Can Dogs Eat Feta Cheese

Feta cheese is a popular choice in many human meals thanks to its tangy flavour and crumbly texture. But if you’ve ever dropped a bit on the floor or had your dog beg for a bite, you might be wondering—can dogs eat feta cheese? The answer is yes, but with caution. While not toxic, feta cheese comes with some nutritional concerns that dog owners need to be aware of before sharing.

What’s in Feta Cheese

Feta is made from sheep’s milk or a mix of sheep’s and goat’s milk, and it's known for its high salt content. It’s also fairly rich in fat and contains lactose. All of these factors can make it a tricky snack for dogs, especially those with sensitive stomachs or dietary restrictions.

Dogs aren’t built to handle large amounts of salt, and feta cheese is quite salty by nature. Too much sodium can lead to dehydration or, in serious cases, salt poisoning. While a small amount of feta isn’t likely to cause harm in a healthy dog, it’s not something that should be given often or in large quantities.

Fat and Lactose Content

Feta cheese contains a decent amount of fat, which can be problematic for dogs that are overweight or prone to pancreatitis. It's also a dairy product, and many dogs are lactose intolerant to some degree. This means even a small serving could lead to digestive issues like gas, bloating, or diarrhoea, particularly in dogs with low tolerance for dairy.

Some dogs may handle it better than others, but it’s hard to know how your dog will react unless you’ve tried dairy with them before. If your dog has never had cheese or any other dairy product, it’s best to start with a tiny piece and monitor for any signs of discomfort.

Is There Any Benefit?

While feta isn’t the healthiest treat, it does contain protein, calcium and some essential vitamins. That said, these benefits are easily outweighed by the potential downsides—especially when there are safer, lower-fat cheeses or non-dairy options available. If you’re looking for a cheese to use as a high-value training reward or occasional treat, a small piece of plain, low-fat cheese like mozzarella might be a better pick.

When It Might Be Useful

There are occasions where a very small amount of cheese can be helpful, such as hiding medication or encouraging a picky eater. In these cases, a little bit of crumbled feta might do the trick, but it should still be used sparingly and not as a regular snack.

Summary

Dogs can eat feta cheese, but it’s not the ideal treat. High in salt, fat and lactose, feta can cause digestive problems or contribute to health issues if given too often. A tiny amount as an occasional treat is generally safe for healthy dogs, but there are better alternatives available. Always monitor your dog after trying any new food and consult your vet if you're unsure whether cheese