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What is Brewers Rice in Dog Food?
- Authors
- Name
- ChewyChoice team
Introduction
Reading the ingredient list on dog food can be confusing. Some ingredients are easy to identify – meats, fruits and vegetables. Even some vitamins and nutrients are familiar. Other items on the list confuse pet owners. Brewers rice is a common ingredient that pet owners are not familiar with.
What is brewers rice? Why is brewers rice in dog food? Where does brewers rice come from? There are common misconceptions about brewers rice.
What is Brewers Rice?
Looking at the rice in your pantry, every grain appears uniform and intact. This is because the smaller, broken bits have been removed. These broken fragments are known as brewer's rice.
Brewer's rice consists of white rice that has been damaged during production. This damage results in smaller pieces. These broken rice pieces are sifted out and sold separately as brewer's rice, which is exclusively white rice.
Due to their less appealing appearance, these broken pieces aren't marketed for human consumption. Instead, they are sold to pet food manufacturers and beer brewers. Brewer's rice gets its name because it is commonly used in beer production. It is particularly used in gluten-free beers.
Nutritional Concerns of Brewer's Rice
Brewer's rice has some significant nutritional drawbacks:
Lack of Key Nutrients: Brewer's rice lacks essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber. This is in comparison to whole grains. The reason for this deficiency is the removal of the bran and germ.
Lower Protein and Fiber Levels: Brewer's rice contains lower amounts of protein and fiber. This is in comparison to whole grains. As a result, it is a less nutritious choice for dogs.
Higher Glycemic Index: Brewers rice may have a higher glycemic index causing rapid spikes in blood sugar levels. This can be unfavorable for sustaining energy levels in dogs.
Why Avoid Brewer's Rice in Dog Food?
There are plenty of reasons why it is best to steer of brewers rice in dog food. Critics argue that brewers rice is often used as a filler to bulk up dog food without offering much nutrition. This is because brewers rice lacks the nutrients present in superior ingredients like whole grains, sweet potatoes and other complex carbohydrates.
Some dogs may also have sensitivities or allergies to grains, including brewers rice. While this isn't very common, it could result in troubles and other health issues for those particular dogs. Therefore, opting for dog food that doesn't include brewers rice might potentially provide nutrients and lower the risk of allergic reactions, which is crucial for maintaining your dogs well being.
To sum up, brewers rice frequently faces criticism for being a low-quality ingredient that doesn't deliver many nutritional advantages as alternatives. It is labeled as a filler due to lower levels of vitamins, minerals and fiber necessary for dogs. By selecting dog food without brewers rice, you can offer your dog a healthier diet that better satisfies their nutritional requirements and lessens the likelihood of allergies or digestive problems.
Our Brewer's rice-free dog food recommendations July 2024
Small Breeds
1. ORIJEN Small Breed Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Protein
Fat
Carbs
- Turkey
- Chicken
- Turkey Giblets
- Whole Herring
- Salmon
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Higt protein level: This food has chicken, turkey, salmon as the ingredients offering excellent animal-based protein options for active chihuahuas.
- Carbohydrates for energy: Shole lentils, whole beans and whole peas provide complex carbohydrates and fiber for steady energy.
- Essential fatty acids: Omega fatty acids from sources such as chicken fat and pollock oil are present, with guaranteed levels of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Probiotics for gut health: Dried bacillus coagulans fermentation product provides probiotics to support digestion and immunity.
Cons:
- Potential allergens awareness: Chicken, egg, lentils, and peas could be potential allergens for some chihuahuas.
- Pricey dog food: This dog food is on the expensive side.
Sample Review from buyers
Origen small bites has great, natural ingredients for a dog, not fillers. It costs more than regular brands but is well worth it. My little Jack Russell is thriving on it. I add a spoonful of wet food and some broth, what’s not to love?
2. Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Protein
Fat
Carbs
- Deboned Chicken
- Chicken Meal
- Brown Rice
- Oatmeal
- Barley
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good sources of protein: This food has chicken and chicken meal as the ingredients offering excellent animal-based protein options for active chihuahuas.
- Carbohydrates for energy: Brown rice and oatmeal provide complex carbohydrates and fiber for steady energy.
- Essential fatty acids: Omega fatty acids from sources such as flaxseed are present, with guaranteed levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Joint support: Contains glucosamine hydrochloride which can help aid in maintaining joints and mobility for the chihuahua breed.
- Probiotics for gut health: Dried bacillus coagulans fermentation product provides probiotics to support digestion and immunity.
Cons:
- Potential allergens awareness: Chicken, egg, peas could be potential allergens for some chihuahuas.
- Plant protein resources: We found that this food contains peas which is a plant-based protein source.
Sample Review from buyers
One of my dogs has developed a very sensitive stomach and tends to get diarrhea often. I switched to Blue Buffalo and no more stomach issues. Plus they love it. I would highly recommend Blue Buffalo Small Bites to anyone with small dogs.
3. Instinct Raw Boost Small Breed Adult Grain-Free Real Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
Protein
Fat
Carbs
- Chicken
- Chicken Meal
- Chickpeas
- Tapioca
- Chicken Fat
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good sources of protein: This food has chicken, chicken meal, turkey meal, and others as the ingredients offering excellent animal-based protein options for active chihuahuas.
- Carbohydrates for energy: Chickpeas and tapioca provide complex carbohydrates and fiber for steady energy.
- Essential fatty acids: Omega fatty acids from sources such as salmon oil are present, with guaranteed levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Probiotics for gut health: Dried bacillus coagulans fermentation product provides probiotics to support digestion and immunity.
Cons:
- Potential allergens awareness: chicken, egg, lentils, and peas could be potential allergens for some chihuahuas.
- Pricy dog food: This dog food is on the expensive side.
Sample Review from buyers
I have a really picky toy poodle, and tried many different brands of food, and this is the only stuff he will eat. Not only does he eat it, but he also gets excited for it! Even my cat tries to eat his food. Sometimes I buy the raw add in bits too. Specifically the pumpkin kind. I hope your pup loves it too!
Medium Breeds
4. Farmina N&D Prime Chicken & Pomegranate Medium & Maxi Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Protein
Fat
Carbs
- Chicken
- Dehydrated Chicken
- Sweet Potatoes
- Chicken Fat
- Dried Whole Eggs
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High-quality, natural ingredients
- Packed with protein from animal sources
- Enriched with supplements for joint health
- Offers antioxidants from a variety of fruits and veggies
- Provides a rounded and complete diet
Cons
- Comes at a higher price point compared to some cheaper dog food options
- Not recommended for dogs with specific food allergies or sensitivities
Sample Review from buyers
I initially chose this food because of it is fantastic ingredient list. I will continue buying because my dog is in love with the Chicken and Pomegranate! This was the third food we have tried and I was shocked when my dog devoured it. She refused to eat her old food that I mixed in initially. Safe to say we will not be going back.
5. Health Extension Little Bites Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Protein
Fat
Carbs
- Deboned Chicken
- Chicken Meal
- Brown Rice
- Oatmeal
- Chicken Fat (preserved with Mixed Tocopherols)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good sources of protein: This food has chicken, and menhaden fish meal as the ingredients offering excellent animal-based protein options for active dachshunds.
- Carbohydrates for energy: Brown rice, oatmeal, and pearled barley provide complex carbohydrates and fiber for steady energy.
- Essential fatty acids: Omega fatty acids from sources such as flaxseed and coconut oil are present, with guaranteed levels of omega-3, omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Joint support: Contains Chondroitin sulfate which can help aid in maintaining joints and mobility for the Shih Tzus breed.
- Probiotics for gut health: Dried lactobacillus acidophilus fermentation product and others provides probiotics to support digestion and immunity.
Cons:
- Potential allergens awareness: Chicken and egg could be potential allergens for some Shih Tzus.
- Higt fat level: The fat to protein ratio is a bit high for some dogs.
Sample Review from buyers
I have raised litters of Frenchies on this food. It’s so nice to have a pack that has multiple different ages and stages and I can feed this food to all of them. Their stools are nice they don’t throw up and I do hear a lot of complaints about Frenchies having sensitive stomachs. Mine have done very well on this food.
Large Breeds
6. Blue Buffalo True Solutions Jolly Joints Mobility Support Formula Dry Dog Food
Protein
Fat
Carbs
- Deboned Chicken
- Chicken Meal
- Oatmeal
- Brown Rice
- Barley
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good sources of protein: This food has chicken, shrimp meal and others as the ingredients offering excellent animal-based protein options for active great danes.
- Carbohydrates for energy: Oatmeal and brown rice provide complex carbohydrates and fiber for steady energy.
- Essential fatty acids: Omega fatty acids from sources such as flaxseed, canola oil and fish oil are present, with guaranteed levels of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Joint support: Contains chondroitin sulfate which can help aid in maintaining joints and mobility for the large great danes breed.
Cons:
- Potential allergens awareness: Chicken, egg, peas could be potential allergens for some great danes.
- Plant protein resources: We found that this food contains peas which is a plant-based protein source.
Sample Review from buyers
I'm not really sure if this is going to help my dog Buddy. But he does seem to enjoy the food. Buddy is 15 years old and has bad arthritis in his back legs. He is on Adequan and I am hoping that will help him but I thought I might as well try the dog food as well.
7. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Protein
Fat
Carbs
- Water Buffalo
- Lamb Meal
- Chicken Meal
- Sweet Potatoes
- Peas
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Good sources of protein: This food has chicken meal, lamb meal and others as the ingredients offering excellent animal-based protein options for active great danes.
- Carbohydrates for energy: Sweet potatoes and peas provide complex carbohydrates and fiber for steady energy.
- Essential fatty acids: Omega fatty acids from sources such as chicken fat, ocean fish meal are present, with guaranteed levels of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Probiotics for gut health: dried lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product and other probiotics provides probiotics to support digestion and immunity.
Cons:
- Potential allergens awareness: Chicken, egg, lentils, peas could be potential allergens for some great danes.
- Plant protein source: This dog food contains peas.
Sample Review from buyers
I have been feeding this dog food to my dogs for 8 years. I have had up to 5 dogs at once-they all love it! I currently have 2 dogs and both of them sit and drool when I am preparing their food. I like the limited ingredients, the high protein and that most of the protein is from red meat animals. Dogs are supposed to eat meat and not grain. As long as I can afford to buy Taste of the Wild, I will do so.
8. Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete Formula Dry Dog Food
Protein
Fat
Carbs
- Chicken Meal
- Chicken
- Ground White Rice
- Chicken Fat (Preserved With Mixed Tocopherols)
- Cracked Pearled Barley
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Good sources of protein: This food has chicken meal and chicken as the ingredients offering excellent animal-based protein options for active hunting dogs.
- Carbohydrates for energy: White rice and cracked pearled barley provide complex carbohydrates and fiber for steady energy.
- Essential fatty acids: Omega fatty acids from sources such as chicken fat, flaxseed are present, with guaranteed levels of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Probiotics for gut health: Dried lactobacillus plantarum fermentation product provides probiotics to support digestion and immunity.
- Joint support: Contains chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine which can help aid in maintaining joints and mobility for the large great danes breed.
Cons:
- Potential allergens awareness: Chicken, egg product could be potential allergens for some hunting dogs.
- Plant protein source: This dog food contains miscanthus grass and chia seed, which are plant-based protein sources.
Sample Review from buyers
Smokie loves his Diamond Naturals Extreme Athlete Formula Dry Dog Food and switched from Gentle Giants due to having more Protein in the food.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is brewers rice harmful to dogs?
Brewer's rice is not harmful, but it is less nutritious compared to whole grains and other high-quality ingredients. It is often considered a filler ingredient with limited nutritional value.
Q: What are better alternatives to brewer's rice in dog food?
Better alternatives include whole grains like brown rice, and nutrient-dense vegetables like sweet potatoes and quinoa, which provide more balanced nutrition.
Q: How can I ensure my dog's food is high quality?
Read ingredient labels carefully, choose foods with high-quality proteins and whole foods, and consult with a veterinarian for personalized recommendations.
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