The short answer: Yes, but in moderation.
The long answer: Your dog can reap the countless benefits of eating oatmeal the same way you do. It is a great source of vitamins (E and B-6) and minerals (iron, calcium, manganese, selenium, and zinc, to name a few), which work hand in hand to maintain your dog’s overall health. The antioxidants found in oatmeal can improve your pet’s skin, fur, and liver, while the soluble fiber can improve digestion and regularise his bowel movements.
Be wary of giving too much oatmeal to your dog. Overfeeding can cause upset stomach, diarrhea, vomiting, and bloating. It’s best to limit your dog’s oatmeal intake to twice a week to prevent digestive issues from developing.
How to feed oatmeal to your dog: Choose whole grain oats for your dog to consume, and cook them properly without milk or sugar. Do not give him processed grains with artificial flavourings because some ingredients may be harmful for him. Plus, the processed grains will not offer any substantial nutrients to your dog. Once cooked, let the oatmeal cool completely by stirring it. Feel the temperature in the middle of the oatmeal before serving it to him.
Here are three ideas for oatmeal treats your dog will love:
- Serve this oatmeal-based dish with egg and blueberries as toppings.
- Give him a tablespoon of cooked oatmeal in lieu of doggie treats.
- Try making this peanut butter oatmeal dog cookies!
In summary: A nutritious breakfast staple, cooked oatmeal can be a welcome addition to your dog’s diet as long as his stomach can handle it. Check with your veterinarian before letting him try it, and be sure to serve him the whole grain variety without unnecessary add-ons. Aside from oatmeal, discover more human food dogs can safely eat in our “can dogs eat” category!
References:
Can Dogs Eat This? The Ultimate Guide To 105 Food Items
