We know it as the versatile ingredient in our cupboard and we can always trust rice to taste good no matter what flavours it sits next to. What’s more, rice also serves as an important source of vitamins and a good source of energy.
With all these benefits packed in such tiny grains, who would blame our furry friends for taking an interest in this particular starchy food? But can dogs eat rice? And with so many varieties available, which type of rice is most suitable for canine needs? Keep reading to find out all about dogs, rice and whether the two should meet at dinner time or not.
Yes, dogs can eat rice. In fact, you may have noticed rice featured as an ingredient in commercial dog foods. However, a rice meal on its own should not be a daily affair – rice should only be part of a varied diet that offers all the nutrients your dog needs. Dogs can eat rice in moderation as long as it’s simply cooked, without any seasoning or flavours, and as long as it’s included as part of your dog’s balanced diet.
Yes, dogs can eat white rice. Although lower in nutritional value than brown rice, white varieties of rice can be included in a dog’s diet. Since it’s fairly bland, vets often recommend white rice for dogs with an upset stomach. White rice has a bigger effect on blood sugar than brown rice though, which means that some people advise caution with white rice for dogs suffering from diabetes. If your dog is diabetic then it’s best to consult your vet as to the best diet to give.
Yes, dogs can eat brown rice. What’s more, this type of rice packs a bigger nutritional punch than the white version because it retains the outer layer of the seed which contains many important nutrients. On the downside, brown rice may be harder for your dog to digest for the same reason. This means that many vets recommend white rice over brown for pups suffering from gastro-intestinal problems.
Yes, dogs can eat basmati rice. Just as for other types of rice, as long as you offer portions in moderation, cooked as simply as possible without any salt, dogs should be able to enjoy some basmati rice. Basmati rice comes in white and brown varieties, and vets sometimes recommend white basmati rice as a bland meal to take care of an upset stomach.
Rice is packed with many essential nutrients, but there are a few differences between the different types of this grain. The whole grain version known as brown rice tends to win on nutritional value as it’s higher in vitamins and fibre than white rice. However, your dog should get all the nutrients they need from their complete and balanced dog food, so if you’re only feeding a small amount of rice alongside this food then you don’t need to worry about adding extra nutritional value.
Compared to brown rice, white rice cooks faster, it’s easier for dogs to digest and it’s been used to cut short the trouble of many pups with upset tummies. Whatever option you choose to feed your dog, it’s always a good idea to keep an eye on their reaction to rice, especially if you’re introducing it for the first time in their diet. Allergic reactions are rare, but if you notice hair loss or itchiness, make sure you contact your vet for help.
How Is Rice Good For Dogs?
Rice is a food is not or poisonous for dogs. In fact, this carbohydrate is often added to commercial dog foods and prescribed for dogs suffering from a range of stomach issues or diarrhea.
This is because rice is very easy for a dog to digest and is high in starch.
Is white rice suitable for dogs?
As mentioned, the way white rice is processed removes many nutrients. You may not want to give your dog white rice regularly, but rather when your pup requires a bland diet due to upset.
Pet owners may have heard statements like, “but dogs are carnivores, and carnivores don’t need grains.” However, while dogs may have descended from wolves, they have been domesticated over the last 100+ years, and so their digestive systems have evolved too. Fact: in the wild, one of the first parts of a prey animal that a wolf will eat is the stomach, which includes pre-digested fruits, seeds, and grains. Dogs can digest grains if appropriately prepared and provided in the proper amounts. Dogs are considered omnivores or “preferential carnivores,” meaning while their primary energy source comes from fats and protein, they can still utilize the nutrients and phytonutrients provided by fruits, vegetables, and grains.
Pet parents may also have heard that rice is a “filler” ingredient in commercial pet foods. While white rice may not provide much in the way of nutrients, it can still have a proper place in a dog’s diet, which we will discuss more below.
Lets look at some of the health benefits of rice for dogs.
White rice is lower in calories, protein, fat, and fiber than brown rice, but it is higher in calcium and iron. Enriched white rice is also a good source of folate. White rice is not a significant source of vitamins and minerals; unlike its counterpart, brown rice is very dense in many vitamins and minerals.
The TRUTH about RICE Good or BAD For Dogs?
Can dogs eat rice? You might have wondered this if your dog begs for a bite while you’re preparing a pot of rice as part of your evening meal. If humans can eat rice, can dogs safely eat it too?
The short answer is yes, dogs can eat rice. In fact, in some circumstances, veterinarians have recommended rice as a great food for dogs suffering from common gastrointestinal issues. Although, it is worth noting that white rice is usually recommended over brown rice for dogs.
As always, you must ask your regular vet before sharing any human food with your favorite pooch, including rice. Here’s what you need to know about rice and dogs.