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Cottage cheese is low in fat, has lots of protein, and is said to improve digestion.

So it's a great food for dogs, right?

Here's the deal:

Dairy foods are tricky. Many dogs (to a certain degree) are lactose intolerant.

But, if that isn't a problem…

Can I Give My Dog Cottage Cheese?Cottage cheese can actually be very useful! In particular, many owners find that it really helps their dogs when they have a stomachache.

Dogs Can Eat Cottage Cheese

Some vets even recommend it.

Because it is similar to bland rice, cottage cheese tends to be good for an upset stomach and similar (but temporary) bowel irregularities.

It's true!

Have a Plan Behind It

Cottage cheese could work for an under-the-weather dog, but this assumes they aren't overly sensitive to lactose.

Play it safe by limiting portions (especially the first time feeding it).

Contrary to popular belief, dogs do have sensitive digestive systems.

The point is: Use cottage cheese tactfully!

You want to avoid possibly throwing off your buddy's stomach by giving them whatever you fancy (unless there is a good reason do to so).

Nutrition vs. Bad Habits

Quality cottage cheese contains lots of vitamins, minerals, micro-nutrients and antioxidants.

People swear by it. No doubt it has healthy aspects.

Who wouldn't want their dog to get extra calcium, potassium, vitamin-B12, selenium and many others!

While there are lots of wonderful things about cottage cheese, a premium dog food will provide all of these above-mentioned attributes (minus the dairy factor and high sodium).

And above all else…

It is very important to establish proper feeding habits sooner rather than later.

You probably can't, nor should you, provide this food on a regular basis. And certainly do not allow your dog to begin expecting it.

Don't Overlook Probiotics

So now we know when to consider this well-known curd recipe.

Assuming you aren't making your own cottage cheese, be sure to pick up a good brand. Doing so is important because, if your dog is sick, the probiotics may help to boost their recovery.

Label of a Probiotic Cottage Cheese
Here is an example of a good quality cottage cheese. As you can see, there are live bacteria in there! This probiotic attribute could possibly be beneficial for dogs too.

FYI: Most cheap store-bought cottage cheeses do not have a probiotic effect. This is unfortunate because it's one of the main reasons why this food is considered so healthy.

Look for Lactobacillus acidophilus.

That's the most common live bacteria probiotic strain typically found in cottage cheese and it may, at least in theory, help a sick dog.

Accidental Consumption

Rest assured, there is nothing toxic in cottage cheese.

Don't worry too much if your dog somehow ate their fair share. That's not to say they won't get diarrhea or an upset stomach.

The biggest factors are the amount consumed and whether your dog is sensitive to lactose.

Fact: There are actually many other foods that have much more lactose compared to cottage cheese.

The Bottom Line

Feeding your dog cottage cheese can be the right strategy for a tummy ache.

But dairy could be an issue.

If not, then cottage cheese may soothe a dog's digestion. Just don't get carried away!

Mixing a small amount into regular chow is a good initial way to do a test tasting.

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