Can Dogs Eat Rice?

What goes with chicken, beef, and maybe even kibble?  Rice, a household staple that’s also a safe and delicious option for dogs. 

Dogs can eat rice, as long as their diet includes at least 75% animal protein, too. In fact, rice is even included in many commercial dog foods. However, rice isn’t just a tasty addition to your dog’s bowl; it’s also a vet-recommended home remedy for doggy diarrhea. 

Let’s take a closer look at rice, its nutritional value, and how it can soothe your dog’s upset stomach — and save your carpets from messy accidents.

Rice and dogs — nutritional insights

One cup (158g) of white, cooked long-grain rice contains:

• 206 calories
• 4.3g protein
• 0.4g of fat (0.1g saturated fat)
• 1.6mg sodium
• 45g carbohydrates
• 0.6g fiber
• 0.1g sugar
• 55.3mg potassium
• 0mg of cholesterol

One cup (195g) of brown, cooked long-grain rice contains:

• 216 calories
• 5g protein
• 1.8g fat (0.4g saturated fat)
• 83.9mg potassium
• 9.8mg sodium
• 45g carbohydrates
• 3.5g fiber
• 0.7g sugar
• 83.9mg potassium
• 0mg cholesterol

Is rice good for dogs?

Rice provides many health benefits for your dog as part of a balanced diet.

Here are some of the health benefits of feeding rice to your dog: 

• It has antioxidants that protect against disease and cognitive dysfunction in aging pets
• Its calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D levels support healthy bones
• It soothes gastrointestinal issues
• Its prebiotic action feeds good bacteria found in the small intestines
• The fiber in rice supports regular bowel movements and improves digestion
• Its high carbohydrates boost energy levels and improve cognitive function

Brown rice, specifically, is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it the healthiest addition to your dog’s diet: 

• Vitamins D, B1, and B6 that support your dog’s heart health and metabolism
• Niacin for healthy skin, nervous system, and digestion
• Calcium for strong bones, teeth, and ligaments
• Phosphorus that works with calcium to strengthen bones, teeth, and ligaments
• Thiamine, aka vitamin B1, supports cell production and metabolism
• Magnesium that supports muscle movement and energy production
• Selenium, which is essential for thyroid function, reproduction, and protecting against cell damage from oxidation
• Manganese protects your dog’s body from free radicals that can hurt cells

White rice vs. brown rice for dogs 

White or brown? Both types of rice can be found in pet food, but they offer distinct advantages for your dog’s health.

White rice is an excellent source of carbohydrates — or starch — and can soothe an upset stomach. Since starch doesn’t get digested until it reaches the small intestines, rice acts as a prebiotic that promotes regular bowel movements and bulks up loose stool.

It’s also an affordable diarrhea remedy, making it a practical choice for many pet owners. However, because it’s a fast-burning carb with a high glycemic index and can raise blood sugar levels, dogs with diabetes or overweight dogs may not tolerate it as well. 

Brown rice is more nutritional than white rice, although some dogs may find it harder to digest. It’s a complex carb and burns more slowly, stabilizing blood sugar for longer. The fiber it contains can be helpful for dogs with constipation.

If you’re looking for alternatives to brown or white rice, wild rice is another nutritious option packed with fiber and antioxidants. Plus, many dogs like it because of its nutty flavor. Other alternatives include basmati rice, a long-grain white rice that’s rich in carbohydrates, or Jasmine rice, a softer, long-grain rice from Thailand that’s less starchy and sticky.

A home remedy for dog diarrhea 

For dogs suffering from an upset tummy or diarrhea after eating something they shouldn’t have, white rice can come to the rescue.

Vets often suggest a bland diet of white rice (without any spices or fats) and boiled chicken for dogs with digestive problems. This recipe is especially helpful for puppies with diarrhea, as it’s easy for them to digest. 

White rice helps their digestive system relax and regain its balance until your dog can eat their regular kibble again. Most veterinarians will not recommend brown rice for dogs with stomach or digestion issues.

If you’re hoping that a serving of rice can save your dog from stomach upset (and ruined carpets), then keep reading for preparation tips.

How much rice can my dog eat?

Most dog foods contain the correct daily amount of calories and nutrients that your dog needs for optimum health. Treats should only comprise 10% of their daily caloric intake (you can make an exception if you’re temporarily switching to a chicken and rice diet). Give them too many treats and you risk weight gain, pancreatitis, or diabetes.

Large dogs can eat about 1/3 cup of rice two or three times per week. Smaller dogs should eat much less. Remember, these recommended amounts are for dogs on a balanced food diet, with rice being served as a treat or an added ingredient in their daily meals.

Offer tiny amounts at first, then gradually increase the portion size if your dog shows no signs of digestive trouble.

Can puppies eat rice? 

Yes, puppies can eat rice. Plain, cooked white rice is often recommended by veterinarians for puppies with upset stomachs or diarrhea. 

However, rice should also be an addition as part of a balanced meal and not their main diet. You can start introducing rice to your puppy when they are weaning, usually around 8 weeks old.

How to prepare rice for your dog

As a general rule, keep it simple and only serve plain, cooked rice. Anytime you want to prepare rice for your dog, rinse it first to remove excess starch before cooking. Don’t add any additional seasoning or flavoring. Then, use a rice cooker or boil it in plain water until tender. 

You can even throw in some vegetables and lean meats to the mixture for added nutrition and flavor.  For an extra special treat, cook the rice in broth with no sodium or fats (although most dogs will happily gobble down the plain rice).

Just remember, never give your dog leftover meals cooked for people. Although curries, fried rice, or similar dishes may be tempting to share, they are often unsafe and unhealthy for your pup. 

Excessive salts, soy sauce, fats, seasonings, and added onions or garlic can cause serious digestive issues or even toxicity.

The verdict: Rice is safe for dogs

Easy to digest and gentle on their system, rice is a great comfort food for your dogs, so long as it’s part of a healthy, balanced diet. Brown rice is high in fiber and can help alleviate constipation, while white rice is a natural and affordable solution to soothe upset stomachs. 

Just like rice is a simple solution for your dog’s tummy aches, dog insurance can be a simple solution for dealing with unexpected vet bills. Pumpkin Dog Insurance plans can help cover eligible costs at the vet if your pup gets hurt or sick in the future, making it easier for you to help them get the care they need.

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