can dogs have mozzarella cheese

Mozzarella cheese is creamy, mild, and a favourite topping for everything from pizza to pasta. But if your dog gives you those pleading eyes while you're cooking or snacking, you might ask yourself: Can dogs have mozzarella cheese? The answer is yes, dogs can eat mozzarella cheese, but only in small amounts and not as a regular part of their diet.

While mozzarella is one of the safer cheeses to offer dogs, there are still a few things to keep in mind before sharing.

Why Mozzarella Is Safer Than Some Cheeses

Mozzarella is a relatively soft and low-salt cheese, which already puts it ahead of many other varieties when it comes to dog safety. It also tends to be lower in fat than options like cheddar, brie, or blue cheese. Because of this, a small piece of plain mozzarella is unlikely to cause harm in most healthy dogs.

It can even be used as an occasional training reward, especially if cut into tiny chunks. Its soft texture and mild flavour make it appealing to many dogs, and it's generally well-tolerated in small portions.

The Downsides of Feeding Cheese

Despite being less salty and fatty than other cheeses, mozzarella is still a dairy product, and not all dogs can digest it easily. Many dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning their bodies struggle to break down the lactose found in milk-based products. In these dogs, even a small amount of cheese can lead to symptoms like gas, bloating, or diarrhoea.

Mozzarella also contains fat, which—while lower than in other cheeses—is still present. Too much fat in a dog’s diet can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of pancreatitis, especially in breeds already prone to digestive issues.

For dogs on a low-fat or sensitive stomach diet, even “mild” cheeses like mozzarella should be given with caution.

How Much Is Safe?

If your dog isn’t lactose intolerant and has no history of food sensitivities, a small piece of mozzarella as an occasional treat is generally safe. Think of it as a high-value reward rather than a regular snack. Keep the portion small and infrequent, especially for smaller dogs who need fewer calories overall.

Avoid flavoured or processed mozzarella products, like string cheese or marinated mozzarella balls, as these can contain added salt, garlic, or other ingredients that are harmful to dogs.

What To Do If Your Dog Has Too Much

If your dog accidentally eats a large amount of mozzarella—say, a whole slice of pizza or a tub of shredded cheese—monitor them closely. They may develop an upset stomach, especially if they’re not used to dairy. Watch for signs like vomiting, loose stools, or lethargy. If symptoms are severe or last more than a day, contact your vet.

Most healthy dogs will recover from a single overindulgence, but regular access to fatty, salty foods like cheese should always be avoided.

Summary

Dogs can have mozzarella cheese in small amounts. It’s lower in salt and fat than many other cheeses, making it one of the safer choices. However, it’s still a dairy product, and not all dogs tolerate lactose well. If you choose to offer mozzarella, keep it plain, unseasoned, and given only as an occasional treat. Used wisely, it can be a tasty reward—just not something to share too often.