Did you know that anything made using rice or oats is part of the grains group? Grains are packed with dietary fiber, carbohydrates, iron, and B vitamins that support various body functions. But the question is, do dogs need grains in their diet? And as a paw parent, how much and which grains should you let him have?
In this dog feeding blog post, we address:
- What are grains?
- Should dogs have grains in their diet?
- Which grains can dogs eat?
- How should a dog consume grains for the first time?
What are grains?
Grains are described as small, hard, dry seeds that may or may not have attached hulls or fruit layers. Because of their compact nature, they can be easily stored and transported. Aside from being packed with vitamins and minerals, these edible seeds are great sources of energy for humans and animals alike. They’re classified into subgroups, namely cereal grains, pseudocereal grains, grain legumes, and oilseeds. This article takes an in-depth look at some cereal and pseudocereal grains dogs can consume.
TIP: Find out which legumes and beans dogs can safely eat in this Waldo’s Friends article.
Aside from the four types, grains can also be classified as whole grains and refined grains depending on how they are processed. Whole grains retain their bran, germ, and endosperm. On the other hand, the bran and germ are removed in refined grains. This is done to extend the grain’s shelf life and give it a finer texture.
In terms of nutritional value, it is better to pick whole grain over refined grain since each layer contains essential nutrients. B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, iron, copper, antioxidants, and phytochemicals are found in the bran. Aside from B vitamins, antioxidants, and phytochemicals, healthy fats and vitamin E can be found in the germ. Meanwhile, the endosperm or innermost layer contains plant-based protein, carbohydrates, B vitamins, and minerals. As the nutrients are usually stripped away in refined grains, it is best to go with enriched options.
Should dogs have grains in their diet?
As omnivores, dogs can get their nutrients from a combination of animal and plant food sources. In fact, PetMD shares that grains are regularly used in commercially sold dog food. These grains include oats, wheat, corn, barley, rice, rye, and soy.
Carbohydrates are needed by dogs. Their bodies use the glucose found in it and transform it into energy. Aside from that, carbs derived from grains also help generate heat, form bases for other nutrients, or can even be converted to fat. In addition, grains play an important role in providing dietary fiber for canines, aiding in their digestion.
Unless your dog is allergic or intolerant to grains, he should be able to digest the grains found in dog food. There is no set amount of carbohydrates required for dogs, but commercially sold kibble typically contains 30 to 60% of it. Active puppies or those with high-energy needs are recommended to have at least 20% of carbohydrates in their daily diet.
Which grains can dogs eat?
Review our list below to discover which ones should be given to your pet:
Bread
Bread may be fed to your dog with some stipulations. They should be of the plain variety and not include harmful ingredients such as xylitol, raisins, certain nuts, and fruit jams. Simple white bread can be given in moderation. However, it is safer to keep Italian bread away from your pooch—especially if you’re unsure of its ingredients. Also, never let him try raw bread dough. The yeast can rapidly rise in his stomach and cause serious health complications.
Corn
Plainly cooked corn kernels can be given to your canine. Do not offer him flavoured ones slathered with butter or sprinkled with salt as these are not good for him. Plus, he does not need the extra calories. In addition, do not let him munch on corn kernels that are attached to the cob. This hard center could cause choking or blockage to his gastrointestinal system.
Similarly, your dog can occasionally snack on a few pieces of popped and unseasoned popcorn. Just remember to remove all unpopped or partially popped kernels beforehand. They can lead to dental pain, airway obstruction, indigestion, and constipation.
Oat
High in protein and fat, oats can be enjoyed by dogs in various forms. They’re great for digestion, and have antitumor and hormonal properties.
When serving your dog oatmeal, choose whole grain, steel-cut, or rolled oats over instant oatmeal. The instant types are usually heavily processed and artificially flavoured. Plus, they may be loaded with sugar or contain harmful ingredients such as chocolate, nuts, and raisins.
Similar to other grains, uncooked oatmeal should never be given to your dog. It is difficult to digest and may cause stomach upset.
Pasta
Dogs can occasionally eat pasta as long as you give him the cooked and unseasoned variety. Pasta sauces eaten by humans usually contain toxic ingredients for canines, so it’s best to steer clear of them. Take the proper precautions by adding dog-safe meats and vegetables.
Meanwhile, the sharp edges of uncooked pasta can tear your dog’s mouth, throat, esophagus, and/or intestines. As such, it should never be given to him.
Quinoa
A gluten-free seed, quinoa can be eaten by your dog. It can assist with muscle growth, metabolism, and brain function. Nevertheless, dogs with arthritis or food allergies should refrain from eating quinoa because of the oxalates found in it.
Rice
Rice can be fed to your pooch, but only ones cooked in plain water. Raw rice of any variety should not be fed to canines. The small, hard grains can soak in the moisture found in your pooch’s stomach. This can lead to diarrhea, constipation, or indigestion.
Jasmine rice, a type of white rice, can be eaten occasionally by your pooch. On the other hand, plainly cooked brown rice is better than white rice as it has more nutrients. Some sources say wild rice is even better than the two aforementioned options as it contains less calories and fat.
Avoid giving your dog fried rice or yellow rice because of potentially toxic ingredients found in them. Garlic, onions, and certain spices mixed into these dishes can cause instant damage to your pet’s organs.
How should a dog consume grains for the first time?
As with any new food, speak with your veterinarian before letting your pet try it. Get your doctor’s consent and recommended serving amount depending on your pooch’s age, size, activity levels, and health conditions. He may already be getting his daily carbohydrate requirement through his dry kibble, so other grains you give him would be considered as treats. If this is the case, limit it between five to 10% of his total calories.
When feeding grains for the very first time, give him a small portion of unseasoned, cooked grain. Observe him over the next 24 hours. Watch if there are any changes in his mood, behaviour, as well as his eating, drinking, and excreting habits. If any strange symptoms appear, contact your vet and report your findings. Though rare, some dogs may be allergic to certain grains.
If you’re curious to learn more about which human foods are safe for your pets, check out our “can dogs eat” and “can cats eat” categories. We delve into different types of ingredients (such as seafood, fruits, and herbs) and how these can affect your pets.
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