Rice is a common food for humans. But can dogs eat rice? The answer is yes. Rice is packed with many essential nutrients and is a usual ingredient in commercial dog foods.
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Many pet owners feed their dog white rice when he is sick. Rice grains help with an upset stomach as it is easy to digest, quick to prepare, and low in fiber.
However, some dogs may suffer from allergies or intolerance to rice. If your dog suffers from allergies, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet before introducing any new food.
Some signs that your dog is intolerant to rice are:
- Itchy skin
- Skin rashes
- Dry skin
- Hair loss
- Vomiting
- Inflamed paws
WHAT TYPES OF RICE CAN DOGS EAT?
Although dogs can eat brown rice, vets do not recommend it when your dog suffers from gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea, because it can be more difficult to digest.
Instead, the best alternative is white rice since our furry friend needs the starch. However, be careful with white rice because it has a higher glycemic index than brown rice and can spike the dog’s blood sugar levels.
If your dog suffers from diabetes, he should only consume a little white rice, but not constantly.
CAN DOGS EAT BASMATI RICE?
Yes, dogs can eat basmati rice in small portions, in moderation, and cooked without salt and spices.
HOW TO FEED RICE TO DOGS
Make sure to cook a simple rice recipe for your dog. Make the rice in plain boiling plain, and do not add salt or spices.
Give dog rice in moderation. As a guide, feed your dog with rice no more than two to three times a week.
However, if your vet recommended you to feed your dog with rice every day for long periods for medical reasons, it is always best to follow his advice.
Always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog.
HOW MUCH RICE CAN MY DOG EAT?
Most good-quality dog foods contain the correct daily amount of calories and nutrients your pet requires for a complete and balanced diet. Because of that, rice can only be 10% of his daily caloric intake. If you exceed the recommended amount, you run the risk of your dog gaining weight or suffering from diabetes.
The quantities according to the dog’s size:
- 1/2 a cup of rice for dogs weighing less than 5 pounds
- 1/2 to 3/4 cups for 5 – 15 pounds dogs
- 1 to1 ½ cups for 16 – 30 pounds dogs
- 1 ½ to 2 cups for 31 – 50 pounds dogs
- 2 to 3 cups for 51 -75 pounds dogs
- 3 to 4 cups for 76 to 99 pounds dogs
- 4 to 5 cups for 100 pounds dogs
Source: Healthy Homemade Dog Treats
These amounts are for dogs eating balanced dog food, and rice is an additional item in their daily food.
If you want to know more about other human foods you can add to your pet’s menu, check out these articles.