Can Dogs Eat Chicken & Brown Rice?

Dog foods often include chicken and brown rice

Many commercial dog kibble includes chicken and brown rice, which is safe for dogs to eat. Pet guardians can also feed dogs home-cooked diets which include fresh chicken and brown rice, for maximum health benefits.

History

Before the invention of commercial pet food in the 1960s, dogs ate table scraps for dinner, including chicken and brown rice. Today, commercial dog food contains these ingredients but in more limited, refined versions.

Benefits

Brown rice is more beneficial than white rice, because the outer hull, which contains the nutrients, is not stripped away as it is with white rice production. Brown rice is an excellent source of fiber, manganese, selenium and magnesium.

Considerations

Overexposure to chicken and brown rice found in either commercial dog food or home cooked recipes can result in allergies.

Expert Insight

Andi Brown, author of "The Whole Pet Diet," says that lean chicken is easy for the body to process, especially if your dog is having any health issues.

Warning

Do not feed dogs cooked chicken bones, which can splinter and cause internal damage. Brown rice should be cooked to a soft consistency for maximum digestion and absorbency in your dog's intestines.

References

• "The Whole Pet Diet," by Andi Brown. 2006.
• Home Made Raw Food Diet for Animals
• Brown Rice

Resources

• What Should I Feed My Dog and Cat to Keep them Healthy?
• Food Allergies and Food Intolerance in Dogs