How To Cook Oatmeal for Dogs

Did you know oatmeal isn’t just a breakfast staple for humans? It can also be a nutritious addition to your pup’s diet. 

Rich in fiber and essential nutrients, oatmeal is easy to prepare and can benefit your dog in a variety of ways, from promoting healthy digestion to supporting skin and coat health. But before you start whipping up a bowl for your dog, it’s important to know how to cook oatmeal properly and safely for dogs.

This article will explore whether dogs can eat oatmeal, how to make it in a way they’ll love, and even how to use oatmeal in soothing baths for irritated skin. Whether you’re looking to add variety to your dog’s meals or seeking a natural remedy for skin issues, oatmeal might just be the perfect solution. 

Along with high-quality, human-grade fresh dog food like the food from A Pup Above, oatmeal can help make sure your pup is happy and healthy. 

Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal? Is It Good for Them?

The short answer is yes, dogs can eat oatmeal. When served in moderation, it can be a healthy addition to their diet. 

Oatmeal is packed with soluble fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain regular bowel movements, making it especially beneficial for dogs with gastrointestinal issues. The fiber content also promotes gut health, which supports the overall well-being of your dog.

Along with fiber, oatmeal is rich in essential nutrients like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, which contribute to your dog’s energy levels, support a healthy coat, and maintain skin health. The B vitamins, in particular, are crucial for metabolism and energy production. In other words, they’re what your dog needs to stay active and alert.

All that said, it’s important to remember that while oatmeal is nutritious, it should be given in moderation. Too much oatmeal can lead to weight gain due to its carbohydrate content. Also, some dogs might have sensitivities or allergies to grains, so it’s important to introduce oatmeal gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

How Can You Cook Oatmeal Your Dog Will Love?

Cooking oatmeal for your dog is easy, and with a few simple steps, you can prepare a meal or treat that your pup will love. 

Here’s how to make oatmeal, a tasty and nutritious snack for your dog:

Basic Oatmeal Recipe

Start with plain, unsweetened oats (steel-cut, rolled, and quick oats all work well). Make sure to avoid flavored or instant varieties that often contain added sugars or preservatives. 

1. Measure the Oats: Use about 1/2 cup of dry oats, which will yield a substantial portion for a medium-sized dog when cooked.
   
   
2. Cook in Water: Boil one cup of water, then add the oats. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the oats have absorbed the water and become soft. It’s important to cook the oats thoroughly to guarantee they’re easy to digest. Avoid using milk because dairy can upset some dogs’ stomachs.
   
   
3. Cool Before Serving: Allow the oatmeal to cool completely before serving it to your dog. Hot oatmeal can burn your dog’s mouth, so make sure to give it to them once it’s reached a safe temperature.

Flavor Additions

To make the oatmeal even more appealing, you can add dog-safe, natural flavors that also boost its nutritional value. 

Some of the ingredients you can add to flavor your pup’s oatmeal include:

• Blueberries: Rich in antioxidants, blueberries add a burst of flavor and nutrition.
  
  
• Pumpkin: Given that it’s packed with fiber and easy on the stomach, pumpkin is great for digestion.
  
  
• Peanut Butter: A small dollop of natural, unsalted peanut butter can make the oatmeal irresistible. Just ensure it’s free of xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.

Serving Ideas

Oatmeal can be served in a variety of ways. You can incorporate oatmeal into your dog’s diet in one of the following ways. 

• As a Meal Topper: Mix a spoonful of oatmeal into your dog’s regular food to add variety and extra nutrition.
  
  
• Standalone Meal: Serve the oatmeal on its own as a special breakfast or snack.
  
  
• Treats: Shape cooled oatmeal into small balls or use it as a base for DIY dog treats.

Remember to adjust the portion size based on your dog’s size and dietary needs. While oatmeal is nutritious, it’s also rich in carbohydrates, so it should be given in moderation to prevent weight gain. With these simple steps, you can prepare oatmeal that your dog will enjoy while reaping the health benefits.

Why Is Oatmeal Good for Dogs?

Oatmeal is a nutritious and versatile food that offers several benefits for dogs, which is why it’s a great addition to their diet when prepared properly. One of the primary reasons oatmeal is good for dogs is its high soluble fiber content. 

As mentioned, fiber plays a crucial role in promoting healthy digestion by regulating bowel movements and maintaining gut health. This is particularly beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those experiencing gastrointestinal issues.

Also, oatmeal is rich in essential nutrients that support your dog’s overall health. It contains important minerals like iron and magnesium, which are vital for maintaining energy levels, supporting the immune system, and ensuring proper muscle and nerve function. 

Another advantage of oatmeal is its ability to provide a slow-release source of energy. The carbohydrates in oatmeal are slowly digested, which can help your dog feel full longer and maintain stable energy levels throughout the day. This makes it an excellent option for active dogs who need sustained energy.

Perhaps most importantly, oatmeal is gentle on the stomach, making it a suitable choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. It’s also low in fat and cholesterol.

What Are Oatmeal Baths for Dogs? 

Oatmeal baths are a soothing and natural remedy for dogs with itchy, irritated, or dry skin. This treatment involves soaking your dog in a bath infused with finely ground oatmeal, which helps to calm the skin and provide relief from discomfort caused by conditions like allergies, eczema, or insect bites.

Oatmeal contains anti-inflammatory properties and acts as a natural moisturizer, making it effective at reducing redness, irritation, and itching. The key component in oatmeal, avenanthramides, helps to reduce inflammation and discomfort, while the saponins in oatmeal gently cleanse the skin and remove dirt and oil.

To prepare an oatmeal bath for your dog, start by grinding plain, uncooked oats into a fine powder using a blender or food processor. Fill your bathtub or a large basin with warm water and sprinkle the ground oats into the water, stirring to ensure they are fully dissolved. 

Place your dog in the bath and gently pour the oatmeal-infused water over their coat, massaging it into their skin. Allow your dog to soak for about 10 to 15 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with clean water.

Wrapping Up

Incorporating oatmeal into your dog’s routine, whether through their diet or soothing baths, can offer numerous health benefits. From supporting digestion and providing essential nutrients to relieving itchy skin, oatmeal is a versatile, natural option for maintaining your dog’s overall well-being. 

Always ensure the oatmeal is prepared safely, and consult your vet before introducing new foods or treatments. With proper use, oatmeal can be a valuable addition to your dog’s care regimen when served along with human-grade dog food like the kibble from A Pup Above.

Sources:

Paws Off Xylitol; It's Dangerous for Dogs | FDA

Prevalence of common canine digestive problems compared with other health problems in teaching veterinary hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt | NIH

Atopic dermatitis (atopy) | Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine

Why Is My Dog So Itchy? Possible Causes & Treatment | American Kennel Club