Incorporating cooked oatmeal into your dog’s diet can be a beneficial choice for their overall health. It’s advisable to choose plain oatmeal varieties made with water rather than milk, and gradually increase the serving size to monitor your dog's tolerance levels effectively. Oatmeal is widely recognized as a popular breakfast item, celebrated for its adaptability and numerous health advantages. Additionally, it has gained traction as an ingredient in various commercial dog food products. While oatmeal is generally considered safe for dogs, you might be curious about certain preparation methods and their health implications for your furry friend.

This article explores the question of whether dogs can — and should — include oatmeal in their diets.

Advantages

Oatmeal is incredibly nutrient-dense and has been linked to various health advantages.

Enhances skin health

Oats are packed with B vitamins and linoleic acid, a specific type of omega-6 fatty acid. B vitamins are crucial for maintaining skin health, as they contribute to the formation of healthy skin cells. In addition, linoleic acid is vital for skin health, aiding in the preservation of the skin barrier's integrity, facilitating wound healing, and reducing inflammation. Although these effects haven't been specifically studied in dogs, it is important to note that canine skin shares similarities with human skin.

Enhances digestive health

Oatmeal is abundant in fiber, providing over 4 grams of fiber per cooked serving (100 grams). Fiber is linked to numerous health benefits, particularly concerning digestive wellness. This nutrient travels slowly through the digestive system undigested, helping to add bulk to stool and support regular bowel movements. While research on dogs is limited, existing studies indicate that a higher fiber intake might be advantageous for alleviating constipation.

May assist in reducing cholesterol levels

If your dog suffers from elevated cholesterol due to metabolic or hereditary health issues, oatmeal could be beneficial. This is primarily because oats serve as a valuable source of beta glucan, a specific fiber associated with enhanced heart health. Research involving humans has demonstrated that oats can significantly lower cholesterol levels, particularly in individuals with high cholesterol.

Possible Side Effects

While oats serve as an excellent source of essential nutrients, it's important to remember that not all varieties are appropriate for your canine companion. Specifically, raw oats can pose challenges for digestion and might lead to stomach issues.

Additionally, flavored options should be avoided since they often come with high sugar content and may include harmful ingredients for dogs, such as chocolate, raisins, or xylitol (a sugar alcohol). It's also advisable to cook oats using water rather than milk, as many dogs struggle with lactose digestion. Moreover, introducing fiber into their diet too rapidly can lead to uncomfortable digestive reactions, such as gas or bloating.

To minimize the risk of adverse effects, it's suggested to gradually increase fiber intake by about 1–3 grams daily, accompanied by ample hydration. While oatmeal can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet, certain varieties may include components that are unsuitable and lead to digestive complications.

Are There Dog Foods That Include Oatmeal?

The American Kennel Club suggests that a typical guideline for feeding dogs is approximately one tablespoon (15 grams) of cooked oatmeal for every 20 pounds (9 kg) of their body weight. This makes it an excellent addition to their diet. Rich in soluble fiber, oatmeal has gained popularity and is frequently found in various commercial dog food products. This is particularly beneficial for pet owners whose dogs struggle with other grains like wheat, making oatmeal a preferred choice for sensitive stomachs.

Some notable dog food brands that incorporate oatmeal in their recipes include:

• Wellness Complete Health Deboned Chicken & Oatmeal Recipe
• Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Lamb & Oatmeal Formula
• Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula with Fish and Oatmeal
• Castor & Pollux ORGANIX Organic Chicken & Oatmeal Recipe
• Nutro Wholesome Essentials featuring Venison Meal, Brown Rice & Oatmeal

With a variety of commercial dog foods now including oatmeal, pet owners can easily find suitable options for their furry friends.

The Bottom Line

When prepared correctly, oatmeal can serve as a nutritious supplement to your dog's diet. It is essential to ensure that only cooked oatmeal is given to dogs, and you should choose plain varieties made with water, avoiding milk for better digestion. To effectively gauge your dog's tolerance, introduce oatmeal gradually into their meals. Nonetheless, it is crucial to remember that oatmeal should complement a well-rounded diet and should never replace commercial dog food Moreover, consulting your veterinarian is strongly advised before implementing any dietary changes, particularly if your dog has existing health issues.