Rice is a cheap carbohydrate-rich grain. It is frequently used in our human diet, as you’re certainly aware! But can it be used for our dogs’ diet too? Can dogs eat white rice?
Can dogs eat white rice?
The answer is yes – dogs can eat cooked rice in moderation and without spices or salt. In fact, rice is used in a lot of commercial pet foods! Let’s learn a little more.
What are the health benefits of white rice?
White rice is a highly digestible carbohydrate, often prescribed when dogs are having gastrointestinal issues, especially diarrhea. The reason is because it is easy to digest and has a reasonable amount of fiber. Besides, it is cheap and quick to prepare.
There are a lot of types of rice, but white rice is generally the chosen one because of how it is processed. The germ and the husk are removed from the grain, which takes away the most nutrient-rich part of the rice and makes them easier to digest. This rice is low in calories, protein, fat and fiber but high in calcium and iron.
What should I be aware of when offering white rice to my dog?
White rice can be a healthy food for your pup, but as a high glycemic food, it should be considered as part of your dog’s diet intake (either in a cooked natural diet or commercial pet food) and not as an extra. Rice is rich in carbohydrates, which can lead to unhealthy weight gain if not fed properly.
When offering it fresh, make sure it’s fully cooked and do not add any butter, salt, garlic, onions or spices.
When offering it as part of a bland diet due to gastrointestinal upset, rice should be mixed with a lean protein, like plain, shredded chicken breast, in a proportion of 50/50. Remember that this is not a balanced diet and should only be temporary!
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