A couple from Connecticut was trying to have a chill date night at home when their boxer dog, Poppy, realized there was cheese involved and would not leave them to it without getting her share. In a viral TikTok video, Poppy can be seen sitting next to a charcuterie board, staring at her owners with a clear expectation for her “cheese tax” to be paid in full. Despite being given multiple pieces, Poppy still wasn’t satisfied and started whining and barking, hoping for more.
If you’re a dog owner you’ve probably had to pay cheese tax too. But is cheese actually safe for our pups? According to British animal charity Blue Cross, while cheese is not toxic to dogs, not all dogs can have it. Dogs who are lactose intolerant, overweight, suffer from upset tummies, or have kidney problems are better off staying away from cheese and dairy products. However, if your dog does not have any of these issues, some cheese in moderation is not likely to harm them. It is important to note that not all cheeses are safe for dogs, with some, like blue cheese which can cause seizures, being particularly dangerous. Safe cheeses for dogs in small quantities include cheddar, cottage cheese, mozzarella, Parmesan, and Swiss.
If your dog loves cheese, you can also use it as a high-value reward for training, giving them a small square only when they are exceptionally good. The video of Poppy demanding her cheese tax quickly went viral on TikTok, receiving over 936,800 views and 139,600 likes on the platform. Users found the video amusing, with one commenting on the lack of distractions during the couple’s date night and another suggesting that Poppy deserves her own “poppycuterie board.” Feelings towards cheese are universal, as another user stated that they would cry if not given cheese. The owners of Poppy, who shared the video, were not reachable for comment and the details of the case could not be verified.
In conclusion, while cheese is not toxic to dogs, not all of them can have it due to various health issues. Dogs who are lactose intolerant, overweight, suffer from upset stomachs, or have kidney problems should avoid cheese and dairy products altogether. However, dogs without these issues can enjoy some types of cheese in moderation. It is important to be aware of which cheeses are safe and which are not for our furry friends. Using cheese as a reward for training can be a fun way to engage with your dog and reinforce positive behaviors. Poppy’s viral video demanding her cheese tax serves as a light-hearted reminder of the unique personalities of our canine companions and their love for tasty treats.
