What’s The Best Dog Food For Sensitive Stomach?
Reviews & Buyer’s 2022 Guide
Like us humans, our pets can experience sensitive stomachs. Worrying that your dog isn’t eating well is one of the most common concerns among dog owners. If you find that your dog is struggling to stop eating or isn’t eating the right amount, it’s time to consider other options. Switching to one of the best dog foods for a sensitive stomach can make a huge difference for your dog’s health and happiness.
Although the best dog food for sensitive stomach options are formulated to contain less of the ingredients dogs have trouble digesting, they can vary significantly. Make sure to choose a special meal for your dog with stomach problems.
With so many dog foods for sensitive stomach currently available on the market, you may find it hard to choose one for your pooch. If your pooch has sensitivities, our review of the best dog food for allergies will help you to make a good choice.
Contents
- Our 10 Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
- 1. Pet Plate, Chompin’ Chicken Recipe
- 2. Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach, Adult - Chicken Recipe
- 3. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food
- 4. Wellness Simple Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet - Turkey & Potato Formula
- 5. Blue Buffalo Basics Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet - Turkey & Potato Recipe
- 6. Iams Proactive Health Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken & Peas
- 7. Nutro Wholesome Essentials - Farm-Raised Chicken, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato Recipe
- 8. Purina One SmartBlend Sensitive Systems Formula for Adult Dogs
- 9. Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Formula for Adult Dogs
- 10. Nutro Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet - Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe
- How To Tell If Your Dog Has A Sensitive Stomach?
- 4 Causes Of Sensitive Stomach in Dogs
- Important Features to Consider
- Ingredients to Avoid
- 4 Tips To Safely Transition Dog Food
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
If you already know the cause of your dog’s sensitive stomach, then you already know what you need to look out for. If not, then keep reading as we’ll explain some of the most common causes and telltale signs of sensitivities in dogs later on. If you’re in a hurry and just want to see the best food for sensitive stomach, here are our top choices.
PRODUCT / PRODUCT DETAILS
PRODUCT
PRODUCT DETAILS
- Human grade ingredients
- Kettle cooking ensures nutrition-packed recipe
- Veterinarians claim it provides allergen relief
- Offers immense value in nourishing the overall body coat
- Weight regulation while ensuring satisfied tummies
- Contains amino acids, vitamins, and minerals to improve digestion
- Contains powerful antioxidants that offer some amazing health benefits
- Includes fruits and vegetables to enhance taste and provide a balanced meal
- Contains vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to improve coat health
- Highly digestible and ideal for all dog breeds
- Includes fish oil to minimize gastric problem
- Includes proteins and prebiotics
- Low-fat formula for dogs that struggle to digest fat
Our 10 Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
Now that you know the key features of our top 3 editor’s choice of the best dog foods for sensitive stomachs, let’s take a look at all our recommended products in more details.
1. Pet Plate, Chompin’ Chicken Recipe
The percentage of protein and fiber in this dog food has the potential to offer maintenance for dogs that struggle with a sensitive stomach. Ingredients such as broccoli, apples, safflower oil, and salmon oil offer the benefit to combat indigestion.
This AAFCO and vet-approved recipe has the ability to save a dog’s body from the ugliness of bulging waistlines. Being kettle-cooked, maximum nutritional components are preserved to help improve the digestive function. Moreover, the consistency in the food makes it an appealing and easy-to-feed dog food option.
PROS
- Significant supplements in the form of vitamins and minerals
- Easy-to-digest ground chicken
- Butternut squash offers an exciting taste
- Keeps seniors away from obesity
CONS
- Not a branded product
2. Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach, Adult - Chicken Recipe
Hill’s is recognized for providing dogs with excellent dog foods. Luckily for dog owners, it also offers a unique formula for dogs with sensitivities. This recipe was created by more than 220 vets, nutritionists, and food scientists who are highly knowledgeable in canine health needs.
The ingredients are of great quality and easy to digest. The formula contains probiotics to help boost your pup’s digestive system. This allows your dog to absorb all the key nutrients he requires. It also contains omega 6 and 3 fatty acids, which help to give your dog’s coat a smooth and glossy look.
PROS
- 100 percent natural ingredients
- Includes sources of prebiotic fiber
- Supports a healthy coat
- 100% money back guarantee
CONS
- May not be for picky eaters as the main ingredient is not animal-derived
3. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin gastrointestinal dog food is a low-fat recipe for dogs with sensitivities. Since pancreatitis is a major cause of tummy upsets, this low-fat formula will also address the underlying problem.
It consists of highly digestible proteins. The high carb content in this dog food for sensitive stomachs also ensures your pooch gets the energy he requires. In addition, this dog food also includes chelated minerals. This allows all the essential nutrients to be quickly absorbed by the pup’s digestive system.
PROS
- Low fat diet
- Vegetarian
- Ideal for weight management
- Low fiber content
CONS
- Quite expensive
- Might not be ideal for all dogs
4. Wellness Simple Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet - Turkey & Potato Formula
Fourth on the list of the best food for dogs with allergies is a well-known brand, Wellness. This company has come up with high quality, grain-free food that is specifically designed for canines with tummy conditions.
The key ingredients are ground rice and salmon. It is a limited ingredient dog meal that is made for any adult canine that is vulnerable to sensitivities, allergies, or intolerances to some foods.
Another great thing about this limited ingredient dog formula is that it contains no artificial colors, flavors, or fillers. So you can rest easy knowing that your furry friend is getting high quality food that is free of chemicals.
PROS
- Limited ingredient formula
- No filler or preservatives
- No corn or wheat
- Gluten free
CONS
- Includes certain types of grains
- The main ingredient is not animal proteins
5. Blue Buffalo Basics Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet - Turkey & Potato Recipe
This limited ingredient product is made from ingredients that have been carefully selected, so it can be a great choice for dogs with tummy conditions. It also includes antioxidants as well as omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which help to keep your dog’s coat and fur smooth and shiny.
This company is based in the United States and it makes premium quality foods featuring real meat, fruits, and vegetables. This includes deboned turkey as one of their main protein sources – along with potato protein, pea protein, and pumpkin as their fiber-rich carbs for a balanced protein meal.
PROS
- Single source of animal protein
- Improves oxidative balance
- No beef or chicken
- No corn
- No artificial colors, flavors or preservatives
- Includes DHA
CONS
- Not a limited ingredient product
- May also inlcude certain types of grains
6. Iams Proactive Health Adult Sensitive Skin & Stomach Grain Free Recipe with Real Chicken & Peas
This food from Iams Proactive Health is a mix of vegetables and fine protein sources such as real chicken meal and peas. It doesn’t contain corn, soy, or wheat, so it is ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities.
Moreover, it helps to minimize the buildup of plaque, which causes bad breath. This is because it comes in crunchy kibbles that help to brush your pup’s teeth with every bite.
PROS
- Contains no preservatives
- Includes beneficial supplements
- Its key ingredient is animal protein
- Minimizes the buildup of plaque
CONS
- Protein content may be low for some pups
7. Nutro Wholesome Essentials - Farm-Raised Chicken, Brown Rice & Sweet Potato Recipe
Nutro Wholesome Essentials is a trusted brand, and people with sensitive pets are raving about this recipe. It includes a shortlist of essential ingredients to ensure a complete and well-balanced meal.
High-quality protein source is the first ingredient. It also contains antioxidants to help boost immunity; natural fibers to boost digestion, and omega 6 & 3 fatty acids to ensure a healthy and shiny coat.
PROS
- Made in the USA
- Does not contain any artificial ingredient
- Real meal is the main source of protein
- More affordable than most premium brands
CONS
- May also contain imported ingredients
8. Purina One SmartBlend Sensitive Systems Formula for Adult Dogs
This unique formula for dogs with sensitive stomachs is intended to relieve every dog’s digestive and gastrointestinal problems. The main ingredient is salmon, which provides your pooch with the protein that he needs to thrive.
The recipe is enriched with antioxidants that boost immunity. It also contains quality sources of glucosamine, which help to support the canine’s skeletal system.
PROS
- Easily digestible
- Crunchy kibble
- 100% balanced and complete diet
- Supports gums and teeth
CONS
- Not grain-free
9. Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Formula for Adult Dogs
This is another antioxidant-rich dog food that is made with highly digestible proteins, probiotics, and fiber to boost digestion. The product uses potato and egg protein that is easily digestible. It also contains prebiotic fiber, chicken fat, and probiotics to keep your pup’s gastrointestinal tract healthy.
This dog food has a balanced combination of vitamins, and omega fatty acids to help support the health and overall wellbeing of your pup. It contains no artificial colors or flavors. It is made in the United States and uses high quality ingredients.
PROS
- Easy to digest protein
- Contains probiotic sources
- Owners say that their pups thrive on this food
- It is highly effective for pups with food sensitivities
- Supports a dog’s gastrointestinal system
CONS
- Contains no source of animal protein
10. Nutro Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Diet - Lamb & Sweet Potato Recipe
Nutro offers a 100 percent natural recipe for canines with digestive issues. It has a limited ingredient recipe, so your pup will be less exposed to questionable food items. The first ingredient is an authentic lamb from New Zealand and Australia.
It also includes brown rice, which is a major energy source. It is also highly digestible and helps to soothe your pup’s intestines. Moreover, it contains powerful antioxidants, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which help to support the immune system.
PROS
- Improves coat appearance
- Includes zinc
- No soy, corn or wheat
- Gluten free
CONS
- Not 100% grain-free
How To Tell If Your Dog Has A Sensitive Stomach?
So how can you know if your dog has a sensitive stomach? Well, pups with digestion issues will show some common signs and symptoms. The most common sign is, of course, upset tummy. While other common signs include:
- Flatulence
- Vomiting
- Skin rashes
- Itchiness
- Loose stool
- Reduced appetite
Those that show serious symptoms will certainly require immediate attention. These include fever, lethargy, dehydration, and inactivity.
4 Causes Of Sensitive Stomach in Dogs
There are many different causes of a sensitive tummy in dogs, so you need to do your homework to know what is causing them discomfort. However, it’s important to note that it may be difficult or even impossible to conclusively determine the underlying issue.
In such cases, it’s important to find foods that your pooch will digest easily. Here are a few reasons for tummy sensitivities in dogs:
- They cannot digest some of the fat or proteins in the food
- They are allergic to the proteins in the food
- They cannot digest some of the ingredients in the food
- They are emotionally distressed [1]
You should consult your veterinarian before transitioning to foods for dogs with stomach issues.
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Important Features to Consider
To purchase foods for dogs with sensitivities, you should check the labels and ingredients first. Ingredient lists are sometimes confusing and manufacturers are not compelled to explain everything to you.
Here are some important features to consider when choosing food for sensitive stomach dog:
Grain-Free Food
Some pups are allergic to grains. They are sometimes unable to digest some ingredients, which leads to tummy issues. In such cases, you choose grain-free food. Grain-free food also helps to reduce your pup’s farting tendencies. It also helps to maintain the health of your pet’s coat.
Gluten-Free Food
Some dogs may be allergic to gluten, which means you should give them gluten-free food. And if your canine has a health issue like celiac disease, it’s important to choose gluten-free food.
No Soy Products
Some dogs tend to be allergic to soy. So read the product label carefully to ensure there is no soy in the ingredient lists. You can tell if the product contains soy if any of the following are mentioned:
- Soy flour
- Soy grits
- Soy isoflavones
- Soy protein
- Soybean oil
- Soybean germ meal
And if you find any of the following ingredients, chances are soy is present:
- Vegetable Broth
- Vegetable protein
- Lecithin
- Tofu
- TSF
- Natural flavoring
- Guar gum
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Highly Digestible Food
If your pup has sensitivities, make sure to choose food that contains highly digestible proteins and carbohydrates. Highly digestive food includes brewers rice, whole grains, oats, potatoes, chicken meal, and lamb meal.
100% Natural Ingredients
The best sensitive puppy food has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Opt for products containing all-natural ingredients and with a “Non-GMO” label.
A Short Ingredient List
The best foods have a short ingredient list. Limited ingredients food contains quality ingredients with all the correct amounts of nutrients. If your pup’s food has numerous ingredients, chances are one of the ingredients will be bad for them.
Complete and Balanced Diet
Opt for foods with the ‘completed and balanced’ label. This seal shows that the food contains the necessary ingredients in the right amounts for a healthy and well balanced diet.
Only Quality Ingredients
High quality dog foods contain real meat and fewer types of fillers. Low quality food can elevate the risk of upsetting your pet’s tummy.
Ingredients to Avoid
Of course, individual dogs react differently to different ingredients. Here are some that you should avoid if your beloved pet has a sensitive stomach.
Grains – These include corn, wheat, and other cereals that are often included in dog foods. If your pup has a sensitive stomach, it’s important to avoid them.
Soy – As previously mentioned, it’s important to choose no soy foods for your pet. The presence of soy products in dog food can lead to diarrhea.
Selected Proteins – Your dog’s diet should also be rich in protein. However, some dogs may be unable to digest some proteins. Generally, lamb meal and chicken meal are good options for dogs with food sensitivities. You can also consider other sources of protein, including salmon and turkey.
Other ingredients that you should stay away from if your dog has a sensitive stomach include:
- (Too much) fats and oils
- Dairy products
- Nuts
- Garlic, onions, and chives
- Raw meat, bones, and eggs
- Salty snacks like popcorn, pretzels or chips
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4 Tips To Safely Transition Dog Food
Here are some helpful tips on how to safely make the switch to a different food product:
1. The Change Should Be Made Gradually
To allow your pooch to get used to the new food product. You should mix the new food with a larger amount of the present food first. You should keep the ration consistent for the next few days.
2. Decrease The Amounts
It’s best to reduce your pet’s portions to avoid problems like vomiting, loose stools, and weight gain. As always, you should follow the directions in the label or talk to your veterinarian first.
3. Measure Accurately
When serving food to your canine, make sure to measure properly. This will ensure that your canine companion is getting the correct amount and avoid overfeeding.
4. Use Digestion Aids
As previously mentioned, some ingredients are good for your pet’s digestive system. While changing your dog’s diet, use digestive aids. You can use food with probiotics or ingredients such as pumpkin and fiber sources to improve the absorption.
Experts recommend the following schedule when transitioning dogs to new food:
- Day 1 and 2: Give your dog 80% of his old food with 20% new food
- Day 3 and 4: Give your dog 60% of his old food with 40% new food
- Day 5 and 6: Give your dog 40% of his old food with around 60% new food
- Day 7, 8 and 9: Give your dog 20% of his old food with up to 80% new food
- Day 10: Give your dog 100% new food
Frequently Asked Questions
Is grain free dog food better for sensitive stomach?
Yes, grain free dog food is better for sensitive stomachs because it has a higher protein and meat content, lower carbohydrates, and easily digestible fats than regular food with grains. Grain-free food is designed to aid puppies with sensitivities, food allergy, and obesity.
Is raw food good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
No, raw food is not good for dogs with sensitive stomachs. A sensitive tummy implies that your pet’s immunity has already been compromised. Raw meats can be dangerous for your canine friend since they have a lot of bacteria. Cooking your dog’s food can help kill harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli. You should avoid feeding any raw foods to your dog to protect them.
How to put weight on a dog with sensitive stomach?
To put weight on a dog with sensitive stomach, start by using natural and unsweetened foods to support their gut bacteria. Also, avoid overfeeding your puppy and space their feeding schedule while increasing the amount of food whenever your dog eats.
Dry food packing includes some excellent meal plans for pups, so you should try and follow them. If your pup is behind in putting on weight, then try mixing its food with wet dog food to help him catch up.
Conclusion
The number of foods for dogs with sensitive stomachs is ever-growing. This is great for dogs with sensitivities but bear in mind that different foods are created differently.
The above products are included in our review of the best dog food for sensitive stomach because of their high quality and highly digestible ingredients.
Unlike many other sensitive digestion dog food brands currently available on the market, these foods have limited ingredients while maintaining their nutritional value. The best of these is definitely Pet Plate, Chompin’ Chicken Recipe, that your dog is sure to love.
If you decide to switch your little pal to any of the above foods, be sure to transition them gradually off their previous food to avoid upset stomachs.
Editor's Choice
Pet Plate, Chompin’ Chicken Recipe
- Human grade ingredients
- Kettle cooking ensures nutrition-packed recipe
- Veterinarians claim it provides allergen relief
- Offers immense value in nourishing the overall body coat
- Weight regulation while ensuring satisfied tummies
