US Vet: “This is the Best Lamb and Rice Dog Food in 2024”

A Lamb and Rice Dog food can be an excellent way to support healthy skin & coat. In addition, it provides your pup with a digestible protein for weight maintenance and an active lifestyle. However, for some breeds, when not choosing the right formulation for your dog’s needs, Lamb and Rice Dog based diet might cause a taurine deficiency that can lead to dangerous heart disease.

I used my 12 years of Veterinary experience to review over 100 dog food products to find the best Lamb and Rice dog food.

After evaluating over 100 Lamb and Rice dog food recipes, I found that “Nutro Natural Choice Small Bites Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe” has the best overall combination of nutrients and quality sources.

But I understand that no two pups are alike, and your doggie might have a different life stage or have different needs, such as a sensitive stomach or an active lifestyle. That’s why I prepared a shortlist of the best Lamb and Rice dog foods that address these common conditions.

Before you pick the best Lamb and Rice food for Fido, it’s always important to consider whether it’s the right thing to do. That’s why I explained the nutritional benefits of a Lamb and Rice based diet and the recommended treatment for taurine deficiency.

After you decide that a Lamb and Rice based-diet is right for your doggie, you can check out these 13 Lamb and Rice foods that I shortlisted for you.

If my shortlist doesn’t cover your doggie’s needs for some reason, I prepared a quick checklist that would assist you in finding the best Lamb and Rice food for her. I wrote the checklist in plain & simple English so that you can follow it easily.

Finally, if you have any additional questions or concerns regarding a lamb & rice diet, I answered the most common questions dog parents ask me on the topic.

Always remember that the recommendations in this review are not intended to replace a doctor-patient relationship. Always consult your veterinarian before making significant adjustments to your furbaby’s diet.

Let’s get started.

Is Lamb & Rice Diet Good for Your Dog?

1 adult dog and 2 puppies waiting to their owner to come back from the pet store with a new lamb and rice dog food

Lamb and Rice dog food is more than an excellent choice for dogs with allergies and food sensitivities. This blend is rich in protein and energy, a great fit for active and working dogs, and offers all the essential nutrients your furbaby needs.

The lamb is a great source for omega fatty acids that promote healthy skin and coat and has an odor that appeals to picky eaters.

Lamb & Rice Diet Benefits

Here we’ve covered all the advantages of Lamb and Rice dog food for your convenience and to help you make the right choice for your dog.

May Help With Food Allergies – Lamb and rice dog food has a much lower allergen potential than other products with the novel protein and gluten-free grain. So, using a product with lamb and rice may help to resolve symptoms of food allergies. One clinical trial that involved feeding commercial lamb and rice recipes to 20 dogs with skin allergies demonstrated an improvement in 75% of the animals. However, some pups have allergies to this kind of diet, and that’s why it’s important to consult with your veterinarian before jumping on the bandwagon.
An Excellent Component in a Food Rotation – If you’re following the growing trend of rotational feeding for your furbaby, including a lamb and rice recipe is a great idea. With rotation feeding, you vary the protein (e.g. chicken, lamb, fish) and type of food (dry or canned) rather than feeding the same diet week after week, month after month. Rotating foods may help prevent allergies and keep picky eaters more interested in their dinner. Face it, you’d be bored if you had to eat the same meals day after day.
Beneficial for Active and Working Dogs – The nutritional value of lamb and rice diets benefits active and working dogs. As the protein source, lamb is packed with healthy amino acids, fats, and other essential nutrients that your pooch needs to support his lean muscle mass. With brown or white rice in the diet, your furbaby will have the digestible carbohydrates he needs to fuel an active lifestyle.
Promotes a Healthy Skin and Coat – In addition to providing protein, lamb is an excellent source of omega fatty acids. These ingredients help to promote a shiny coat and healthy skin. Other nutrients such as selenium, zinc, and vitamin B12 support the immune system and foster whole-body health. We’ll discuss the overall nutritional value of lamb more below.
May Help With Picky Eaters – Whether it’s included in a food rotation or fed as the main diet, a lamb-based recipe may help picky eaters dig in. Lamb has an odor and flavor that many dogs find appealing. Many parents of picky pets find that feeding lamb and rice helps their pups to eat better.
Can Help Your Pooch Maintain a Healthy Weight – A quality product with lamb and rice provides digestible protein to build lean muscle mass. And muscle tissue burns more calories than body fat. Rice adds digestible fiber and carbohydrates to meet energy needs. Depending on your pup’s needs, choose either a product with fewer carbs and lower fat to prevent obesity or food that has the carbohydrate load to fuel higher activity.

Nutritional Benefits of Lamb

Unless you’re talking about allergies, many people don’t think of lamb when it comes to dog food. But this protein is packed with many beneficial nutrients. As a red meat, it contains essential amino acids, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional benefits of lamb.

Quality Protein – Lamb is a high-quality protein that contains all the essential amino acids your pup needs. That means this red meat provides the building blocks your pal needs to develop and maintain healthy lean muscles. It’s also highly digestible, and that allows your pooch to get more nutrients in every bite.
Healthy Fats – As a source of healthy fats, lamb provides support for the brain, skin, and coat. This ingredient contains more omega fatty acids than other meats. It has the proper balance of dietary fat for an active canine.
Other Key Nutrients – In addition to being a complete protein and having a healthy balance of dietary fat, lamb contains many other essential nutrients, including:
- Zinc and selenium to support immunity
- B vitamins to support the nervous system
- Phosphorus for bone health

Nutritional Benefits of Rice

For many humans, rice is an important staple. It’s easy to digest and inexpensive. But is it a healthy ingredient for your dog? Absolutely. Rice provides digestible carbohydrates and other valuable nutrients. So let’s take a look:

Excellent Second Ingredient – While quality dog food should have real protein as the top ingredient, rice makes an excellent second item on the list. It provides digestible carbohydrates that your pup needs for fuel. And the grain offers other nutritional benefits, including vitamins and minerals.
Fiber and Carbohydrates for a Healthy Digestive System – Rice provides digestible carbohydrates, which dogs need in moderation to give a steady energy source. The starch is gentle on the gut and can help to bind loose stools. Feeding brown rice adds fiber and plant proteins to the diet. As long as your pal can tolerate the coarser grain, it can help to add bulk and keep the digestive system functioning properly.
Vitamins and Minerals – There’s more to rice than carbs. It contains vitamins B, D, and E to support healthy body functions. As for minerals, this grain also offers calcium and magnesium to support the skeleton and other systems.

Provide all the Nutrients with Lamb and Rice Dog Food

Not very long ago, there were only a few Lamb and Rice dog food options available. But now, you can choose from gluten or grain-free options, dry and canned, and many different brands. So how do you know which food is the right choice for your dog?

For your convenience, we’ve created a rule of thumb checklist to make it easier for you to choose the right Lamb and Rice dog food formulation that fits best for your doggie:

Lamb is the First Ingredient – Protein is the most important nutrient for dogs. If you’re feeding a lamb and rice recipe, then lamb should be the primary ingredient. Look for it at the top of the list.
Rice is in the Top Five Ingredients – Dogs also need carbs for energy. Rice should be high on the ingredient list. If you’re using a diet with white rice, keep it in moderation to avoid too much starch. Brown rice can help provide fiber and a more sustained energy supply.
Complete and Balanced – In addition to the lamb and rice, the diet should include ingredients and supplements that provide all the essential nutrients. Look for a statement that the food meets AAFCO requirements for complete and balanced nutrition.
Life Stage Appropriate – Dogs have different nutritional needs as they age. Puppies need more energy, protein, and other key nutrients to support their growth and development. Senior dogs may require lower fat and carbs and supplements for different body functions. Choose food formulated for your pup’s stage of life.
Manufactured in a Country With Rigorous Safety Protocols – Nations like the United States, Canada, Great Britain, and a handful of others follow food safety rules and good manufacturing practices to ensure a safe and wholesome product. Look for products made in one of these countries.
Free of Unidentified Meat Meals or Animal Byproducts – Animal by-products and general “meat meals” may include animal parts like horns, hooves, and lungs. Pick products that don’t have these ingredients on the label.
Contains the Supplements Your Dog Needs – If your pup is prone to hip dysplasia or has other conditions, make sure the product has the supplements he needs like:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint function
- Taurine for heart health
- Probiotics for digestion
Includes No Artificial Additives – Some artificial ingredients and preservatives have been linked to cancer or other diseases. Avoid products with synthetic additives. Look for natural preservatives such as tocopherols or herbs.

Our 2024 Review For 13 Best Lamb and Rice Dog Food

5 dogs waiting to try for the first time a lamb and rice meal for their dinner

We reviewed over 100 products by following the abovementioned process and classified the best for your doggie’s everyday essential nutrient needs.

We considered each pick’s life stage and common health issues and ensured it has the best nutrient sources.

Nutro Natural Choice Small Bites Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Chicken Meal, Brewers Rice, Whole Grain Brown Rice
Key feature: Lamb and Rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 22% Crude Protein,14% Crude Fat,3.5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 341cal/cup
Type of Product: Dry adult dog food
Life Stage: Adult
Best for: Best Overall Pick
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

The top two ingredients in this food are protein sources, and deboned lamb is number one. With these sources of essential amino acids, your pooch will have the building blocks for healthy lean muscles.

Featuring healthy sources of fat that include omegas, this formula offers support for the skin and coat. Whole grain rice offers digestible carbs to give your pup the energy he needs. The formula also has garden vegetables to provide antioxidants and other nutrients.

There’s no corn, soy, wheat, or chicken by-products in this food. It has all-natural ingredients and preservatives. You can purchase the product in a variety of sizes. This formula is also available in regular adult and large breed adult options.

Purina Pro Plan All Life Stages Small Bites Lamb & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Lamb, Rice, Corn Gluten Meal, Poultry By-Product Meal, Whole Grain Wheat
Key feature: Lamb and Rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 27% Crude Protein,17% Crude Fat,3% Crude Fiber, 12% Moisture
Caloric Content: 474cal/cup
Type of Product: Dry dog food
Life Stage: All stages
Best for: Puppies
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance and growth

Starting with real lamb and rice, this nutrient-dense formula is packed full of protein and carbohydrates to fuel your puppy’s growth and activity. The meat source also provides omega fatty acids, EPA, and DHA to foster brain development and a healthy coat and skin.

There are no artificial ingredients in this formula, and it includes whole grains to provide digestible fiber and essential nutrients. Supplementation with vitamins and minerals ensures a balanced nutritional blend.

The formula includes natural sources of glucosamine for joint function. It also has prebiotic fiber and probiotics to foster healthy digestion.

You can buy this food in three different sizes.

Nature’s Recipe Mature Dry Dog Food for Senior Dogs, Lamb & Rice

First 5 ingredients: Lamb Meal, Brewers Rice, Barley, Oatmeal, Dried Beet Pulp
Key feature: Lamb and Rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 19% Crude Protein,8% Crude Fat,5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 304cal/cup
Type of Product: Dry senior dog food
Life Stage: Senior
Best for: Seniors
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

This product starts with lamb meal as the first ingredient to provide essential amino acids for strong muscles. With healthy fats including omega fatty acids, the formula supports healthy skin and hair.

Brewers rice and other whole grains provide energy for your pal’s activities. Featuring limited ingredients, the formula includes essential mineral and vitamin supplements for balanced nutrition.

There are no artificial ingredients, corn, wheat, or poultry by-products in the food. Beet pulp offers prebiotic fiber to support digestion. Taurine is included to support heart health.

Diamond Naturals Lamb Meal & Rice Formula Adult Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: lamb meal, Ground White Rice, Cracked Pearled Barley, Grain Sorghum, Egg Product
Key feature: Lamb and Rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 23% Crude Protein,14% Crude Fat,4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 332cal/cup
Type of Product: Dry adult dog food
Life Stage: Adult
Best for: Budget
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Starting with lamb meal, this protein-dense food offers the amino acids your pup needs to promote healthy muscle mass. Also a source of omega fatty acids, the complete protein provides essential nutrients for skin and coat health.

Whole grains include white rice, barley, and sorghum to provide digestible carbs and fiber. With fruits and vegetables, the formula has a balanced blend of vitamins, minerals, and other essential nutrients.

This product includes sources of taurine and L-carnitine for heart health and to support metabolism. There are at least 80 million probiotic microorganisms in the food.

It’s available in a variety of sizes.

Purina ONE SmartBlend Classic Ground Healthy Puppy Lamb & Long Grain Rice Entree Canned Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Lamb And Chicken Broth, Lamb, Chicken, Liver, Pork Lungs
Key feature: ground, lamb and rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 8% Crude Protein,7% Crude Fat,1.5% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 426 kcal/can
Type of Product: Wet dog food
Life Stage: Puppy
Best for: Canned food for Puppies
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for growth

Following lamb and chicken broth for moisture, lamb is the top food ingredient in the product. Real meat provides essential amino acids for strong muscles. The protein content is 36% by dry matter which provides key nutrients for growing puppies.

Whole grain rice and oatmeal offer digestible fiber and sustainable carbs for energy. The higher calorie content provides the fuel your puppy needs for growth and play. Combined with garden vegetables, the ingredients provide rich sources of vitamins and minerals.

There are no poultry by-products in the food. It contains vitamin and mineral supplements to provide a balanced nutritional profile for growing puppies.

VICTOR Lamb & Rice Formula Paté Canned Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Lamb, Vegetable Broth, Lamb Liver, Brown Rice, Dried Egg Product
Key feature: ground, lamb and rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 9% Crude Protein,8% Crude Fat,1% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 529 kcal/can
Type of Product: Wet dog food
Life Stage: Adults
Best for: Canned Food for Adults
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Starting with whole lamb, this canned food offers protein-rich ingredients that promote healthy lean muscle mass. Healthy fats from the lamb and other sources include omega fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin.

Brown rice provides a source of sustainable energy and minerals. Supplementation with essential vitamins and minerals provides for balanced nutrition.

This product has no added colors or flavors and is naturally preserved. It’s made in the USA from trusted sources.

Natural Balance Ultra Premium Lamb Formula Canned Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Lamb Broth, Lamb, Lamb Liver, Brown Rice, Potatoes
Key feature: ground, lamb and rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 8% Crude Protein,5% Crude Fat,1.5% Crude Fiber, 78% Moisture
Caloric Content: 495 kcal/can
Type of Product: Wet dog food
Life Stage: All Stages
Best for: Canned Food for Seniors
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Featuring lamb broth, lamb, and lamb liver as the top three ingredients, this food is packed with essential amino acids for your pup’s muscles. The fat content comes from healthy sources of omega and other essential fatty acids.

Brown rice and garden vegetables offer digestible carbs to fuel your pooch’s activity. The easy-to-digest ingredients are gentle on a senior dog’s stomach. With natural sources of omega 3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, this formula offers support for your aging dog’s joints.

Added vitamins and minerals ensure a balanced nutritional blend. There’s no wheat or artificial ingredients in the formula. Digestible ingredients foster a healthy digestive tract.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley
Key feature: Lamb and Rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 22% Crude Protein,14% Crude Fat,5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 377cal/cup
Type of Product: Dry dog food
Life Stage: Adult
Best for: Adults
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Starting with real lamb and fish meal, this food offers all the essential amino acids your pup needs for strong muscles. The ingredients also provide rich sources of omega fatty acids and other healthy fats.

With brown rice and other whole grains, the product provides energy for active dogs. Calcium and phosphorus in the formula promote strong bones.

This formula includes prebiotic fiber from chicory root and probiotics to soothe the gut and promote digestive health. There are natural sources of glucosamine to support joint function.

The product is available in a variety of package sizes. There’s also a formula for small breeds.

Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley
Key feature: Holistic, lamb and brown rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 24% Crude Protein, 16% Crude Fat, 4% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 388 kcal/cup
Type of Product: Small Breed Dry Dog Food
Life Stage: Adults
Best for: Active Dogs
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Lamb is the top ingredient followed by fish meal in this food. The protein sources provide all the essential amino acids for healthy lean muscle mass. Including omega fatty acids, the moderate fat content offers extra energy and supports healthy skin and hair.

There are whole grains including brown rice in the formula to provide rich sources of antioxidants, fiber, and minerals. Garden veggies and fruits supply vitamins and antioxidants for whole-body health.

With sources of glucosamine, the product offers support for healthy joints. There are probiotic microorganisms and prebiotic fiber in the formula to promote gut health. It contains no chicken by-products, corn, soy, or wheat.

AvoDerm Original Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Deboned Lamb, Menhaden Fish Meal, Brown Rice, Oatmeal, Barley
Key feature: Avocado, lamb and brown rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 21% Crude Protein, 11% Crude Fat, 5% Crude Fiber, 10% Moisture
Caloric Content: 360 kcal/cup
Type of Product: Adult Dry Dog Food
Life Stage: Adults
Best for: Allergies
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

Protein-dense lamb meal tops the ingredient list in this product and offers all the essential amino acids needed for strong muscles. The fat content comes from healthy sources of essential fatty acids.

Brown and white rice provide easily digestible carbohydrates and help to soothe the stomach and bind and bind excess liquid. Avocado and other ingredients provide omega fatty acids to help fight inflammation and keep the coat shiny and the skin healthy.

With essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, this formula is designed to support the immune system and overall health. Combined with the natural anti-inflammatory ingredients mentioned above, this formula helps to combat allergies. The formula contains no by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy, which are potential allergens.

You can purchase this product in a variety of package sizes.

James Wellbeloved Adult Lamb and Rice Kibble

First 5 ingredients: lamb meal, brown rice, white rice, barley, whole linseed
Key feature: lamb and rice
Guaranteed Analysis: 20% Crude Protein, 11.5% Crude Fat,8.5% Crude Fiber, not listed
Caloric Content: not listed
Type of Product: Adult Dry Dog Food
Life Stage: Adults
Best for: Sensitive Stomach
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

You can purchase this product in a variety of package sizes.

Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Lamb & Brown Rice Formula Dry Dog Food

First 5 ingredients: Lamb Meal, Brown Rice, Brewers Rice, Rice Bran, Canola Oil
Key feature: limited ingredients
Guaranteed Analysis: 22% Crude Protein, 12% Crude Fat,4% Crude Fiber, 10%
Caloric Content: 370 kcal/cup
Type of Product: Adult Dry Dog Food
Life Stage: Adults
Best for: Gluten-Free
AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional needs established by the AAFCO Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for maintenance

This gluten-free food has lamb meal as the top ingredient to ensure a protein-dense diet. With a low to moderate fat content from healthy sources, your pooch has the omega and essential fatty acids he needs to maintain a healthy coat and skin.

Whole grains provide digestible carbohydrates for energy without gluten. The limited ingredients can help your pal avoid food sensitivities and digestive issues. There are vitamin and mineral supplements to provide complete and balanced nutrition for your pup.

The ingredients in this food are all-natural. There are no by-products, corn, soy, or wheat in the formula. This product comes in a variety of package sizes.

Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Brown Rice & Lamb Meal Formula Dog Treats

First 5 ingredients: Brown Rice, Rice, Solvent Extracted Rice Bran, Lamb Meal, Cane Molasses
Key feature: limited ingredients
Guaranteed Analysis: 13% Crude Protein, 4% Crude Fat,5% Crude Fiber, 12%
Caloric Content: 30 kcal/treat
Type of Product: Adult Dry Dog biscuit
Life Stage: Adults
Best for: Treats
AAFCO Statement: This product is intended for supplemental feeding only.

Starting with rice, these biscuits contain digestible carbs and protein. Lamb meal adds some protein and healthy omega fatty acids.

This treat is designed to be gentle on the stomach. Because it has limited ingredients, it may be a good choice for pups with food sensitivities.

There are no artificial ingredients or additives in the formula. Use in moderation as a tasty treat for your furbaby.

Frequently Asked Questions

hungry dog staring wondering when he is having dinner

Is lamb and rice dog food good for dogs?

As we shared above, lamb and rice provide key nutrients and are a healthy diet option for most dogs. The only time you would need to avoid it is if you have a dog with an allergy to lamb or rice.

Can I feed my dog rice and meat?

You can feed most dogs boiled or steamed rice and lean meat such as lamb or chicken to help with digestive upset. If this is part of a homemade diet, make sure you’re meeting all nutrient requirements for your pooch.

Do dogs digest rice?

Yes, rice is a highly digestible carbohydrate for dogs.

Can rice upset a dog’s stomach?

In most cases, rice will not upset a dog’s stomach. It can help to bind excess liquid in the case of diarrhea. Some dogs with sensitive stomachs may have a harder time with brown rice.

Is brown rice or white rice better for dogs?

Both types are nutritious options. Brown rice has more fiber and is higher in some natural oils, but it can also spoil faster.

Is lamb good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Unless your dog is allergic to lamb, it is an excellent option for a sensitive stomach. It contains readily digestible protein and omega fatty acids, which can help with inflammation.

Is lamb easy to digest for dogs?

Yes, lamb is easy for dogs to digest, and it contains all the essential amino acids.

Is lamb meal healthy for dogs?

Yes, lamb meal is a healthy protein source. To make lamb meal, the whole muscle goes through processing that removes the water. This results in a higher concentration of protein and other nutrients.

What is the difference between lamb and lamb meal in dog food?

Lamb meal is more processed and contains less water than lamb.

Is lamb healthier than chicken?

Lamb is a more novel protein than chicken and may be more beneficial if your pup has food allergies. As a red meat, it also contains iron and B vitamins. Both lamb and chicken are excellent sources of essential amino acids and omega fatty acids.

Do dogs like lamb dog food?

Many dogs find lamb very appealing. It has a strong aroma and flavor that tends to be appealing.

Is rice OK for dogs with pancreatitis?

Yes. When a dog suffers from pancreatitis, its body may not be able to produce enough digestive enzymes. Rice is a highly digestible carbohydrate that can help to soothe the gut and provide essential nutrients.

What effect does taurine have on dogs?

While lamb contains all the amino acids considered essential for canines, it may not have enough taurine. A 2003 study of commercial dog foods indicated that animals fed lamb or lamb and rice preparations had lower blood taurine concentrations than pups fed other diets.

The concern with this finding is that a taurine deficiency may be a factor in a diet-induced heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy(DCM). A lack of this amino acid can also contribute to retinal damage.

Taurine is found in many different body tissues, including the heart, the retina, and the brain. However, this nutrient is not a required supplement in commercial dog foods. If a pup has a deficiency of the amino acid, it may develop DCM, retinal disease, or urinary problems.

Some breeds seem to be at a higher risk of either DCM or urinary issues, including:

Cocker Spaniels
Golden Retriever
Newfoundlands
Saint Bernards
English Setters
Scottish Terriers
Basenjis
Basset Hounds
Chihuahuas
Australian Shepherds

If your pooch has a taurine deficiency, the primary treatment is taurine supplementation. This may be short-term or lifelong, depending on your dog’s needs. You should also follow your veterinarian’s instructions and give your furbaby any other prescribed medications and supplements as directed. For dogs suffering from DCM, you should also provide a stress-free environment.

White or Brown Rice for Dogs: Which Is Better?
When talking about rice, the first thing is that not all rice is the same. White rice goes through processing to remove the germ, husk, and bran. It’s more carbohydrate and starch dense but lower in fiber than brown rice. This ingredient is gentle on the gut and helpful for pups with diarrhea, sensitive stomachs, or other gastrointestinal issues. Because brown rice is higher in fiber and has a lower glycemic index, it’s an excellent choice for diabetic pooches.

The Final Woof

a dog is licking his woman owner after finishing a delicious lamb and rice meal

After evaluating over 100 products on the market and comparing them to our criteria and key considerations for Lamb and Rice based diet, we recommend Nutro Natural Choice Small Bites Adult Lamb & Brown Rice Recipe as the Best overall pick.

Lamb and rice diets come in a variety of forms. But the bottom line is to find a product with lamb as the top ingredient and features rice as the primary or only carbohydrate.

Whole food goodness and balanced nutrition that meets your pup’s needs are essential when choosing the right formula for your pooch.

This formula features a balanced nutritional blend with lamb at the top of the list. It’s also made in the United States using all-natural ingredients.

US Vet: “This is the Best Lamb and Rice Dog Food in 2024”