Can Dogs Eat Rice? White vs Brown for Dogs

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Rice is a staple in many dog foods, and it features in nearly every home remedy for upset stomachs. It is cheap, safe and easy to prepare. But it is not a complete meal for a dog, and it helps to understand when and how to use it.

Is rice safe for dogs?

Yes. Plain, cooked rice is safe for dogs and provides digestible carbohydrate energy. It contains small amounts of protein and some minerals. Dogs digest cooked rice well, and many commercial diets use it as an ingredient. See our guide to carbohydrates in dog food.

White rice versus brown rice

• White rice has had the bran and germ removed. It is easy to digest and low in fibre, which makes it suitable for upset stomachs and diarrhea. It has a higher glycemic index, meaning it raises blood sugar faster.
• Brown rice retains the bran and germ, giving more fibre, vitamins and minerals. It takes longer to digest and may not suit dogs with sensitive stomachs. It is a fine choice for healthy dogs.

Rice for upset stomachs

Vets often suggest a short bland diet of boiled white rice and lean cooked protein, such as skinless chicken, for mild digestive upset. It gives the gut a rest while providing some energy. It is not nutritionally complete and should only be used for a day or two, unless your vet advises otherwise. If vomiting or diarrhea continues, or your dog seems unwell, see a vet. See our guides to sensitive stomach diets and diarrhea in dogs.

How to cook rice for dogs

1. Rinse the rice.
2. Boil in plain water until very soft, with no salt, butter, oil or seasoning.
3. Drain and cool completely.
4. Serve in small portions.
5. Refrigerate leftovers promptly, and use within a day or two.

Do not feed rice cooked with onion, garlic or sauces. See onions and garlic.

How much?

As a topper, a spoonful or two is enough for a small dog and a little more for a large dog, counted within the daily calories. In a bland diet, the proportion is higher for a short time, as your vet advises. Do not use rice as a main food for long, since it lacks essential nutrients.

Dogs that should be careful

• Diabetic dogs. Rice can raise blood sugar. Ask your vet.
• Overweight dogs. Rice adds calories. Use sparingly.
• Dogs with allergies. Rice allergy is uncommon but possible.

Rice and arsenic

Rice can contain small amounts of inorganic arsenic from soil and water. Occasional rice is not a concern, but it is another reason not to base a diet on it. Varying carbohydrate sources helps.

Raw and instant rice

Do not feed raw rice, which is hard to digest. Avoid flavored instant rice, fried rice and sushi rice with vinegar or seasoning.

Rice in commercial diets

Rice, brewers rice and rice bran are common in kibble and are well tolerated. See our guide to dog food ingredient lists.

Rice in homemade bland diets

When your vet recommends a bland diet, a common mix is about one part cooked protein to two or three parts cooked white rice, served in small, frequent meals. Plain skinless boiled chicken breast, lean turkey or cottage cheese are typical protein choices, but ask your vet which fits your dog. Return to the regular diet gradually over a few days, mixing increasing amounts of normal food with the bland mix.

The takeaway

Plain cooked rice is a safe, digestible addition and a useful short-term bland food. It should not replace a balanced diet. See your vet if digestive signs last.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.