What is The Best Food For a Dog With a Sensitive Stomach?
Before we take a look at the 8 best dog foods for sensitive stomachs, have you recently encountered patches of your dog’s vomit and loose stool’s in your house?
Then she might be suffering from digestive issues! Like us, dogs can also develop this uncomfortable condition, but there is something you can do about it!
VIDEO: The GI Tract and Sensitive Stomach of Your Dog
As a dog parent, it’s your main responsibility to ensure your dog is at ease by using different measures, and one of the best measures to improve your dog’s gut health is to provide your dog with the best quality dog food available for their sensitive stomach.
Such a diet is gentle on your dog’s tummy while providing it with the best nutrients, perfect for its age and size.
Best Dog Food For Sensitive Stomach And Skin
If you have difficulty finding the right recipe for your dog, then be at ease. Here at Dogfoodspecialist have scoured all over and we will show you why we picked these 8 best recipes for any dog with a sensitive stomach.
Incidentally, did you know that a dog’s gut health has a significant influence on its overall health? A recent scientific study reports that 70% to 80% of all illness begins in the gastrointestinal tract!
Discover why this supplement is essential for your dog’s immune system and overall health-read our blog on: The best Probiotic for Dogs.
Is Grain Free Better For Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs?
Limited ingredient diets, grain-free diets, or ancient grain diets with probiotics are usually a good option to start with to help your dog’s sensitive stomach issues
Table of Contents
Whether you go dry or wet food, one of the easiest ways for you to determine good dog food is by reading the label and looking out for the AAFCO Statement.
What Dog Food Is Easiest On The Stomach?
Top Choice
Just Food for Dogs Venison & Squash Recipe
JustFoodForDogs is the number 1 vet-recommended fresh whole dog food brand. It’s a brand that has certified nutrition consultants.
That way, you are adamant that your pup is getting the highest quality.
This venison and squash recipe is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs because of the novel protein.
As you might perhaps know, a novel protein is ideal for dogs sensitive to chicken, beef, or lamb.
Besides that, this recipe has a mixture of core nutrient sources like sweet potatoes, cranberries, and brussels sprouts.
The added sweet potato is important as it provides dietary fiber, enhancing healthy digestion and ensuring a firm stool.
Besides, this dog food for a sensitive stomach has omega 3 and 6 fatty acids sourced from fish oil and safflower.
All these omega-fatty acids ensure your dog has healthy skin, is free of inflammation along the gut line, and, lastly, ensures your dog has great brain function.
As compared to dry dog food, this recipe is highly digestible. The high number of positive reviews also shows this dog food is ideal for dogs with troubled tummies.
This meal is high in protein, so it provides a seamless transition for dogs who are currently eating a “raw diet.” It’s also an ideal choice if your dog needs a diet that includes a novel protein.
This isn’t your typical venison dog food, this is real food for real good dogs.
First five ingredients: ground venison, butternut squash, sweet potatoes, brussels sprouts, cranberries
This recipe ranks top because of the premium ingredients like venison, safflower oil, butternut squash, and cranberries.
Guaranteed analysis
Crude protein (min) | 9.0% |
Crude fat (min) | 2.0 % |
Crude fiber (max) | 1.5% |
Moisture (max) | 82% |
Key benefits
- Gluten-Free
- Grain-Free
- No Preservatives
- No Growth Hormones
- High Protein Recipe
- Novel Venison Protein is Ideal for Allergies or Sensitive GI Tracts
- 25 Calories per Ounce
Pros
- Gluten and grain-free
- A high protein recipe
- Enhanced with sources of B vitamins
- Enriched with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids
Cons
- Most dog owners complain about the delivery of this dog food which took longer than expected.
- Other dog owners say the food is quite smelly.
1st runner up
Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care Grain-Free Formula
This recipe from Blue Buffalo is ideal for both dogs with tummy and skin issues.
All because it’s enriched with a novel protein, salmon, also a source of omega fatty acids.
Most probably, you have heard everything about blue buffalo. It’s a premium brand with a vast range of dog food.
Their line of limited ingredients is made of a single protein source.
Moreover, they fortify their food with exclusive life source bits.
These support immune health function, fulfill the specific life stage requirements and support a healthy oxidative balance.
This kibble is ideal for all life stages. Its core protein source is salmon, a novel animal protein that is easy to digest.
Besides that, it’s enriched with pea fiber and pumpkin, which support gentle digestion.
It’s also enriched with omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids making it one of the best dog foods for sensitive skin.
This recipe is free of poultry, or poultry by-products, corn, and wheat, which might be hard to digest.
This dog food is grain-free. It’s also ideal since it has limited ingredients. Moreover, it has a high-quality single animal protein. Added are antioxidants and chelated minerals that support a healthy immune system too.
Also Blue Buffalo contains no chicken or poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives.
First five ingredients: deboned salmon, peas, potatoes, pea starch, salmon meal
Guaranteed analysis
Crude protein (min) | 20.0 % |
Crude fat (min) | 12.0% |
Crude fiber (max) | 6.0% |
Moisture (max) | 10.0% |
Key benefits
- single animal protein source, salmon, along with potatoes, peas and pumpkin to support gentle digestion without the grains that contain gluten.
- limited ingredient, grain-free dog food that doesn’t contain any chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy or eggs—making it a good option for dogs with food sensitivities.
- antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected to support your pal’s immune system, life stage needs and a healthy oxidative balance.
- Made with all-natural ingredients enhanced with vitamins and minerals.
Pros
- Made with a single novel protein source
- Enriched with antioxidant sources
- Zero grains added
- Fortified with both omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids
Cons
- Most dog owners say their dog develops fish odor after eating this dog food.
- The other complaint is that some dogs dislike this recipe.
2nd runner up
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Gastrointestinal Low-Fat Loaf Canned Dog Food
This recipe scoops the third position because of its low-fat content.
Thus, ideal for dogs with pancreatitis too.
The only drawback is the quality of ingredients is low compared to our top two choices.
Royal canin is a reputable brand that relies on vets to manufacture food for different breeds, sizes, lifestyles, and therapeutic conditions.
This canned food should only be given to your dog after a vet prescribes it.
It’s ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs as it has a low-fat content. That way, it won’t be difficult for the dog to digest this canned food.
Moreover, this canned food has dietary fiber that supports healthy digestion. It’s also spiked with a precise blend of probiotics needed for a healthy gut.
Plus, this canned food has omega-3 fatty acids, E.P.A. and D.H.A., which nourish the coat and skin. These omega-fatty acids also reduce any inflammation along the gut line.
It’s also one of the best dog foods for kidney disease.This canned food has an exclusive S/O index that supports urinary health. Such an index ensures an unfavorable environment for forming crystals in the bladder.
Lastly, this canned food has an irresistible flavor that will pull your puppy back to the bowl. That’s perfect, as dogs with sensitive stomachs have a poor appetite.
Pros
- Ideal for long- or short-term management of digestion issues
- With digestible proteins
- Enriched with omega fatty acids and probiotics
- With a blend of dietary fiber for gut health
Cons
- Most dog owners say the quality of this canned food has deteriorated
First five ingredients: water sufficient for processing, pork by-product, pork liver, brewers rice flour, corn grits
Guaranteed analysis
Crude protein (min) | 6.0% |
Crude fat (min) | 1.43% |
Crude fat (max) | 3.75% |
Crude fiber (max) | 1.9% |
Moisture (max) | 76.0% |
Wholesome Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
Front Of The Pack Chicken Air-Dried Dog Food
Another entry in our list of the best of the best dog food for sensitive stomachs is this recipe from the front of the pack.
Front of the pack is a brand that deals with pet treats, supplements, and air-dried dog food.
Their air-dried food is gently cooked at low temperatures for a long time, ensuring no nutrients are denatured.
This recipe is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs as it contains all-natural ingredients.
The first ingredient is organic cage-free chicken that provides your dog with enough muscle-building protein.
It’s also packed with sweet potato and organic pumpkin. These two ingredients are great for soothing a troubled tummy. Besides being easy to digest, they provide dietary fiber, ensuring your dog has a firm stool.
Besides that, this recipe is made with plenty of omega-fatty acids sourced from Antarctic krill and sunflower oil.
Pros
- Made in the United States
- Slowly cooked for maximum nutrient retention
- A ready-to-eat dog food
- Enriched with sources of omega fatty acid
Cons
- It might not be great for dogs who dislike chicken
Best Small Breed Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
Nutro Natural Choice Small Breed Adult Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
One of the best dog foods for small dogs with sensitive stomachs is this dry dog food from Nutro.
Nutro is a brand that has been in the pet food manufacturing industry since 1926. They run on a clean feed philosophy, making them the top dog food brands in the market.
With such a philosophy, they manufacture good dog food with all-natural, wholesome ingredients rich in nutrients. They also add no fillers or additives not ideal for your dog.
This food for small dogs with sensitive stomachs is made with real chicken as the first ingredient, an ideal protein source.
It’s also enriched with natural fiber, which aids healthy digestion for your dog with a troubled tummy.
This recipe contains healthy sources of glucosamine and chondroitin needed to support your small dogs’ joints.
Additionally, the recipe is free of G.M.O., chicken by-products, or artificial flavors that may worsen your dog’s sensitive stomach.
Pros
- Made for small adult dogs above 1 year
- With a crunchy texture for ideal dental health
- No artificial flavors or ingredients
Cons
- The pellets are too small
First five ingredients: chicken, chicken meal, whole grain barley, split peas, brewers rice
Guaranteed analysis
Crude protein (min) | 24.0% |
Crude fat (min) | 16.0% |
Crude fiber (max) | 3.5% |
Moisture (max) | 10.0% |
Best Dog Food for Senior Dogs with Sensitive Stomach
ORIJEN Six Fish Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Dogs diagnosed with sensitive stomachs should be placed on a high-quality recipe. One such recipe that won’t disappoint you is this one from ORIJEN.
ORIJEN is a premium brand that prioritizes manufacturing of biological appropriate nutrition that helps pets thrive.
This recipe’s first ingredients are wild-caught fish like whole mackerel, whole herring, monkfish, Acadian redfish, flounder, and whole Hake, which are premium sources of proteins.
The high animal protein content is why this recipe is one of the best dog foods for weight gain.
Thus, if you have a malnourished dog who needs to bulk up, this dry dog food should be your top pick.
Away from that, this recipe mimics a prey diet, with whole butternut squash and pumpkin.
These two ingredients are ideal for your dog with a sensitive stomach as they promote smooth digestion. They also provide dietary fiber needed to solidify your dog’s poop.
Lastly, each cup provides 468 kcal to your dog. You can also get the 4.5 lbs., 13 lb., or 25-pound bags. If you are happy with this kibble, you can have it on auto-ship, which can save you some bucks
Pros
- Made with premium fish
- No grains are added
- Enriched with omega fatty acids
- with probiotics for gut healt
Cons
- The only concern is that some dogs develop gas after eating this diet.
First five ingredients: whole mackerel, whole herring, monkfish, Acadian redfish, flounder, whole Hake
Guaranteed analysis
Crude protein (min) | 38% |
Crude fat (min) | 18% |
Crude fiber (max) | 4% |
Moisture (max) | 12% |
Best Wet Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
Natural Balance L.I.D Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato & Venison Formula Grain-Free Canned Dog Food
A recipe for dogs with sensitive stomachs that can easily gain a top position in the list of the best dog food for itchy skin is this one from natural balance.
All because this recipe is made with high-quality protein and no grains.
Natural balance has been in the pet food industry since 1989. Their main goal is to provide pet food based on scientific principles and nutritional truth.
This grain-free canned is made with high digestible ingredients that allow maximum nutrient absorption.
The key protein source is novel meat. This protein source builds your dog’s muscles and provides the needed energy.
Besides, this recipe has sweet potatoes that aid with good digestion that your dog with a sensitive stomach needs.
As one of the best dog foods for sensitive stomach and diarrhea, this canned food has B6 and B12 needed for a healthy metabolism and gastrointestinal function.
There are also plenty of antioxidants and minerals.
Pros
- A complete and balanced formula for all breeds
- Made without grains
- Fortified with B vitamins needed for great metabolism
Cons
- The major issue pet owners have with this dog food is that it’s too runny
First five ingredients: sweet potatoes, venison broth, venison, potatoes, potato protein
Guaranteed analysis
Crude protein (min) | 6.0% |
Crude fat (min) | 4.0% |
Crude fiber (max) | 2.0% |
Moisture (max) | 78.0% |
Best Puppy Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
Rachel Ray Nutrish Bright Puppy Natural Real Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dry Dog Food
Puppies are not immune to a sensitive stomach.
If your pup has started displaying signs of tummy issues, you ought to look for a diet that is easy to digest and full of great ingredients. One such recipe is this one from Rachel Ray Nutrish.
This recipe has simple and natural ingredients that are easy on your puppy’s tummy. The first ingredient is real chicken providing your puppy with the right punch of proteins needed for proper muscle growth.
The added fish meal in this recipe provides E.P.A. and D.H.A. needed for proper cognitive function and eyesight.
This dog food for puppies with sensitive stomachs has brown rice, peas, carrots, and beet pulp which support healthy digestion.
First five ingredients: chicken, chicken meal, brown rice, soybean meal, whole corn
Guaranteed analysis
Crude protein (min) | 28% |
Crude fat (min) | 16.0% |
Crude fiber (max) | 5.0% |
Moisture (max) | 10.0% |
Pros
- Enriched with D.H.A. and E.P.A.
- Made with simple and all-natural ingredients
- Made with an animal protein as the first ingredients
Cons
- The core issue most dog owners have is that their dogs develop loose stool after starting this diet. Some also find the pellets here to be too small.
What Should I Feed My Dog With Stomach Issues?
No dog food can be labeled as the best dog food for a sensitive stomach.
For example, what might be labeled the best dog food for older dogs with sensitive stomachs might differ from one ideal for puppies.
However, some key features can help you pick the best diet ideal for your pup with a sensitive stomach.
The Fewer Ingredients the Better
The more the ingredients, the higher the chance they might trigger tummy issues in your dog.
However, with fewer ingredients, it’s much easier to pick out the component causing an upset tummy.
A vet or canine nutritionist can help you pick a diet with a small number of ingredients less likely to cause tummy issues.
High-Quality Ingredients
The best dog food for a sensitive stomach should be made with high-quality protein, carbohydrate, and vitamin sources.
The easiest way to know whether that is true is by analyzing the ingredient list.
Always choose a dog food that starts with an animal protein on its ingredient list.
If there is anything added that has hard-to-read scientific names, it might not be ideal for your dog.
Read our expery guide on how to read a dog food label.
VIDEO: The Quality of Pet Food Ingredients
Best Dog Food to Prevent Gas
Ever wondered if there is a best dog food for gassy dogs?
According to veterinarians, the number one reason for canine flatulence is a poor diet, therefore finding the best dog food to help prevent gas is important for your canine friend’s comfort!
Because of high-fiber carbohydrates or grains, meals that contain them might cause difficulty in digestion, resulting in gas.
Some dogs with a sensitive stomach may experience foul-smelling gas as a result of eating foods that contain a lot of meat.
Food allergies and sensitivities are frequently linked to chronic gas issues in dogs.
The causes of dog farts are varied, but they all stem from gastrointestinal difficulties and food intolerances. Bacteria in the stomach consume food after a meal, breaking it down into nutrients that the body can utilize.
Stinky hydrogen sulfide gas is released during this process as a by-product of digestion for certain foods in the colon. That gas becomes trapped and farting is the only method for your dog to relieve it! So, what is the best food for gassy dogs?
If you are looking for a dog food to help reduce gas, check out our blog on the best dog food for gassy dogs!
Best Dog Treats for Sensitive Stomach
So, what are the best dog treats for upset stomach?
If your dog is diagnosed with a sensitive stomach, that doesn’t mean you should cut off the treats. Your ailing dog still needs plenty of treats and tummy rubs.
One of the best dogs treat for sensitive stomach is JustFoodForDogs Chicken Breast Dehydrated Dog Treats
These treats are well cooked and dehydrated. Moreover, they have a tail-wagging flavor that will cheer up your furry friend.
Most important, they are BHA and BHT free
Highlight: Treats should never provide more than 10 percent of your dog’s calories daily. So always be keen on how many treats you shower your dog with.
Also read our blog on the best training treats for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Best Dog Foods for Sensitive Stomachs - To Sum up!
Your dog with a sensitive stomach deserves the best diet that you can find out there.
If you are confused about which one to choose, we have done the hardest task for you, choosing the best dog food for a sensitive stomach that will be gentle on your dog’s tummy.
Remember not to change your dog’s diet without your vet’s input.
Also, a sudden change from your dog’s regular food to one best for dogs with sensitive stomachs is not ideal. You need to transition slowly so your dog’s tummy can easily handle this diet.
Did you know that a dog’s gut health has a significant influence on its overall health?
A recent scientific study reports that 70% to 80% of all illness begins in the gastrointestinal tract! discover why this supplement is essential for your dog’s immune system and overall health-Full Bucket’s Probiotic supplements.
Abbreviations
E.P.A: eicosapentaenoic acid
D.H.A: docosahexaenoic acid
G.M.O: Genetically modified organism
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