Top 10 Best Dog Food for Colitis

Top 10 Best Dog Food for Colitis

So, your dog has been diagnosed with colitis. Watching the stress and discomfort your dog is experiencing can be torture for his owner. You want to remedy the situation so you can play and be a happy team again.

Your vet may have suggested some superior quality foods to provide your pup with the proper diet. The choice is up to you, however. Deciding on a food that will be pleasing to your dog’s palate is crucial. If he won’t eat it, it’s useless. The other principal factor is price. If the cost is not within your budget, you need other options. The questions are many. Do I buy grain-free, hydrolyzed, or low-fat? We hope this review of our pick for the best dog foods for colitis is helpful.

The 10 Best Dog Foods for Colitis

Blue Buffalo GI Support Dry Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet GI Gastrointestinal Support Dry Dog Food
Main ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, brown rice, potatoes
Protein content: 24%
Fat content: 12.0%
Calories: 344/cup

Our review of foods for dogs with colitis found Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet GI Gastrointestinal Support Dry Dog Food as our premium choice. The diet is formulated to meet a dog’s nutritional needs at all stages of life. It provides ingredients that are easily digested by puppies and adult dogs alike. The protein, fats, and carbohydrates help his body absorb nutrients to aid in digestion. The immune system is supported by ingredients like cranberries and blueberries.

Some reviews reported difficulty chewing for small dogs or senior dogs with dental issues. The Blue Buffalo diet does require vet approval and is a bit costly.

Pros
  • Dogs like the taste
  • Good for all ages
  • Easily digested
Cons
  • Vet approval needed
  • Expensive
  • Chewing difficulty for senior and small dogs

Royal Canin Dry Dog Food – Best Value

Royal Canin

When it comes to the best value we could find, Royal Canin Digestive Care Dry Dog Food takes the cake. It is the best dog food for colitis for the money from a brand you can trust. This diet was formulated especially for small breeds up to 22 pounds. So, while it may not be for every dog, it is ideal for small breeds 10 months and older.

For sensitive stomachs, it’s designed to smooth out digestion, aiding in beneficial gut flora and healthy probiotics. It also has a nice dose of dietary fiber, which is essential for dogs with colitis and abnormal stools.

By helping stool consistency, it should also make your dog have less frequent bathroom trips. Since it isn’t suitable for medium to large breeds, we couldn’t put this in as our number one. However, if you have a small breed and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg for specialized food, this can help you.

Cons
  • Only for small breeds
Pros
  • Promotes healthy gut
  • Has probiotics
  • Affordable
  • For dietary sensitivities
  • Improves stool consistency

Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food

Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Formula Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Main ingredients: Potatoes, egg product, potato protein, tomato pomace, chicken fat
Protein content: 25%
Fat content: 13%
Calories: 410/cup

Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Formula Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the best dog food for colitis for the money. At an affordable price, you can feed your dog a grain-free diet with limited ingredients that may irritate a sensitive stomach. The diet is formulated with egg protein to ease digestion. It contains omegas for healthy skin and coat and vitamins and minerals for balanced nutrition. It does not contain artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Some reviewers have said their dogs get gas, and some won’t eat it. In addition, there are some studies that suggest a possible link between grain-free diets and heart disease in dogs. Before feeding your pet a grain-free or specialized diet, talk to your veterinarian.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Eases digestion
  • Promotes healthy skin and coat
  • No artificial colors or flavors
  • No preservatives
Cons
  • Fussy eaters won’t eat it
  • Some dogs may experience gas
  • Grain-free

Purina Hypoallergenic Dog Food – Best Overall

HA Hypoallergenic Purina

Purina 13852 Hypoallergenic Vegetarian Dog Food made the top of the list. It has a comprehensive hydrolyzed recipe specifically tailored for food allergies and digestion. It is made of one singular protein that is broken down into molecular bits as to not stimulate a dietary reaction.

They use only one carbohydrate source to minimalize allergens or side effects. The kibble is designed to be easy to consume. It has no harsh smells or artificial additives. It truly is formulated with multiple sensitivity factors in mind.

This dog food would not only help colitis, but food allergies, pancreatic issues, inflammatory bowel disease, and dermatitis as well. Many of those conditions are linked together, so it can solve multiple issues that your dog faces. It is vet recommended as well, so you have the professional preference to back it up.

Across the board, it is the best selection we could find that targeted issues relating to colitis.

Cons
  • Not suitable for every dog diet
Pros
  • Multi-issue targeting
  • No artificial additives or irritants
  • Hydrolyzed recipe
  • Singular carbohydrate

Canine Caviar Dog Food – Best for Puppies

Canine Caviar

This Canine Caviar 901268 Grain Free Dog Food is the best selection we could find for puppies with issues causing colitis. What makes it even more perfect is that it is ideal for all life stages. So, if you feed this to your puppy and they do well, you won’t have to change their diet again once they reach their adult stage.

This dog food is totally natural with holistic ingredients for optimal nutrition. It has no grains or fillers of any kind. It is completely hypoallergenic and sensitivity friendly. It also is entirely gluten-free and alkaline based. It has reduced any digestive triggering ingredients while catering to essential nutrients.

They also have a wide selection of flavors so you can get one that best appeals to your pet’s appetite. Pickier dogs may not like the taste.

Cons
  • A bit expensive
  • Picky dogs may not prefer
Pros
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Holistic
  • Gluten-free

Purina Pro Plan EN Gastroenteric Low Fat Dry Dog Food

Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Low Fat Dry Dog Food
Main ingredients: Brewer’s rice, barley, corn gluten meal, poultry by-product meal, animal digest
Protein content: 25%
Fat content: 5%
Calories: 327/cup

Our review found that Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Low Fat Dog Food works well for dogs with colitis. While most dogs do not have a problem digesting fat, a low fat diet may lessen the bouts of diarrhea for your pet. The diet contains ingredients that are high quality and prebiotic fibers to help relieve your pet’s diarrhea. You may want to try this formula if the high and moderate fat formulas are not helping your dog. This low-fat, pea-free diet with grain may be your answer if your dog has problems digesting fat.

The reviews are mixed when it comes to taste, however. For a costly veterinary diet, dogs don’t seem excited about the taste or they just won’t eat it at all.

Pros
  • Low-fat
  • Helps reduce risks of diarrhea
  • Pea free
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Veterinary approval necessary
  • Some dogs don’t like the taste

Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Dog Food – Premium Choice

Royal Canin Veterinary Diet

Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Dry Dog Food may be a very pricy addition to the list, which keeps it out of our number one slot. However, if you are looking to have all bases covered for your pooch, this pick is worth a peek.

It is specially formulated for GI issues of all kinds. Its main purpose is to promote healthy stools by using optimal prebiotics, probiotics, and necessary fibers to cleanse and soothe the digestive system. It has both soluble and insoluble fibers to aid in proper breakdown.

With this food, you can keep your dog’s gut flora at a healthy level by, supporting good bacteria. It also includes omega-3 fatty acids, DHA, fish oils, and EPA to ensure everything in the tract goes as it should. If you have tried other foods that just aren’t doing the trick and are ready to spend top dollar to help your dog, this food may be just what you’re looking for.

Cons
  • Expensive
Pros
  • Specialized for GI issues
  • Proper fibers
  • Prebiotics and probiotics
  • Well-balanced ingredients

Blue Buffalo Diet NP Novel Protein Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet NP Novel Protein Alligator Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

Main ingredients: Deboned alligator, peas, pea starch, alligator meal, pea protein
Protein content: 22%
Fat content: 14%
Calories: 372/cup

One of our picks for dog foods for colitis is Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet NP Novel Protein Alligator Grain-Free Dry Dog Food. For those of you that prefer to feed your dog grain-free food, this may be the one. Your dog is sure to love the flavor of alligator meat without experiencing the negative reactions linked to foods like chicken and beef. It is also free of preservatives and artificial flavors. For a healthy immune system, the diet includes antioxidants and vitamins, along with cranberries and blueberries. Your dog’s skin and coat will also be supported by the omega-3 fatty acids.

This is a grain-free diet and contains peas. As previously stated, some studies link heart disease with grain-free diets. The formulation is expensive and does require vet approval.

Pros
  • Minimizes reactions to food
  • Contains alligator
  • No artificial flavors or preservatives
  • No beef or chicken
Cons
  • Veterinary approval required
  • Expensive
  • Contains peas

Wellness Wet Canned Dog Food

Wellness Natural Pet Food

Lastly, we have Wellness 8927 Natural Wet Canned Dog Food. This is a well-balanced food for all sizes of adult dogs. It is also great for added hydration, aiding in digestion. While it isn’t primarily focused on the GI tract, it’s formulated for optimal health in all areas, so your dog can reap the benefits of a well-rounded diet.

This particular can was a duck and sweet potato recipe that was tempting to the taste buds, for dogs, of course. While it is holistic, it isn’t 100% grain-free, as it does contain barley. Be mindful of ingredients before purchase.

Cons
  • Not grain-free
  • Not for sensitivities
  • Does not mainly focus on digestion
Pros
  • Wet food
  • Holistic ingredients

Natural Balance Wet Dog Food

Natural Balance

This Natural Balance 43102 Wet Dog Food is designed for adult dogs with food sensitivities and a great food for dogs with colitis. They have multiple flavors with various main ingredients so you can get the best fit for your pet. The smell is very aromatic and tasty to dogs.

Because it is wet food, it has a higher moisture content, making digestion easier. It has a well-balanced selection of ingredients to promote overall health. While it is a good selection to help your dog with digestion, you will have to be careful what you choose if they are allergy-prone.

Even the choices that say they are fish-based have chicken meal and other protein ingredients so it definitely may not be suitable for all dog diets.

Cons
  • Not for all sensitivities
  • Not grain-free
  • Not a specialized diet for digestion
Pros
  • Wet food for better digestion
  • Well-balanced
  • For adults of all sizes

Buyer’s Guide: Selecting the Best Dog Foods for Colitis

Colitis isn’t a walk in the park for your dog. They’re probably uncomfortable and tired of feeling the urgency to potty. If they aren’t making it outside in time, you’re probably done with cleaning up messes, too.

What is Colitis?

Colitis is a condition where the large intestine or colon is inflamed. This inflammation causes diarrhea and loose stools. There can be multiple causes, all of which have simple treatments once the underlying cause is found.

What Causes Colitis?

Colitis has a number of causes, but the most common is stress. Other reasons can be underlying infections, parasites, allergies, and inflammatory bowel disease. With one of those triggers, the colon is no longer able to retain the feces and water absorption becomes difficult.

Parasites

Parasites are hugely responsible for colitis in dogs. If they have a parasitic infestation in the GI tract such as whipworms, giardia, or cryptosporidium, colitis may be something you notice straight away. Treatment for these issues includes dewormer or other prescription medications.

Infections

Infections can be a common trigger for colitis. Some infections that produce diarrhea in response to the intrusion are salmonella, e. Coli, and clostridium. These can make your dog very sick and cause dehydration. Treatment from a veterinarian is essential.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Inflammatory bowel disease is likely going to be a quick diagnosis for your dog. Many dog foods cater to the symptoms caused by this disease so you can help your canine manage symptoms. Things to look for are vomiting, excessive gas, abdominal distress, depression, fatigue, and of course—colitis.

Allergies

Allergies are a very common theme for colitis. With so many dog foods on the market these days, something ingredient irritants can take a long time to pinpoint. You have some dogs who are allergic to grain, wheat, egg, dairy, animal proteins, and other additives.

Food trials are often suggested to rule out or pin down which foods are causing the reaction. As far as colitis as a symptom of an underlying food allergy, you may also notice issues with dry or itching skin, lethargy, vomiting, hot spots, ear infections, and swelling.

Stress

Stress can also cause colitis. If you have a very nervous dog who displaying anxious habits, diarrhea can be prevalent for them. Reducing the number of triggers can help to ease stress-related symptoms and help your dog get back to a healthy lifestyle.

Stress can be a major trigger for irritable bowel syndrome in your dog as well. Understanding the underlying causes can help you tailor the right environment for them.

What Role Does Diet Play?

Diet is essential in the treatment of colitis. Many underlying issues which cause it can be prompted by diet alone. If your dog is continually eating something that isn’t agreeing with their GI tract or digestion, it’s going to develop into a series of issues.

Eating healthy is key in order to maintain the disease. Dogs will be put on a hypoallergenic or low residue diet. Other medications may also be necessary depending on the severity of the illness. Your vet may suggest food trials so you can determine which foods make symptoms increase or decrease.

It may take some time to adjust to the diet, so don’t get immediately discouraged. Food transitions can take several weeks to take full effect. Once you find a food that reduces colitis or eliminates it altogether, your dog can be on their way to a much happier existence.

Dairy, glucose, and wheat can be particularly problematic for your pooch. These ingredients are known to cause inflammation in the digestive tract, making your dog downright miserable. Your vet will most likely recommend cutting the most common irritants first and then hack away at the rest as you go.

There won’t be a one-size-fits-all fix with diet. It must be tailored to meet the needs of the individual, as each canine will have different reactions to various foods. Having a nutrient-rich diet with simplistic ingredients and a solid protein source will be your best bet for improvement.

Final Thoughts

We feel the Purina 13852 Hypoallergenic Vegetarian Dog is going to be the best dog food for colitis. It has all the common irritants removed from the ingredients. There are no harmful additives or fillers. It’s hydrolyzed and formulated specifically for treating digestion issues.

If you can’t add a big expense to the budget right now, Royal Canin Digestive Care Dry Dog Food is an awesome alternative to our number one choice. If you have a small breed with colitis and they need something to soothe dietary sensitivities, it’s the best value we can find.

While high-dollar, Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Dry Dog Food is completely designed for optimal digestive health, targeting many different sensitivities. They truly cover all bases when it comes to potential triggers to eliminate these ingredients from the diet without scrimping on needed nutrients.

If you didn’t know where to begin in finding the best dog food for colitis, hopefully, we’ve made that part a walk in the park for you. Erasing the causes of colitis can be difficult, but with proper nutrition and care, your dog can get back on track again.

Edward Hollon is an avid dog lover and writer, knowing all there is to know about our furry friends. Edward has been writing for petdii for three years now, wanting to use her knowledge for good and share everything she can with new dog owners. Edward has two dogs herself - a German shepherd called Banjo and a chocolate labrador called Buttons. Edward knows more than anyone how adjusting to new life with a puppy can turn your life upside down, and she wants to ease some of the burdens through her articles.