Sugar is one of the main ingredients in most cereals. Technically, dogs can eat cereal, but too much sugar can lead to weight gain and other health problems. So what brands can you give your dog without harming them, and can dogs eat cereal every day?
Key Takeaways
- Plain, unsweetened cereals are safe for dogs ✔️
- Dogs shouldn’t be fed cereal on a daily basis ❌
- Never feed your dog cereal with raisins, cranberries, or chocolate ❌
- A tablespoon of cereals once in a while is acceptable ✔️
Are Corn Flakes Good for Dogs?

Corn flakes are one of the most popular cereals, but are they a healthy treat for your pooch? The answer is no. While they may not taste that sweet, 1/10 of their weight is sugar, and they have very little nutritional value. Even if they’re fortified with vitamins and minerals, we all know that additives cannot replace a balanced diet.
Are Cheerios Healthy for Dogs?
Original Cheerios are a healthier option for dogs, as they only have 2 grams of sugar per cup. However, they come in lots of other varieties, some of which are ones of the most sugary cereals on the market. For example, the Honey Nut flavor contains a whopping 33 grams of sugar per 100 grams of the product! Stick to the plain cereal if you want to give it to your pup.
You may think Cheerios belong to the no-no group. But actually, they are often pretty safe. Here you can read more about “Can dogs eat Cheerios?”
How About Rice Krispies?
Rice Krispies are another type of cereal that many people eat. They’re a good option for dogs because they are low in sugar and calories, as well as gluten-free. They also have some added vitamins and minerals that can be beneficial to your pet’s health, although their dog food should already contain everything they need.
What Other Types of Cereal Can Dogs Eat?

You know about plain Cheerios, but can dogs eat cereal of other kinds? Any variety that contains a good amount of fiber and no added sugar can be healthy in small amounts. The best options include:
- bran flakes;
- oatmeal;
- shredded wheat;
- puffed rice;
- puffed wheat.
They will help to regulate your dog’s digestive system and can be given every day without any problems. You can use them as training treats (excluding oatmeal, as it needs to be cooked) or as a reward for good behavior.
A less healthy, but still acceptable option is Rice Chex cereal. It contains 3 grams of sugar per a serving of 40 grams, which is not too bad. If you find any similar cereals at the store, check the label for their sugar content.
What Other Varieties Should Be Avoided?
It’s impossible to rate all the products on the market, but hopefully this list will give you an idea of what to avoid. Besides the brands we’ve already covered, other cereals unhealthy for dogs include:
- Reese’s Puffs;
- Froot Loops;
- Special K cereal;
- Cap’n Crunch cereals;
- Lucky Charms.
These cereals are high in sugar and can harm your dog’s health. You also shouldn’t treat your dog to any type of cereal with raisins, cranberries, or chocolate in them. These are all very toxic to dogs. Avoid them at all costs and stick to the healthier options listed earlier. There are plenty to choose from!
How Much Cereal Can Your Pet Have?
You can give your dog a few pieces of cereal as a treat, but don’t overdo it. Cereal is made from grains, which means it’s rich in carbohydrates. Too many carbs in your dog’s diet can lead to obesity. A good rule of thumb is to give them no more than one tablespoon per 20 pounds of body weight per day.
Can You Feed Your Dog Cereal with Milk?

We all know that pets shouldn’t eat dairy, even if not all dogs are lactose intolerant. It’s unnatural for adult animals to keep drinking milk or eating products made of it. So, can dogs eat cereal with milk? The answer is no. Milk can cause digestive issues in dogs, such as runny stools. If you want to give your pet something like bran flakes, always do so without milk – they shouldn’t be eating a whole bowl of cereal anyway!
Offer Your Dog Cereal in Moderation
So, in general, can dogs eat cereal? Yes, it’s safe for dogs to eat and can be a healthy snack, but only in moderation. Avoid sugary cereals and those with artificial flavors, colors, or sweeteners. Instead, opt for whole-grain cereals like shredded wheat. Your dog will love the taste – and happily do the tricks you’re teaching them!
Similar Posts:
- Can Dogs Eat Cheerios? Cereals That Are Safe for Dogs
- Can Dogs Eat Sour Cream? How Much Sour Cream Can You Give Your Dog?
- Can Dogs Eat Rice? Are White Rice and Brown Rice Safe for Dogs?
- Can Dogs Eat Granola? Are Granola Bars Safe for Dogs?
- Can Dogs Eat Bread? What Amount of Bread Is Safe for Dogs?
- Can Dogs Eat Whipped Cream? Is Starbucks Puppuccino Bad for Dogs?
- Can Dogs Eat Donuts? A Comprehensive Look at Every Ingredient
- Can Dogs Eat Skittles? How Many Skittles Is Too Many?