Grits are a type of oatmeal made from boiled cornmeal. It can be savory or sweet, and is often served as a breakfast dish. It can also be part of a dinner entrée, like shrimp and grits. The origins of grits can be traced to the Native American Muskogee tribe. So, can dogs eat grits together with their owners?
Key Takeaways
- Plain grits won’t harm your dog ✔️
- You shouldn’t give your dog a lot of grits because of the starch content ❌
- Sweetened or flavored grits should be avoided ❌
- Make sure your dog isn’t allergic to corn before giving him grits as a treat
Is Corn Good for Dogs?
Can our canine buddies digest those golden nuggets of goodness? Sadly, not so much. In fact, they won’t reap any real nutritional benefits from corn, and chowing down on too much of it can lead to some pretty gnarly tummy troubles, like gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Yikes!
But hey, don’t freak out if your pup accidentally munches on a corn kernel or two. They’ll likely be just fine, especially since corn often sneaks its way into dry dog food as a filler.
However, beware of corn allergies! If your fur-baby starts itching, scratching, or sporting hot spots after snacking on some grits, put a pause on the corny treats and give your vet a call. Better safe than sorry, right?
Are Instant Grits Safe for Dogs to Eat?
Some people might think that because grits are instant, they must be unhealthy for dogs. It’s true that they aren’t the best choice for a snack, but the real reason is that grits lack nutritional value and can lead to weight gain. They’re empty calories, full of carbohydrates and lacking in protein.
That being said, dogs can eat corn grits safely, as long as you’re not feeding them piles of salt or sugar ❌. Just make sure they’re cooked plain, without any added salt, sugar, or butter.
What can dogs eat grits with, as a more nutritious meal? Here are some ideas for additional ingredients:
- pieces of dried meat;
- whole eggs;
- shrimp;
- fresh salmon.
What About Dry Grits
Dogs shouldn’t eat dry grits, as they could choke on them or suffer from stomach irritation. Make sure you only feed your dog cooked grits, either plain or with additional ingredients that are safe for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Hominy Grits?
Hominy grits come from corn kernels that have gone through a fancy process called nixtamalization, which strips away the pericarp (a.k.a. the ovary wall) – sounds sci-fi, right?
But fear not! This process doesn’t make hominy grits any less safe for your pup. You can find these tasty morsels at most grocery stores, and just like regular grits, they can make for an occasional special treat for your doggo. However, don’t go overboard with the hominy love – it’s best not to make it a regular part of their diet. Remember, moderation is key!
Can Dogs Eat Grits Fried?
The answer to this question is an absolute no-no! Fried grits are not safe for dogs to eat, because they contain unhealthy fats and oils. If you’re going to serve grits to your dog, cooked and unseasoned is the way to go!
Can You Make Cheese Grits for Your Dog?
Cheese grits are a popular southern dish made from cheese, butter and grits. Unfortunately, they’re not a good choice for a dog snack. Grits are even less healthy for dogs when combined with fatty cheeses, so it’s best to avoid this combination. Cheese and butter can also contain lactose, and many dogs are lactose intolerant .
Can Dogs Eat Grits and Eggs?
What about another classic southern breakfast dish? Can dogs eat grits and eggs?
It’s actually a pretty good meal for them! The eggs provide protein and essential nutrients, while the grits are safe and filling. Just make sure the grits are cooked plain, without any added salt or butter.
Can You Serve Your Dog Soy Grits?
Made from soybeans, these little gems pack a protein punch and are lower in fat than their regular grits cousins. Sounds like a winning combo, right? But can our canine companions safely enjoy these soy treats?
Yes and no. While soy grits are generally healthier, some pups might have a soy allergy. Chances are low, but if you notice your doggo scratching, and panting after chomping down on soy grits, he’s allergic.
While they’re not toxic to dogs, grits are empty calories should only be given to dogs as a rare snack. Make sure they’re cooked plain, without any added salt, sugar, or butter. A spoonful or three should be safe, but don’t give your dog a full bowl of grits. Ideally, your dog shouldn’t eat grits more often than once a week.
Now you know what to answer if someone asks, „Can dogs eat grits?” during breakfast! But if you have any other doubts, feel free to leave us a comment.
