Yellow: with caution
Yes, but only a little, and unsweetened. Quark is not toxic. However, the ASPCA notes that dairy products can cause diarrhoea and digestive upset in dogs.
Why quark gets a yellow rating
According to the ASPCA, dogs produce very little lactase, the enzyme that breaks down milk sugar. Milk and dairy products can therefore upset their digestion. How much varies from dog to dog. The American Kennel Club describes cottage cheese as a low-fat, low-lactose cheese that many dogs tolerate better. The same principle applies to quark: a little, low-fat and plain.
What to watch out for
- Start small: Offer a teaspoon first and wait to see how your dog tolerates it.
- Plain quark only: Fruit quark, desserts and low-calorie products may contain sugar or sweeteners. According to the ASPCA, xylitol can cause low blood sugar and liver damage in dogs.
- No herbs: Herb quark often contains onions, garlic or chives, which damage red blood cells.
- Watch the fat: Full-fat quark contains more fat. According to the ASPCA, too much fat can contribute to pancreatitis.
- Count it towards the daily total: Quark provides protein and energy and counts towards the daily food allowance.
What if your dog eats too much?
Diarrhoea, wind or vomiting are the most common effects of a large serving. Give your dog water and make the next meal smaller. If diarrhoea persists or they vomit repeatedly, call your vet. If it was sweetened quark or a dessert, check the ingredients: if xylitol is listed, it is an emergency.
If you suspect poisoning, go straight to your vet or an emergency veterinary service.
Check whether your dog is getting the right amount of food in just a minute with our feeding calculator. Our book takes a closer look at feeding: “Hundeernährung und Futterplan” (book in German). For those first weeks with a puppy, try our free Puppy Starter Pack, and for a picture of your dog to hang on the wall, explore dog portraits from your own photo or choose a single portrait.
Further reading
- Calculating your dog’s food portions: how much your dog really needs
- Is my dog overweight? How to assess body condition and ideal weight
- Adding rice and potatoes to dog food: how to account for extras
Sources, accessed on 20.10.2026: ASPCA, People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (Milk/Dairy, Xylitol, Onion, Garlic, Chives); ASPCA, Sharing is Caring: Foods You Can Safely Share with Your Pet (Cheese); American Kennel Club, Can Dogs Eat Cheese?
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