It’s great to start each day with a plate of freshly-cooked pancakes, especially if it’s topped with butter, maple syrup, whipped cream, and a medley of fruits.
And since most dogs can’t help but drool over the sight of this, you might be tempted to give them a bite. The big question is: Can dogs eat pancakes? Are pancakes safe for dogs to eat?
Good thing, you asked this question. It just goes to show that you prioritize your dog’s health above all else. And most likely, you’re also among the many pet owners who know the real deal behind feeding human food to dogs.
The truth is, some of the food we eat (healthy or not) can be toxic to dogs. If you want to know if pancakes are among the foods your furry friend shouldn’t eat, read on.
A community of dog lovers, Dog Food Guide, isn’t just here to let you know if pancakes are good for dogs. Instead, we’re here to answer ALL your dogs- and pancake-related questions, including questions about your favorite pancake mix, pancake toppings, and more.
This one tastes so yummy, especially when topped or filled with our favorite ingredients (think chocolate, peanut butter, blueberries, or cream cheese).
Making pancakes from scratch is also easy. All you need is flour, eggs, butter or oil, baking powder, milk, and some sugar and salt. However, if time isn’t on your side, you can always whip up a fresh batch of Aunt Jemima pancakes or Bisquick pancakes.
True, pancakes are fun to eat. It will also leave your tummies satisfied. Unfortunately, this is not the healthiest breakfast choice.
Still, pancakes (whether they’re homemade or store-bought pancakes) offer a couple of vitamins and minerals that can help us jumpstart our day. Here are some:
Vitamin C
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B12
Phosphorus
Calcium
Can Dogs Eat Pancakes?
If you want a short answer, the answer is IT DEPENDS. There are truckloads of choices when it comes to pancakes. So, answering this can be pretty tricky.
To know whether the pancake is dog-friendly or not, you’d have to check all the ingredients – from the pancake batter to the toppings.
But to give you a clear-cut answer, check all the “can dogs eat pancakes” questions below. We’ve made sure to include the usuals – from plain pancakes to flavored pancakes.
Can Dogs Eat Plain Pancakes?
Yes, dogs can eat a plain pancake (and even buttermilk pancakes) but only as an occasional treat. So, if you have some plain Aunt Jemima pancakes, feel free to give your dog a bite (but not too much).
A dog’s diet, after all, is better without added oils, fat, sugar, salt, or seasoning. And as always, food that isn’t part of their regular diet should be given in moderation.
Can Dogs Eat Krusteaz Pancakes?
If it’s plain Krusteaz pancakes, the answer is yes. It’s okay to let dogs eat pancake mix, even the boxed pancake mixes, since they usually contain just the basic pancake ingredients – all of which are not toxic to dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Bisquick Pancakes?
They sure can. But just like other pre-made pancakes, make sure to pick the plain variety or choose those that only include dog-friendly ingredients.
Can Dogs Eat McDonald’s Pancakes?
Yes, dogs can eat pancakes bought from restaurants and fast-food chains like McDonald’s, but make sure to skip adding the butter and syrup. Your pet dog may have a sweet tooth, but plain McDonald’s pancakes are the way to go.
Can Dogs Eat Oatmeal Pancakes?
As long as it’s made of plain oatmeal, it’s a go for oatmeal pancakes. Oatmeal, after all, contains a couple of good nutrients that your dog can use. Just make sure to keep the servings at a minimum.
Can Dogs Eat Multigrain Pancakes?
Multigrain flour is usually composed of 2 or more whole grains. This may include wheat, oats, rye, barley, brown rice, and seeds like quinoa, buckwheat, and flaxseed.
If your dog isn’t allergic to wheat or grain, then giving your pet dog a slice of multigrain or buckwheat pancakes won’t hurt. If they are allergic, you can just give them a plain pancake.
Can Dogs Eat Gluten-Free Pancakes?
If your dogs have wheat allergies or tummy sensitivities, then go ahead and give them gluten-free pancakes.
Can Dogs Eat Honey Pancakes?
Honey is safe for dogs to eat in small amounts, and so are honey pancakes. But, if you’re dog is already having trouble keeping its weight or blood sugar levels down, just skip the honey.
Can Dogs Eat Banana Pancakes?
Since bananas are good for dogs, you can treat your pup to a slice of banana pancakes every once in a while. Just make sure to keep it at a minimum. Giving them too much might only lead to a tummy ache.
Can Dogs Eat Lemon Pancakes?
Dogs and lemons don’t match. Most dogs can handle its sour taste but not its bitter taste. While some can tolerate small amounts, others may experience stomach problems after having a few bites. So, it’s best to keep those tangy lemon pancakes all for yourself.
Can Dogs Eat Orange Pancakes?
Unlike lemons, orange is a fruit that dogs can safely eat. So, go ahead and let them munch on a couple of orange pancakes.
Can Dogs Eat Vanilla Pancakes?
Vanilla pancakes or anything with vanilla extract and the like is a definite NO-NO for dogs. The flavor from the beans can only be extracted with the use of alcohol. As such, vanilla extract and flavorings also contain high doses of alcohol – an ingredient that is highly toxic to dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Cinnamon Pancakes?
Cinnamon pancakes in small doses are alright for your pup. Just make sure you’re using the “true” or Ceylon variety. The other one, known as Cassia cinnamon, isn’t recommended for dogs. Also, sprinkling cinnamon on your pancakes isn’t encouraged since it can cause GI and skin irritation to dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Blueberry Pancakes?
Blueberry is a superfood that’s good for dogs. So, adding fresh or frozen blueberries to your dog’s pancakes is a great idea.
Are Pancakes Good For Dogs?
Yes, dogs can eat pancakes as long as it does not include any harmful ingredients. But, does it have any benefits?
It indeed contains a few nutrients, and a couple more nutrients are added when you top it with dog-friendly ingredients like blueberries and oranges. However, the fact remains that this treat offers little nutritional value.
Potential Risks Of Feeding Your Dog Pancakes
Are pancakes bad for dogs? While pancakes don’t really pack a punch nutrition-wise, an occasional pancake will not hurt your dog. However, just like any food, feeding your dog pancakes come with risks.
Stomach issues. Eating too many would most likely lead to an upset stomach. Also, a flavored pancake may contain ingredients that your dog’s tummy can’t tolerate, like lemon or too much cinnamon.
Sugar-related health problems. Since pancakes are often made extra sweet, letting your dog indulge in a few pieces without counting the amounts of sugar can lead to weight gain and other conditions like tooth decay and diabetes.
Dairy intolerance. While milk is safe in small quantities, many dogs have difficulty digesting milk or other dairy products. If your dog is lactose intolerant, your pup would usually display the following symptoms after eating dairy:
Gas
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Loose stool
Allergies. Like humans, dogs can also have all sorts of food allergies. Although rare, some dogs are allergic to nuts (think almonds). So, if your dog had some almond flour pancakes, watch out for an allergic reaction, which can include GI problems or skin itching.
Presence of toxic ingredients. Many like having chocolate or raising in their pancakes. Unfortunately, these are toxic to dogs. That’s why it is best to give your dogs plain pancakes. But, if you must put some toppings, choose dog-friendly
How To Feed Pancakes To Your Dogs
Considering all the cons, pancakes are not really the type of food you want your dog to eat daily. But, if you must give in to your pup’s begging, make sure to follow these tips:
Since most dogs can’t digest dairy products, you can make pancakes using water or non-dairy milk.
If you’re making your own pancake, try whipping up a batch of coconut flour pancakes. Compared to refined flour (think all-purpose flour), this one is a healthier choice for both you and your pup.
Make it a habit to check the labels and ingredients. Remember that grapes, raisins, chocolate, and natural sweeteners like xylitol are deadly to dogs.
If you must add toppings, choose dog-friendly ones like bananas, blueberries, and apples. A bit of whipped cream and xylitol-free peanut butter is also okay every now and then.
Make sure to follow the 10% treat rule. Aside from giving this occasionally, treats should not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Final Verdict
So, yes. Dogs can eat pancakes as long as all the ingredients in the mix are dog-friendly. Keep in mind, though, that developing good eating habits is still the way to go. Once your pup starts the habit of unhealthy eating, it’s hard to go back.
Also, before you let your dog chow down on a pancake, we still highly encourage you to speak to someone who can provide veterinary advice. At the end of the day, your local vet is still the expert when it comes to your dog’s health.
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An individual with a profound affection for animals, who was brought up in an environment surrounded by dogs, cats, and chickens. A self-taught enthusiast in the realm of pet care. At present, the proud caretaker of two rescued felines and two lovely mixed-breed canines.
