We humans benefit from eating rice, especially the white variety, since it is a good source of carbohydrate, magnesium, phosphorous, folic acid, and other nutrients. But is a diet of rice good for dogs? Experts say a diet that includes rice is helpful in curing several dog health problems. This DogAppy article explains the advantages of a rice diet for dogs.
Dog owners can never be certain about the quality of commercial pet food available in the market. Regardless of the brand and the regulations decided by the USDA, FDA, and others; any person with no knowledge about nutrition and dog health can manufacture dog food. This thought is indeed horrifying, and hence, it is necessary to search for several healthy and easy substitutes for commercial dog food. One such option is a rice diet.
A good diet for dogs must consist of around 50% of boiled or steamed grains. Whole grains and semi-digestive grains are also beneficial options. Not only rice, one can also feed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, zucchini, Brussels sprouts, carrots, etc., and protein foods like raw meat and occasional eggs to add nutrients. A general thumb rule to follow when it comes to preparing a rice diet menu for dogs is:
Rice is very rich source of carbohydrates for dogs. Along with carbohydrates, rice is also rich in phosphorous, calcium, and iron. Pets, generally, are not intolerant to rice as the diet contains other grains and whole grains too. These diets, especially with brown and unpolished rice are excellent as far as dogs are concerned. Along with the above nutritional benefits, here are several other dog health issues that can be treated with this diet.
Food Allergies
Chances for your dog to develop allergies with several foods, mostly with pork, milk, whey, beef, chicken, fish, soy, corn, wheat, or certain preservatives is high. If your dog is exhibiting any symptoms of food allergy, then you need to discontinue other foods and put it on a rice diet.
Upset Stomach
If your dog is suffering from sudden loss of appetite, a rice diet can prove beneficial. A bout of diarrhea or gas can be cured by a diet of rice with chicken/hamburger (with no salt). Depending on the severity of the problem, you can add medication to the diet too.
Colitis in Dogs
Colitis, which is an inflammation of the colon (large intestine), is also a serious medical condition that can be controlled by a rice diet. When suffering from colitis, dogs feel lethargic and dehydrated. In such cases, you can blindly follow this diet as it will help the dog rebuild its appetite.
Rice Diet Recipe
There are several simple homemade recipes that can make for a great diet. Here is one basic recipe that is easy to make.
- 3 cups of rice (brown or white rice)
- Meat like chicken, lamb, or beef
- Finely chopped vegetables
- Salmon or olive oil
- Heat the oil in a pan and add the vegetables in it.
- Add the rice and water, and cook it to perfection.
- You can add the finely chopped meat pieces into it or feed them raw as well. Your dog will definitely like this rice diet recipe.
Rice diet sure has its benefits but just remember that it is carbohydrates which will turn into fat if not consumed. So, keep a check on your dog’s weight.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a veterinarian.
