Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal?

Oatmeal is a safe, staple breakfast option for most humans…

But is it okay for your dog to eat oatmeal, too?

And if so… what’s the best way to give it to them?

In this guide, you’ll find answers to all your oatmeal related questions.

Let’s begin.

Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal?

Yes. Dogs can eat oatmeal, and it may even have several benefits.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you give them oatmeal…

Is It Safe for Dogs To Eat Oatmeal?

As long as the oatmeal is plain and doesn’t come with additives, flavorings, or artificial sweeteners that are harmful to dogs… it should be safe for your dog to eat oatmeal, in moderation.

However, it’s also pretty high in calories… so if your dog is already overweight, you’ll need to be careful about feeding them too much of this carb-heavy food.

And if your dog overeats oatmeal… it could lead to bloat, diarrhea, and vomiting. As such, it’s bests to keep the portions small and only give them oatmeal a few times a week at most.

Is Oatmeal Good for Dogs?

Oatmeal is an excellent source of fiber for both humans and dogs. So, if your dog could benefit from some additional fiber in their diet, then oatmeal is a great way to get it.

It’s also a good alternative to wheat (especially for dogs who have wheat allergies.)

But in addition to the fiber, it contains a range of useful vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Specifically, it offers:

Iron
Calcium
Copper
Zinc
Phosphorus
Vitamin A
Vitamin B
Linoleic acid

Is Oatmeal or Rice Better for Dogs?

Dogs can eat both oatmeal and rice.

A useful way to decide on the best option for your dog is to consider your breed’s place of origin.

For example: According to this post on The Honest Kitchen, breeds from the UK may have a better affinity for oats. Whereas rice is the superior choice for breeds originating from Asia.

Ultimately, it makes sense that your dog’s origin may have some influence on their ability to digest either grain.

Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal Cookies?

Oatmeal, by itself, is safe for dogs to eat.

But many oatmeal cookies come with added ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs.

For example, raisins are very bad for dogs… as well as chocolate… and both of these ingredients often feature in oatmeal cookie recipes.

Many cookies also come with too much sugar, which isn’t good either.

Can Dogs Eat Oats and Honey?

Dogs can eat oats, and they can eat honey (in small quantities), so there’s no harm in letting your dog eat oats and honey occasionally.

However, honey is also high in sugar, and it can lead to obesity if your dog eats too many calories.

So if your dog is already gaining too much weight… it’s better to leave the honey in the jar.

Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal With Brown Sugar?

While brown sugar is a little healthier than white sugar… it’s still sugar… so it’s not good for your dog over the long term.

If your dog consumes a very small amount of sugar on occasion, it shouldn’t be cause for alarm.

But if they eat a large amount, it could lead to dehydration along with vomiting and diarrhea.

Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal With Cinnamon?

According to the American Kennel Club, cinnamon isn’t toxic for dogs, but this doesn’t mean they should be eating it. In large doses, it can cause digestive upset and skin irritation.

What’s more, many ‘oatmeal with cinnamon’ products also contain sweeteners and additives, as well as xylitol, which is particularly dangerous for dogs to consume.

But a small amount of cinnamon should be alright.

Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal With Milk?

Milk is usually safe for your dog to have in small quantities… but too much can trigger lactose intolerance (along with the associated vomiting and diarrhea.)

As such, it’s better to serve without the milk, if possible.

Can Dogs Eat Instant Oatmeal?

Instant oatmeal products aren’t the best choice. Many of them are overly processed and contain sweeteners along with other ingredients that might upset your dog.

Fortunately, regular oatmeal is just as quick and easy to prepare by itself.