When dogs eat rice off your plate, it may be worrying for a lot of pet owners, since consuming any new human food can potentially be dangerous for your canine companion. Therefore, it is important to understand the types of rice that are safe, as well as the possible risks.
Can Dogs Eat Rice?
In the question of whether dogs should eat rice, it all comes down to quality. In general, rice is considered a more expensive ingredient in dog food, but you must be certain that the rice is not feed-grade rice, which is the leftover bits of human rice production added to kibble or dog food. There is a much higher risk of toxins being absorbed by this type of rice, particularly arsenic, which can be toxic to your pooch. [1]
However, if the quality is high, and whole-grain rice is eaten by dogs, there shouldn’t be any real danger. While some food allergies to rice do exist in dogs, these are quite uncommon. Even so, if you do choose to add high-quality rice to your pup’s diet, be sure to only do so in moderation, and watch for any unusual stomach reactions or behavior in the hours after they first consume it. [2]
Can you serve brown rice to your dog? Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Can Dogs Eat Brown Rice?
Brown rice is one of the best options for your dog, as it is high in fiber and vitamins, and is also more flavorful. The high nutrient density makes it an excellent addition to their diet. There are very few food allergies to brown rice in dogs, and it can help overweight dogs lose weight. It can also optimize digestive processes and regulate bowel movements. It can even help your dog avoid certain cardiovascular diseases when given in moderation. [3]
Can Dogs Eat White Rice?
While white rice isn’t inherently dangerous for dogs, it is probably the least healthy variety of rice they could eat. With a lower nutrient content, less fiber and fewer vitamins than brown rice, white rice is equivalent to empty carbs for your dog, and you would be better served by sticking to regular dog food. Remember, a healthy canine diet already has all the nutrients your canine pal needs every day, so human food like rice should only be given as an occasional snack or supplement. [4]
Can Dogs Eat Wild Rice?
Wild rice in the whole form is considered safe for your dogs to eat, provided you don’t prepare the rice with a lot of other spices or flavorings. This is true for any human food given to your dog, as the excess spices and flavors are more likely to make your dog sick. When dogs eat rice of the wild variety, they are getting a high concentration of fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients, more so than you would get from feeding them white rice. [5]
Can Dogs Eat Jasmine Rice?
Jasmine rice, both brown and white varieties, have similar nutritional properties and can, therefore, be given to your dog safely, in moderation. This type of rice is low in saturated fat and high in fiber, protein, and key B-vitamins. To give your pooch something new, and a healthy food that will provide an energy boost, jasmine rice can be a good choice. [6]
