Is Grain Good for Dogs?

Dogs went from being carnivorous to omnivorous as they took the journey of settling in with humans and leaving their wild wolf genes behind. Humans took the same journey as they began settling and developing agriculture. Agriculture may have been the reason for us to stop chasing animals for food and grow our own, but we very well understood the nutritional benefits of grains as well. Now, we taught our ways to dogs and made their stomachs capable of digesting fruits and vegetables. But are we taking it too far with grains for dogs?

There’s been a debate over grains for dogs. Some feel that they are a good addition to a dog’s diet as they can provide some important nutrients to them and can also act as a good addition of texture and taste to their bowls. However, others argue that it is not a part of their natural diet and may not suit their stomachs. Some dogs are even allergic to grains. 

This has given rise to grain-free dog diets in recent times. You can also attribute this development to the sudden rise of gluten intolerance and allergies in people which has led many to believe that grains are bad for dogs too. Let’s see if this is actually true.

Should Dogs Eat Grains or Not?

After reading this topic in depth, we’ve concluded that grains are not a necessity for dogs. They can get all the nutrients from meat sources. Having said that, this does not make grains bad for dogs. As long as your dog is not allergic to gluten or any other grain-related allergy, they are perfectly safe for them. ^{(1) (3)}

You may now ask, are all grains good for dogs?

High-quality grains like oats, brown rice, and wheat can be part of a well-rounded diet for dogs that aren't allergic to grains. Other grains like barley can also be beneficial for diabetic and obese dogs in small amounts.   

But some grains, especially the ones with gluten, can be bad for dogs. These include wheat and rye. Wheat is also among the most common allergens in dogs. You should also avoid genetically processed grains like corn. When buying grains or grain-based diets, you must ensure no preservatives or any additives. Whole grains usually provide better nutrients to dogs as opposed to refined ones. 

How Do Grains Benefit Dogs?

Grains can add value to a dog’s diet with the nutrients they are packed with. These include – ⁽⁴⁾

These nutrients can provide energy, promote digestion, improve skin and coat health, and support a healthy immune system. Each combination of grains comes with its own benefit. The best one for your dog will depend on their medical history, dietary history, and physical examination findings. 

Is Rice a Good Grain for Dogs?

Rice does not contain gluten and is not a common allergen in dogs. Eating plain rice in moderate amounts is safe for dogs. It can be a good source of carbohydrates for dogs, which provides them with energy and can be a helpful part of a bland diet for dogs with digestive issues. 

The only problem with rice is its high glycemic index. It can cause blood sugar levels to spike. This can be especially concerning for dogs with obesity or diabetes. This is where brown rice can help, as it comes with a low glycemic index. It contains more fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants than white rice. It can be helpful for dogs with gastrointestinal upset. ⁽²⁾

Some vets do prefer feeding white rice to dogs with an upset stomach as opposed to brown rice as it can be difficult for some dogs to digest. Hence, it is important to check with your vet before introducing any new ingredient to your dog’s food bowl. 

More about Spot Pet Insurance

Your dog may not face any severe consequences if they consume some grain-based food. But if they are allergic to some grains, there can be a severe reaction, especially if a large quantity is eaten. You may also unknowingly feed them foods that can cause digestive upset and other problems for them. Too much barley, for example, can not only cause digestive issues but also allergic reactions, weight gain and pancreatic inflammation. 

Some illnesses may be minor, but others might be severe and may even surgery. At such a time, worrying about your pet would be more important than worrying about all the medical bills. This is where pet health insurance helps. You can save up to 90% of all expenses and much more. 

Spot accident and illness plans can be used with any licensed vet in Canada or the U.S. Whether you are home, or traveling to the U.S., veterinary services your pet receives for the diagnosis, treatment, or management of covered conditions can be eligible for reimbursement. Spot’s accident and illness plans can help cover a variety of conditions including broken bones, lacerations, aggression, kidney disease, diabetes, and more. With the addition of Wellness Riders for an extra cost, you can also receive reimbursements for wellness exams, certain vaccinations, dental cleanings, and more. 

Learn more about dog insurance or get a free quote!