Oatmeal is a staple ingredient in many people’s homes, but can dogs eat oatmeal? Is it safe?
The answer to both of these questions is yes! Just make sure you take a few things into consideration before you begin including it in your furry friend’s diet.
Here is everything you need to know about feeding your dog oatmeal.
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Is Oatmeal Bad For Dogs?
No, oatmeal can be a very healthy food for dogs when consumed in moderation. Loaded with nutrients and super tasty, oatmeal is a great snack to help your dog thrive.
It is an excellent alternative to store-bought snacks. Oatmeal also contains vitamins and nutrients, such as:
- Vitamin D: This vitamin is responsible for balancing key minerals, such as calcium, which aides in bone health.
- Fiber: If your dog has been having issues with their digestive system, fiber can help regulate it (in moderation, of course).
- Omega-6 Fatty Acids: These coat your dog’s skin and coat, making it shiny and reducing itchiness related to dry skin.
Snacks from the store are often loaded with chemicals and unhealthy ingredients.
Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal With Cinnamon?
Yes! Cinnamon is healthy for both humans and dogs alike and it is perfectly safe to add to oatmeal.
For dogs suffering from arthritis or other inflammatory conditions, cinnamon can help alleviate pain and discomfort with its anti-inflammatory properties.
If adding cinnamon to your dogs diet, sprinkle the cinnamon powder into the oatmeal and mix well. It can be unhealthy for dogs to inhale the powder.
As always, be sure to watch for any adverse side effects when incorporating cinnamon (and oatmeal) into your dog’s diet.
Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal Cookies With Raisins?
This is a hard no! Raisins are highly toxic to dogs, and should never be fed as treats or as an ingredient in a treat.
While research has not shown exactly what causes raisins and grapes to be toxic to dogs, they do know that it can cause kidney failure.
Even without raisins, dogs should not eat oatmeal cookies that have been baked for human consumption.
These have far too many calories and excess fat and sugar to be healthy.
If you want to create a gourmet treat, consider adding cinnamon to your recipe.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Oatmeal?
Yes! Dogs can eat cooked oatmeal. This is the only way it should be served.
Feeding your dog raw oatmeal (even if it is mixed into food) can cause some serious tummy troubles.
The dry oatmeal will absorb water from your dog’s system which can lead to constipation or bowel blockages.
Cooked oatmeal has already absorbed the water and is much easier to digest and safe for dogs the digestive system.
Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal With Milk?
While this may seem like a tastier treat, milk can be difficult for dogs to digest and lead to stomach problems such as diarrhea.
Serve your dog plain oatmeal and at room temperature to avoid any burns or injuries.
Finally, make sure you are not feeding your dog instant oatmeal.
If you decide to incorporate oatmeal into your dog’s diet, it should be whole oats only. You can then grind the oats to a powder, or buy them already ground.
How Much Oatmeal Should Your Dog Have?
When it comes to oatmeal, moderation is key.
To avoid an upset tummy and unpleasant side effects, (like diarrhea,) incorporate it into your dog’s diet slowly over time.
A good starting place would be one tablespoon of oatmeal for every 20 pounds of weight.
This means if you have a 60-pound dog, you should only be feeding him 3 tablespoons of oatmeal.
If tolerated, you can increase this amount to a half cup of cooked oatmeal 1-2 times per week.
Do not give your dog any new food or treats while you get him accustomed to his new food to avoid stomach problems.
Oatmeal Cookies For Dogs
Another good way for you to feed this beneficial grain to your dog is with homemade treats.
Below is a quick and easy recipe for your pup. For added fun, try putting the cookies in a mold or use a cookie cutter.
Final Thoughts Is Oatmeal Okay for Dogs? You Bet!
If you’ve been on the fence about feeding your dog oatmeal, now is a great time to try it out.
The nutritional benefits oatmeal contains is well worth making it an addition to your dog’s diet.
Just remember not to add raisins, keep it as natural as possible and watch for signs of digestive issues.
Happy snacking!
