There’s a pantry staple you eat for breakfast that quietly does remarkable things for dogs. Most pet parents have no idea it works or why veterinarians recommend it.
I fed oatmeal to my horses for years and watched them thrive on it, but somehow never connected the dots for my dog Henry. The moment I finally tried it, the changes were visible enough that it became a permanent part of his routine. What looks like the most ordinary unsexy food on earth turns out to support canine digestion, heart health, skin condition, and overall wellness in ways that shock even experienced dog owners once they see the results.
In this article, you’ll discover exactly what oatmeal does for dogs that most people never consider, how to use it correctly so it actually works, and why this cheap, humble ingredient outperforms products that cost ten times more. Your pantry has been hiding a health tool this whole time.
Budget tip:
Oatmeal is cheap, yet it has a TON of health benefits. You can give it to your pup in dog food, made as oatmeal, or even in a homemade dog treat. Or you can give your dog an oatmeal bath to help more with itchy skin. Whatever you and your vet decide is best for your buddy, you won't spend much. But it may really help your pup. That's a HUGE win-win for you and your buddy!
Can my dog safely eat oatmeal?
First things first, right? Is oatmeal safe for dogs? I always recommend talking to your vet, before introducing new foods or supplements into your dog’s diet.
However, generally speaking, yes. In fact, if a dog does not like or can’t eat rice, a vet will often recommend a small amount of oatmeal when needed.
Some vets will say that a bit of raw oatmeal or raw oats sprinkled on top dog food is great for health benefits. Although, if your dog has a sensitive stomach, like my dog Henry, this option might cause an upset stomach.
However, it has been determined small amounts of oats properly prepared can be beneficial for dogs.
What types of oatmeal and oats can my dog safely eat?
Surprisingly, most oatmeal your dog can eat. But it should be free of additives and artificial sweeteners, with no milk or added sugar. This includes:
- Plain oatmeal (not instant)
- Colloidal oatmeal
- Rolled oats
What types of oatmeal and oats are bad for my dog?
As mentioned above, any types of oats or oatmeal with additives, artificial sweeteners, with milk or added sugar should be avoided
- Steel-cut oats can be too much fiber if your dog has a sensitive GI system and cause an upset stomach
- Quick oats
- Instant oatmeal
What are the benefits of oatmeal for dogs?
The benefits of oatmeal for dogs are very similar to those for humans. Oatmeal can help dogs with:
- Digestion and specifically dogs’ stomach issues
- Weight issues and overweight dogs
- Supports heart health
- Aids healthy skin, including itchy skin
- Improves dog’s coat (okay, so humans don’t have coats, but we do have hair. So, it’s still similar.)
- Balances out diarrhea issues
Note: some dog food even has oatmeal as part of the ingredients.
What is the best plain oatmeal recipe for my dog?
First, you’ll want to give oatmeal to your dog at room temperature. You don’t want it to be too hot or too cold. Yep, it’s the Goldilocks syndrome.
To prepare plain cooked oatmeal for your dog:
1. Simply mix plain water with uncooked oatmeal.
2. Then cook until soft. Generally, this only takes a few seconds or minutes.
2. Next, let the oatmeal cool to room temperature.
3. Finally, give it to your dog.
How much oatmeal is safe to feed my dog and receive benefits?
The issue with oatmeal, or any food or supplement you give your dog, is that there’s a balancing act. You want to give the right amount, but NEVER too much as it can make your dog sick and upset his/her digestive tract.
Your vet will be able to tell you the exact amount that is right for your dog given your dog’s current issues.
However, it’s generally recommended to give oatmeal no more than twice a week to your dog.
The exact amount will vary depending on the size of your dog.
What if I make homemade dog treats with oatmeal?
Oatmeal for dogs in homemade treats can be a great idea! Just make sure the dog treat doesn’t contain ingredients such as raisins, nuts, nutmeg, or sugar. I like to keep my dog treats as simple as possible so that I’m not giving Henry unhealthy things. I personally love oatmeal cookies! Henry does as well. This recipe from Pook’s Pantry is great for dogs! I mean who can resist making oatmeal cookies when there are just three ingredients and the pup is sure to love them?
While, there are many dog treats you can make with oatmeal, including peanut butter and pumpkin. Always make sure your ingredients are as simple as possible and don’t have toxic items like xylitol.
Moreover, never give your dog human food such as homemade oatmeal raisin cookies. Save those for you!
NOTE: If you’re giving your dog treats with oatmeal, you probably won’t want to add any more to his/her diet.
Additionally, if your dog’s food contains oatmeal, you may not want to add any additional to his/her diet.
What other ways can I give my dog oatmeal?
Depending on your dog’s issues, you may want to try a topical oatmeal application. For instance, if your dog is itching or has a skin ailment, you may want to try an oatmeal bath. In most cases, the best forms of oatmeal for skin ailments (at least if you want a topical application) will be such products as:
- Bath
- Shampoo
- Conditioner
While a bath and shampoo for a dog are basically the same, they’re often labeled differently. Either way, they should help improve your dog’s
- Skin
- Coat
- Reduce itchy skin issues
Conversely, I was shocked to notice the difference without using conditioner. Admittedly, I thought conditioner for Henry couldn’t make that big of a difference. Nope! I was wrong big time. His fur was more difficult to cut and he just looked more like a chia pet. Besides, I think the double dose of oatmeal from the shampoo and conditioner really does help with itchy allergies.
How can oatmeal for dogs help reduce my overall expenses?
This is the nuts and bolts part. I always love sharing how you can save money with simple little steps like giving your dog oatmeal. Although, I tend to be a nerd for such things, consider the cost of treating the following dog issues for a moment:
| Constipation | $100-$1000 |
| Diarrhea | $100-200 |
| Overweight and related issues | $150-7000 |
| Heart issues | $500-3000 |
| Skin ailments | $118-189 |
Related articles:
- 15 Red Flags-Time For a New Vet!
- 8 Awesome Reasons Your Dog Needs Water
- Is Overfeeding A Dog Harmful?
- Shocking Guide of How Homemade Dog Treats Save BIG!
Oatmeal for Dogs: Great Affordable Benefits!
Oatmeal is one of those foods that is relatively cheap. While it provides a lot of health benefits to humans, it can as well for our dogs. The key is to know how much oatmeal to give your dog and prepare it properly. You’ll want to check with your vet on the proper dosage for your dog. However, you don’t want to overfeed your dog oatmeal if he/she’s already receiving oatmeal in food or treats.
Although, if your dog isn’t getting any oatmeal or not much at all then you may want to consider adding a bit. Again, always talk with your vet first.
In case your dog is like Henry, then homemade dog treats with oatmeal are his favorite. But if you decide to go with just the topical application at bath time, don’t forget the conditioner. I am still amazed at the difference it made for Henry.
Honestly, I’ve been pleased with the benefits of oatmeal for Henry. He certainly loves it as well!
