How to Make Chicken and Rice for Dogs Safely

Chicken and rice for dogs is a simple, home-prepared, bland diet made from plain, skinless chicken breast and white rice. Veterinarians often recommend it as a temporary solution for dogs with diarrhea, vomiting, or an upset gastrointestinal system.

The goal isn’t nutrition perfection. The goal is digestive rest. Chicken provides lean protein that’s easy to digest. At the same time, white rice offers quick energy with minimal fiber, helping reduce gut irritation.

This approach is widely used across the USA, UK, Canada, and Australia because the ingredients are affordable, easy to find, and generally well tolerated.

How to Make Chicken and Rice for Dogs

Boil plain, boneless chicken breast and white rice separately with no seasoning, then mix 1 part chicken with 2 parts rice. Let it cool completely before serving as a short-term, bland diet for digestive support.

When Chicken and Rice Is Appropriate

Chicken and rice are most helpful in short-term situations, such as:

• Mild diarrhea or soft stools
• Occasional vomiting without other severe symptoms
• Recovery after illness or minor surgery
• Transitioning back to regular food

It’s often recommended when a dog is otherwise alert, hydrated, and still interested in eating.

When You Should NOT Use Chicken and Rice

This diet is not suitable in every case. Avoid or get veterinary guidance if your dog has:

• Pancreatitis or a history of it
• Chronic digestive disease
• Severe lethargy or dehydration
• Bloody diarrhea or persistent vomiting
• Food allergies to chicken
• Puppy growth-stage nutritional needs

Chicken and rice are not nutritionally complete under AAFCO standards and should never be used as a long-term diet.

Ingredients: What’s Allowed and What’s Dangerous

Safe Ingredients

• Boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Plain white rice
• Water (for boiling only)

Ingredients to Never Add

• Salt, spices, seasoning blends
• Onion or garlic (toxic to dogs)
• Butter, oil, or fat
• Store-bought broth unless explicitly low-sodium and vet-approved
• Sweet potato fries or any fried, seasoned potato products, which are not suitable for a bland diet

Keeping the recipe minimal is what makes it effective.

How to Make Chicken and Rice for Dogs (Step by Step)

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

• Use only boneless, skinless chicken breast
• Boil in plain water until fully cooked
• No baking, frying, or grilling
• Shred into small, bite-sized pieces

Step 2: Cook the Rice

• Use white rice, not brown
• Cook until very soft, slightly mushy
• Do not add salt or oil

Step 3: Combine

• Mix 1 part chicken to 2 parts rice
• Let cool completely before serving

This texture and ratio help reduce strain on the gastrointestinal system.

White Rice vs Brown Rice for Dogs

White rice is preferred for dogs with digestive issues because:

• It’s lower in fiber
• Easier to digest
• Less likely to worsen diarrhea

Brown rice contains more fiber and nutrients, but it can irritate an already sensitive gut.

Portion Sizes by Dog Weight

Start small. Overfeeding too quickly can restart digestive upset.

Divide the daily amount into 2–4 small meals.

Feeding Schedule and Duration

Chicken and rice are designed for short-term use only.

• Mild stomach upset: 2–3 days
• Diarrhea improving: up to 5 days
• Maximum without vet advice: 7 days

Once stools normalize, gradually reintroduce regular dog food over 3–5 days.

How to Transition Back to Regular Dog Food

Abrupt changes can undo progress. Follow this approach:

• Day 1: 75% chicken and rice, 25% regular food
• Day 2: 50% chicken and rice, 50% regular food
• Day 3: 25% chicken and rice, 75% regular food
• Day 4: 100% regular food

If symptoms return, pause and consult a veterinarian.

Why Vets Recommend Chicken and Rice

Veterinarians favor this bland diet because it is:

• Low in fat
• Easy to digest
• Gentle on inflamed intestines
• Simple to control ingredient exposure

It supports recovery but does not replace prescription gastrointestinal diets when a medical condition is present.

Chicken and Rice vs Prescription GI Diets

Prescription diets like Hill’s or Royal Canin gastrointestinal formulas are nutritionally balanced and designed for longer use. Chicken and rice are best viewed as:

• Short-term support
• A bridge during recovery
• A temporary reset for digestion

For chronic or recurring issues, prescription diets are often the safer long-term solution.

Common Mistakes That Cause Problems

Many issues come from well-meaning changes:

• Using seasoned or rotisserie chicken
• Adding vegetables during active diarrhea, including canned green beans, before digestion has stabilized
• Feeding large portions too quickly
• Continuing the diet for weeks
• Ignoring worsening symptoms

Simple doesn’t mean flexible. Stick to the basics.

Puppies, Seniors, and Special Cases

• Puppies: Only under veterinary guidance due to growth needs
• Senior dogs: Usually tolerate it well, but monitor hydration closely
• Chicken allergies: Use vet-approved alternatives like boiled turkey

Always prioritize individual health history over general advice.

What to Do If Chicken and Rice Doesn’t Help

If there’s no improvement within 48 hours or if symptoms worsen, it’s time to escalate.

Seek veterinary care if you notice:

• Persistent diarrhea
• Blood or mucus in stool
• Lethargy or weakness
• Signs of dehydration

Searching for an emergency vet near you can be critical in these cases.

Is Chicken and Rice Safe for Dogs Long Term?

No. While it’s safe in the short term, long-term feeding can cause nutritional deficiencies. Dogs need balanced levels of vitamins, minerals, fats, and amino acids that this diet does not provide.

Cost and Accessibility

One reason this diet is widely used is affordability. In most regions, the cost is significantly lower than that of prescription food, and ingredients are readily available at local grocery stores.

However, cost savings should never outweigh health risks when symptoms persist.

FAQ’s

Q: Is Chicken and Rice Good for Dogs with Diarrhea?

Yes, for short-term digestive support when symptoms are mild and improving.

Q: How Long can Dogs Eat Chicken and Rice?

Usually 2–5 days. Longer use requires veterinary supervision.

Q: Can Dogs Eat Chicken and Rice Every Day?

No. It’s not nutritionally complete and should not replace regular dog food.

Q: Can Puppies Eat Chicken and Rice?

Only if a veterinarian recommends it, as puppies have specific growth needs.

Q: Should I Add Vegetables to Chicken and Rice for Dogs?

Not during active digestive upset unless a vet advises otherwise.

Q: What if My Dog won’t Eat Chicken and Rice?

Loss of appetite can signal a more serious issue. Contact a vet.

Q: Is Boiled Chicken Safe for Dogs?

Yes, as long as it’s plain, skinless, and fully cooked.

Conclusion

Chicken and rice can be a helpful, vet-aligned solution when a dog has an upset stomach, but it’s not a cure-all. Prepared plainly and used briefly, it supports digestion while the gastrointestinal system recovers.

Pay attention to portion sizes, duration, and your dog’s overall condition. When symptoms persist or worsen, professional veterinary care is always the right next step.