The thought of sharing a tasty bite of blue cheese with your furry friend might seem harmless, but when it comes to feeding dogs, not all human foods are created equal. While cheese is often a tempting treat for both humans and their canine companions, certain types like blue cheese can pose serious health risks. Let’s dive into why blue cheese should stay off your dog’s menu and what to do if your pup manages to sneak a bite.
What Does Blue Cheese Mean & What Matters?
The blue cheese is known for its sharp, salty, and funk taste, as well as its unique blue/green streaks from the Penicillium fungus. This mold is added to the cheese during the fermentation process which gives it its distinctive flavor and appearance. And on that note, as lovely as those traits render blue cheese for a human gourmand — just the sort of thing you want to have in your refrigerator — they are also what pose the danger for dogs. This mold used in blue cheese creates a toxin that can be very harmful to your pup– even in small doses.

Is Blue Cheese Safe for Dogs? The Short Answer
Answer: No, dogs should not eat blue cheese. The primary concern is a substance called roquefortine C, which is a mycotoxin from the mold which the blue cheese is fermented with. It can immediately cause extreme disorders such as vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, and seizures in dogs. This toxin does not affect humans as much, but dogs are extremely sensitive to it, making even a tiny bite a medical emergency. And if you are even a bit tempted to share — don’t! It is still not worth the risks for any petty treat.
Why Dairy Products Are Dangerous for Dogs
While the dangers of blue cheese are specific, in general, dairy products are troublesome for dogs. Here’s why:
- Lactose Intolerance: Adult dogs lack the enzyme lactase, used to digest the sugar from dairy products lactase. Cheese or milk leads to bloated, gas, and/or diarrhea when dogs eat it. Lactose intolerance symptoms occur in just a couple of hours, and your pup is going to feel pretty lousy while you get to experience the not-so-fun of cleaning up the mess.
- Richness in Fat: Blue cheese is a fatty food, as well as a lot of gourmet cheeses. High-fat foods can cause pancreatitis in dogs, as that is inflammation of the pancreas and very painful. Pancreatitis will create horrible stomach pain, vomiting, and dehydration that may need emergency veterinary treatment. This makes blue cheese a very bad option, especially since high-fat foods only worsen health issues for dogs already predisposed to weight problems.
What Happens If Your Dog Eats Blue Cheese?
Accidents happen, and dogs are notorious for snatching food when you least expect it. If your dog eats blue cheese, it’s important to watch for signs of toxicity, including:
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Restlessness
- Muscle tremors or seizures
If you notice any of these symptoms or suspect that your dog has consumed blue cheese, act quickly. Contact your veterinarian or a pet poison control center immediately for advice. In many cases, prompt treatment can prevent severe complications and help your dog recover safely.
Alternatives: Dog-Safe Cheese Options
While blue cheese and other moldy cheeses are off-limits, there are safer cheese options you can offer your dog in moderation:
- Mozzarella: Low in lactose and fat, mozzarella can be a better option if your dog tolerates dairy.
- Cottage Cheese: This mild cheese is low in fat and often easier for dogs to digest.
- Plain, Low-Fat Cheeses: Opt for cheeses like cheddar or Swiss, but only in small amounts to avoid any digestive upset.
Remember, cheese should always be an occasional treat rather than a regular part of your dog’s diet. Monitor your dog’s reaction when introducing any new food, and avoid cheese entirely if your pet shows signs of lactose intolerance.

Conclusion
While sharing a bite of your favorite blue cheese might seem like a bonding moment, it’s simply not worth the risk. Blue cheese contains compounds that are harmful to dogs, and even small amounts can lead to serious health issues. Instead, stick to safer, low-fat cheese options in moderation and keep your pup’s well-being in mind when deciding what treats to offer. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian before giving any new food to your dog—because your furry friend deserves the best, healthiest life possible.