Can Dogs Eat Rice?
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Rice is a staple of many meals—burrito or fried rice, here we come!
But this also means your dog might look at you with envy come dinnertime.
So, can dogs eat rice? Here’s which kinds of rice are safe for your dog and how to serve them.
Key Takeaways
- Dogs can enjoy small amounts of plain, cooked white or brown rice.
- White rice may be especially helpful for dogs with mild stomach upset.
- Skip seasoned rice, since ingredients like garlic, onion, and excess salt can harm dogs.
- Rice should be an occasional snack, not a replacement for balanced dog food.
- If your dog has diabetes or is overweight, ask your veterinarian before serving rice.
Can Dogs Eat Rice?
Yes, dogs can eat rice.
However, the kind of rice does matter. While most vets will suggest white rice—especially for tummy troubles—brown rice is also OK, as long as it’s plain.
The key is making sure the rice is plain and unseasoned.
Is Rice Good for Dogs?
Yes, rice can be good for dogs.
Rice is nontoxic to canines, so it’s safe for your dog. In fact, veterinarians often recommend a bland diet for dogs—which usually includes white rice—if your pup is having GI issues.
Here’s why it’s healthy for your pup’s gut:
Is Rice Bad for Dogs?
No, rice isn’t bad for dogs if it’s plain and unseasoned.
But seasoned rice isn’t a good idea. It might have seasonings or additives that are harmful to dogs, so it’s best to skip it.
And if your dog has diabetes or is obese, you should think twice about giving them any kind of rice, even white rice. White rice has a high glycemic index, meaning it can raise your pup’s blood sugar levels. In that case, chat with your vet first about whether white rice is OK for your pup.
How Much Rice Can a Dog Eat?
If you’re offering your dog some rice, you’ll still want to stick to a small serving size.
Remember that treats and snacks of any kind should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s diet.
| Dog Size | Serving Size |
|---|---|
| Extra-small dogs (2–10 pounds) | 1–2 tbsp, 2–3 times a week |
| Small dogs (11–20 pounds) | 2–3 tbsp, 2–3 times a week |
| Medium dogs (21–50 pounds) | 1/4 cup, 2–3 times a week |
| Large dogs (51–90 pounds) | 1/2 cup, 2–3 times a week |
| Extra-large dogs (91+ pounds) | 2/3 cup, 2–3 times a week |
How To Safely Feed Your Dog Rice
Here’s how to safely feed your dog rice:
- Cook the rice plain with no added seasonings or flavors.
- Add a little bit of boiled boneless, skinless chicken or turkey to the rice, if you choose.
- If you are feeding your dog rice to help with ongoing digestive problems, use a 2:1 rice-to-protein ratio because the rice helps bind your dog’s stool in the case of diarrhea.
- Let the rice cool, then serve a small amount to your dog.
What To Give Your Dog Instead of Rice
Rice isn’t a bad choice, so you don’t need to avoid it.
However, if you’d prefer a store-bought option instead of cooking rice for your pup, there’s no shortage of products. Here are some vet-approved choices.
Dogs and Rice FAQs
Can dogs eat white rice?
Yes, white rice is not only safe for dogs, but it’s great for helping dogs with digestive issues.
Can dogs eat brown rice?
Yes, plain brown rice is safe for dogs to eat. It has a lower glycemic index than white rice and has more fiber. However, it can be harder for dogs to digest, so white rice is generally a better choice as a remedy for diarrhea.
Can dogs eat jasmine rice?
Yes, jasmine and basmati are two types of long-grain white rice, so they’re OK for dogs to eat.
