Rice is good for dogs when they have upset stomach. But the question is that can they eat rice as a part of their regular diet?
Well, the answer is YES. And the good news is that feeding rice to your dog will cost you less. There are various commercial as well as homemade foods which have rice as one of their ingredients. Two main categories of rice include whole grain rice and white rice. But, why to serve rice to dogs? Here is the answer.
Benefits of rice to dogs:
Being a good source of carbohydrates, rice acts as a source of energy for the body. With no harmful fats, cholesterol or sodium, rice is an important part of a well balanced diet for dogs. It also helps in normal functioning of the brain.
An excellent source of niacin, calcium, vitamin D, fiber, thiamine, iron and riboflavin, rice also has a good amount of starch, which doesn’t digest till it reaches the bowel. It helps in the growth of useful bacteria which promote normal bowel movements.
Brown rice has high amounts of insoluble fiber that provides protection against various types of cancers. Rice is also considered as the best food for dogs with high blood pressure as it is low in sodium. Husk of a three-month-old rice plant has diuretic properties which help in lowering high blood pressure. Husk is also an effective medicine that is used to treat dysentery. It is also believed that rice cures stomach disorders and increases appetite. Brown rice is a good source of neurotransmitter nutrients that helps in prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. Rice bran oil has anti-oxidant properties that help in lowering cholesterol levels in body thus increasing cardio vascular strength.
One must consider feeding brown rice over white rice to the dog. One cup of brown rice contains:
• Insoluble fiber 3.12 g
• Protein 5.03 gd
• Carbohydrates 44.77 g
• Fat - total 1.76 g
How can I feed rice to my dog?
Rice needs to be given to dog in small amounts as large amounts of rice can bowel up a dog. You can feed any kind of rice to your dog but make sure it is cooked. Rice is a wonderful food for dogs suffering from diarrhea. Since brown rice and whole rice have a good amount of fiber, ensure that your drink is drinking lots of water to avoid constipation. However, feeding rice in every meal everyday may pose some long term health consequences. So, you must look for variety.