Cheese?
While feta cheese isn’t bad for your puppy, it is not advisable to feed it.
Although they resemble tiny heroes, puppies can be sensitive due to their newly formed stomachs. For this reason, it might not be the best decision to give them feta cheese.
Feta contains lactose, which puppies may find difficult for their digestive systems to process. For their little stomachs, this could result in upset stomachs, unpleasant diarrhea, and other stomach issues that neither you nor your puppy wants.
In contrast to adult dogs, puppies are like children working out how to digest food correctly.
Waiting a little while before introducing feta cheese will give your puppy the best opportunity to develop normally and strongly, free from digestive issues.
Discover other foods puppies can and can’t eat:
Is Feta Cheese Bad For Dogs?
Feta cheese isn’t bad for dogs, but you need to take note of something important.
Feta cheese is a bit high in fat and salt and is generally known to cause health challenges in dogs. Excessive fat can cause weight gain (obesity) and potentially develop pancreatitis, a fancy term for an unpleasant inflammation of the pancreas.
Now, feta’s salt content can be very cunning. Dogs that consume too much salty food may suffer from sodium ion toxicity. That may sound complicated, but it indicates that too much salt hinders their system.
Dogs may begin to vomit, have diarrhea, feel highly exhausted, and, in extreme situations, they may even experience seizures. Now, this is scary.
Is Feta Cheese Safe For Dogs?
Feta cheese is safe for dogs, especially those with a high tolerance for lactose, but only when it is taken in moderation.
Feta cheese has 0.13 grams of lactose per serving, compared to 0.04 grams in cheeses like brie, according to Monash University data*. This is a large volume.
Not every dog is made equal when it comes to consuming dairy products. While some dogs may have more sensitive stomachs, others may be stronger. Make sure to stop feeding feta to your dog if it exhibits any signs of discomfort, such as an upset stomach, unusual toilet habits, or just overall unease.
The key to determining the safety of feta cheese for your dog is to introduce it slowly and observe for adverse reactions.
Is It Ok To Feed My Dog Feta Cheese?
Feta cheese can be a great nutritional addition to your dog’s diet, but there are risks on the other side of the paw.
Apart from its delicious taste, feta contains huge quantities of fat and salt, which, when consumed in excess, can cause health problems for dogs. The accumulation of extra fat can result in unfavorable weight gain, and the increased salt levels can cause sodium ion poisoning, which presents as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and seizures.
It is also essential to state that some dogs have allergies to dairy products. These allergies can come as intestinal discomfort, swelling, or itching.
Can Dogs Eat Feta Cheese? Are There Any Benefits?
Feta cheese is a fantastic protein source, containing calcium and phosphorus, among other essential minerals that are good for your dog’s health.
Protein is an essential component that helps grow and repair canine muscles and tissues, and calcium and phosphorus are necessary for healthy bones*.
Vitamin B12, riboflavin, and vitamin A are all in reasonable amounts in feta cheese. Vitamin B12 is necessary for a healthy neural system.
Vitamin A is necessary for keeping healthy skin and eyesight. It takes riboflavin to keep your dog’s fur and hair in good condition.
Can Dogs Eat Feta Cheese? What Are Some Healthy Alternatives For My Pet?
Why eat feta cheese when your dog can eat fruits?
Fresh fruits are a delicious alternative, offering a natural sweetness and vital vitamins. For example, serving tiny, perfectly sized apple slices adds a delightful crunch and healthy fiber.
Watermelon is a refreshing fruit, and blueberries are well known for their antioxidant qualities. These fruit options will satisfy your dog’s palate without sacrificing their health.
As excellent substitutes for feta cheese, vegetables also provide a variety of nutrients and a crisp texture. Because of their delicious crunch and high beta-carotene content, carrot sticks are fun to chew and good for your eyes.
Similarly, cucumber slices are low in calories and offer a hydrating crunch that’s particularly welcome in the warmer months.
Looking For Some Healthy, Homemade Dog Food Recipe Inspiration?
So, Can Dogs Eat Feta Cheese? What’s The Verdict?
In conclusion, feta cheese carries certain possible dangers that should not be disregarded, even though it may not be entirely poisonous for dogs. When sharing this dairy treat with your pet, moderation is essential.
As you introduce new things to your dog’s diet, always watch for discomfort or unfavorable responses and get advice from your veterinarian. It is best to wait until a puppy is more giant and more capable of handling a variety of goodies before introducing them to something other than their usual puppy meal.
Recall that your dog’s health and well-being should always come first, and the most incredible way to show them love and care is to provide them with a balanced, nutrient-rich meal catered to their needs. If you’re looking for more nutritional advice for your pet, The American Canine Club is a great starting point for all things in canine health.
