Do you enjoy pancakes? Your dog probably does, too, if you have given him a bite. But, can or should dogs eat pancakes? Flour, milk, eggs, a little oil – there is nothing too harmful in plain pancakes that would harm your dog. However, there are many different kinds of pancakes and some of them may contain ingredients that are not good for dogs. Pancakes also tend to be high in carbohydrates so they aren’t the healthiest treat for dogs.
Find out more about the pros and cons of pancakes for dogs below.
Nutrition
Basic plain pancakes contain about 11 percent protein, 77 percent carbohydrates, and 12 percent fat. They are low in saturated fat and cholesterol but high in sodium. They are a good source of phosphorus.
One plain pancake has about 50-60 calories, depending on the size. That means no butter or syrup added. If it is fried in oil or butter, the calories will increase.
(There are all different kinds of pancakes in the world. We are discussing the North American variety.)
You can increase the nutrition in pancakes by adding fruit such as strawberries, blueberries, or bananas. Most dogs can also eat pancakes that include these safe berries and fruits.
If your dog is diabetic, talk to your veterinarian before giving him any pancakes. The sugar in pancakes and toppings could pose a problem.
Can I Give My Dog Pancakes?
Plain pancakes, in small amounts, should not be harmful to your dog. You can also give your dog small amounts of pancakes that include strawberries, blueberries, or bananas since these berries and fruits won’t harm your dog. Berries, such as blueberries, do contain natural sugars, so you should be aware that you are slightly increasing the sugar in your dog’s diet. Bananas will add a little more fiber to your dog’s diet. Apples and carrot slices as toppings are also safe.
Dogs can also safely eat honey on pancakes but you should not let your dog eat too much. Do not give your dog raw honey, especially if you have a puppy or a dog that is immune-compromised. Raw honey can contain botulism spores that cause health problems. Dogs that are diabetic should not have any kind of honey. But healthy adult dogs can have a little honey on their pancakes.
Dogs can also eat buttermilk pancakes. And they can eat pancakes made from boxed mixes such as Bisquick and others.
Pancakes can be made from different flours. Dogs can safely eat most flours as long as they don’t eat them in excess. Buckwheat, multi-grain, whole grain, and wheat flours are all safe for dogs unless you know that your dog is allergic to one of the grains. Coconut and almond flours, as well as most other flours, are also safe for most dogs.
If your dog shows any sign of an allergic reaction to eating pancakes, because of the flour or any other ingredient, call your veterinarian right away.
There are a number of ingredients often used to make pancakes that you should not share with your dog. These ingredients include some of the following:
Some of these ingredients are toxic to dogs while others can add too many calories to your dog’s diet.
How Many Pancakes Can Your Dog Eat?
If it’s up to your dog he would probably eat lots of pancakes. But pancakes – even plain pancakes – are high in carbohydrates. Even simple toppings will add sugar and fats. For these reasons you should only give your dog a small amount of pancake. A couple of bites would be enough for a small dog. For a medium or large dog, a pancake that’s half the size of a regular pancake would be plenty.
How Often Can You Give Your Dog Pancakes?
Since pancakes do have lots of carbs and they tend to attract sugar and fats, it’s best for them to be an occasional treat. Consider sharing them with your dog no more than once or twice per week.
Conclusion
If you make pancakes then your dog has probably looked at you with pleading eyes, hoping you will share them. The good news is that most dogs can safely enjoy some pancakes with you. Just be careful that you don’t give your dog too much pancake or share them too often. Check the ingredients and don’t let your dog have any toppings that could be harmful to him such as chocolate, nuts, raisins, butter, whipped cream, syrups, or anything with xylitol. Plain pancakes are best for your dog or use some safe, healthy toppings like bananas or strawberries. Pancakes are not exactly healthy for dogs but with a little effort you can keep them from being unhealthy.
