No-Bake Oatmeal Treats Dogs Love

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Does your dog struggle with a finicky stomach? Many pet parents watch their furry friends deal with upset tummies or skin issues, and it feels awful.

Store-bought foods can be a mystery, making things worse and leading to trips to the vet. But there’s a simpler way to give your dog the gentle nutrition they need, right from your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

• This homemade oatmeal dog food recipe takes just about 45 minutes from start to finish.
• It’s packed with lean protein, gut-friendly fiber, and vital nutrients.
• This recipe is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing a wheat-free option.
• It’s designed to be gentle and easy for them to digest.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: Makes about 8-10 servings for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

• 1.5 cups rolled oats (old-fashioned, not instant) – Estimated cost: $0.60
• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast – Estimated cost: $7.50
• 2 cups chopped carrots – Estimated cost: $0.80
• 1 cup chopped green beans – Estimated cost: $0.60
• 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth (ensure no onion or garlic) – Estimated cost: $0.50
• 2 tablespoons flaxseed oil or salmon oil – Estimated cost: $1.00
• Optional: 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped (for fresh breath and extra nutrients) – Estimated cost: $0.25

Total Estimated Cost: $11.25

 Substitutions:

• Instead of chicken breast, you can use lean ground turkey or boiled white fish like cod.
• If you don’t have carrots, sweet potato or pumpkin are good alternatives.
• Spinach or peas can replace green beans if needed.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Chicken.

• Cut the chicken breast into 1-inch pieces.
• Put them in a medium pot with 2 cups of water or broth.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.
• Drain the chicken and shred or finely dice it.
• Keep the broth if you used it; it adds flavor.

 Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables.

• While the chicken cooks, wash and chop the carrots and green beans into small, dog-friendly pieces.
• Aim for sizes your dog can easily chew.

Step 3: Cook the Oatmeal and Veggies.

• In the same pot (or a clean one), combine the rolled oats, chopped carrots, green beans, and the remaining 2 cups of water or broth.
• Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
• Stir it often to stop it from sticking to the bottom.
• Cook for about 15-20 minutes, until the oats are soft and the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Combine Everything.

• Take the pot off the heat.
• Stir in the cooked chicken and the flaxseed or salmon oil.
• If using, add the fresh parsley now.
• Mix everything well until it’s evenly combined.
• Let the food cool completely before serving it to your dog.

Feeding Guidelines

Portion Recommendations (daily):

• Small dogs (up to 20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup
• Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups
• Large dogs (50-90 lbs): 3 to 4.5 cups
• Extra-large dogs (90+ lbs): 5 cups or more

These are starting points, so you might need to adjust them.

• For very active dogs, they might need a bit more.
• Less active or senior dogs might need a bit less.
• Puppies and pregnant/nursing dogs have higher calorie needs.

They also need specific nutrient balances, so this recipe might not be complete for them alone.

Always talk to your veterinarian before making big changes to your dog’s diet cos they are the best at helping you figure out the right portion sizes for your dog’s needs.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Oatmeal: This is a fantastic source of soluble fiber. It helps with healthy digestion and can be very soothing for sensitive stomachs. Oatmeal also supports good skin and a shiny coat.
• Chicken Breast: It’s a lean protein that helps build and maintain strong muscles. Chicken is also easy to digest for most dogs.
• Carrots: These veggies are packed with beta-carotene, which is good for vision and overall immunity. They also add important vitamins and minerals.
• Green Beans: They provide essential vitamins like K, C, and A, plus minerals. Green beans are also a low-calorie source of fiber.
• Flaxseed or Salmon Oil: These oils are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids.
• Omega-3s are great for skin health, a glossy coat, and reducing inflammation. They also support brain and joint health.

Storage and Serving Tips

• Refrigeration: The homemade dog food stays fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure it’s completely cool before storing it.
•  
• Freezing: For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual servings or meal-sized portions.
• You can use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It will last in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
•  
• Reheating: Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
• Warm them up slightly before serving if your dog prefers it that way.
• A quick zap in the microwave for 15-30 seconds usually works.
• Always check the temperature to make sure it’s not too hot.
•  
• Serving Ideas:
• Serve it on its own as a delicious meal.
• You can mix it with a little bit of your dog’s regular kibble to introduce new textures and flavors.
• This can also help with the transition if your dog is used to only dry food.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I use instant oatmeal?

No, it’s best to stick with rolled oats or old-fashioned oats. Instant oatmeal often has added sugars, flavors, and preservatives that aren’t good for dogs. Stick to the plain stuff.

Is this a complete and balanced diet for my dog?

This recipe is great for sensitive stomachs and as a supplemental meal or treat. However, it might not be nutritionally complete for long-term, sole feeding. It’s always smart to talk to your vet or a certified pet nutritionist to ensure your dog is getting all the vitamins and minerals they need if you plan to feed homemade food exclusively.

How long does it take for my dog to get used to new food?

Most dogs adjust pretty quickly, but some might need a few days. Introduce new foods slowly by mixing small amounts with their old food, gradually increasing the new food over 5-7 days. This helps avoid upset tummies.

Can puppies eat this recipe?

While the ingredients are safe, puppies have specific and higher nutritional needs for growth. This recipe might not meet those without added supplements. Check with your vet before giving this to a puppy as their main food.

My dog won’t eat it. What can I do?

Sometimes dogs are picky. Try warming it up a bit to release the aroma. You can also mix a small amount with their favorite wet food or a bit of their regular kibble. Or try a different protein source next time, like turkey or fish.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home can be so rewarding, and this recipe is a gentle way to start. It gives them the wholesome goodness they deserve.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!