Can dogs eat porridge?

Quick takeaways about porridge for dogs

• Oats are a good source of fibre for dogs and might help with diarrhea.
• They should be cooked first, as raw oats are difficult to digest.
• Porridge for dogs should be made with water, not milk, and only plain oats.

 

A hearty bowl of porridge can be a great wayfor us pet parents to start the das. A healthy source of soluble fibre, oats are great at filling us up, giving us energy and keeping our heart health in check.

If you’re wondering whether dogs can also enjoy porridge, the answer is yes – in small amounts. While the oats themselves can have some nutritional benefits for dogs, you’ll need to skip the milk and opt for water when preparing their porridge.

Oatmeal made with sugar or salt is also a no-no, so it’s unlikely you’ll be able to share your own breakfast with your pooch.

Instant porridge or any pre-packaged oats that contain extra ingredients should be avoided, too. If you’re still keen to feed your dog porridge, read on to find out more.

 

Is porridge safe for dogs to eat?

Porridge made with plain oats and water is safe for most dogs to eat in moderation. In fact, oats are sometimes used to bulk out commercial dog foods.

But beware of flavoured and instant porridge, which aren’t safe for your dog and could contain toxic ingredients, like xylitol.

It’s worth noting that dogs don’t really need human food, so it’s best to opt for a healthy, complete and balanced diet – like our raw meal plans.

 

What nutritional benefits does porridge have?

Fibre is important for your dog’s digestion, and dog-friendly porridge made with oats is a good natural source – as are fresh fruits and veg.

They’re also a source of complex carbohydrate – which is essential for energy – as well as protein and antioxidants.

Just bear in mind that porridge itself isn’t a complete and balanced meal for your dog and should only be used to provide additional nutrients on top of their usual food.

 

How should I serve porridge to my dog?

You can either make ‘overnight oats’ by soaking oats in water overnight, or cook your porridge by warming oats and water in a pan – just like you’d make your own, minus the milk.

Raw oats can cause stomach upsets, so soaking or cooking the oats will make them easier for your dog to digest while retaining all the nutrients. Don’t add any salt, sugar or other ingredients, and make sure you let it cool down fully before serving.

 

How much porridge should I feed my dog?

As with any dietary changes, introducing porridge to your dog’s diet should be done gradually – particularly as oats are rich in fibre. Speak to your vet to find out how much porridge they can tolerate, as the amount will come down to their size and weight.

As a general guide though, we’re talking up to one tablespoon for every 9kg they weigh, rather than a whole bowl.

And if your dog is on a complete and balanced diet, bear in mind they don’t actually need to eat it, so it can just be fed as a treat.

 

Is it true that porridge can be good for dogs with tummy troubles?

Experts sometimes recommend porridge for dogs suffering from diarrhea. The oats help to absorb fluids and bulk out the stools so they’re less watery.

It’s also easy to digest, much like cooked plain white rice. Always speak to your vet if you’re concerned about your dog’s diarrhea though, as you’ll need to work out the cause before deciding on the best treatment.

 

Are there any dogs that should avoid porridge?

While it’s rare, some dogs are allergic to oats, so it’s always best to chat to your vet before making dietary changes.

 

Feeding dogs porridge FAQs

Can I make my dog’s porridge with milk?

No – avoid making your dog’s porridge with milk, and opt for water instead.

Can I use instant porridge for my dog if it’s all I have available?

Unless your instant porridge has no additional ingredients beyond oats, avoid feeding it to your dog.

The additional ingredients could upset your dog’s stomach or even be toxic to them, and much of the nutritional value will have been lost in the processing of the oats.

If you’re looking for something bland for a dog with diarrhea, try plain boiled rice instead.

 

Is porridge the same as oatmeal?

While terms are used pretty much interchangeably, but ‘porridge’ is the most-used term in the UK. Having said that, not all porridge is made from oats – so always read the packaging and check the ingredients carefully.

 
Try our personalised meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients, including plenty of proteins and vitamins to help keep your dog’s skin healthy.