Can dogs eat oatmeal?

Many dog owners wonder what foods are safe to feed to their pups. The question I get most often is “can dogs eat oatmeal?”. I’ll answer that question and more in the post, but the quick answer is yes, they can. However, it isn’t as simple as just saying yes. Keep reading for more information about whether or not feeding oatmeal to your dog is right for you.

You may also be interested in my peanut butter banana dog treats recipe. For ease of browsing, you can find all of my dog treat recipes in one place.

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Oatmeal for dogs

I am not a veterinarian, or a nutritionist, but with the guidance of my dog’s vet, I will share what I have learned in caring for my own pup. If you want to learn how to cook oatmeal for dogs, let me assure you that it is one of the easiest things you’ll ever make.

Making a pot of oats to add to your dogs regular food is as easy as combining old fashioned oats and water. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook until thickened. Do not add any other ingredients to the pot.

One thing I notice quite often are comments about food being bland. So, let’s address this. Dogs do not have the taste buds that humans do. They have about 1700 taste buds, compared to our 9000. In addition, they can’t taste salt very well, nor is it good for them to have excess salt in their diet, so no need to season their food with it.

Can dogs eat oatmeal?

Oatmeal can be part of their diet, but it should not be the only thing you feed them. Dogs need protein. Also, don’t feed them too much oatmeal. Especially if you have a senior dog who isn’t very active.

It is high in carbohydrates and they will gain weight if you feed them too much of anything, but specifically high carb food. My dog was 12 pounds and her vet suggested 2 tablespoons for her size.

Speak to your veterinarian about whether or not your dog can eat oatmeal and the appropriate serving sizes for your pup before you begin making oats for your dog. Please do not feed raw oats to your dog, it can give them an upset stomach. Also, avoid flavored oatmeal. Plain oats are best.

Many of my dog treat recipes are made with oatmeal. They are easy on the belly and also less expensive than store bought.

Q&A

Answers to frequently asked questions for cooking oatmeal for dogs.

Helpful tools and equipment

Here is a list of tools and equipment that I use regularly when making oats for dogs, or dog treats with oats.

• Dog bone cookie cutters – This is the set that I own. I like them because they are easy to clean and they are rust resistant.
• Small cookie scoop – Some of my recipes use a scoop instead of rolling our treats. This is a small size, for smaller dogs.
• Large cookie scoop – If you have a bigger dog, this is the size for you.
• Parchment paper sheets – These are essential. Baking treats without parchment will result in treats stuck to cookie sheets.

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Questions? Send me an email, I’m happy to help. I’d love to send you weekly tips and recipes, so you can get updates about what’s happening in the kitchen!

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