Can Dogs Eat Parmesan Cheese?

Parmesan cheese is safe for dogs to eat in moderation. You should feed your dog no more than a teaspoon of parmesan cheese at a time. Because of its high salt content and as it is dairy, parmesan cheese can be dangerous to dogs in large amounts. If your dog has eaten a lot of parmesan, contact your vet and monitor the dog.

We all know that dogs can eat a variety of foods, but when it comes to cheese, you may be wondering if your pup can enjoy some as well.

Parmesan cheese is one type of cheese that many people are curious about feeding their canine companions. So is parmesan cheese safe for dogs to eat? Let’s take a closer look at this popular Italian food and answer the question: Can dogs eat parmesan cheese?

Can dogs have parmesan cheese?

The short answer is yes, dogs can eat parmesan cheese safely in moderation. Parmesan cheese is a hard, dry cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a gritty texture and salty flavor that many people enjoy. Dogs may also find this type of cheese appealing, but it’s important to keep in mind that parmesan cheese can be high in fat and sodium. This means that, if you are really determined to give your dog parmesan, it should only be given to your pup in moderation as an occasional treat. There are better cheeses to feed your dog, and many better food and treat options.

What if my dog ate a lot of parmesan?

Eating a lot of parmesan cheese is not good for dogs. How it will impact them will depend on the size of the dog and the amount that they ate. A 10 lb dog eating a whole shaker of parmesan is a lot different than a 100 lb dog doing the same. If your dog ate a lot of parmesan, it’s best to consult with your vet. You should also monitor them for any signs of digestive distress, such as lethargy, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Why is parmesan cheese not a great option for dogs?

While parmesan cheese is a source of protein and vitamins B12, A, and K, it actually isn’t a great option for your pup. Dogs should be getting protein and vitamins through their regular diet, not cheese, which is high in fat and sodium, both of which can cause issues for your dog. Because of the salty flavor of parmesan, dogs may be tempted to overeat this type of cheese, leading to an upset stomach.

Parmesan also is dairy. Most dogs are somewhat lactose intolerant, as they lack the enzyme lactase needed to break down the milk sugar lactose. While your dog can handle a little dairy, a lot will likely lead to an upset stomach or worse.

How to feed your dog parmesan cheese

When feeding parmesan cheese to your dog, make sure you’re giving him or her a very small amount—no more than one teaspoon at a time. Also, keep an eye out for any signs of digestive upset or an allergic reaction. If your dog shows any signs of discomfort after eating parmesan cheese, stop feeding it to him and consult your veterinarian.

Parmesan cheese is high in salt. To keep your pup’s sodium intake under control, make sure to offer him plenty of fresh water in between cheese snacks. Keep in mind that your dog is (probably) a lot smaller than you, and what may seem like a small amount of salt to you is a lot of salt to your dog.

Parmesan cheese is fine as an occasional treat in small amounts

Overall, parmesan cheese can be a tasty treat for dogs in moderation, but there are better options out there. If you are feeding your dog parmesan cheese, make sure you feed it to your pup in small amounts, and always keep an eye out for any signs of digestive distress. If you have any questions or concerns about feeding parmesan cheese to your pup, be sure to talk to your vet first.