What Kind of Oats Can Dogs Eat? A Complete Guide for Pet Parents

Ever looked at your morning oatmeal and wondered if your furry friend could share in this healthy breakfast? I’ve been there too! As a dog parent who’s always looking for nutritious additions to my pup’s diet, I’ve researched everything about feeding oats to dogs. The good news? Dogs can absolutely enjoy oats! But not all types are created equal, and there are some important things you need to know before serving up this grain to your canine companion

The Quick Answer: Yes, Dogs Can Eat Oats!

Dogs can safely eat most types of oats when properly prepared Oats provide numerous health benefits for our four-legged friends, but knowing which types are best and how to serve them is crucial for your dog’s health and happiness

Types of Oats Safe for Dogs

Let’s break down the different types of oats and whether they’re appropriate for your pup

Steel-Cut Oats

• Safe for dogs? Yes
• Preparation needed: Must be cooked thoroughly
• Digestibility: Takes longer to cook but breaks down well when prepared properly
• Best for: Dogs who need a slower-digesting carbohydrate

Steel-cut oats have been chopped into smaller pieces with a steel cutter. They take longer to cook than other varieties but are less processed and retain more nutrients.

Rolled Oats (Old-Fashioned Oats)

• Safe for dogs? Yes
• Preparation needed: Must be cooked
• Digestibility: Easier to digest than steel-cut
• Best for: Most dogs, including seniors

Rolled oats have been steamed and flattened, making them cook faster and digest easier than steel-cut varieties. These are a great option for most dogs and are what many people mean when they refer to “oatmeal.”

Quick Oats

• Safe for dogs? Yes
• Preparation needed: Cooked
• Digestibility: Very easy to digest
• Best for: Dogs with sensitive stomachs

Quick oats are rolled oats that have been cut into smaller pieces, allowing them to cook even faster. They’re perfectly safe for dogs when prepared properly.

Instant Oats

• Safe for dogs? Only if plain with no additives
• Warning: Most commercial instant oatmeal contains sugar, salt, and other additives
• Recommendation: Avoid flavored varieties completely

While the oats themselves are technically safe, most instant oatmeal products contain added sugar, salt, and other ingredients that aren’t good for dogs. If you must use instant oats, ensure they’re completely plain with no additives.

Raw Oats

• Safe for dogs? No
• Why avoid: Difficult to digest and may cause stomach upset
• Recommendation: Always cook oats before feeding to dogs

Even though raw oats aren’t toxic, they’re extremely difficult for dogs to digest and can cause gastrointestinal upset. Always cook oats before serving them to your pup.

Health Benefits of Oats for Dogs

When fed properly, oats offer several health benefits for our canine companions:

1. Rich in soluble fiber – Helps regulate blood glucose levels and supports healthy digestion
2. Contains vitamin B – Promotes a healthy coat
3. Source of linoleic acid (omega-6 fatty acid) – Maintains skin strength and health
4. Gluten-free – Great alternative carbohydrate for dogs sensitive to wheat or other grains
5. Helps regulate bowel movements – Beneficial for dogs with irregular digestion
6. Contains minerals like iron and zinc – Supports overall health
7. Rich in antioxidants – Supports immune system function

Dr. Carly Fox of the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center notes that oatmeal “is a great alternative carbohydrate for dogs that may be sensitive to wheat or grains.”

When Oats Could Be Bad for Dogs

Despite the benefits, there are situations when oats might not be appropriate:

Medical Conditions

• Dogs with diabetes should avoid oatmeal as it may raise blood sugar levels
• Dogs with grain allergies may have reactions to oats
• Always consult your vet before introducing oats if your dog has health conditions

Preparation Problems

• Flavored oatmeal – Contains harmful ingredients like sugar, chocolate, nutmeg, raisins, or artificial sweeteners
• Milk-based preparation – Can cause digestive issues as many dogs are lactose intolerant
• Oatmeal with toppings – Ingredients like chocolate, raisins, and xylitol are toxic to dogs

Quantity Concerns

• Too much fiber can lead to gas, bloating, diarrhea, or vomiting
• Oats are high in carbohydrates and calories – overfeeding can lead to weight gain

How Much Oatmeal Can Dogs Eat?

Moderation is key when feeding oats to your dog. Here’s a general guideline based on your dog’s weight:

A good rule of thumb is one tablespoon of cooked oatmeal for every 20 pounds of your dog’s weight. And remember, oatmeal should never replace your dog’s regular balanced diet – it should be an occasional treat or supplement.

How to Serve Oatmeal to Your Dog

Follow these tips for safely preparing oats for your canine friend:

1. Cook with water, not milk – Dogs often have trouble digesting lactose
2. Serve plain – No sugar, salt, butter, or flavorings
3. Always cook thoroughly – Never serve raw or uncooked oats
4. Serve at room temperature – Hot oatmeal can burn your dog’s mouth
5. Start with small amounts – Introduce gradually to see how your dog responds
6. Mix with regular food – Sprinkle a small amount over their regular meal

If your pup isn’t excited about plain oatmeal, you can add dog-safe fruits like blueberries or mashed banana in small quantities.

DIY Oatmeal Treats for Dogs

Want to get creative? Try these simple oat-based treats for your pup:

• Basic Oatmeal Treats: Mix cooked oats with a little peanut butter (xylitol-free) and form into small balls
• Oat and Banana Biscuits: Combine cooked oats, mashed banana, and a little peanut butter, form into cookies and bake until firm
• Oatmeal Topper: Sprinkle a small amount of cooked, cooled oatmeal over your dog’s regular food

FAQ About Dogs and Oats

Can dogs have oat milk?

Yes, in small quantities. Ensure it doesn’t contain added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Because of its high fiber content, start with a small amount and see how your dog responds.

Are oats or rice better for dogs?

Both are good options. Oats contain more fiber and beneficial minerals like linoleic acid, which supports skin and coat health. However, some dogs may digest rice more easily.

Can dogs eat oatmeal cookies made for humans?

No, human oatmeal cookies typically contain sugar, butter, and potentially harmful ingredients like chocolate, raisins, or nuts. These can be toxic to dogs.

How often can dogs eat oatmeal?

Oatmeal should be an occasional treat, not a daily food. One to two times per week is plenty for most dogs.

Will oatmeal help my dog’s itchy skin?

The linoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids in oats can help support healthy skin, but if your dog has persistent skin issues, consult your veterinarian, as this could indicate an underlying condition.

The Bottom Line on Oats for Dogs

Oats can be a healthy, nutritious addition to your dog’s diet when prepared correctly and fed in moderation. Remember these key points:

• Steel-cut, rolled, and quick oats are all safe when cooked properly
• Always cook oats before serving to your dog
• Avoid flavored instant oatmeal and any oats with additives
• Serve plain, cooked with water, and at room temperature
• Start with small amounts and watch for any digestive issues
• Consult your vet before making dietary changes, especially if your dog has health conditions

By following these guidelines, you can safely share the benefits of oats with your furry friend. My dog Bella absolutely loves her occasional oatmeal treat, and I love knowing I’m giving her something that’s both tasty and healthy!