Oatmeal for dogs can be a simple, affordable way to add a little variety to your dog’s diet. But there are a few important rules to know first.
Plain, cooked oatmeal is generally safe for dogs in moderation. It provides fiber and some nutrients, but too much can cause digestive upset, and flavored oatmeal can contain ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs.
So, can dogs eat oatmeal? Yes. But how you prepare it, how much you give, and what else your dog is eating all matter.
In this guide, we’ll look at the benefits and risks of oatmeal for dogs, the best way to prepare it, how much to give, and whether an oatmeal bath can help an itchy dog.
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Budget tip:
Plain oats are inexpensive, and a small amount can be an affordable occasional treat or food topper for dogs who tolerate them. Just remember that oatmeal shouldn't replace a complete and balanced dog food. The cheapest option isn't always the best option if it leads to digestive problems or adds unnecessary calories.
Can Dogs 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.
Dogs can eat most types of oatmeal. But it should be free of additives and artificial sweeteners, with no milk or added sugar.
Some vets will say that a bit of raw oatmeal or raw oats sprinkled on top of 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.
Is Oatmeal Good for Dogs?
Yes. In small portions can be a great addition to a dog’s diet.
Oatmeal is a great source of fiber and nutrients, along with some vitamins and minerals. It can also be a sensible carbohydrate alternative for some dogs.
But as always, check with your vet before making a diet change for your dog.
What Kind of Oatmeal Can Dogs Eat?
There are some types of oatmeal you can give your dog and some you’ll want to avoid.
Best choices:
- Plain oatmeal (not instant)
- Colloidal oatmeal
- Rolled oats
Avoid:
- Flavored oatmeal
- Oatmeal containing sugar or lots of added ingredients
- Oatmeal containing chocolate
- Oatmeal containing raisins/grapes
- Oatmeal containing xylitol
- Human oatmeal cookies
Can Dogs Eat Raw Oatmeal?
It’s better to cook oatmeal before giving it to your dog. Raw oats are harder to digest and can cause stomach upset, especially in dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Potential Benefits of Oatmeal for Dogs
Fiber: Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, which can support normal digestion and bowel regularity.
Nutrients: Oats provide nutrients including B vitamins, iron, zinc, and other compounds that contribute to a healthy diet.
Alternative carbohydrate: Oatmeal can be useful as an alternative carbohydrate for some dogs who don’t tolerate certain other grains.
Satiety: Oatmeal contains fiber, which may help a dog feel full. But that doesn’t mean oatmeal itself is a weight-loss treatment.
Important: Oatmeal isn’t a cure for diarrhea, constipation, skin problems, obesity, or heart disease. If your dog has an ongoing health problem, talk with your veterinarian rather than trying to treat the condition with oatmeal.
How to Make Plain Oatmeal for Dogs
1. Use plain rolled oats and water.
2. Cook the oats according to the package directions until soft.
3. Do not add sugar, salt, butter, milk, or flavorings.
4. Let the oatmeal cool to room temperature.
5. Serve a small amount mixed with your dog's regular food or as an occasional treat.
I bet you know water is important for your dog. But you may not know about all the benefits of water for your pup and how it keeps your dog healthy.
How Much Oatmeal Can Dogs Eat?
Oatmeal should be an occasional addition, not a major part of your dog’s diet. A commonly cited guideline is about 1 tablespoon of cooked oatmeal per 20 pounds of body weight, although individual needs vary.
Start with a small amount the first time and watch for vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or other signs that your dog doesn’t tolerate it well.
Your vet will be able to tell you the exact amount that is right for your dog given your dog’s current issues.
Overfeeding doesn’t just affect your dog’s health. It can affect your dog’s budget, too. Here’s what I learned about overfeeding a dog and why it can cost you more.
Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal Cookies or Homemade Oatmeal Treats?
Homemade oatmeal treats can be fine when they’re specifically made for dogs, but ordinary human oatmeal cookies are another story.
Avoid raisins, chocolate, xylitol, nutmeg, sugar, and fat that is found in many human cookies.
NOTE: If you’re giving your dog treats with oatmeal, you probably won’t want to add any more to his/her diet. Also, if your dog’s food contains oatmeal, you may not want to add any additional oatmeal to your pup’s diet.
Looking for a budget-friendly way to make dog treats? My guide to saving money with homemade dog treats walks through the numbers.
Can Oatmeal Help a Dog’s Itchy Skin?
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
Oatmeal baths may help with:
- Skin
- Coat
- Itchy skin
- Irritation
- Dry Sky
But if your dog has persistent itching, hot spots, infections, fleas, or other underlying problems, contact your vet for advice.
Note: 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.
What Is Colloidal Oatmeal for Dogs?
Colloidal oatmeal is specifically used topically for skin problems. It is an anti-inflammatory, anti-itching, and skin-softening agent for dogs and cats.
Can Oatmeal for Dogs Save You Money?
Yes. But mostly because oatmeal is inexpensive and versatile, not because it’s a substitute for veterinary care. Consider these ideas for a moment.
| Option | Possible Savings |
| Making simple oatmeal treats at home | $10-25 |
| Using a small amount of plain cooked oatmeal when appropriate | $25+ |
| An oatmeal bath is appropriate for minor irritation | $118+ |
| Keeping treats and toppers simple and portion-controlled | PRICELESS!!! |
Small choices can add up over time. Sometimes saving money isn’t about finding the absolute cheapest option. Instead, it’s about knowing when a simple solution is enough and when you need to spend more.
That’s one reason I put together my guide to hidden dog expenses. Some of the costs that catch dog parents off guard aren’t the obvious ones. They’re the little expenses that sneak up over time.
Related articles:
- Hidden Dog Expenses: Why Good Dog Parents Spend More Than They Expect
- Shocking Guide of How Homemade Dog Treats Save BIG!
- Is Overfeeding A Dog Harmful?
- 8 Awesome Reasons Your Dog Needs Water
- 11 Cheap Remedies for Dog Dry Skin That Actually Work (Vet-Approved Tips)
FAQs About Oatmeal For Dogs
Can dogs eat oatmeal every day?
Oatmeal is better treated as an occasional addition rather than something dogs need every day. Giving your dog too much oatmeal can add unnecessary calories and fiber to your pup’s diet. Also, too much oatmeal may cause digestive upset, which no one wants for their furry buddy.
Can dogs eat oatmeal cooked with milk?
It’s better to prepare oatmeal with water. Some dogs don’t tolerate dairy well. I always avoid milk to not give Henry an upset stomach.
Is oatmeal good for dogs with diarrhea?
Oatmeal contains soluble fiber, but diarrhea can have many causes. Don’t rely on oatmeal as a treatment for ongoing diarrhea. Instead, talk to your vet, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Can dogs eat flavored oatmeal?
No. Flavored oatmeal may contain added sugar or ingredients that are dangerous to dogs, including xylitol, chocolate, raisins, or other unsafe additives. Definitely avoid flavored oatmeal for your dog.
Can oatmeal help a dog with itchy skin?
Topical colloidal oatmeal or an oatmeal bath may help soothe minor itchy or irritated skin. But persistent itching requires a vet’s attention. The ongoing issues might be due to allergies, parasites, infections, or other underlying causes or conditions.
Final Thoughts on Oatmeal for Dogs
Oatmeal for dogs can be a simple and inexpensive occasional treat when it’s plain, cooked, and served in moderation.
The biggest things to remember are to avoid flavored oatmeal and unsafe ingredients. Also, introduce new foods slowly, and keep oatmeal as a small addition to your dog’s regular balanced diet.
Remember, oatmeal baths are a different use entirely for oatmeal. Colloidal oatmeal can help soothe some minor skin irritation, but ongoing itching or skin problems deserve a conversation with your vet.
Personally, I love using oatmeal shampoo and conditioner to keep Henry’s coat in beautiful form and his itchiness under control.
As for Henry, I’m certain he would vote yes on oatmeal cookies. But like most things with dogs, a little goes a lot a long way.
Actually, that’s a good rule for your dog’s budget, as well. Small, thoughtful choices can sometimes prevent bigger expenses later. That’s why I also wrote about hidden dog expenses and the problems that can quietly become expensive.
