You guys know I am not a fan of rice in the dog’s diet. Especially on a regular basis and definitely not if they are unwell! It’s not the “bland” diet your vet or old-wives tales may have you believe.
But I know many are aiming to stretch the budget at least a little. If you are going to use brown rice on an occasional and minimal use basis, here are some preparation considerations:
Is Brown Rice Right for Your Dog? Tips for Better Digestibility
Brown rice can sometimes pose digestive challenges for dogs. Its hard outer shell often passes through their system undigested, showing up as visible remnants in their stool. Additionally, brown rice contains phytic acid, an anti-nutrient that can block the absorption of essential minerals like iron and zinc from their diet. If you’re using brown rice in your dog’s meals, there’s a method to help enhance its digestibility:
Recommended Preparation Method
Follow these steps to make brown rice easier for your dog to digest:
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Thorough Rinsing
Rinse the brown rice until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and impurities, making it easier on their stomach. -
Water-to-Rice Ratio
Use a 3:1 water-to-rice ratio. For example, mix 3 cups of water with 1 cup of rice. -
Optional Additive (ACV)
For added digestion support, add 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar per cup of rice. This can enhance nutrient absorption. -
Soaking
Soak the rice for at least 8 hours, ideally overnight. This softens the grain and starts a gentle fermentation process, breaking down the rice to make it more digestible. -
Cooking
Cook the rice as you normally would but aim for a soft, mushy texture. This consistency makes it easier for dogs to chew and digest than typical rice cooked for human consumption.
By following this method, the cooked rice will be softer and gentler on your dog’s digestive system.
A better option may be quinoa!!
Remember: Keep carbs below 20% of your food volume for the average dog.