Top 10 Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
When your dog has stomach issues, you want to do everything you can to make sure they’re comfortable. A huge part of that is making sure they have the right foods.
But if your dog has a sensitive stomach, what kind of food do they need? What are the ingredients you should be on the lookout for? And what are some of the best dog foods on the market for pups who struggle with a sensitive tummy?
- Top 10 Best Wet Dog Foods
- Top 10 Best Dry Dog Foods for Large Dogs
- Top 10 Best Dry Dog Food for Small Dogs
- Top 10 Best Dry Dog Food
What Are Some of the Main Causes of Sensitive Stomachs in Dogs?
First things first—before we jump into what ingredients to look for in food for dogs with sensitive stomachs (and some of the best options on the market), let’s cover the different reasons your dog might be struggling with a sensitive tummy in the first place.
Sudden changes in diet can cause serious stomach issues with dogs. For example, if you run out of your typical brand of food, don’t just substitute another. It could cause your dog’s digestive system to go a little haywire. “The sudden change of fat content or protein type of going from one food to another can upset a dog’s gastrointestinal system,” says Richardson.
But if you can’t tie it back to a change in diet—or if your dog’s sensitive stomach is more chronic in nature—it could be a sign of a more pressing health issue. Richardson mentions dogs who “suffer from more severe gastrointestinal disease such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), pancreatitis, or food allergies.”
What Are Some of the Best Ingredients for Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs?
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, simple ingredients are probably best.
“Depending on the underlying cause of a sensitive stomach, we generally recommend bland, easily digestible protein and carbohydrate sources like chicken, turkey breast, or boneless white fish, rice, pasta, whole grains, and prebiotics (fiber) to help large intestinal health and support a healthy gut flora,” Richardson says.
Throwing probiotics into the mix may also help calm your dog’s stomach issues. “Supplementing your dog’s diet with a high quality probiotic can help many dogs with sensitive stomachs.”
Is Dog Food Formulated for Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs Healthy for My Pet?
If your dog has stomach problems, it could help to move them to a diet specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs. These diets are designed to get tummy issues under control.
“Those dogs that have demonstrated gastrointestinal signs or recurring gastrointestinal signs can benefit from dog food formulated for sensitive stomachs,” says Richardson.
Just keep in mind that if your dog has more severe GI issues, they might need a vet-prescribed diet to feel their best. This is especially important if your dog’s sensitive stomach issues are a result of allergies.
“An important distinction exists between dogs with a sensitive stomach and those with true food allergies. Those with food allergies require a specially formulated diet that is either completely hypoallergenic or what we call a ‘novel’ protein source, such as duck or rabbit, that the dog’s immune system does not react to,” says Richardson. “Over the counter diets that claim to be ‘hypoallergenic’ or ‘novel protein’ do not have the same quality control as veterinary prescription diets where there is absolutely no cross-contamination during the manufacturing of the diets.”
Best Foods for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
It can be difficult to calm down your dog’s sensitive stomach, and you may have to try a few different foods before you hit upon the perfect recipe for your pup.
However, the following five dog foods are well-suited for dogs with sensitive stomachs and are high-rated by other owners who have already offered them to their dogs.
Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Formula Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Potatoes, 2. Egg Product, 3. Potato Protein, 4. Tomato Pomace, 5. Chicken Fat
Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Formula is the ultimate dog food for canines with an extremely fragile digestive system. It contains a very limited selection of ingredients and even exchanges meat for egg protein for extra sensitive dogs. The recipe is completely free from grains, gluten, corn, wheat, and soy, so even the most sensitive dogs can enjoy and fully digest a tasty meal.
To further strengthen your dog’s digestive tract, the dog food includes species-specific probiotics that promote gut flora and more efficient digestion. Also, the recipe contains numerous vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids that support your dog’s general health and helps them grow healthy fur.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Brewers Rice, 3. Chicken Meal, 4. Yellow Peas, 5. Soybean Oil
This tasty sensitive stomach dog food from Hill’s Science Diet has a successful track record of alleviating digestive issues in most dogs. It features an array of highly-digestible ingredients, including chicken, brown rice, and soybean oil that support your dog’s nutritional needs and overall health.
Another notable feature of the dog food is its prebiotic support, which promotes gut flora and leads to stronger digestive health. It’s also an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive skin due to its omega fatty acid and vitamin E content that improves skin and coat health.
Purina Pro Plan Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Barley, 3. Rice, 4. Oat Meal, 5. Fish Meal
Purina’s Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach dog food has created a special diet for sensitive dogs that boosts both digestive and skin health. The recipe is built from easily-digestible salmon, rice, and oatmeal that provide essential macro-nutrients, while fish oils and omega fatty acids nourish the skin and coat of your dog.
Moreover, the dog food plays a vital role in strengthening your canine’s digestive health through live probiotics and prebiotic fibers. Both of them support effective digestion and encourage nutrient absorption for a healthy and active canine.
Solid Gold Leaping Waters Sensitive Stomach Grain-Free Cold Water Salmon & Vegetable Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Ocean Fish Meal, 3. Chickpeas, 4. Lentils, 5. Chicken Fat
The Solid Gold brand is aimed at creating the highest-quality recipes with a selection of superfoods. Their Leaping Waters Sensitive Stomach dog food is designed with that same philosophy but is 100% free from grains, gluten, wheat, corn, and soy. Instead, it contains wholesome ingredients like cold water salmon, chickpeas, carrots, and pumpkin that supply a range of vital and supplementary nutrients.
Like any other sensitive diet, the dog food also provides probiotic support to strengthen your canine’s stomach and immune health. It also contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and help them grow a shiny and soft coat.
Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Grain-Free Formula Turkey & Potato Recipe Adult Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Deboned Turkey, 2. Potatoes, 3. Turkey Meal, 4. Peas, 5. Canola Oil
Cutting down on allergy-causing ingredients is important, but so is providing a holistic and highly-nutritious diet. That’s what Blue Buffalo’s Basics LID Formula is made for. It features a single protein and a selection of easily digestible carbs for optimal energy levels and muscle nourishment. Aside from that, the dog food includes LifeSource Bits that deliver antioxidants and vitamins, as well as pumpkin for soothing the stomach of sensitive canines.
But even with such a vast nutritional profile, the recipe contains zero grains, corn, dairy wheat, soy, artificial flavors, and preservatives. So if you’re concerned about not fulfilling your dog’s nutritional needs due to their sensitive stomach, try Blue Buffalo’s Basics LID Formula and see their health flourish.
Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Grain-Free Salmon & Sweet Potato Formula Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Menhaden Fish Meal, 3. Sweet Potatoes, 4. Potatoes, 5. Sunflower Oil
Natural Balance’s Salmon & Sweet Potato dog food provides the benefit of being both limited in ingredients and having a recipe made entirely from digestion-friendly foods for sensitive dogs. This list of foods includes real salmon, sweet potatoes, sunflower oil, and other wholesome ingredients that aid in muscle nourishment and make your dog more energetic.
In addition to this, the dog food is completely free from grains, peas, lentils, corn, and wheat so your dog can fully digest and absorb nutrients. Also, Natural Balance’s dog foods are manufactured exclusively in the USA to ensure the highest-quality end product.
Taste of the Wild Pine Forest Grain-Free Dry Dog Foo
Top Ingredients: 1. Venison, 2. Lamb Meal, 3. Garbanzo Beans, 4. Peas, 5. Blueberries
Taste of the Wild Pine Forest is one of the most premium and nutrient-dense dog foods available for sensitive canines on the market. Like any other Taste of the Wild formula, it contains novel proteins and unique ingredients like venison, garbanzo beans, and peas. A full list of wholesome fruits and vegetables help in providing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Because the diet is focused on sensitive dogs, it also boasts additional benefits from K9 probiotics and prebiotics that promote gut flora and improve digestion. The recipe is also stripped off allergens like grains and artificial preservatives.
Purina ONE SmartBlend Sensitive Systems Adult Formula Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Rice Flour, 3. Pearled Barley, 4. Oat Meal, 5. Corn Gluten Meal
Instead of just catering to dogs with sensitive stomachs, Purina ONE Sensitive Systems provides a nutritional solution for dogs that suffer from all sorts of sensitivities. Its selection of real salmon, rice, and oatmeal supports muscle growth and fuels your dog’s energy reserves in an easily-digestible package.
More than that, the recipe contains vitamin E and omega fatty acids that allow dogs with itchy and sensitive skin to grow soft and lustrous fur. The dog food is also a great choice for aging canines as it contains antioxidants, glucosamine, and chondroitin that strengthen the immune system and improves joint health.
Instinct Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Recipe with Real Lamb Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Lamb Meal, 2. Lamb, 3. Coconut Oil, 4. Peas, 5. Freeze Dried Lamb Heart
While other brands craft formulas from selected foods, Instinct Limited LID Diet follows a simple two-ingredient approach by using only one protein and one vegetable to reduce digestive upsets to a minimum. It sources most of the nutrients from lamb meat, peas, tapioca, and canola oil that encourage nutrient absorption and smooth digestion.
Antioxidants and omega fats are plentiful in the recipe and promote healthy fur and stronger immunity. Because the diet is so limited in ingredients, it will suit canines that are allergic to most ingredients like dairy, meat, and grains.
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Salmon & Potato Formula Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Salmon Meal, 3. Potatoes, 4. Peas, 5. Chicory Root Extract
Wellness goes over and above with their Simple LID Dog Food by building their entire recipe on just five wholesome foods; salmon, potatoes, peas, canola oil, and chicory root extract. These ingredients provide the right balance of essential nutrients and encourage quick and smooth digestion.
Aside from that, the recipe includes antioxidants, glucosamine, and omega fatty acids that help in strengthening immunity, joints, and coat health. The dog food also improves nutrients absorption and digestion through probiotics. All of these nutrients not only make your dog feel healthy but also makes them more alert and active.
Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Puppy Grain-Free Salmon Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Deboned Salmon, 2. Salmon Meal, 3. Chickpeas, 4. Canola Oil, 5. Dried Chicory Root
Whether you’ve got a puppy with a sensitive stomach or an adult with food allergies, Nulo Freestyle Limited+ dog food has all the right ingredients to fulfill their nutritional needs without placing any stress on their digestion. It has one of the highest protein contents amongst dog foods at 30% minimum, which is crucial for both puppies and adults in building muscle mass.
Any ingredient that has the slightest chance of irritating a sensitive stomach has been exempted from the recipe, including grains, potatoes, eggs, peas, soy, and artificial preservatives. Side by side, the dog food strengthens your dog’s digestive system with GanedenBC30 probiotics and nourishes their coat with omega fatty acids.
CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Limited Ingredient Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Salmon, 2. Menhaden Fish Meal, 3. Sweet Potatoes, 4. Peas, 5. Canola Oil
Cutting down on ingredients might be a good strategy, but making that dog food taste good is what counts. Canidae Pure LID dog food has succeeded with this strategy and has become a favorite of dogs with sensitive stomachs and a picky attitude. It’s made from easily-digestible ingredients like salmon, sweet potatoes, peas, and canola oil that support overall body conditioning and health without causing stomach upsets.
Apart from that, the recipe also includes antioxidants, probiotics, fatty acids, and vitamins that build strong immunity and promote gut flora. Canidae Pure LID dog food remains a popular choice amongst picky eaters, and many owners have praised it for its appeal to their canines.
Holistic Select Adult Health Anchovy, Sardine & Salmon Meals Recipe Dry Dog Food
Top Ingredients: 1. Anchovy and Sardine Meal, 2. Brown Rice, 4. Oatmeal, 4. Salmon Meal, 5. Cranberries
Holistic Select Adult Health dog food manages to pack in tons of nutrients and wholesome foods into a super-tasty kibble. From anchovy and sardines to oatmeal and pumpkin, each ingredient digests quickly and absorbs fully into your dog’s body. Micronutrients like antioxidants, glucosamine, and taurine help in improving joint health and strengthening the immune system.
Unlike most dog foods, Holistic Select also includes easy-digesting grains like brown rice that fuel energy levels throughout the day. It also contains probiotics that promote gut bacteria and improve digestive health. The dog food is exclusively manufactured in the US and is a favorite amongst picky dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Buyer’s Guide
In this section, we will explore this subject in detail to help you pick the right food for your sensitive dog.
Signs and Symptoms of Sensitive Stomach in Dogs
Sensitive stomach in dogs is more common than you think. Also, it is a condition that grows gradually over time. Every dog is different, as are their symptoms. However, there are some common signs that should alert you right away. Regardless of the cause, dogs with sensitive stomachs should be fed with care. Continuing to give them foods that disagree with them may cause uncomfortable and undesirable symptoms, which include:
Vomiting
Vomiting is the number one sign of stomach sensitivities caused by food. As much as your dog loves to eat, not every ingredient may agree with every breed. Stomach sensitivity and intolerance can increase with repeated exposure to the ingredients causing the upset. If not changed in time, this could lead to various disorders.
Vomiting is serious. It is time to enrich your dog’s nutrition with probiotic-rich ingredients and digestive enzymes. For persistent problems, you should consult your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Gas
Flatulence is normal to a certain extent. But if your dog is experiencing sudden or excessive gassiness, this could indicate a problem. Often, this is due to improper diet.
Weight Loss
If your dog is sensitive to certain types of foods, he might not enjoy eating it. Weight loss is common in pets with digestive issues and tummy sensitivities.
Lack of appetite
Is your little munching machine refusing food? A persistent lack of appetite can be a major sign of stomach sensitivity. Your vet may recommend adjusting your dog’s diet so they get the energy and nutrition they need.
Diarrhea
Diarrhea is the next most common symptom of a sensitive tummy. A runny stool may not seem like a big issue if it occurs once. But if it happens regularly, it could lead to a life-threatening situation. Do not let your canine get severely dehydrated by delaying medical attention.
Ingredients to Avoid
Now that you know the symptoms, it’s easier to identify whether your dog has a sensitive stomach. You should be cautious about what you pick when it comes to selecting the right nutrition for your pet, paying special attention to the ingredients.
Here’s a list of things that can upset your canine’s sensitive stomach:
Dairy
- Dogs are usually very fond of milk and other dairy products, but not all dogs can digest them. Some may experience acute intestinal distress in the form of vomiting, diarrhea, and gas.
- If your dog is lactose intolerant, avoid giving any dairy, regardless of how much they love it. Also, steer clear of foods with dairy as a major ingredient on the label.
Gluten
Most dog foods designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs are gluten-free. They do not include grains such as wheat, spelt, rye, or barley, which could be major contributors to causing digestive problems with your pet. Most dog owners prefer gluten- and grain-free food option to avoid various inflammatory health issues associated with the ingredients.
Fruits
Fruits can be a healthy snack for both dogs and humans alike. However, fruits that are rich in sugar content can be a struggle to digest for dogs with sensitive tummies. The sugar can further irritate the stomach and cause digestive disorders.
For kibbles and blends, the percentage of fruits should not exceed more than 10%.
What to Feed a Dog with a Sensitive Stomach
Here comes the most important question!
Food intolerance may restrict you from feeding many of the popular options available out there. Here are a few things you must look for in dog food for dogs with gut sensitivities.
Fewer Ingredients
Limited Ingredient Diets are often the first choice among owners of sensitive dogs. Fewer ingredients have less of a chance of upsetting your pet’s tummy, and you can be more cautious of what you are feeding your little one. Also, these diets are balanced and complete, so you don’t have to worry about supplementing their food.
Easily Digestible Ingredients
The options we have listed in this article targets dogs with sensitive stomachs and digestive tract issues and are therefore formulated to promote easy and healthy digestion. When you pick a diet, make sure it is easy to digest and contain ingredients that naturally support digestion like sweet potato, lamb, rice, chicken, and potatoes.
It is also wise to pick a formula that features additional vitamins, minerals, and other supplements that support a sensitive stomach.
No Grains
As much as your dog loves eating food with grains, it isn’t the best option when it comes to their sensitive stomachs.
Pick brands where the manufacturers prefer high-quality proteins instead of grains. Wheat and corn are two common ingredients that could trigger food intolerance in canines. These are indigestible carbohydrates that could cause further issues for your beloved hound.
Complete and Balanced Diet
Pick a food labeled as complete and balanced in nutrition. A balanced composition does not only guarantees hand-picked ingredients for sensitive dogs but also provides all essential nutrients that are important for your pet’s health maintenance.
Probiotic Enriched
Probiotics are crucial for a dog’s diet. These help with stimulating the digestive system and aids with smooth digestion. The diet you pick must include probiotics for maximum benefit. Your dog’s vet may also recommend an additional probiotic supplement for additional support.
Guarantee a Smooth Switch
If your dog is in love with his current food, switching their diet can be challenging. However, you can achieve great results with time and patience. The change should be gradual. Also, there are tons of delicious food choices specially crafted for sensitive pooches. The good flavor makes the transition easier. Here is a complete guide on how to make the switch.
These tips will help you pick the right food and ensure your pooch’s happy and long life!
FAQs
What causes food allergies in dogs?
According to WebMD, 10% of all allergy cases in canines relate to food. The cause, however, is multi-faceted and can be due to the protein or fat content of the food, or certain ingredients that their stomachs don’t tolerate well.
How do I find out if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
Sensitive stomachs often lead to digestion problems. Your poor pooch might struggle to digest food every time they eat and may experience several gastrointestinal symptoms. It is best to get your dog examined by a veterinarian for a proper diagnosis before concluding on your own.
What ingredients should I avoid in a dog’s diet with a sensitive stomach?
Some common red-flag ingredients include wheat and corn gluten, grain meals, meat by-products, and rendered fat.
Are there specific diet options available for my dog with a sensitive stomach?
You can find a variety of expertly crafted food under different brands. There’s a specific selection for dogs with a sensitive stomach, like the ones mentioned in this article. Read the labels before you choose to avoid picking the one with the wrong ingredients.
Is it necessary to change a dog’s diet if he has a sensitive stomach?
Food is the number one reason why your dog has sensitive-stomach symptoms. Your pooch could be intolerant to certain ingredients, and changing their diet is one of the best ways to find out early about the triggers.
What should I do if my dog keeps throwing up after changing the diet?
Visit a vet as soon as possible. Frequent vomiting can be more than just a sensitive stomach. A proper examination is necessary before you continue.
Is a limited ingredient diet a good option to feed my dog with a sensitive stomach?
Limited ingredient diets are a recommended food option for canines with a sensitive stomach. It helps you catch the culprit faster and helps you get the situation under control.
What is a limited ingredient dog food?
As the name suggests, a limited ingredient diet – also called L.I.D – contains fewer ingredients and components. This formulation makes it easier to identify any allergens so you can steer clear of those options.
Can I give raw food to my dog with a sensitive stomach?
While feeding kibble is the preferable option, you can still feed raw food to your pet with a sensitive stomach, provided you keep the transition slow and gradual. If the condition is serious, it is important to consult a veterinarian first.
What are the most common allergens for canines?
Some common culprits are:
- Types of undigestible proteins
- Insufficient levels of fiber
- Too much fat content
- Vitamin and mineral deficiency
- Low quality or grade of an ingredient
How do I deal with food intolerance in my dog?
Changing your dog’s diet is the first step. Second, by consulting a vet for recommendations related to food and over-the-counter medication. Also, increase the daily intake of probiotics by adding unsweetened, plain yogurt to your dog’s diet along with sweet potatoes, oatmeal, pumpkin, and bananas.
Is runny poop a sign that my dog could be intolerant to his food?
It is indeed one of the major signs of food intolerance. However, runny poop can also be a sign of parasitic or bacterial infection. It is best to get these symptoms checked for a thorough diagnosis.
What’s the easiest food for a dog with a sensitive stomach to digest?
Kibble with ingredients such as lean meat, pumpkin, sweet potato, eggs, and white rice is easier for dogs to digest. Some dogs have intolerance towards chicken and eggs. If that’s your dog, avoid food options with these ingredients.
What symptoms to watch out for to find out if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
In addition to the most common symptoms like gas, vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, and bloating, other signs of a sensitive caused by food intolerance include itching, hives, skin rash, obsessive licking, and paw biting.
Will eliminating extra food items from my dog’s diet help?
Eliminating all extra food is a great way to find out if a certain food is an issue in your dog’s diet. Extra food includes table scraps, human food, or any additional treat your dog enjoys nibbling on.
What protein is best for dogs with allergies and a sensitive stomach?
Not all proteins may be suitable for your pooch. Some proteins have better digestibility, such as protein from chicken, lamb, and beef.
Can emotional distress cause food intolerance in a dog?
Dogs respond to stress like humans do, with feelings of anxiousness. Anxiety and stress can majorly contribute to an upset stomach in dogs.
