Can Dogs Eat Rice? We’ve Got the Answer | Purina (2024)

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.

Can dogs eat rice?

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.

Can dogs eat white rice?

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.

Can dogs eat brown rice?

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.

Can dogs eat basmati rice?

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.

Is rice good for dogs?

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.

Can Dogs Eat Rice? We’ve Got the Answer | Purina (2024)

FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Rice? We’ve Got the Answer | Purina? ›

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.

Can dogs eat rice yes or no? ›

The answer is yes. Rice is an ingredient sometimes found in commercial dog foods. Many pet owners feed white rice to their sick dog. One of the reasons white rice is the chosen grain for a dog with an upset stomach is that it's easy to digest, quick to prepare, and low in fiber.

Is cooked white rice good for my dog? ›

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.

How much white rice can I feed my dog? ›

Just be sure to not feed your pup too much white rice. It's not meant to be a daily snack because it has a high glycemic index, meaning it can raise your pup's blood sugar levels. This is especially concerning if your dog has diabetes or is obese.

What kind of rice is good for dogs? ›

Whenever you feed your dog rice, make sure it is fully cooked and free of any added ingredients like salt, fat, or seasonings. 1. White rice: Cooked white rice—like jasmine or basmati rice—is easy on your dog's digestive system as it's low in fiber.

Can dogs eat scrambled eggs? ›

Eggs are nutritious for both people and dogs. They can be tasty treats or a hearty breakfast, whether they're hard-boiled, poached, scrambled, or over easy. A cooked entire egg or yolk can be good for your dog, unless your pet has a pre-existing health condition like acute pancreatitis or diabetes.

Is white or brown rice better for dogs? ›

Depending on your pup's needs, brown rice may be an excellent ingredient in their diet; it not only provides carbohydrates but also contains lots of fiber and other important nutrients. For dogs that are experiencing diarrhea and other signs of gastrointestinal distress, white rice is an important part of a bland diet.

Can dogs eat peanut butter? ›

Dogs can eat – and many really enjoy – peanut butter. But beware, some peanut butter brands contain an ingredient called xylitol, which is toxic to dogs and even eating small amounts can be fatal. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener that is often used in foods to keep the product sugar-free.

Is oatmeal good for dogs? ›

Is Oatmeal Good for Dogs? Plain, cooked oatmeal can be a great addition to your dog's diet. This heart-healthy breakfast is rich in soluble fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins that help support your dog's coat and skin. The high fiber content helps promote digestion and weight management.

Are potatoes or rice better for dogs? ›

With the dramatic rise in demand for grain and gluten free pet foods over the past decade, potatoes were found to be a great nutritional carbohydrate source to use in place of rice, barley, and oats. Potatoes are very easily tolerated and digestible for most dogs and cats.

What happens if a dog eats too much white rice? ›

There is also the risk of constipation if you feed your dog too much cooked rice. Typically, it's best to keep rice 20-25% of your dog's diet. If you are trying to support your dog in losing weight, cutting down on the percentage of carbohydrates in their diet is also recommended.

Can I feed my dog boiled chicken and rice every day? ›

Chicken and rice definitely isn't meant to be given as an everyday dog food, nor is it suitable to be used in place of regular dog treats. It's simply a short-term bland diet option intended for a sick dog.

What is a good substitute for rice for dogs? ›

So what alternative can we use instead of the rice? Sweet Potato, Butternut Squash or Pumpkin. Steamed or boiled (pumpkin also comes canned which works well). All of these items are rich in soluble fibre (the type that dissolves in water to form a viscous gel, which also coats and soothes irritated bowels.

Is tuna good for dogs? ›

Is tuna good for dogs? Tuna is rich in protein, minerals and vitamins – all important nutrients for a dog's health and wellbeing. It also contains Omega 3 fatty acids which are good for the health of the skin, coat and cardiovascular system. Tuna can be useful in some dog foods as a source of nutrients.

Can a dog eat canned chicken? ›

Easily digestible: Canned chicken is generally easy for dogs to digest, making it a suitable option when their stomachs are sensitive. Convenient: Canned chicken provides a quick and convenient solution for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a bland but nutritious meal.

What can I mix with rice so my dog will eat? ›

Place ground turkey, water, rice, and rosemary into a large Dutch oven. Stir until ground turkey is broken up and evenly distributed throughout the mixture; bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.

Can I give my dog pasta instead of rice? ›

Firstly, you'll be pleased to know the answer is 'yes'. Dogs can eat potatoes, pasta and rice. We recommend wholegrain pasta and rice, while basmati rice is also great too. In fact, they are a great way of incorporating vital resistant starches into your canine companion's diet (more about that later!)

Can dogs eat chicken and rice? ›

Chicken and rice are prime ingredients in many dog foods, and these mild foods sit well on upset canine stomachs. Plus, this bland meal is easy to prepare.

What is a good substitute for rice in dog food? ›

Because fecal quality is one of the most important factors by which dog owners judge the quality of a dog food, and the nutrient digestibility results were above the accepted industry standard, extruded sorghum and corn are good alternatives to rice as the primary cereal grain in dog foods.

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