Usually, people think of oats and oatmeal as similar. But, there is a difference between them. Oats are a cylindrical grain, whereas oatmeal is rolled and cut oats. They are unprocessed and raw and hence are difficult to cook. Oats must be soaked in water before cooking. In comparison, oatmeal is an instant and ready-to-cook food. Now that we know the difference between oats and oatmeal, let us ask the question can dogs eat oats?
From the introduction, it is evident that oats are unprocessed, raw, and difficult to eat. It is mainly fed to livestock. But when it comes to dogs, the question remains unanswered, can dogs eat oats? The answer is a resounding Yes! Dogs can eat oats, but they can not be raw. Cook oats completely before serving your dog and add some protein like egg or meat along with it. Or it can also be fed as just a snack to your dog.
Which Is Better: Oats Or Oatmeal?
Oats in themselves are a great choice. But when it comes to deciding between whole grain oats and rolled and cut oats, i.e., oatmeal, oatmeal is a better choice. Raw oats require soaking before cooking. They need more time to cook than oatmeal. Oats should not be eaten raw. But with oatmeal, they are instant and can be cooked quickly in just a few minutes. Remember not to feed your pup raw oats. Raw oats can upset your dog’s stomach badly. Always make sure to cook oats before serving them to your pup.
Are Oats Good For My Dog?
When adding a little different taste to your dog’s everyday meals, oats are just fine. But do not overpower oats in regular meals. Oats contain proteins, soluble fibers, which help solve digestive issues faced by older dogs. Along with it, oats also contain Vitamin B6 and iron, and they have low gluten. So, they are suitable for dogs that have wheat allergies.
Are Oats Bad For My Dog?
Anything and everything that is not given in moderation are wrong. Oats have many benefits. So, make sure to provide whole grain oats, not the packaged ones. Packaged oats can have many preservatives like sugar or salt that are very bad for a dog’s digestion.
Benefits Of Oats
We all know that oats have many benefits for human health. But is it valid for dogs as well? Can dogs eat oats, and will oats provide any benefits to them? Let us answer these questions below.
Oats contain Vitamin A, B Vitamins, Phosphorus, Zinc, Iron, Calcium, Copper, and Magnesium. They are high in fiber, nutrients, minerals, and antioxidants.
Oats contain linoleic acid, which is an omega-6-fatty acid. This omega-6-fatty acid helps to improve your dog’s skin.
Beta-glucan is present in oats which is a fiber said to improve heart health. A study conducted shows that 14 dogs supplemented with oat beta-glucan for 71 days had shown reduced total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
Oats have soluble fibers, which are very good at regulating bowel movement and blood glucose levels.
So, oats help improve skin health, digestion, bowel movements, blood glucose level, and cholesterol levels.
Risks Of Feeding Your Pup Oats
There are, as such, no significant risks involved. But anything, when mishandled, can cause problems. Similarly, if you feed your lovey-dovey pup more than the required amount of oats, it may cause digestive issues. But do not worry. Just consult your vet if this happens. Oats, when cooked, should be boiled in water, not in milk. Lactose intolerant dogs may face problems when cooked in milk. And also, many dogs cannot digest lactose properly.
-Do not serve raw oats. It may upset your dog’s stomach.
-Do not serve oats with any preservatives, seasonings, or additives that you find tasty.
-Serve your dog whole grain oats rather than processed oats.
-Do not overfeed oats to your dog. Usually, a tablespoon of oats is enough for a 25-pound dog.
-Always maintain a balanced diet for your pup and provide an egg or some meat along with the oats.
A Few Major Questions About Serving Oats
When it comes to serving anything for your four-legged friend, many questions may arise. Below are a few of the many questions answered.
Can Dogs Eat Oats Raw?
No! Strictly avoid giving your dog raw oats. Raw oats are hard to digest and hence can be bad for your dog’s stomach. It will upset your dog’s stomach, and your dog can face digestive problems.
What Will Happen If My Dog Ate Raw Oats?
In case you gave your dog raw oats, or your pup snatched those raw oats from your hand. Pay attention to your dog’s behavioral, bowel, or urinal changes. See if your dog is suffering from diarrhea, vomiting, or any other unusual behavior. If so, immediately consult your veterinarian.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Oats?
Yes! Always choose to cook oats properly before serving them to your dog. As said above, raw oats can be difficult for a dog to digest. So, the best way to serve oats to your dogs is to cook the oats.
Can Dogs Eat Oats With Milk?
No! Dogs are sensitive to dairy products. Dogs are mostly lactose intolerant. If you feed your dog with dairy products, then there is a high chance that you are messing with his stomach. Cook oats in water instead of milk and serve him a tasty dish.
Can Dogs Eat Rolled Oats?
Rolled oats are nothing but oatmeal, and oatmeal is the best way to feed oats to your pup. If you want to provide your canine with oats, I suggest you opt first with oatmeal. Oatmeal has many nutritious values in it, and your dog will enjoy having it.
How To Cook Oatmeal For Your Dogs/Oatmeal For Dogs Recipe
As said many times above, cooked oats are better than raw ones. So here is a quick, easy way to serve oats to your dog.
Always make sure to cook oats in water, not in milk. Cook until oats are soaked thoroughly in the water. Serve it as it is or with some peanut butter (with no sugar additives), cinnamon, or dog-friendly fruits. Dogs always tend to love peanut butter. Therefore, you can top your prepared oats dish with it. Or add some cinnamon which is an anti-inflammatory agent, to give flavor to your dish. You can even serve with a few dog-friendly fruits.
Apart from this, remember your dog needs more proteins than you might assume. So, always give them a balanced diet. Do not always serve your dogs oats. When served once a week or so, oats are okay but do not make them a part of your dog’s daily diet.
Serve up some proteins like egg, meat, chicken, or any other protein (excluding dairy) along with it.
Conclusion
Oats overall is an excellent food to add to the list of foods that are good for your dog. Serving an adequate amount of oats, not more than once a week, is okay. Oats when cooked, and not seasoned, are better than raw or seasoned oats.
