Can Your Dog Eat Oatmeal? Here’s What the Experts Say

Can dogs eat oatmeal?

Oatmeal is the perfect breakfast choice to warm up a gloomy winter morning. It’s not only delicious, but also highly customizable and healthy for us humans. Oats are a good source of protein, fiber, folate, copper, zinc, B vitamins, and beta-glucan, which is beneficial for our overall health.

But what about our furry friends? You might be tempted to share a treat with your beloved dog, or your mischievous pup might help himself to a bite from the counter or table.

Veterinarian Diana Watkins, owner of 143 Veterinary Services in Massachusetts, says that oatmeal and oats are not toxic to dogs, so there’s no need to panic if your pup gets into your breakfast. However, it’s important to note that a bowl of oatmeal may also contain foods that are harmful to dogs, such as raisins, chocolate, or sugar substitutes. Certain ingredients, like xylitol, can be toxic to dogs and might even have potentially fatal consequences.

Is oatmeal good for dogs?

While oatmeal is not harmful to dogs, there’s no real benefit to feeding it to them. Since oatmeal is quite filling, it can lead to an unbalanced diet, especially for small dogs with a low-calorie requirement. Regulated dog food provides a nutritionally balanced diet that fulfills all of your dog’s needs. If your dog has an upset stomach and you’re considering oatmeal as an easily digestible option, it’s safer to opt for white or brown rice instead.

According to Watkins, “Those [rice options] are much more tried-and-true and safe.” However, oatmeal can be used as a healthy addition to your dog’s shampoo, as it has gentle and moisturizing properties. Colloidal oatmeal shampoo, often recommended by vets, is especially useful for dogs with sensitive skin.

What human foods can dogs eat?

Although some human foods are safe for dogs, it’s important for pet owners to exercise caution when offering such foods. Watkins suggests giving your dog vet-approved treats such as small bites of carrots, cheese, low-sodium unflavored rice cakes, turkey, and cottage cheese. However, there are foods like grapes and chocolate that are harmful to dogs and should be avoided. Additionally, there are foods like bananas and broccoli, which are not toxic but do not provide any significant benefits beyond what’s already in your dog’s regular diet.

It is crucial to ensure that any human food you give your dog does not contain onion or garlic, as both of these can be toxic to dogs, especially in concentrated powder form. Watkins recommends providing a balanced, high-quality kibble as a treat, as it helps maintain a healthy diet for your dog and avoids any potential imbalances.

Wrap Up

While oatmeal is generally safe for dogs, it is not necessary to include it in their diets. Feeding your dog specially formulated dog food ensures they receive a complete and nutritionally balanced diet to keep them healthy. However, if you think your dog needs an easily digestible option for an upset stomach, opt for white or brown rice. Remember to always check with your veterinarian if you have any concerns or questions regarding your dog’s diet.