What is a good substitute for rice in dog food

Substitutes for Rice in a Dog's Diet

Increased awareness of nutritional needs and food allergies has prompted dog food companies to produce foods with a variety of new ingredients. Many manufacturers, who traditionally used rice as a staple carbohydrate source, are offering foods with a whole host of new carbohydrates. As these new foods are made available, you may want to know what these rice substitutes mean for your dogs diet.

Rice and Dogs

First, its important to understand the role that rice, a carbohydrate, plays in dog food. Much debate exists among dog nutrition experts about how much, if any, carbohydrates dogs need. Some experts say dogs do not benefit at all from added carbohydrates like rice because, ancestrally, dogs only ate meat. They may have ingested some plant material that had been eaten by their prey, but it was only a very small percent of their diet. Other experts say dogs benefit from the glucose and some vitamins and minerals gleaned from carbohydrates. Some carbohydrates like brown rice provide fiber, but because the digestive system of dogs is short, fiber isnt needed in the way it is for humans. However, some dogs appear to do better with some fiber in the diet.

Rice and Allergies

All carbohydrates have the potential to cause an allergic reaction in dogs. Dogs with food allergies tend to develop sensitivity to foods theyve been fed over a lengthy period time. Because rice has been a staple ingredient in dog foods for some time, it can be a common allergen. Frequent scratching and feet licking are the most common symptoms of a food allergy, but some dogs experience vomiting, diarrhea or constipation. If you suspect your dog has an allergy to rice, its best to conduct a food elimination trial under your veterinarians guidance. Your vet can also do allergy testing, but it isnt as reliable as allergy testing for humans.

Carbohydrates in Dog Food

Dog food manufacturers use starchy ingredients to hold both dry and canned foods together, and carbohydrates like rice are used in dog food mainly because they are cheaper and more plentiful than protein sources like meats. Carbohydrates do provide energy, and because dogs are naturally scavengers, they can often adapt to whatever food is available. They can subsist on a high carbohydrate diet, and some dogs may even do well on them, but most dogs are healthier on a diet consisting mostly of protein and fats.

Substitutes for Rice

Foods that can be used as a substitute for rice include potatoes, sweet potatoes, tapioca, yams, amaranth, barley, buckwheat, bulgur, millet, whole grain oats, whole peas, quinoa, rye, taro, whole wheat and beans. According to Whole Dog Journal, mussels, oysters, some organ meats and even yogurt and cheeses serve as good sources of carbohydrates. Whole Dog Journal advises consumers to stay away from lower quality rice substitutes, often used as filler in commercial dog foods, such as beet pulp, oat bran, pea fiber, soybean hulls and wheat.

I Ran Out Of Dog Food: What Can I Feed My Dog?

One night I was stuck at home alone, without a car, and with two very hungry 70 pound boxers looking at me with those mournful we havent eaten allll day eyes. I hurried to the pantry only to find we were completely out of dry dog food and canned food!

This got me thinking. In times of desperation, what are the right kinds of foods to feed pups in a pinch? Lets say youre out of food and unable to get to the store, out of money, on the road, or worse, impacted by a natural disaster. Dogs still have to eat, right? So what do you do when theres no dog food to be found?

We talked to Korinn Saker, DVM, PhD., DACVN*, and Associate Professor, Nutrition, with the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. If anyone knows what to whip up for a hungry pup, its Dr. Saker.

Packaged Dog Food Is Nutritionally Complete

Before you get cooking for your canine companions, an important note:

Good-quality commercial dog foods are nutritionally complete and balanced to provide the right amounts of protein, fat, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals your dog requires.

The tips and recipes here will help you provide a healthy, dog-friendly meal in a pinch. These suggestions and meals, while all perfectly safe and healthy for your dog, are not 100% nutritionally complete and should not be fed for longer than 5-7 days which should be enough time to get your dog back to their regularly scheduled feeding program.

How To Make Homemade Dog Food From Vet Korinn Saker

Life happens. And if you have a pup, chances are youll be stuck without dog food at least once in their lifetime. On those (hopefully rare) occasions, you can hit the pantry and freezer for kitchen staples to make healthy, temporary meals (and avoid starving-puppy eyes).

Essential Dog Food Prep Tips

1. Offer a balance of lean protein and complex carbohydrates. A day without dog food isnt an excuse to pig out on people food.
2. Avoid giving dogs too much fat or sodium, which can trigger vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.
3. Consider your pets food allergies or chronic conditions such as renal, liver and heart disease, or pancreatitis which demand special low-fat diets

Dog FoodBasics

• Poultry cooked, skinlessand boneless
• Beef (such as chop meat or beef cubes) at least 80% lean and cooked
• Canned meats and veggies well-rinsed and drained to remove excess sodium
• Keep it simple and lay off the salt and spices. Bland is better. Youre preparing food for a dog, not Gordon Ramsay. Your four-legged friend will not fling a frying pan at your head.

Raid Your Pantry For Added Nutrition

• Canned vegetables like corn, beans, peas and carrots well-rinsed and drained
• Plain pasta cooked
• Plain, cooked rice, couscous or quinoa avoid the flavored varieties which are loaded with sodium and spices that may upset your dogs tummy
• Plain, cooked oatmeal not the sugary-flavored packets but the plain boring stuff we should all be eating
• Canned chicken and fish packed in water well-rinsed and drained
• Cooked farina
• High-fiber or multigrain healthy cereals avoid cereals with raisins or magically delicious kids cereals
• Low-sodium vegetable, beef or chicken broth for flavor or to tempt a picky eater
• Low-sodium, plain tomato sauce (no garlic or onions)
• Honey just a bit to tempt a picky eater

Fridge And Freezer Items

• Cooked eggs (egg whites only for dogs with renal disease, please)
• Boiled, baked or simply prepared poultry skinless and boneless. Rotisserie chicken is fine, just remove skin and bones.
• Cooked beef, at least 80% lean or trimmed of excess fat
• Mild cheeses such as American or Colby

Fruits And Vegetables Are Great Too

• Apples and pears sliced
• Bananas, peeled
• Blueberries and strawberries
• Cooked potatoes (any kind)
• Cooked or raw carrots,
• Cooked beans, peas, broccoli, corn

Foods To Avoid

Definitely avoid these foods and ingredients (check labels and packaging):

• Breaded, fried, greasy, high-fat, salty and processed foods
• Grapes and raisins
• Onions
• Garlic
• Bacon, cold cuts/deli meats which are high in sodium
• Anything spicy or prepared in a spicy sauce
• Milk

What About Just Using Another Dogs Food?

Is it safe to borrow a cup or two of dog food from your neighbor? For a generally healthy adult dog, a temporary food substitution is fine but

• Consider your dogs allergies or any chronic health conditions being managed by diet.
• If the other dog is on a higher-fat food, cut the amount youd normally feed in half and fill up the rest of the bowl with a carbohydrate such as cooked pasta or rice for bulk.

Signs To Watch For

Sudden changes in any pets diet can cause gastrointestinal distress.

Watch for:

If theyre not feeling well, switch to a very basic diet of boiled chicken and rice or oatmeal. Learn more about how to switch your dogs food safely.

Ready To Get Cooking?

Here are a few tasty recipes from Dr. Sakers canine kitchen. All recipes below will yield enough food for one day and are based on the daily nutritional requirements of a healthy, 40 pound adult dog. Adjust portions for smaller or larger dogs.

Always consult with your vet if you have any questions. Just dont feed these substitute meals for longer than 1 week.

Chicken & Rice Bowl Recipe

• 65 grams of cooked, white meat chicken
• 1 large cooked egg
• 2 cups of white rice
• 1 cup high fiber cereal
• 2-3 teaspoons canola oil which provides essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

Serving size: Approx 6 cups (or 48 oz)

Beef & Rice Bowl Recipe

• 94 grams of ground beef or cubed beef at least 80% lean or more
• 2-2.5 cups cooked rice
• cup of high fiber cereal
• 2-3 teaspoons canola oil which provides omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids

Serving size: Approx 6 cups (or 48 oz)

Sausage Breakfast Recipe

• 7 ounces sausage not spicy sweet sausage
• 2 large cooked eggs
• 1 teaspoonbutter
• 4 slices of bread (white, wheat, grain, etc.)
• 2 cups of chopped cooked potatoes

Serving size: Approx 6 cups (or 56 oz)

Peanut Butter Breakfast Scramble Recipe

• large egg cooked
• 4 cooked egg whites
• 2.5 ounces peanut butter
• 6 slices bread
• 3 cups vegetables

Serving size: Approx 6 cups (or 56 oz)

Get Back To Normal Eating Habits

Remember, no matter how much your dog may dig this culinary adventure, dont let them get used to it. (No matter how much they compliment your new recipes with kisses and wiggles!) Switch back to their nutritionally complete dog food as soon as youre able for a happy, healthy pup with a full tummy!

We recommend signing up for a dog food delivery subscription so youll have food auto-shipped to your home on a regular basis and never have to worry about adding it to your grocery list. Many of our team members are big fans of the fresh, human-grade food (that is delicious and balanced).

Special thanks to Dr. Korinn Saker, DVM, PhD., DACVN, for her contributions to this article. Dr. Saker can be contacted at kesaker at ncsu.edu.

*Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Nutrition

Victor Dog Food Alternatives

Victor is known as a premium pet food and one of the most popular dog food brands due to the selection of good-quality ingredients, a high percentage of protein from meat sources, plants, and grains, and of course, the good ratings from customers.

However, some dog owners expect protein from different meats and better ingredients for the price they pay.

Plus, theres been some controversy concerning blood meal used in Victor dog food.

So, if you are one of those who would like to find a more cost-effective dog food with as good, or even better ingredients, continue reading.

Weve spent a lot of time researching and reviewing to come up with a list of our favorite alternatives to Victor Dog Food.

The #1 Victor alternative regarding ingredients, quality, and cost is Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream with Ancient Grains.

Many dog parents choose this brand for their fur babies because its healthy, available, and has a reasonable price.

Continue reading to find out more about this dog food.

Check out the shortlist of our favorite Victor alternatives.

Best Victor Dog Food Alternatives

1. Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream with Ancient Grains Dry Dog Food (Victor Select Ocean Fish Formula Alternative)
2. Nom Nom Turkey Fare Formula (Victor Turkey & Sweet Potato Stew Cuts in Gravy Grain-Free Canned Dog Food Alternative)
3. Diamond Naturals Chicken & Rice Formula All Life Stages Dry Dog Food (Victor Classic Professional Formula Alternative)
4. Orijen Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food (Victor Purpose Nutra Pro Formula Alternative)
5. SPORTMIX CanineX Performance Beef Formula Dry Dog Food (Victor Realtree Max5 Pro Formula Alternative)
6. Wellness Complete Health Senior Deboned Chicken & Barley Dry Dog Food (Victor Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Formula Alternative)
7. American Journey Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe Grain-Free Dry Dog Food (Victor Purpose Hero Grain-Free Formula Alternative)
8. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wolf Creek Stew Hearty Beef Canned Dog Food (Victor Beef & Vegetables Stew Formula Alternative)

8Dog Foods Similar to Victor Reviewed

Victor is a well-known pet food manufacturer based in Texas, USA. They have several lines of super premium dog food for all life stages. Their recipes include a mix of ingredients that come from farms and ranches near the plant in East Texas.

All recipes contain a remarkable amount of protein and an excellent selection of ancient and whole grains.

Still, there are many quality dog foods similar to Victor that contain better protein sources and high-quality whole grains which are beneficial for your dogs digestibility and overall health condition.

Weve listed some of these foods below. Lets begin a walk-through of several dog foods comparable to Victors.

We listed this dog food #1 on our list for several reasons.

Taste of the Wilds recipe is a special mixture of what dogs want and need.

This brand takes care of dogs wild side and gives them something nutritious and healthy.

The recipe is for all life stages and all dog breeds, so its suitable for puppies and senior dogs as well. So, if you have a puppy, large breed or small breed dont worry, you cant make a mistake with Taste of the Wild.

Ingredients like Salmon, Grain Sorghum, Quinoa, Millet, Blueberries, Tomatoes, and Raspberries give your pup protein, antioxidants, vitamins, and omega fatty acids necessary to thrive.

Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream with Ancient Grains has 30 % crude protein, and 15 % crude fat, whereas Victors formula has 24 % crude protein and 12 % crude fat.

My pups and the dogs at the shelter absolutely love this formula and they cant wait to devour it!

Key Takeaways:

• The #1 ingredient is real salmon
• Rich in protein from ancient grains like grain sorghum, millet, chia seed, and quinoa
• Specifically developed K9 probiotics for a healthy immune and digestive system
• High levels of omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for shiny skin and coat
• Lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost the immune system

Therefore, our top alternative to Victor Select Ocean Fish Formula is more affordable, yet it has more protein and fat.

Taste of the Wilds recipe is made with sustainably sourced salmon that provides protein and omega fatty acids for a happy, strong dog with shiny fur.

The other ingredients like ancient grains and fruits are loaded with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that boost the immune system.

And last but not least, the formula is enriched with K-9 probiotics and omega fatty acids for a healthy digestive and immune system.

This freshly made meat-based recipe can be an alternative to Victors Turkey & Sweet Potato Stew Cuts in Gravy canned dog food.

It can be a great choice if youre looking to switch to a fresh food diet.

The Turkey Fare formula by Nom Nom features ground turkey, brown rice, eggs, carrots, spinach, vinegar, salt, water sufficient for processing, fish oil, and vitamins.

In comparison, Nom Noms recipe has 10% while Victors recipe has 8% crude protein.

The formulas have the same amounts of fat, but what makes Nom Noms unique is the fact that it offers freshly prepared, human-grade meals for dogs.

It uses high-quality, whole-food ingredients that are sourced from reputable suppliers.

The ingredients are often fresher and of higher quality compared to traditional commercial dog foods.

And we picked it as an alternative to Victors dog food taking into consideration the balanced, nutritious food it offers and the option to customize your dogs meals according to his dietary needs.

So, why Nom Nom Turkey Fare?

• Fresh ingredients
• Balanced nutrition
• No grains, no fillers, no by-products
• Customized meal plans based on your dogs needs
• Plenty of vitamins

After putting it to the test, we can say that your pup will wolf down these delicious, carefully prepared meals immediately.

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For all our readers we have a special gift 50% off + Free Shipping on your first order of Nom Nom when you click on the button below.

The Chicken and Rice Formula is for growing puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs as well and its suitable for all dog breeds.

Its an excellent alternative to Victor Classic Professional Formula (26% crude protein, 18% crude fat) with 26% crude protein and 16% crude fat.

The ingredients include Chicken, Chicken Meal, Whole Grain Brown Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Grain Sorghum, Flaxseed, Salmon Oil, Quinoa, Spinach, vitamins, and minerals.

It gives your pup lots of energy to stay active and it helps build muscle.

Key Takeaways:

• 1 ingredient is fresh cage-free chicken
• Lots of protein and added superfoods that give your dog energy and build muscles
• Antioxidants and omega-fatty acids that support the immune system and give a shiny coat
• K-9 Strain Probiotics for a healthy digestive system
• DHA for brain and vision development
• Affordable

So, Diamond Naturals All Life Stages offers a high-protein, healthy, nutritious dog food that supports your dogs immune system, digestive system, muscle, brain, and vision development.

This recipe is a great alternative to Victor Purpose Nutra Pro high-protein formula.

Its for adult dogs only, but all dog breeds can enjoy Orijens formula which includes 85% animal ingredients.

That means that the most important ingredients are fresh or raw Chicken, Turkey, Flounder, whole Mackerel, and Chicken Liver.

Lots of protein from a whole prey diet that includes poultry, organs, and fish.

The brand claims that dogs used to hunt in the wild and ate the whole prey, so their modern diet should also include all nutritious parts of the prey.

And, it has the same amount of crude protein and crude fat as Victors recipe (38%, 18% respectively), but its more reasonably priced.

Key Takeaways:

• High in protein, vitamins, and minerals from animal sources
• The first 5 ingredients are always raw or fresh poultry or fish
• At least 15 fresh or raw ingredients in every recipe
• Whole prey nutrient-dense diet for high energy throughout the day
• Grain-Free

If you want food thats as high in protein and fat as Victors, and its the closest thing to a raw diet, Orijen is your choice.

Your dog will get the necessary nutrients and energy, and you wont overpay.

Its developed for active adult canines that need a lot of energy and strength for their daily activities.

Its a terrific alternative to Victor Realtree Max-5 Pro formula (30 % protein, 20 % fat) due to the high percentage of protein, 26 %, and fat, 24 %.

The main ingredients are Beef Meal, Peas, Egg, Beet Pulp, Flaxseed, and Dried Yeast.

SPORTMIXS formula is fortified with vitamins and minerals to help your dog stay healthy and strong.

Key Takeaways:

• Loaded with protein from high-quality beef and egg
• Specially added Glucosamine and Chondroitin for healthy joints
• L-Carnitine to support muscle development
• Added omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids for shiny fur, healthy vision, and skin
• No corn, wheat, soy, or by-products

This brand offers a high-protein recipe that will boost your dogs performance and strength while keeping him healthy.

Its available for online purchase and its budget-friendly.

This is our favorite alternative to Victor Purpose Senior Healthy Weight Formula.

It is for senior dogs and all dog breeds can enjoy this formula with real meat.

Yes, the first ingredient is Deboned Chicken.

The recipe consists of Chicken meal, Oatmeal, Ground Barley, Ground Brown Rice, Ground Flaxseed, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals.

The combination of ingredients gives your dog protein, natural fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids that support the digestive system, and promote health and shiny skin and fur.

Key Takeaways:

• Stacked with protein from real chicken meat
• Loaded with fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids for a healthy digestive and immune system, and a shiny coat
• Added Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate to support hip and joint health
• Natural dog food made in the USA
• No filler, no by-products

If you are looking for high-quality dog food that meets the needs of your senior dog and it isnt so pricey, Wellness Complete Health Senior has you covered.

Weve found this brand suitable for sensitive stomachs and dogs with allergies.

Its grain-free formula means no wheat, soy, corn, etc., so your pup will get the necessary nutrients without having any troubles.

Its for all dog breeds and all life stages.

Its really high in protein- 32%, only 1% less than Victor Purpose Hero formula.

And the main ingredients like deboned beef, chicken meal, turkey meal, peas, chickpeas, sweet potatoes, fish oil, blueberries, and carrots are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that your canine buddy needs to thrive.

Key Takeaways:

• 1 ingredient is real beef
• Lots of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants for a healthy, playful pup
• Omega fatty acids for shiny skin and coat
• High in protein for building lean muscles
• DHA for brain and vision development
• No wheat, soy, corn, or by-products

This is a great alternative to Victors pricier formula because it contains almost the same amount of protein and fat, lots of healthy ingredients, real beef meat, vitamins, minerals, and no grains that might cause issues.

If your fur baby is a fan of wet food, we recommend this brand as an alternative to Victor Beef & Vegetables Stew recipe.

Its for adult dogs prone to food allergies caused by grains, hence a grain-free formula.

The recipe is high in protein from real meat like Beef and Chicken Liver.

Other ingredients like Chicken, Beef Broth, Chicken Meal, Dried Egg Product, Peas, Potatoes, Pea fiber, and added vitamins and supplements provide your canine companion with complex carbs and lots of nutrients.

Compared to Victors recipe, it contains slightly more crude protein, 8.5 %, and less crude fat, 3 %.

Key Takeaways:

• High in protein from real beef and chicken
• Healthy ingredients that give your pup energy, a healthy immune system, and a shiny coat
• No corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or by-products
• Affordable

You can satisfy your dogs cravings for real meat with these tasty chunks of beef and chicken stew.

Your dog can have it as a meal, mixed with their kibble, or as a treat.

Plus, you get good-quality ingredients for a fair price.

How to Transition to New Dog Food

If you decided on trying a new food for your furry buddy, you probably wonder how to do it in the best way possible.

Weve already been there, so dont worry, its normal to stress about it a little bit.

However, with the right food, and carefully chosen ingredients for your canine companion to thrive, you should feel confident about your decision.

Now, check out our mini guide on how to transition to a new food:

Basically, you switch your dog to new food in 7 days.

Mix 25% of the new food with your dogs old food for the first few days.

Then add 50% of the new food and 50 % of the old food for the next 2 days.

After that, mix 75% of the new food with 25% of the old food.

And at the end, you can give 100 % of the new food to your dog.

We recommend this useful video by Dr. Gary Richter explaining how to reduce the risk of your dog developing an upset stomach or diarrhea when you switch to a new food.

Conclusion

Premium dog brands offer high-quality ingredients that help your dog stay healthy, strong, and active.

And we all want the best for our furry friends, but sometimes we ask ourselves if we are paying a bit much and if another food on the market fulfills all desired criteria, but comes with an acceptable price.

Well, after testing so many dog foods and talking to other pet parents, vets, and experts, we can say that Taste of the Wild Ancient Stream with Ancient Grains is our #1 alternative to Victors formula.

This Victor dog food alternative has real salmon, and lots of healthy ingredients high in antioxidants, fiber, omega fatty acids, and K-9 probiotics that provide your dog with protein, boost his immune system, and digestive system, and keep his coat healthy and shiny.