How to Cook Oatmeal for Dogs
Delicious & Healthy Oatmeal for Dogs: A Simple, Heartwarming Treat!
When cooking oatmeal for dogs, it’s important to know that oatmeal is a great choice for dogs dealing with gastrointestinal issues. It’s easy to prepare, and with the right portion size, it can make a delicious snack or even a breakfast. The best part is that you can keep it plain or customize it with ingredients like berries or an egg for added protein. If your dog is on a hypoallergenic diet, oatmeal is a safe option, and you can get creative with variations and substitutions that fit your dog’s needs. However, avoiding unhealthy ingredients or too much sugar is essential, as that could be harmful.
I love cooking for my dog, and it brings me joy to share something special like this with her. In my kitchen, I enjoy experimenting with different combinations. Whether I cook it in the microwave or on the stove, it’s an easy, satisfying meal. One of my favorite moments is when I give her a little bowl of warm oatmeal with a few treats on top while we relax in the family room after a long walk. It’s an experience that strengthens the bond we share, creating those moments of love and attachment.
Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice for Your Dog
A Wholesome and Heart-Healthy Treat:
Making oatmeal for your dog is a great way to provide a nutritious and heart-healthy meal. It’s especially beneficial for older dogs or those with a sensitive belly, as it helps improve digestion and provides a gentle, soothing meal.
Nutritional Benefits of Oatmeal:
Oatmeal is packed with:
- High fiber—Supports digestion and helps with weight management.
- Minerals like iron and zinc—essential for overall health.
- B vitamins—Promotes a healthy coat and skin.
Easy and Time-Saving Meal Option:
- Suitable for senior dogs or dogs of all ages.
- Can be made ahead and stored for multiple meals.
- Instant oats offer a quick and easy solution.
How to Serve Oatmeal to Your Dog:
- Add a spoonful of plain cooked oats to their food.
- Helps with weight management and satiety.
- Avoid harmful ingredients like raisins or sugar.
A Quick, Healthy, and Satisfying Meal:
In just a few minutes, you can prepare a nutritious meal that will leave your dog feeling full and satisfied while supporting their digestive health.
Can Dogs Safely Eat Oatmeal?
Proper Preparation Matters:
When wondering if dogs can eat oatmeal, the key is how it’s prepared. Cooked oats can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet, but raw oatmeal should be avoided as it can be difficult to digest and may cause an upset stomach.
Benefits of Oatmeal for Dogs:
- Rich in fiber—Helps soothe gastrointestinal issues, especially in dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Good for active dogs— Provides energy but should be given in small amounts to prevent weight gain.
How to Serve Oatmeal Safely:
- Ensure it’s plain—no added sugar, butter, or xylitol.
- Avoid excessive portions—oatmeal is high in carbohydrates, so moderation is key.
Choosing the Right Oatmeal Snacks:
- Pet-safe treats like Country Vet Naturals or Hill’s Natural Fruity Snacks are good options.
- Treats should only make up 10% of their diet, with the rest being well-balanced dog food.
Ingredients for Dog Oatmeal
Oats and Water:
Start with old-fashioned rolled oats or quick-cooking oats, but I recommend using old-fashioned rolled oats for a better texture. You’ll need 1 part oats to 2 cups water or 1 cup oats to 2 cups water for the right consistency.
Applesauce and Bananas:
Add 1/4 cup applesauce (unsweetened) to sweeten the mix without any added sugar. You can also add bananas—just mash bananas with some clumps remaining for texture.
Flour and Flavoring:
To enhance the flavor and give it a special touch, sprinkle in a dash of cinnamon and include a bit of almond flour (about 1/3 cup) and coconut flour (around 1/4 cup) for some extra fiber. Keep it simple and skip any extra flavoring, salt, or sugar that would harm your pup.
Organic Options and Water:
If you prefer a more natural approach, organic oats are great. If you want to follow a recipe, printable recipe cards can help measure ingredients. Remember to use clean faucet water when preparing the oatmeal for your dog.
These measurements will give you a perfect bowl of oatmeal your pup will enjoy, providing them with a healthy and tasty treat that’s safe and nutritious.
Cooking Oatmeal for Your Dog
Preparing Oatmeal on the Stovetop
Cooking oatmeal for your dog is simple and a great addition to their diet. First, in a medium pot, bring 2 1/2 cups of water to a boil over high heat. Once it’s boiling, stir in the oats, either quick-cooking oats or old-fashioned oatmeal. If you’re using steel-cut oats, you’ll need to cook them longer, about 25 to 30 minutes, over low heat. Stir the mixture every few minutes to prevent it from sticking or burning. After the oatmeal thickens and the oats have absorbed the water, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 to 10 minutes.
Using the Microwave
For a quicker option, you can use a microwave-safe bowl and cook instant oats with 1 1/2 cups of water for about 1 minute or 1/2 to 2 minutes. Make sure the oatmeal is fully absorbed and has thickened. Never serve it hot as it can burn your dog’s mouth—let it cool to room temperature. You can then mix in some dog-friendly mix-ins like mashed banana or a dash of cinnamon for flavor, but avoid harmful ingredients like raisins, xylitol, or sugar-free sweeteners that are toxic to dogs. Always check with your vet before adding new foods to your pet’s food routine.
Flavorful Mix-ins for your dog Oatmeal
Add Natural Sweetness with Fruit:
Enhance your dog’s oatmeal by stirring in healthy fruits like:
- Apple, banana, or pear—adds natural sweetness.
- Blueberries, raspberries, or strawberries provide a nutrient boost.
Boost Texture and Flavor:
- Pumpkin or plain pumpkin puree—Creates a rich, smooth texture.
- Chia, flax, or sunflower seeds add a crunchy, nutrient-dense element.
Safe and Tasty Seasonings:
- Cinnamon, ginger, and rosemary—Enhance flavor safely.
Important Considerations:
- Avoid artificial sweeteners and added sugars.
- Use unsweetened applesauce for a healthy alternative.
How Much Oatmeal to Feed Your Dog
Serving Sizes Based on Weight:
The amount of oatmeal your dog can eat depends on body weight:
- Extra-Small Dogs (2–20 lbs) – 1 to 2 teaspoons, twice per week.
- Small Dogs (21–30 lbs) – 1 to 2 tablespoons, twice per week.
- Medium Dogs (31–50 lbs) – Up to 1/4 cup, twice per week.
- Large Dogs (51–90 lbs) – Up to 1/2 cup, twice per week.
- Extra-Large Dogs (91+ lbs) – Up to 2/3 cup, twice per week.
Consider Dietary Needs:
- Smaller breeds like Pugs, Chihuahuas, Basenjis, and Pomeranians require smaller amounts.
- Larger breeds like Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and Australian Shepherds may need slightly more.
- Too much fiber can cause digestive upset, so always start with a small portion.
Consult Your Vet:
Since every dog has unique dietary needs, check with your vet before adding oatmeal to your dog’s diet to ensure it’s a safe and beneficial choice.
How to Store and Reheat Oatmeal for Your Dog
Refrigeration for Short-Term Storage:
- Store cooked oatmeal in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage:
- Freeze oatmeal for up to 3 months for extended storage.
- Portion the oatmeal into an ice cube tray before freezing.
- Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe container or plastic freezer bag.
Serving and Reheating Instructions:
- Thaw in the fridge or serve as a frozen treat.
- To reheat, microwave in 15-second increments until slightly warm.
- If too thick, thin with water, but ensure it’s not too hot to prevent burning your dog’s mouth.
Important Notes for Feeding Oatmeal to Your Dog
- Adjust the oatmeal portion size based on your dog’s weight (e.g., 12 lbs = 2 tbsp of oatmeal).
- Quick-cooking oats cook faster than regular oats, so adjust the cooking time.
- Ensure oatmeal is not too thick by adding a little water if needed.
- Avoid sugar, as it can cause gastrointestinal issues in dogs.
- Keep sodium content under 1 mg per serving for a healthy meal.
- Let the oatmeal cool before serving to prevent burning your dog’s mouth.
- If refrigerated, oatmeal may harden—stir in a teaspoon of water and microwave to soften.
- Consult your vet before adding oatmeal to your dog’s diet.
- Oatmeal provides iron, potassium, calcium, and healthy fats & protein for your dog’s well-being.
How to Cook Oatmeal for Dogs (FAQs.)
Q. Can dogs have porridge?
Ans: Yes! Making porridge (oats) for dogs isn’t much different than making it for yourself. It’s made with water, not milk, and cooked on the stove until the oats have absorbed the liquid.
Q. Can dogs have raw oatmeal?
Ans: No. Do not feed your dog raw oats; it is quite difficult for them to digest.
Q. How do I store leftover oatmeal?
Ans: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
Q. How long will oatmeal last?
Ans: Cooked oats will last about 5 days.
Q. Can I freeze cooked oats for dogs?
Ans: Yes! I like to freeze it in mini muffin pans. Then pop them out and store them in a zip-top freezer bag. You can take out a little at a time without having to thaw an entire container.
