Oatmeal cream pies are yummy for us and our dogs. Those snack cakes are a guilty pleasure. They have sweet creme filling between two soft oatmeal cookies. Your dog is no exception. And when your cute doggy looks longingly as you munch on one, it’s hard to resist sharing a bite with your furry pal. But is it safe for dogs to eat oatmeal cream pies? Let’s dig into the surprising truth.
Can Dogs Have Oatmeal Cream Pies?
A dog’s digestion is different from a human’s. We all know dogs have stomachs of steel, able to gulp down stuff that would make us run for the exits. But just because your dog can eat something, doesn’t mean they should. See, a dog’s digestive system isn’t designed to handle all the same foods as humans.
For us, a tasty oatmeal cream pie makes the perfect breakfast or snack. But for dogs, all those added sugars and artificial ingredients can spell trouble. So we have to be careful about sharing our snacks.
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Is Oatmeal Good Or Bad For Dogs?
Plain oatmeal is a healthy, fiber-rich breakfast for humans and dogs. Most dogs can enjoy plain oatmeal in moderation as an occasional treat. But oatmeal cream pies are a whole different ball game.
Oatmeal is harmless. But, the sweet creme filling and cookie dough make these pies junk food, not a healthy breakfast. Like sharing cotton candy or birthday cake with your dog, too many oatmeal cream pies can make him sick.
A Dog Eating One Pie Could Get an Upset Stomach
Let’s say your pup eats just one oatmeal cream pie off the kitchen counter. What’s the damage? Well, a single pie may only cause some minor tummy troubles, like vomiting or diarrhea. Not the end of the world, but nobody, a dog or a human enjoys those nasty symptoms. So it’s best not to let your furry food thief sneak any pies.
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Consuming Multiple Pies Poses Bigger Risks
Okay, now imagine the whole box was left unattended. If your food-loving dog eats multiple oatmeal cream pies, a vet visit may be needed. Eating several pies can cause severe vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. The high fat, sugar, and artificial flavors could cause serious issues, like pancreatitis or liver damage. Not worth the risk.
What Exactly Makes Oatmeal Cream Pies Harmful for Dogs?
It’s not so much the oatmeal itself, but rather the other stuff crammed into these snack cakes. Let’s break it down.
- Sugar – The sweet creme filling is packed with sugar, which dogs don’t handle well. Too much sugar can cause obesity, diabetes, and other issues.
- Fat – The creamy center and cookies contain unhealthy fats. They could cause pancreatitis.
- Artificial flavors – The fake flavors added for taste can be toxic for dogs. Yikes.
- Raisins – Some pies add raisins to the cookie dough. Grapes and raisins are poisonous for dogs, causing kidney failure.
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Signs of Trouble if Your Dog Eats a Pie
If your mischievous dog steals a pie, watch for these signs of trouble:
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting/diarrhea
- Lack of appetite
- Weakness/lethargy
- Stomach pain
If you notice these symptoms after your dog eats an oatmeal cream pie, call your vet right away. They may recommend bringing your pup in for tests and treatment.
What About Homemade Oatmeal Dog Treats?
Store-bought oatmeal cream pies are a no-go. What about homemade oatmeal treats? Relax; those are fine in moderation. Many dog-friendly oatmeal treat recipes exist. They replace toxic ingredients with nutritious ones, like applesauce, honey, and peanut butter.
Just be sure to check with your vet if it’s a good option for your dog. And stick to giving them as an occasional treat, not every day. Pups love variety.
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What Kinds of Oatmeal Can Dogs Eat?
While plain oatmeal is usually fine for dogs, not all types of oatmeal are safe. The way the oats are processed and what other ingredients are added make a big difference. Here’s a breakdown of the best and worst oatmeal options for pups:
- Cooked oatmeal made with water or low-sodium broth is best, as gentle cooking optimizes nutritional value.
- Instant oatmeal often has added sugars and artificial sweeteners that can be toxic to dogs. Only use plain, unsweetened kinds.
- Flavored oatmeal contains unnecessary calories and potentially dangerous sweeteners. Skip the artificial flavors.
- Uncooked oatmeal should be avoided since it’s hard on a dog’s digestion. Always cook oats first.
- Oatmeal cookies and cereals: These processed products are unsafe due to high calories, raisins, and artificial additives.
So not all oatmeal is dog-friendly. When preparing oatmeal for your pup, stick to plain cooked oatmeal made with water.
The Verdict? Avoid Giving Your Dog Your Oatmeal Cream Pies.
We surely wish dogs could enjoy these sweet, creamy snacks as much as we do. But unfortunately, oatmeal cream pies are a people-only pleasure. While a rare, stolen pie won’t likely harm your dog, it’s safer to keep sugary junk food out of your dog’s reach. Instead, reward your good dog with a healthy, tasty treat. Their wagging tail will thank you.
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