Pélardon

What is Pélardon?

Pélardon is a small round cheese with a diameter of 6 to 7 cm, a height of 2 to 3 cm and a weight of around 60 grams. It has a fine ivory-colored rind, which can be covered with white and blue mold if left to mature for a long time. The dough is soft and creamy when young, but becomes more crumbly with age. The fat content is 45% in the dry matter.

Pélardon is made exclusively from raw milk from goats reared in the Cévennes or neighboring areas. The goats must graze on pastures for at least 210 days a year and may only be fed with natural fodder. The milk is curdled with lactic acid bacteria and a small amount of rennet, without cutting the curd. The cheese is then scooped into molds, salted and matured for at least 11 days.

Pélardon has a nutty flavor that becomes more pronounced as it matures. In addition to the strong smell of goat's milk, floral and honey-like aromas can develop. It is often served as a starter or at the end of a meal, but is also used for breading, deep-frying or to enhance sauces.

Why is Pélardon good for your dog?

Cheese is a popular snack for dogs as it contains many nutrients such as protein, calcium, phosphorus, zinc and vitamin A. It can also promote dental health by reducing plaque and stimulating salivation. Cheese can also aid digestion by providing probiotic bacteria that promote intestinal balance.

Pélardon is particularly good for your dog as it is made from goat's milk. Goat's milk is easier to digest than cow's milk as it contains smaller fat droplets and less lactose. It also has a higher content of essential amino acids, which are important for the growth and repair of tissues. In addition, goat's milk is rich in antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, which can strengthen the immune system and protect against free radicals.

What are the disadvantages of Pélardon for your dog?

Although Pélardon has many benefits for your dog, you should only feed it in moderation. Too much cheese can lead to obesity, bloating, diarrhea or constipation. Cheese can also increase cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Pélardon is also not suitable for all dogs. Some dogs are allergic or intolerant to dairy products and may develop skin rashes, itching, vomiting or breathing difficulties. Other dogs have problems with the mold on the rind of the cheese, which can be toxic. If you are not sure whether your dog can tolerate Pélardon, you should first test it in small quantities and watch out for possible symptoms.