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Rice comes in many forms, from long grain and basmati to shorter varieties like pearl and short-grain rice. While nutritional differences between rice types are relatively minor, each can be found in either its whole (brown) or polished (white) form.
Brown rice — also known as wholegrain rice—retains its outer bran and germ layers, making it richer in fibre and nutrients than white rice. As long as it is properly cooked, brown rice is generally well digested by dogs and provides useful levels of B vitamins, iron, magnesium, manganese, selenium and even small amounts of omega-3 fatty acids. It also contains dietary fibre that can help support digestive regularity. For these reasons, it is a popular choice among many British natural dog food producers.
However, brown rice is not without its caveats. It contains compounds known as antinutrients, particularly phytic acid, which can bind to minerals like zinc and calcium and reduce their absorption over time. Brown rice can also accumulate higher levels of inorganic arsenic compared to other grains—a concern when fed in large quantities on a regular basis.
When used in moderation as part of a complete and balanced recipe, brown rice can be a nutritious and beneficial ingredient for most dogs. But diets that rely too heavily on brown rice — especially where it features high up the ingredient list or appears in multiple forms — may pose long-term risks. As always, ingredient quality, sourcing, and the overall balance of the diet matter far more than any one component.
Find foods containing Rice - brown / whole grain
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