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A dog’s gut health is more important than pet parents may realize. The digestive system’s microbiome affects many parts of the canine body, like the immune system, brain, heart, dental and joint health. When your dog’s stomach is out of balance it can affect their entire body.
Choosing the right diet for your fur-friend is a crucial responsibility for every pet parent. But if your dog has a sensitive stomach, finding the best food for their troubled tummy can be a challenge. You’ll want to look for a food that is nutritionally suited to your pet’s size, activity levels, and life stage. At the same time, the food should also be designed to be gentle on the stomach and reduce the risk of digestive issues. Below are some highly rated options based on veterinarians guidance for a healthy stomach.
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Best Refrigerated: Freshpet Vital Benefits Digestive Health at Chewy ($60)
Best for Large Dogs: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Large Breed Formula at Chewy ($72)
Best for Small Breeds: Royal Canin Small Digestive Care Dog Food at Chewy ($17)
Best for Puppies: Blue Buffalo Skin & Stomach Care Puppy Food at Chewy ($21)
Best Digestive Health Chews: Zesty Paws Probiotic Bites ($20)
Price at time of publish: $75/ 30-pounds
Our top recommendation for adult dogs dealing with digestive issues is Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Formula. This product line offers five different recipes tailored to address doggie digestive problems, and it also includes variations specifically designed for small and large dogs. In our evaluation involving 407 participants, Hill’s Science Diet emerged as the highest-rated dog food brand, earning exceptional praise for overall satisfaction with ingredients and the brand’s effectiveness in addressing specific health concerns, such as a sensitive stomach, through their specialized formulas.
Each recipe, enriched with animal-sourced protein, is carefully crafted to deliver balanced nutrition in every serving. Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Formula is available in both dry kibble and wet food options, allowing you to choose the texture and flavor that best suits your dog’s preferences and needs. The dry kibble variants include chicken & barley or grain-free chicken & potato, while the canned wet food options comprise chicken & vegetables, salmon & vegetables, and turkey & rice.
Developed in collaboration with certified veterinarians in the United States, like all Hill’s Science Diet foods, the Sensitive Stomach & Skin formula comes highly recommended by veterinarians. Apart from being gentle on the digestive system, the food is enriched with prebiotic fiber sourced from beet pulp, promoting digestive health and a balanced gut microbiome. Each serving is packed with essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals to ensure your dog feels their best, including vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids for maintaining a healthy skin and coat.
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Price at time of publish: $16/ 1.5 pounds
Freshpet Vital Benefits Digestive Health dog food, crafted by veterinarians, is designed to be gentle on a dog’s digestive system. Packed with naturally occurring prebiotics from pumpkin and oats in each serving, this dog food prioritizes gut health. Notably, it is free from preservatives, by-product meals, and genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
The nutritional balance of Vital Benefits Digestive Health dog food is emphasized, featuring high protein content sourced from chicken, chicken liver, and chicken eggs as its primary three ingredients. Complemented by nutrient-rich fruits and vegetables, the recipe offers a wholesome mix.
This refrigerated fresh food from Freshpet is suitable for dogs of all life stages and breed sizes, although it may be relatively costly for larger dogs with hearty appetites.
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Price at time of publish: $95/ 35-pounds
Purina Pro Plan’s Adult Large Breed Sensitive Skin & Stomach Formula is a well-balanced dry kibble designed by scientists and veterinarians for dogs weighing over 50 pounds that frequently face digestive issues. The formulation aims to be gentle on the digestive system.
With salmon leading the list of ingredients, the recipe includes easily digestible components like barley, rice, oat, animal fat, fish oil (omega-3), and sunflower oil (omega-6). Each serving is enriched with highly digestible fiber, probiotics, and prebiotics, promoting the restoration and maintenance of a healthy gut. Importantly, the formula excludes wheat, soy, and artificial flavors—known triggers for upset stomachs and allergies. It’s worth noting, however, that the available flavor is limited to salmon & rice, which might not appeal to all dogs.
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Price at time of publish: $53/ 31.1-pound bag
For an affordable choice aimed at promoting optimal digestion, we strongly recommend Purina ONE’s +Plus Digestive Health Sensitive Systems dry dog food. Crafted with chicken, corn, whole grains, and beef fat, the ingredients are generally well-tolerated by most dogs.
The formula is enriched with essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, and it is produced in the United States. Each serving delivers vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, recognized for their potential in enhancing the health of a dog’s coat and skin. However, it’s essential to note that this dog food is exclusively available in a dry kibble format and contains grains and chicken, which may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary sensitivities.
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Price at time of publish: $80/ 17 pounds
Created to cater to the nutritional requirements of small dogs weighing between 2 to 22 pounds, Royal Canin Small Digestive Care Dry Dog Food is specifically designed to promote digestive well-being. Featuring a chicken flavor that appeals to many petite canines, this kibble offers a palatable texture suitable for dogs as young as 10 months and seniors facing challenges during potty time.
To enhance digestive health, the formula incorporates easily digestible ingredients and is enriched with fiber and prebiotics, fostering a harmonious intestinal flora. The primary ingredient in this kibble is chicken by-product meal. In Royal Canin’s food production, by-product meals are commonly chosen as the main protein source because they include various parts of an animal, including nutrient-rich organs traditionally consumed by wild dogs and wolves. This approach also contributes to minimizing food waste.
The Small Digestive Care Dry Dog Food is conveniently available in resealable bags, offering options in two sizes: 3.5 or 17 pounds. Drawing on decades of scientific research, Royal Canin has consistently optimized dog food, establishing itself as a trusted brand for balanced nutrition recommended by veterinarians nationwide.
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Price at time of publish: $77/ 24 pounds
If your puppy is displaying signs of discomfort, such as diarrhea, constipation, excessive itching, or hives, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian for guidance. These symptoms could indicate an allergy and/or sensitivity to certain ingredients in their food or treats. Eliminating the problematic item from their diet is key to ensuring their well-being. A recommended option is Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Puppy Food, specially formulated without common allergens like chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs.
Blue Buffalo’s Basics Skin & Stomach Care Puppy Food offers each serving with a mix of antioxidants, essential vitamins, and minerals crucial for the healthy growth of puppies. Additionally, it contains omega fatty acids DHA and ARA, supporting cognitive and retinal development. The use of turkey as the single protein source, combined with ingredients like potatoes, peas, and pumpkin, promotes gentle digestion, making it a suitable choice for your puppy’s overall health.
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Price at time of publish: $20 (50 count)
This advanced chewable supplement is formulated with six strains of probiotics to promote optimal gut health. Providing your beloved canine with this premium solution ensures daily relief by supporting the well-being of his gut, gastrointestinal tract, and immune function. The delightful taste of Probiotic Bites adds an extra layer of joy to your dog’s experience, making him feel pampered and content.
These functional soft chew supplements are crafted with a foundation of pumpkin and papaya, known for their enzyme content, alongside probiotics that contribute to digestion, bowel health, and immune support for the well-being of your canine companion. Notably, Probiotic Bites include DE111, a clinically studied Bacillus subtilis that plays a role in promoting proper digestive function and supporting the immune system.
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In general, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin stands out as the top choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This brand, recommended by veterinarians, prioritizes chicken as its primary ingredient. It incorporates a digestible mix of prebiotic fiber, omega-6 fatty acids, and other mild ingredients to promote a well-balanced microbiome. If you prefer a wet food alternative, consult your veterinarian to explore the possibility of obtaining a prescription for Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat. This palatable canned food is designed to nourish dogs dealing with issues like appetite loss, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Whether your dog has a sensitive stomach or not, the digestive system of our dogs is a complex system. If it becomes imbalanced, it can negatively affect your dog’s health and well-being. Understanding what constitutes a species-appropriate diet for our dogs is interesting and crucial. Today, we address questions such as: What is dog food for dogs with sensitive stomachs? What should I feed for allergies and intolerances, and how can I prepare a bland diet for my dog at home?
Similar to humans, our dogs can suffer from various digestive issues. Besides temporary infections, psychological stress, allergies, or food intolerances, chronic illnesses can also necessitate special treatment for your dog’s digestive tract. In such cases, dog food for dogs with sensitive stomachs comes into play. Depending on the cause of your dog’s discomfort, there are suitable compositions of stomach-friendly dog food.
Determining the feeding method that will help restore a healthy digestive tract for your dog should always be done in close consultation with your veterinarian! A dog with acute kidney problems or pancreatitis requires different bland diets than a dog with a food intolerance.
The dog food market is vast, including options for stomach-friendly dog food. Depending on the manufacturer and product, ingredients and compositions may vary. In any case, the food for a compromised canine stomach should consist of easily digestible ingredients.
Therefore, stomach-friendly food should include:
Always ensure that you feed your four-legged friend high-quality food without artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. When your dog’s digestive system is affected, it’s even more crucial to avoid artificial additives!
For feeding dogs with sensitive stomachs, high-quality protein sources such as chicken or fish have proven to be beneficial. They are easily digestible and well-tolerated by most dogs. Cod or salmon are good choices, and poultry or lamb meat can also be suitable for stomach-friendly dog food. Importantly, during this time, provide your dog with only one protein source and avoid mixing different proteins.
If you suspect your dog has stomach problems, a precise diagnosis cannot be made at home or over the internet. You should definitely consult a veterinarian!
The following symptoms may indicate that your dog has a sensitive stomach:
*The prayer position, where your dog lies with its chest on the ground and stretches the hindquarters into the air, may indicate pain and discomfort in the stomach area. If your dog assumes this position frequently and for an unusually long time, it is a clear indication that it is experiencing stomach pain.
Now that you know the symptoms of food intolerances or allergies in your dog, hypoallergenic dog food comes into play when it’s clear that your dog cannot tolerate certain ingredients in regular dog food!
Hypoallergenic dog food usually contains only one protein source and one carbohydrate source. Proteins from chicken, turkey, lamb, or fish are commonly used. They are less likely to trigger allergic reactions than, for example, beef or pork.
Depending on the manufacturer and product, hypoallergenic dog food may also contain additives such as prebiotics, probiotics, omega-3 fatty acids, or vitamins and minerals.
As the name suggests, monoprotein dog food consists of only one protein source. When your dog is suspected of having an allergy or intolerance, an exclusion or elimination diet is used. Feeding monoprotein dog food can help determine which protein source your dog reacts to within a few weeks. Monoprotein dog food is made with ingredients known for their excellent digestibility and low allergenic potential. Some manufacturers also add vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds to ensure a balanced diet.
Dogs with a sensitive stomach often benefit from the good digestibility of monoprotein dog food.
To assess dog food suitable for sensitive stomachs, our research panel devised an extensive questionnaire, seeking input from dog owners to elucidate the essential qualities they prioritize when selecting food for their dogs at different life stages. We delved into recommendations from veterinarians, scrutinized the credibility of ingredient lists, identified brands offering good value within various budgets, and considered the accessibility of brands through a wide range of retailers.
Additionally, we collected specific information about a dog’s size, breed, age, and health history. This data enabled us to tailor our recommendations to accommodate a diverse range of dogs. After all, what may be the best dog food for an adult Papillon dealing with digestive issues may not necessarily be the optimal choice for an adult Saint Bernard with poultry sensitivities.
In total, 407 respondents provided insights into their and their dogs’ experiences with the dog foods they currently use or have used in the past at home. This comprehensive feedback, comprising numerical ratings and detailed comments, offered a nuanced understanding of the perceptions and preferences surrounding these dog foods.
Is moist dog food more suitable than dry dog food for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
No, both types can be gentle on your dog’s digestive system and may contribute to relieving discomfort. It’s crucial to collaborate with your veterinarian to identify the underlying cause of your dog’s stomach sensitivity. Your vet might suggest an elimination diet to pinpoint which ingredient(s) is triggering the adverse reactions in your dog’s stomach. Additionally, it’s important to introduce any dietary changes gradually to prevent further digestive disruptions.
Is grain-free dog food preferable for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Not universally. If you and your vet determine that grains like rice and corn are problematic for your dog’s digestive system, opting for a dog food labeled as grain-free might help alleviate mealtime discomfort. However, it’s noteworthy that the FDA is currently investigating a potential association between grain-free dog foods and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs.
Is a raw food diet beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
It’s not universally beneficial, but it can be advantageous for certain dogs. Dogs with allergies or food sensitivities might experience benefits from transitioning from commercially produced dog food to a raw food diet. To ensure your dog receives essential nutrients, always consult with your veterinarian to determine the suitability of a raw diet for your specific dog.
This article was revised by Emily Baxter, a contributor for iHugDogs, who shares her living space with a cheerful corgi named Sparky. Before immersing herself in the world of researching and writing about pet products, Baxter undertook a personal mission to consistently discover the best items for her canine companion. Now, she is passionately committed to assisting individuals in finding and choosing the most suitable products for their pets.
We also conducted an extensive survey on preferred pet food brands and feeding practices. Each participant provided information about their dog’s age, size, and breed, along with a comprehensive history of the dog food brands and products they both favor.
An earlier version of this article was authored by Samantha Taylor, a writer and avid animal enthusiast with considerable expertise in covering pet products and breed guides. Taylor sought input from Dr. Olivia Reynolds, a veterinarian at Paws and Whiskers Animal Hospital in Springfield, Massachusetts.
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