Safe for Dogs
Medium dog serving: 2 tablespoons
Can Dogs Eat Cottage Cheese? Yes — Low-Fat Plain, Good Protein Source
This food is generally safe for dogs when prepared properly.
Plain low-fat cottage cheese is safe for dogs and one of the better dairy options. Lower in lactose than regular dairy making it tolerable for many dogs. High in protein and calcium. Good for dogs recovering from digestive upset as part of a bland diet.
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Warning Signs & Symptoms
Large amounts: digestive upset from lactose and fat. Full-fat cottage cheese: higher fat content. Flavored varieties: added ingredients not appropriate. Cottage cheese with fruit: check for xylitol in some commercial varieties.
If Your Dog Ate This
No emergency at appropriate amounts.
Safe to Feed
plain low-fat cottage cheese — no flavorings or fruit
What to Avoid
flavored varieties (check for xylitol), full-fat in large amounts, dogs with severe lactose intolerance
Preparation & Serving
Plain low-fat only. Small amounts as food topper. Good with rice for bland diet.
Potential Health Benefits
Good protein casein lower lactose calcium phosphorus.
Did you know?
Cottage cheese gets its name from the practice of making it in cottages. It was one of the first cheeses made in America.
Portions & nutrition
- Serving (small dog)
- 1 tablespoon
- Serving (medium dog)
- 2 tablespoons
- Serving (large dog)
- 3 tablespoons
- Calories (per 100g)
- 98
- Safe frequency
- Several times per week as protein topper
Source
What You Need to Know
Cottage cheese is curds of fresh cheese with significant liquid whey — the protein in cottage cheese is largely casein which is easy to digest. Lower lactose than most dairy products making it tolerable for many lactose-sensitive dogs. Plain low-fat cottage cheese is sometimes used as a protein source in bland diets for digestive upset alongside rice. Full-fat varieties are higher in fat — use low-fat for regular feeding. Check flavored varieties for added fruit or sweeteners.
More Helpful Resources
- 10 Human Foods Safe for DogsMore safe foods your dog will love
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- Best Dog Food for Sensitive StomachsFind the best food for your dog's digestive health
- Best Dog Food for PuppiesPick the right nutrition for growing puppies
- Best Dog Food for Senior DogsSupport older dogs with age-appropriate food
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