Humans have long enjoyed Parmesan cheese as an ingredient in some of the best-loved Italian dishes, like spaghetti, or even as a topping on pizza.
When it comes to using parmesan cheese in your dog’s diet, is it advisable? People often ask, can dogs have parmesan cheese?
What matters is how much you feed your dog and how frequently you do.
Let’s look further at whether dogs can have parmesan cheese or not.
Can Dogs Have Parmesan Cheese
While most cheese is safe for dogs to eat, a few exceptions exist.
One of those is parmesan cheese, which can harm your dog in large quantities.
Parmesan is a hard, salty cheese made from cow’s milk. It has a lot of fat and sodium in it, which can be dangerous for dogs.
If your dog ingests too much parmesan cheese, it may experience vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you think your dog has eaten too much parmesan cheese.
The Pros and Cons of Feeding Your Dog Grated Parmesan
When deciding whether or not to give your dog parmesan cheese, there are a few things to consider.
On one hand, cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium, both of which are essential for your dog’s health.
On the other hand, cheese is also high in fat and salt, which, if ingested in large amounts, could be dangerous to your dog.
So, what’s the verdict? Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether or not feeding your dog parmesan cheese is right for them.
However, we recommend consulting your veterinarian first to get their professional opinion.
They will have the best idea of how much cheese would be appropriate for your pup. Dogs should not consume more than 30% of their daily calories from treats like cheese.
Additionally, dogs with specific allergies may need to avoid dairy products altogether because they may cause an allergic reaction that could lead to discomfort or illness.
The most common symptoms of food allergies include skin issues such as itchiness, dryness, flaking, hives, hair loss, redness, and swelling.
More severe reactions may include vomiting and diarrhea.
The only way to know if your dog has a food allergy is by having him tested by his vet.
A veterinary dermatologist can determine whether or not your pup has an allergy based on observation and skin testing, as well as symptoms he displays during and after eating something containing dairy products, such as wheezing, rapid heart rate, nausea, or vomiting.
These tests take time, so you must consult your vet before introducing any new foods into your pet’s diet just in case they are allergic.
Side Effects of Giving Your Dog Parmesan Cheese
Although most dogs will be okay if they eat a small amount of parmesan cheese, there are some potential side effects.
For example, your dog may experience an upset stomach or diarrhea if they overeat.
Additionally, parmesan cheese is high in fat and sodium, so it’s not the best choice for overweight dogs or dogs having heart problems.
If you’re unsure whether or not it’s safe to give your dog parmesan cheese, it is better to take caution and consult with your veterinarian first.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Parmesan Cheese
If your dog has eaten Parmesan cheese, don’t panic. While cheese is a dairy product and, therefore, not the best for dogs, a small amount of Parmesan is not likely to cause serious harm.
However, keep an eye on your dog for any signs of gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
If your dog does experience any adverse effects, call your veterinarian right away.
FAQ
Can dogs eat grated cheese?
According to the American Kennel Club, cheese is safe for dogs to eat in moderation.
However, some cheeses are better for dogs than others. For example, cheddar cheese is a good source of protein and calcium for dogs, while parmesan cheese is high in sodium and fat.
When feeding your dog cheese, choose a variety low in salt and fat, and give it to them in small amounts.
What cheese is toxic to dogs?
Many types of cheese are safe for dogs to eat, but some can be toxic. Parmesan is one type of cheese that is safe for dogs to eat in small amounts.
However, it is essential to know that Parmesan is a high-fat food and should not be given to dogs regularly.
In addition, it is important to ensure that the parmesan cheese you give to your dog does not contain any garlic or onion, as these can be toxic to dogs.
If you are unsure whether or not a particular type of cheese is safe for your dog, it is always best to consult with your veterinarian.
Can dogs have a little bit of parmesan cheese?
While a small amount of parmesan cheese won’t hurt your dog, it’s best to avoid giving them any.
The reason is that cheese is high in fat and salt, which can be hard for your dog to digest.
Plus, some dogs are lactose intolerant and giving them cheese can cause stomach upset.
If you decide to give your dog a taste of Parmesan, ensure it’s in moderation and keep an eye on them afterward to ensure they don’t have any adverse reactions.
Conclusion
While there are conflicting opinions on whether or not dogs can have parmesan cheese, the consensus seems to be that it’s okay in moderation.
So if your dog begs for a taste of your food, feel free to give them a little parmesan cheese as a treat.
Just keep an eye on them afterward to ensure they don’t have any adverse reactions.
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