Understanding the Bland Diet for Dogs
A bland diet is a temporary, easily digestible, and low-fat nutritional plan recommended for dogs with gastrointestinal upset. It consists of a single carbohydrate and a single lean protein source to minimize irritation and allow the digestive system to rest and recover. The classic combination of boiled chicken and white rice is effective because white rice is easy to digest, and boiled chicken is a low-fat, palatable protein source. This diet is not nutritionally complete and should only be used short-term, typically for a few days, under veterinary guidance.
Preparing the Chicken and Rice Bland Diet
Proper preparation is crucial to ensure the diet is safe and effective for your dog. For the protein, use boneless, skinless, lean chicken breast. Boil the chicken thoroughly until it is cooked all the way through, then shred it into small, bite-sized pieces. For the carbohydrate, use plain white rice. Cook the rice with extra water until it is very soft and easily crushed. Do not add any seasonings, oils, or butter during the cooking process. Once both ingredients are cooked and cooled, they are ready to be mixed.
Determining the Correct Ratio and Portions
The standard ratio for a homemade bland diet is one part protein to two parts carbohydrate by volume. This means for every one cup of boiled, shredded chicken, you would mix in two cups of cooked white rice. For dogs suffering from diarrhea, some sources suggest a slightly higher rice-to-chicken ratio to help firm up the stool, such as 1 cup of chicken to 1.5–2 cups of rice. Your dog's size and weight are the primary factors in determining their total daily intake.
Feeding Schedule and Guidelines
Instead of feeding your dog two large meals a day, it is recommended to feed them several small, frequent meals throughout the day. This prevents overwhelming their sensitive digestive system and can be easier for them to tolerate. A schedule of four to six smaller meals is often best.
| Feeding Frequency and Amount Example | Dog's Weight | Total Daily Food (Approx.) | Meal Frequency | Serving Size (per meal) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Under 15 lbs | ½ to ¾ cup | 4-6 times a day | ⅛ to ⅕ cup | |
| 15–30 lbs | 1 to 1.5 cups | 4-6 times a day | ¼ cup | |
| 31–50 lbs | 1.5 to 2 cups | 4-6 times a day | ⅓ to ½ cup | |
| 51–75 lbs | 2 to 3 cups | 4-6 times a day | ½ to ⅔ cup | |
| 76–99 lbs | 3 to 4 cups | 4-6 times a day | ⅔ to 1 cup | |
| 100+ lbs | 4 to 5 cups | 4-6 times a day | 1 cup |
It is important to remember that these are general guidelines. If your dog is not eating or shows continued symptoms, consult with your veterinarian. Always ensure your dog has access to plenty of fresh water to prevent dehydration.
When to Fast and Reintroduce Water
Some veterinarians may recommend a short fast (12 to 24 hours) for adult dogs suffering from vomiting before reintroducing food. This allows the stomach to settle. During this period, you can offer small amounts of water or ice chips. Young puppies or dogs with other medical conditions should not be fasted without a vet's supervision.
Transitioning Back to Regular Food
Once your dog's stool has firmed up and their symptoms have resolved for at least 24 hours, you can begin the transition back to their normal diet. This should be a gradual process to avoid shocking their system and causing a relapse. A typical transition period lasts 3 to 5 days.
- Days 1–2: Mix 75% bland diet with 25% regular dog food.
- Days 3–4: Combine 50% bland diet with 50% regular dog food.
- Days 5–6: Mix 25% bland diet with 75% regular dog food.
- Day 7+: Return to 100% regular food.
Throughout the transition, continue to monitor your dog's stool for any signs of returning diarrhea or other digestive upset. If symptoms reappear, revert to the previous stage of the transition or contact your veterinarian. During the entire bland diet period and the transition, avoid giving any treats, table scraps, or other foods.
Important Considerations and Alternatives
While chicken and rice is a common bland diet, it is not the only option. Some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to chicken. Alternatives include boiled lean ground beef (sirloin), boiled lean ground turkey, or scrambled eggs (cooked without oil or butter). Another option for the carbohydrate portion is boiled potatoes or sweet potatoes. Additionally, a small amount of pure canned pumpkin (not pie filling) can be added for extra fiber to help with diarrhea. Some pet stores also carry commercially prepared bland diets, which can be beneficial for specific medical needs. For ongoing or chronic issues, a prescription diet may be necessary, which a vet can recommend.
Conclusion
Feeding a dog on a bland diet of chicken and rice requires careful preparation and adherence to a specific schedule to aid in their recovery from digestive issues. A typical ratio is one part boiled chicken to two parts cooked white rice, fed in several small meals throughout the day, with portion sizes adjusted according to your dog's weight. The bland diet should be a short-term solution, typically lasting a few days until symptoms subside, before gradually transitioning back to their regular food. Always consult your veterinarian for specific advice and if your dog's symptoms do not improve.
Royal Treatment Veterinary Center PDF on Bland Diets
Always Consult a Vet: A bland diet is a temporary, symptomatic treatment and not a cure for underlying health issues.
Boil Lean Meat Only: Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or lean ground turkey, boiled without any seasonings, oils, or fat. Opt for White Rice: White rice is easier to digest than brown rice and should be cooked until soft. Feed Small, Frequent Meals: Divide your dog's total daily portion into 4 to 6 smaller meals to avoid stressing their digestive system. Hydration is Key: Ensure your dog has constant access to fresh water to prevent dehydration, which is common with diarrhea or vomiting. Transition Gradually: When symptoms resolve, mix the bland diet with regular food over several days to avoid upsetting your dog's stomach again.
