Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.
Most dogs do not consider taste before making their decision; instead, they make this decision almost certainly immediately after tasting the item.
Based on my experience, cheese has yet to fail that criterion. These crunchy, herbed dog biscuits are made with fresh, mild cheese and provide a tasteful, aromatic crunch while at the same time reasonable to give in moderation to your dog.
Medical Questions? Talk to a Veterinarian 24/7.
Connect one-on-one with a licensed vet who will answer your questions in minutes.
*Article may contain affiliate links to retailers like Amazon and Chewy. Learn more on our disclosure page.
Choosing Safe Cheese and Herbs
Not all cheeses and herbs are created equal when it comes to dogs. The aim is flavor without upsetting the stomach.
Best Cheese Options
- Mild cheddar: Easy to work with and well-loved
- Mozzarella: Lower in fat, softer flavor
- Cottage cheese (blended): Lighter and more digestible
Avoid heavily salted or processed cheeses.
Dog-Safe Herbs to Use
- Parsley: Helps freshen breath
- Basil: Gentle and aromatic
- Oregano (small amounts): Adds depth
Avoid: Onion, garlic, and strong spice blends—they are not safe for dogs.
The Role of Texture in These Treats
A good baked treat should have structure without becoming rock-hard.
Why Texture Matters
- Light crunch: Helps with mild dental cleaning
- Breakable: Easy to portion for training
- Stable: Holds shape without crumbling
[lasso ref=”fave” id=”19043″]
The Recipe: Cheesy Herb Dog Biscuits
This dough is simple and forgiving, making it ideal for everyday baking.
Ingredients
- 1 cup oat flour
- 1/2 cup grated cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley
- 1 egg
- 2–4 tbsp water (as needed)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix the Dough
Combine oat flour, cheese, parsley, and egg.
Add water gradually until a firm dough forms.
2. Roll and Shape
- Roll to about 1/4–1/2 inch thickness
- Cut into shapes or simple squares
3. Bake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C)
- Bake for 18–22 minutes until lightly golden
4. Cool Completely
Allow treats to cool fully before serving to firm up texture.
Look, prepping and cooking for your dog is great, but sometimes you might be too tired or maybe a tad lazy, or maybe you just want to give yourself a well deserved break.
In such times, you want something reliable and nutritious for your dog, and that’s where Ollie comes in. It’s my favorite dog food subscription ever.
Fresh human grade dog food sent to your doorstep, and there’s no lock in.
Give it a shot, will ya?
Optional Enhancements
If you want to adjust flavor or nutrition:
- Add a spoon of plain yogurt for softer texture
- Mix in finely grated carrot for fiber
- Sprinkle a tiny amount of flaxseed for omega-3 support
Keep additions simple and balanced.
Serving Guidelines
Cheese makes these treats highly appealing—but also richer.
Portion Guide
- Small dogs: 1 small piece
- Medium dogs: 1–2 pieces
- Large dogs: 2–3 pieces
Use smaller pieces for training to avoid overfeeding.
Storage Tips
- Room temperature: 3–5 days in airtight container
- Refrigerator: Up to 1 week
- Freezer: Up to 2 months
If they soften, you can re-crisp briefly in the oven.
📖 Don’t Miss This…
Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can dogs eat cheese regularly?
In small amounts, yes. However, some dogs are sensitive to dairy, so introduce slowly and watch for digestive upset.
Can I make these treats softer?
Yes. Bake for slightly less time or add a bit of yogurt to the dough for a softer texture.
What if my dog is lactose intolerant?
Use a lactose-free cheese or substitute with a small amount of nutritional yeast for flavor.
Are herbs really beneficial for dogs?
Certain herbs like parsley and basil can support digestion and freshen breath, but they should always be used in small amounts.
