Feeding your dog chicken and rice can be a gentle and effective way to soothe their digestive system. It’s a classic home remedy recommended by many veterinarians for dogs experiencing upset stomach, diarrhea, or recovering from illness. This simple combination offers a bland, easy-to-digest meal that’s gentle on your dog’s gut, while still providing enough nutrients and energy to help them recover.
Chicken is a lean source of protein that supports muscle maintenance and repair. When cooked without skin or seasoning, it’s mild enough not to irritate a sensitive stomach. Rice, particularly white rice, is low in fiber and helps to bind the stool, making it ideal for dogs with gastrointestinal issues. Together, chicken and rice form a balanced temporary diet that can help get your pup back on track.
Why Feed Dogs Chicken and Rice?
When your dog isn’t feeling their best—maybe they’ve had diarrhea, vomiting, or just seem off—the first thing many vets suggest is a simple chicken and rice diet. And for good reason. This combo isn’t just easy on the stomach; it also provides the basic nutrition your dog needs to start feeling better.
Let’s start with boiled chicken. It’s a fantastic source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and immune function. Unlike fatty cuts of meat, plain boiled chicken (skinless and boneless) is light on the digestive system. It gives your dog energy and helps maintain their strength while they recover, without adding unnecessary fat or irritants. Chicken also contains amino acids that support tissue health and metabolism.
Then there’s rice, usually plain white rice, which is known for being incredibly easy to digest. It provides a quick source of energy in the form of carbohydrates and helps firm up loose stools. White rice is low in fiber, which is exactly what you want when your dog’s digestive system is struggling to keep up. Unlike brown rice, which is harder to digest due to its fibrous outer layer, white rice allows your dog’s stomach to rest.
General Feeding Guidelines
When preparing a chicken and rice meal for your dog, it’s important to get the proportions and preparation right. While it might seem as simple as tossing some leftovers into a bowl, your dog’s digestive health depends on a careful balance and clean cooking methods.
Let’s talk about the ideal ratio of chicken to rice. A common guideline is a 1:2 ratio — that means one part cooked chicken to two parts cooked white rice. This ensures your dog gets enough carbohydrates to support energy levels, while still getting a solid amount of protein. In some cases, like for very active dogs or those who need more protein, a 2:1 ratio may be used temporarily, but most vets stick with 1:2 for digestive recovery.
Always use cooked, boneless, and skinless chicken. Boil the chicken thoroughly until fully cooked, with no pink left in the center. Avoid adding any seasoning, oil, butter, garlic, or onion — these can be toxic to dogs and can easily irritate an already sensitive stomach. Boneless meat is essential to avoid any risk of choking or digestive blockages.
For the rice, go with plain white rice only. Brown rice may seem like a healthier choice for humans, but it’s higher in fiber and harder for dogs to digest, especially when their stomach is upset. Just boil the rice in water — no salt, oil, or herbs.
Once cooked, let both the chicken and rice cool to room temperature before serving. Mix the appropriate portions together and serve it plain, either as one or two meals depending on your dog’s feeding schedule.
Keeping things bland, simple, and properly portioned gives your dog the best chance of bouncing back quickly and comfortably.
How Much Chicken and Rice to Feed a Dog by Weight (in Kg)
If you’re wondering how much chicken and rice to feed a dog by weight in kg, you’re not alone. Portion size is key when offering this bland diet. Feeding too little won’t give your dog enough energy to recover, and overfeeding can lead to weight gain or continued stomach upset. Below is a breakdown by weight category to help you serve the right amount.
Small Dogs (2–10 kg)
Small dogs need significantly less food but still require balanced nutrition. The typical serving is 30–40 grams of food per kg of body weight per day, using the 1:2 chicken-to-rice ratio.
Example Chart:
| Dog Weight | Chicken | Rice | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 kg | 60g | 120g | 180g |
| 5 kg | 100g | 200g | 300g |
| 10 kg | 200g | 400g | 600g |
Split into two or three meals.
Medium Dogs (11–25 kg)
Medium-sized dogs can usually eat between 500–1000 grams of the total mix daily, depending on their weight and energy needs.
Sample Meal Plan for 20 kg Dog:
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Morning: 200g chicken + 400g rice
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Evening: 200g chicken + 400g rice
Large Dogs (26–40 kg)
Larger dogs will require 1200–1800 grams of food per day. Split into two servings.
Example: A 30 kg dog may need 600 g of chicken + 1200g of rice daily.
Extra Large Dogs (41+ kg)
Extra-large breeds have higher caloric needs. Feed up to 2000–2500g of food per day, depending on activity level.
Tip: Divide into 2–3 meals, and always monitor weight, energy, and stool quality.
Sample Feeding Chart (Kg-Based Table)
To make feeding your dog chicken and rice as simple as possible, here’s a quick-reference feeding chart based on your dog’s weight in kilograms. This chart uses the standard 1:2 ratio of chicken to rice and assumes an average energy requirement for adult dogs with mild to moderate activity levels.
| Dog Weight (kg) | Chicken (g) | Rice (g) | Total Daily Amount (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kg | 100 g | 200 g | 300 g |
| 10 kg | 200 g | 400 g | 600 g |
| 20 kg | 400 g | 800 g | 1200 g |
| 30 kg | 600 g | 1200 g | 1800 g |
Notes:
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Split meals: Divide the total daily amount into two or three meals to reduce strain on your dog’s digestive system and promote better absorption.
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Activity level matters: Highly active or working dogs may require slightly more, while senior or low-activity dogs may need less. Monitor their energy levels and body condition.
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Puppies and seniors: Puppies may require more frequent, smaller meals with added nutrients, while senior dogs may need less food and easier digestibility. Consult your vet before adjusting.
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Short-term use only: This diet is intended for temporary use, typically for 3–5 days while recovering from digestive upset. It does not provide all the nutrients dogs need long-term.
Always observe your dog’s reaction to this diet. If symptoms worsen or persist beyond a few days, contact your vet for guidance.
How to Prepare Chicken and Rice for Dogs
Making a proper chicken and rice meal for your dog isn’t complicated, but following the right steps ensures it’s safe, easy to digest, and beneficial during recovery. Here’s how to prepare it the right way.
How to Cook Chicken for Dogs
Start with boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Boil the chicken in plain water—no salt, oil, or seasoning—until it’s fully cooked. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on the size of the pieces. The internal temperature should reach 75°C (165°F) to ensure safety.
Once cooked, let the chicken cool, then shred or chop it into small, bite-sized pieces. This makes it easier for your dog to eat and digest, especially if they’re not feeling 100%.
How to Cook Rice for Dogs
Use plain white rice, not instant or flavored varieties. Rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch, which can cause stickiness or bloating. Cook it in water (no salt or butter) at a ratio of 1 part rice to 2 parts water. Simmer it until fully soft, which typically takes about 15–20 minutes.
Let the rice cool before mixing it with the chicken.
Also Read: Do Different Dog Breeds Have Different Nutritional Needs?
Storage and Serving Tips
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Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
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If prepping ahead, you can freeze portions for longer storage—just thaw in the fridge overnight before serving.
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Serve at room temperature. Avoid microwaving straight from the fridge, as hot spots can form and burn your dog’s mouth.
Mix the chicken and rice just before serving to keep everything fresh, and always watch your dog for any signs of intolerance or continued digestive issues.
How Long to Feed Chicken and Rice Diet
While chicken and rice are a great short-term solution for dogs with an upset stomach, it’s important to remember that this is not a complete, long-term diet. It’s meant to be a temporary fix that gives your dog’s digestive system a chance to rest and heal.
Typical Duration: 3–5 Days
Most dogs do well on a chicken and rice diet for about three to five days. This gives the stomach enough time to settle and allows for inflammation or irritation in the gut to reduce. You’ll typically see improvements in your dog’s appetite, stool consistency, and overall energy within this time frame.
If your dog continues to have diarrhea, vomiting, or lethargy after a few days, it’s best to consult your vet. The issue might be more serious than a simple stomach upset.
Signs It’s Time to Transition Back
Once your dog’s stool has returned to normal (firm, formed, and brown), and they’re acting like their usual self again—alert, eating normally, and active—it’s probably time to transition back to their regular dog food.
Don’t switch foods abruptly. Start by mixing a small amount of your dog’s regular kibble or wet food with the chicken and rice. Gradually increase the amount of regular food over 2–3 days until your dog is fully back on their normal diet.
For example:
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Day 1: 75% chicken & rice, 25% regular food
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Day 2: 50/50
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Day 3: 25% chicken & rice, 75% regular food
If any digestive symptoms return during the transition, pause and go back a step, or consult your vet.
When to Consult a Vet
While chicken and rice are often a safe and effective way to help dogs through minor stomach issues, it’s important to know when home care isn’t enough. If symptoms persist or new concerns arise, it may be time to reach out to your veterinarian.
If Symptoms Persist Beyond a Few Days
If your dog continues to have diarrhea, vomiting, or loss of appetite after 3–5 days on a chicken and rice diet, it could be a sign of something more serious, like a bacterial infection, parasites, food intolerance, or even an underlying health condition. At that point, a vet visit is necessary for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Additionally, if your dog shows no improvement at all within the first 24–48 hours, don’t wait. It’s better to catch any issues early.
Warning Signs to Stop the Diet
Although rare, some dogs may not tolerate even the simplicity of chicken and rice. Keep an eye out for:
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Continued or worsening vomiting or diarrhea
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Signs of allergic reaction (itching, swelling, excessive licking)
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Bloating, gas, or constipation
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Lethargy, weakness, or unusual behavior
If any of these symptoms occur, stop the chicken and rice diet immediately and consult your vet. Your dog might have a food sensitivity or need a different approach to treatment.
Also, remember that chicken and rice don’t provide all the nutrients your dog needs for long-term health. Feeding it for more than a few days without veterinary guidance can lead to nutritional deficiencies.
When in doubt, your veterinarian is your best resource. They can recommend a prescription bland diet, probiotics, or medication to support your dog’s recovery safely and effectively.
FAQs:
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
While brown rice is often considered a healthier choice for humans, it’s not ideal for dogs with digestive issues. Brown rice has a higher fiber content and a tougher outer husk, making it harder to digest, especially when your dog’s stomach is already sensitive. Stick with plain white rice during recovery, as it’s gentler and easier on the gut.
Can I add vegetables to the chicken and rice?
It’s best to keep things simple and bland while your dog is recovering. Adding vegetables like carrots or peas might seem healthy, but even mild ingredients can irritate a sensitive stomach. Once your dog is back to normal and tolerating their regular diet again, you can slowly introduce small amounts of veggies—but not during the initial recovery phase.
Is this diet okay for puppies?
Chicken and rice can be used for puppies in short-term situations, such as diarrhea or temporary stomach upset, but be extra cautious. Puppies have higher nutritional needs and grow quickly, so they shouldn’t stay on this diet for more than a day or two without a vet’s advice. Always consult your vet before modifying a puppy’s food for any length of time.
How do I transition my dog back to regular food?
The key is to do it gradually. Start by mixing a small portion of your dog’s regular food into the chicken and rice. Slowly increase the amount of regular food over 2–3 days while decreasing the chicken and rice. This gentle transition helps prevent another upset stomach and makes the switch smoother.
Conclusion:
A chicken and rice diet can be a quick and effective solution for dogs with digestive issues like upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting. This bland diet offers easy-to-digest protein from chicken and carbohydrates from rice, providing your dog with the energy they need while allowing their stomach to rest and recover. However, it’s essential to tailor portions based on your dog’s weight and adjust the amounts accordingly, as smaller dogs need much less than larger breeds.
Remember, chicken and rice are intended as a short-term fix, typically lasting around 3–5 days. During this time, monitor your dog closely for any changes in their condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if your dog displays signs of discomfort or poor tolerance to the diet, it’s time to consult your vet.
