Can Dogs Eat Shredded Wheat? What You Need To Know

If it’s unsweetened, it’s safe, right? Can dogs eat Shredded Wheat without getting sick? Read this guide before sharing it with your pup.

Small amounts of whole wheat snacks might be safe for your dog if they aren’t gluten-intolerant or sensitive. But is Shredded Wheat a healthy snack for dogs? Let’s look closer at it.

For ultimate pet safety, I recommend consulting with your vet about all the questions you have about your dog eating shredded wheat.

What Is Shredded Wheat

Shredded wheat is a popular type of breakfast cereal among health-conscious people because it’s made with only whole grain wheat and nothing else. It’s high in fiber and low in sugar. The crispy wheat shreds are formed into rectangular biscuits and are available in three sizes: original, bite-sized, and miniature.

The smaller sizes are also made in a frosted variety, which has one side coated with sugar and usually gelatin.

In the UK, Nestle owns the Shredded Wheat cereal. In the United States, Post is the brand behind Shredded Wheat. You can also find many store brands of it, including Aldi, Giant, and Trader Joe’s (among many others).

Ingredients

There are a lot of different types of shredded wheat. But the original version is made with the following simple ingredients:

Whole Grain Wheat
BHT to preserve freshness

Types of Shredded Wheat

You might find different flavors in the store depending on which season it is. These are the different varieties/flavors that you might find in the store:

Chocolate shredded wheat
Cinnamon shredded wheat
Honey nut shredded wheat
Frosted shredded wheat
Maple shredded wheat
Pumpkin shredded wheat

Frosted Mini Wheats

Frosted mini wheats look like shredded wheat that is coated with sugar. But, they are not the same thing. Frosted Mini Wheats are produced by Kellogg’s and Shredded Wheat is made by Post.

Can Dogs Have Shredded Wheat

Dog owners, let’s get to the part you’re really wondering about. Since it’s human food, you want to be mindful and careful with it.

Unless your canine companions have food allergies that include wheat, this cereal is safe for them in small quantities.

Since there is no added sugar in shredded wheat, and it’s a good source of whole grains, it can actually be a healthy treat.

Just remember portion control. Dogs that eat too much dietary fiber could get the urge to poop or have diarrhea. This cereal is made for human consumption, so only give it to your dog in small doses.

Dog in front of a bowl of shredded wheat cereal.

Is Shredded Wheat Good For Dogs

As long as your dog’s diet contains everything they need (including plenty of protein), a little bit of shredded wheat can be good for them. It contains:

Folic Acid
Whole Wheat
Good Source of Fiber

Too much fiber can make their digestive tract overact so be careful with portion control.

Is Shredded Wheat OK For Dogs

You might have heard that eating high-fiber food – like shredded wheat or plain Cheerios – can help lower high blood pressure and balance cholesterol levels. But that marketing is for humans, not dogs. In fact, there are a lot of people and professionals who say grain-free diets are best for dogs. Others, disagree.

It’s best to talk to your dog’s veterinarian about the dietary needs of your furry friend before making that decision.

Generally, unsweetened cereal like bran flakes or shredded wheat can be ok for dogs to eat in small amounts. Unless your dog has a wheat allergy, small quantities of whole grain wheat is safe for dogs.

Remember, common sense is your best friend. Stay away from anything that contains artificial flavors. They could give your dog gastrointestinal upset and other adverse effects.

Can Dogs Have Frosted Shredded Wheat

Does it have too much sugar to be safe for dogs? While the added sugar might not harm your dog right away, giving them too much sugar could cause a health problem or too.

It’s always best to read the actual product packaging. If you see words like cane sugar, sugar, or high fructose corn syrup, don’t give it to your dog.

Can My Dog Eat Shredded Wheat

This is a personal decision. And it all depends on what else they are eating that day.

Even though it’s not a good idea to give your dog a lot of Shredded wheat cereal, a little bit can be good for them.

How much shredded wheat you let your dog eat depends on your dog’s diet. Whole-grain cereals might seem healthy, but they are high in carbs and calories, which can lead to obesity. Your dog should eat a balanced diet that is high in animal protein and vegetables. A sweet potato might be a better choice than wheat treats.

Three pieces of shredded wheat big biscuit cereal.

Gluten-Free Dog Treats

If your dog can’t eat gluten or wheat, then here are some different ideas you can share with them. How about dog treats made with brown rice flour? You can also make treats for your dog with green beans.

Or make some delicious peanut butter dog treats. I have a lot of dog treat recipes that you can browse.

Final Thoughts

The good news is that it’s safe to share a little bit with your four-legged friends, as long as they don’t have any wheat allergies. Since it’s made with wheat bran, Shredded Wheat is an excellent source of fiber. But, it should still be given in small bits.

More Dog Food Resources

Here are even more resources about different types of cereals dogs can and can’t eat.

Find lots of articles about human food dogs can eat here on Spoiled Hounds!

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