Can dogs eat rice?

Updated 04/09/2024

Rice is one of the most popular foods in the world and it goes well with so much stuff! So, can dogs eat rice? We’ll look at whether this fiber-some food is something you can add to your dog’s daily diet, ask ‘Do dogs like rice’, and understand why some pups might not be able to tuck into a tasty treat of white rice.

Can dogs eat rice?

It’s always easy to answer ‘yes’ once you’ve read the words ‘non-toxic’ next to a Google search. However, like any change to your dog’s diet or routine, you must consult your vet first. While feeding dogs rice is generally considered to find, your vet might need to do a few checks on your pup first.

If your pup has diabetes, it’s likely your vet will suggest giving rice to dogs with this condition or similar issues around blood pressure or hypertension. Rice has a lower glycemic index which means it causes more steady changes in blood sugar levels, making it good for these conditions.

Oh, and the rice must be cooked! For dogs, the softer the better to help with digestion. Never feed your dog uncooked rice.

Can dogs eat brown rice?

If their vet says yes, they sure can! Brown rice has a lower glycemic index than white rice and contains a lot more fiber. This is great for pups who are having problems with constipation and is a good alternative as part of a bland diet for doggos with ill tummies.

Can dogs eat white rice?

Again, check with your vet first! If they give you the thumbs up, it’s good to know white rice is also a healthy option for pups. As it’s easily digestible, types of white rice including jasmine rice and basmati rice are good for helping dogs with diarrhea. Also packed with fiber, it’s easy on their tummies and good for digestion.

Is rice good for dogs?

Rice is considered non-toxic for dogs and even a good food alternative for pups with sensitive tummies. According to PetMD, cooked rice contains a whole host of healthy vitamins and minerals, including:

• Magnesium
• Phosphorus
• Manganese 
• Selenium
• Iron
• Vitamin B
• Folic acid
• Thiamin

All of these minerals offer long-term health benefits and keep your dog's coat looking furry and fabulous. Similarly, some vets may even recommend rice as a bland dog food for pooches with an upset stomach, just like when we humans have a tummy upset.

Can I feed my dog rice every day?

This is something you’ll need to talk about with your vet - while considered safe and a hypoallergenic food for dogs, all diet changes must be discussed and monitored with them. If they’re happy for you to do so, rice can be a good addition to your dog’s daily diet. Some commercial dog foods might already contain rice in their ingredients, so make sure you check what’s in their other food. Excessive amounts of any food can lead to an upset stomach so it might be best to avoid giving this to dogs daily, and rather use it as an additional supplement once or twice a week for their dinner.

Safely tips on giving rice to dogs

Okay, so obviously talking to your vet about giving them rice is a priority. Once they’re happy for you to start introducing it to their meal times, be sure to do this slowly in small amounts. Of course, make sure the rice is cooked and is included in their appropriately proportioned food intake.

To see if rice is right for them, you can feed your dog a few cooked grains as a snack. It’s a good way of checking how their body reacts to it and if they think it’s tasty. Please don’t give them rice from your own dinner plate as it could be contaminated with herbs or spices that could be harmful to pups. Cooked rice should always be fed plain.

Meet our veterinary expert, Greg

This article has been checked by veterinarian Dr Greg Steele MA VETMB MRCVS. A mixed vet working in the UK since qualifying from Cambridge University in 2015. Greg enjoys working with all species of animals in all settings, but equally takes pride in communication and education of clients too. He lives with his wife and their cat, and enjoys a variety of sports, gardening, and the great outdoors.

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