Can Dogs Eat Wild Rice?

Rice is one of the most popular foods around the world. And what could go wrong while having rice? Dogs can and do eat. If you find that surprising, check the ingredients of dog food and you’ll find rice in it.

Rice is a good carbohydrate source and easy to digest for dogs. Various types of rice are present, and wild rice is one of the most typical. Let us discuss Can Dogs Eat Wild Rice?

Types Of Rice

There are many types of rice. Rice is suitable for your dog’s diet, but not all kinds of rice are ideal for dogs. Following are the types of rice that are safe for dogs.

Brown Rice

Brown rice has more nutrients because it contains a fiber called bran. But bran is not easily digestible. It has more fibers, and it is a very complex carb which is why it takes more time to digest and stabilizes the blood sugar level slowly but for a more extended period.

The high fiber content in brown rice helps treat overweight dogs as they feel full and is also helpful in treating constipation.

Phytic acid is present in brown rice. Phytic acid is a compound with antioxidant properties and is used to give energy to the seed for its sprouting. Phytic acid is believed to have some anticancer properties. Some studies say that phytic acid delays mineral absorption.

White Rice

White rice is a significant source of carbohydrates and starch and is often used to treat an upset stomach. The absorption of starch occurs in the small intestine, which helps the bacteria in bowel movement and helps with loose stool.

Rice has a high glycemic index and 1/3 of a cup of white rice has 70 calories. White rice has less fiber and fewer nutrients than brown rice. White rice also doesn’t have any complex carbs, which is why it is digested quickly and increases blood sugar level.

Diabetic dogs are not advised to take white rice because of its hyperglycemic effect. Dogs having issues with yeast and candida are also not recommended to have white rice.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice has long grains and fewer scratches. They are softer in texture and not sticky. They are also easily digestible.

Wild Rice

Wild rice contains the most nutrients. It contains most fibers and antioxidants, which is really good for dogs. They contain a nutty flavor which dogs also really like. Wild rice should be given to dogs in its original form without spices.

Wild Rice For Dogs

If you ask me, can dogs eat wild rice? The answer is yes, dogs can eat wild rice. Dogs should ideally have a high-protein diet because they are carnivorous, however carbs are necessary as well. There are different kinds of foods that are useful to keep your dog healthy.

Dogs require carbohydrates for them to be energetic throughout the day. Vitamins and minerals are also essential for them to be healthy. Vitamins and minerals are also necessary to increase brain function.

Wild rice is much more nutritious and easily digestible. Feeding your wild dog rice is good so they can get enough carbohydrates and remain healthy.

How To Prepare Wild Rice For Dogs?

Rice is the most used ingredient in dog food. It is effortless to make and perfect for everyday use as well. Wild rice is a complete package as it got the perfect nutty taste with many nutrients like carbohydrates.

The easiest way to prepare wild rice is to boil it and mix other dog food. Some dogs don’t eat wild rice alone, so it is better to mix it a bit with the food they usually eat, like chicken or any other protein is a perfect way for them to eat and stay healthy.

You can also mash the rice and mix it with some proteins. Give everything a try and see how your dog likes it. But the purpose is to provide wild rice in their system so that they can get enough carbohydrates with essential proteins. 

How Much Wild Rice Should I Give To My Dog?

The amount of rice depends on the size and appetite of your dog. If your dog eats four times a day, you can give them one-fourth portion of rice in each meal.

The quantity of wild rice depends on the dog’s size; if your dog is big and eats more, you will require a more significant portion. And if you have a small dog, a small percentage of wild rice will be necessary.

The amount should be balanced between proteins and carbs; you don’t want your dog to get obese because of excess carbohydrates.

Wild Rice For Diabetic Dogs

For diabetic dogs, any food that increases the blood sugar level should be avoided. Rice contains carbohydrates which in turn change into sugar and increase the blood sugar level.

Wild rice is different in the sense they do not have a high glycemic index; mostly, white rice has the highest glycemic index. So wild rice can be given to diabetic dogs but in small quantities.

Wild rice is the safest option for dogs with diabetes because they are whole grain food that doesn’t alarmingly increase the blood sugar level.

Wild Rice And Quinoa

Wild rice and quinoa are excellent sources of nutrients; they have proteins, fibers, minerals, and many other things. They are good separately as well as when they are added to your dog’s meal bowl. You can also give it as a treat.

Wild rice and quinoa are rich in nutrients like carbs and proteins, so they should be given in small quantities. Also, they should be appropriately cooked as dogs can not eat them raw.

Conclusion

Wild rice is basically seeds named rice because of their soft rice-like texture. Wild rice is suitable for dogs because it contains a good amount of carbohydrates and doesn’t increase your dog’s sugar level rapidly.

That is the reason even diabetic dogs can eat wild rice. Wild rice should be boiled and added with some protein like chicken or turkey to make a proper meal.