Ever catch your furry friend giving you those puppy eyes while you munch on your morning Cheerios? I know I have! As a dog owner, I’m always wondering which human foods are safe to share with my pup. Today, let’s tackle a common breakfast question: are Cheerios ok for dogs?
The Quick Answer: Yes, But…
Yes, dogs can eat plain Cheerios safely, but they should only be given as occasional treats in small amounts.
Plain Cheerios won’t harm your dog but they don’t provide much nutritional benefit either. They’re basically empty calories for your canine companion.
Which Cheerios Varieties Are Safe for Dogs?
Not all Cheerios are created equal when it comes to doggy diets. Let’s break down which types are OK and which should be avoided:
Safe in Moderation
- Plain Cheerios – The original variety with minimal sugar
- Honey Nut Cheerios – OK occasionally, but higher in sugar
Avoid These Varieties
- Chocolate Cheerios – Chocolate is toxic to dogs!
- Frosted Cheerios – Too much sugar
- Multi-grain Cheerios – Contains sugary coating
- Any variety with nuts (especially almonds) which can cause digestive upset
I once gave my dog a few Honey Nut Cheerios as a treat, and she loved them! But I’m careful to keep it very occasional and in tiny amounts.
Benefits of Cheerios for Dogs (Limited as They Are)
While Cheerios aren’t nutritionally necessary for your pup there are a few situations where they might come in handy
- Low-calorie training treats – Especially good for overweight dogs
- Convenient, non-messy snack – Easy to carry in a pocket for walks
- Alternative to high-fat treats – Cheerios are low in fat and calories
Risks and Considerations
Before you start sharing your cereal with your four-legged friend consider these potential issues
1. Wheat Allergies
Cheerios contain wheat, which is one of the most common allergens for dogs. Watch for signs of allergic reactions like:
- Itching
- Digestive upset
- Ear infections
- Excessive paw licking
2. Skip the Milk!
Never give your dog Cheerios with milk. Many dogs are lactose intolerant, which can lead to:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach discomfort
3. Empty Calories
Dogs need a high-energy diet with proper nutrition. Cheerios provide:
- Minimal nutritional value
- Carbohydrates without sufficient protein
- Empty calories that could lead to weight gain
How Many Cheerios Can Dogs Eat?
The 10% rule is handy here: treats (including Cheerios) should make up less than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
For perspective, here’s roughly how many plain Cheerios different sized dogs might have as an occasional treat:
| Dog Size | Approximate Weight | Max Cheerios (Pieces) |
|---|---|---|
| Small | Under 20 lbs | 5-10 |
| Medium | 20-50 lbs | 10-20 |
| Large | Over 50 lbs | 20-30 |
Remember, these aren’t daily allowances but occasional treats!
Better Alternatives to Cheerios for Dogs
While Cheerios aren’t harmful, there are better options for treats that actually benefit your dog:
- Bran flakes – More nutritional value than Cheerios
- Fresh fruits like blueberries or small apple pieces (no seeds)
- Vegetables like carrots or green beans
- Commercial dog treats specifically formulated for canine nutrition
- Small pieces of lean meat (unseasoned)
When to Avoid Giving Your Dog Cheerios
There are some situations where even plain Cheerios might not be appropriate:
- If your dog has a known grain or wheat allergy
- If your dog is on a specialized diet for medical reasons
- If your dog is prone to obesity
- If your dog has diabetes (due to the carbohydrate content)
Real Talk: Are Cheerios Worth It?
I’ll be honest – while Cheerios are technically safe, they’re not doing your dog any favors nutritionally. They’re essentially filler. Dogs thrive on high-quality protein and healthy fats, not processed grains.
That being said, I’ve definitely used plain Cheerios in a pinch for training sessions when I’ve run out of proper treats. The main advantage is that they’re convenient, dry, and dogs seem to like the taste and crunch.
Signs Your Dog Might Not Tolerate Cheerios Well
If you’ve given your dog Cheerios and notice any of these symptoms, discontinue immediately and consult your vet:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Excessive scratching or itching
- Ear infections
- Gas or bloating
- Changes in energy levels or behavior
FAQs About Dogs and Cheerios
Can puppies eat Cheerios?
Yes, puppies can have a few plain Cheerios occasionally. They make good training treats because they’re small and low in calories. However, puppies need proper nutrition for growth, so limit treats of any kind.
Can dogs eat Cheerios every day?
No, dogs should not eat Cheerios daily. While not harmful in small amounts, they provide little nutritional value and could displace more nutritious foods in your dog’s diet.
Are Cheerios good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Not particularly. Dogs with sensitive digestive systems often do better with simple, whole foods rather than processed grains. Some dogs may tolerate them well, while others might experience digestive upset.
Can diabetic dogs have Cheerios?
It’s best to avoid giving Cheerios to diabetic dogs due to the carbohydrate content, which can affect blood sugar levels. Always consult with your veterinarian about appropriate treats for diabetic dogs.
Can dogs with wheat allergies eat Cheerios?
No, dogs with wheat allergies should not eat Cheerios, as they contain wheat ingredients that could trigger an allergic reaction.
Bottom Line: Cheerios Are OK But Not Great
To sum it all up, plain Cheerios won’t harm your dog in small amounts, but they’re not particularly beneficial either. They’re essentially empty calories that don’t contribute to your dog’s nutritional needs.
If you do decide to share a few Cheerios with your pup:
- Stick to plain varieties
- Keep portions very small
- Never add milk
- Consider them an occasional treat, not a regular part of your dog’s diet
We all want what’s best for our furry friends, and sometimes that means finding healthier alternatives to human foods they might beg for. While those puppy eyes might be hard to resist when you’re enjoying your morning cereal, your dog will be much better off with treats specifically designed for their nutritional needs.
At the end of the day, I always try to remember that my dog depends on me to make the best choices for her health, even when she thinks she wants what I’m eating!
Have you ever shared Cheerios with your dog? How did they react? I’d love to hear your experiences!
Can dogs eat Cheerios safely?
Dogs can eat Cheerios without getting sick in most cases, but you should probably feed your dog something else instead if you want to give him a treat.
“Cheerios are a fortified cereal marketed as a healthy breakfast option, but they are not something we should be offering our dog,” Dr. Simon told The Dodo. “While you don’t need to panic if your dog steals some from the floor, they should not be routinely offered as a treat or snack.”
While Cheerios might not be the best option for your dog, giving him a small amount every once in a while isn’t out of the question.
“If your dog craves Cheerios and you’re keen to give them as a ‘sometimes’ treat, limit the amount given to just a quarter of a cup a week for a medium-sized dog,” Dr. Simon said. “You could put them inside a food puzzle, such as a KONG, so that they’ll last longer.”
We tried out a KONG slow feeder on our own dogs, and they loved it.
That being said, there’s a chance your dog won’t even like Cheerios if you try to give him some.
“Dogs do not generally tend to gravitate towards sugary foods, and most will prefer savory and meaty treats if given the choice,” Dr. Simon said. “So, while you may be a fan of cereal, there are likely other foods your dog prefers.”
Buddy Biscuits might be the most adorable treats ever — our own dogs tried them out and fell in love.
Here’s the thing
If Cheerios are your go-to cereal, you’ve probably wondered if you can toss some your dog’s way.
But are Cheerios even safe for dogs to eat?
The Dodo spoke with Dr. Linda Simon, a veterinary surgeon and consultant for Five Barks, to find out if your pup can snack on Cheerios.