Boiled chicken and rice have long been recommended as a go-to diet for dogs experiencing digestive upset or poor health, primarily because these foods are considered bland and easy to digest. While this approach may provide temporary relief, it overlooks the critical role of functional nutrition in supporting recovery and long-term health.
Boiled chicken and rice has long been recommended as a go-to diet for dogs experiencing digestive upset or poor health, primarily because these foods are considered bland and easy to digest. While this approach may provide temporary relief, it overlooks the critical role of functional nutrition in supporting recovery and long-term health.
Research dating back to the early 1990s highlights that easily digestible yet functional foods—those that provide specific health benefits beyond basic nutrition—are far superior for aiding recovery in ill or stressed animals.
Functional foods include those rich in bioavailable proteins, essential vitamins, minerals, and gut-supporting nutrients, and actively address underlying health issues, support immune function, and promote faster healing.
Feeding an imbalanced diet, such as boiled chicken and rice, may exacerbate deficiencies, leaving the animal without the tools it needs to recover effectively. This approach lacks critical nutrients like omega fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber, all of which play vital roles in reducing inflammation, repairing tissues, and restoring gut health.
One study in particular found that cases of acute colitis were resolved faster with dietary management (supplementation with psyllium husk), rather than with prescription medication (10.2460/javma.22.08.0349).
By prioritising functional nutrition tailored to the dog's specific health condition, pet owners can ensure their companion receives the necessary building blocks to combat illness and recover more robustly. Proper nutrition is not just about temporary digestive ease—it's a powerful tool for optimising health outcomes and resilience in the face of illness.
We don’t recommend going against your veterinarian’s advice. So if your veterinarian suggests feeding boiled chicken and rice for GI Upset, consider asking if there are more functional nutritional alternatives available. Many veterinarians, especially those familiar with recent research, can recommend foods that are not only easy to digest but also provide the nutrients needed to support recovery.
OUR TOP ALTERNATIVES:
- Steamed and mashed pumpkin - gentle on the stomach and high in insoluble fibre, helping to regulate bowel movement.
- High-quality bone broth - nutrient-rich hydration containing collagen. Easily our first recommendation when pets are feeling unwell.
- Organic oats, cooked in water - also high in insoluble fibre.
- Boiled Turkey - lean and easy to digest, high in tryptophan and less likely to trigger an inflammatory response than chicken.
- Boiled white fish
- Quinoa - nutrient-dense, protein-rich alternative to white rice.
- Probiotics - specific strains have been shown to reduce time for recovery in digestive upset.
- Steamed and mashed zucchini or broccoli - low calorie, high fibre, high water content and easy to digest.
Here is an excellent paper on the benefits of nutritional intervention (modified fibre intake) and our pets: https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/260/S3/javma.22.08.0351.xml#B110
