How much cottage cheese should I give my dog?

For most dogs, start with 1 teaspoon for small dogs and up to 1 tablespoon for larger dogs. As a general rule, cottage cheese should not exceed 10-20% of your dog's daily caloric intake. For a 50-pound dog, approximately 3-6 ounces daily is considered safe, but always consult your veterinarian for personalized recommendations based on your dog's health status.

What happens if a dog eats too much cottage cheese?

Excessive cottage cheese consumption can lead to digestive upset including diarrhea, vomiting, gas, and constipation. The high calcium content can also cause mineral imbalances, potentially leading to kidney problems or interfering with proper bone development. Additionally, too much dairy can exacerbate lactose intolerance symptoms in sensitive dogs.

Which is better for dogs, cottage cheese or yogurt?

Both cottage cheese and plain Greek yogurt offer benefits for dogs, but cottage cheese typically contains less lactose and is often easier to digest. Cottage cheese provides more protein per serving, while yogurt generally contains more probiotics. Choose plain, unsweetened varieties of either option, and cottage cheese may be the better choice for lactose-sensitive dogs.

How many times a week can I give my dog cottage cheese?

Cottage cheese can be given as an occasional treat 2-3 times per week for healthy dogs. However, it should not become a daily staple unless recommended by your veterinarian for specific health reasons. Always maintain variety in your dog's diet and ensure treats don't exceed 10% of their daily nutritional intake.

How does cottage cheese help a dog?

Cottage cheese provides high-quality protein for muscle maintenance, calcium and phosphorus for bone health, and beneficial probiotics for digestive wellness. It's particularly helpful for dogs recovering from stomach upset, as it's bland and easily digestible. The low lactose content makes it more tolerable than other dairy products for most dogs.

Dogs Eating Cottage Cheese: Simple Rules Every Dog Owner Needs

Description

Discover why dogs eating cottage cheese can be a healthy, protein-packed treat. Learn about benefits, safe serving sizes, and tips for digestive support.

Ingredients

Plain low-fat or non-fat cottage cheese
Optional mix-ins: cooked white rice, plain chicken, sweet potato, blueberries
Ensure all ingredients are free of salt, seasoning, and harmful additives

Instructions

Start by selecting plain, low-fat cottage cheese (1% or non-fat) with no additives or flavors.
For small dogs (under 20 lbs), feed 1 teaspoon; medium dogs (20–50 lbs) get 1 tablespoon; large dogs (50+ lbs) can have up to 2 tablespoons.
Introduce gradually to check for tolerance, watching for signs of lactose sensitivity (gas, bloating, diarrhea).
Mix with plain white rice to create a bland diet for dogs with upset stomachs.
Combine with dog-safe foods like sweet potatoes or chicken for a high-protein snack.
Serve as a treat 2–3 times per week, not exceeding 10–20% of total daily caloric intake.
Optional: Freeze small portions in molds with dog-safe ingredients (e.g., peanut butter, blueberries) for a cool treat.
Discontinue use if your dog shows digestive distress or allergic reactions.
Consult your vet if your dog has medical conditions or is on medications affected by dairy.

Notes

Always use plain, low-fat cottage cheese and introduce gradually. Consult your veterinarian before adding new foods, especially for dogs with medical conditions.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Dog Treat
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: Pet Nutrition