The short answer is that starches are not bad for dogs as long as they don't form the majority of the dog's diet. Excessive carbohydrate intake can cause digestive problems and weight gain. Kibble dog food contains some starch, which most dogs tolerate well. You can also give your pooch potatoes and rice.
What starches can dogs eat?
Some of these may include:Barley (pearled)Oats (or whole oats)Brown rice.Whole wheat.Whole corn.Potato (or sweet potato)Millet.Carbohydrates: Key to a Balanced Dog Food | PetMD
Why is starch not good for dogs?
A small, steady amount of carbohydrate or starch in the diet is fairly harmless, but when the diet contains large amounts of starchy carbohydrates (and most dry dog foods are 30-60% carbohydrate), this can cause obesity and insulin resistance. Insulin is a hormone found in all humans, dogs and cats.
Do dogs need starches?
Dogs are carnivores and have very little nutritional requirement for dietary carbohydrates (starch) to thrive. They get everything they require from protein and fat.
Can I give my dog rice starch?
Rice is a food is not or poisonous for dogs. In fact, this carbohydrate is often added to commercial dog foods and prescribed for dogs suffering from a range of stomach issues or diarrhea. This is because rice is very easy for a dog to digest and is high in starch.