The best dog food for sensitive stomachs is Purina One Sensitive Systems Formula For Sensitive Stomachs.
If you’re a dog owner, then you know that the best thing about owning a pup is all of the love and affection they give. But it can be frustrating when your furry friend has an upset stomach or diarrhea. One of the most common causes for this is because their food doesn’t agree with them.
The common symptoms of having a sensitive stomach are:
- Loose stools
- Flatulence (excessive gas or wind)
- Occasional bouts of vomiting
- Hypersalivation
Luckily, helping your furry friend feel better may be as simple as switching to different dog food. To help you choose, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best dog foods designed for sensitive stomachs!
#1 Purina One Sensitive Systems Formula For Sensitive Stomachs
- One (1) 31.1 lb. Bag - Purina ONE Natural, Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food, +Plus Skin & Coat Formula
- Sensitive skin dog food made with real salmon as the #1 ingredient to help support strong muscles, including a healthy...
- A SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients in this adult dog food, along with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids, promotes...
Purina One Sensitive Systems Dog Food is our top choice because its ingredients are easily digestible. Salmon, the main ingredient, is low in fat and high in protein. Eating low-fat foods like salmon helps reduce diarrhea. Another benefit of eating salmon is its high omega-3 content. Omega-3s promote healthy skin and may reduce inflammation in your dog’s GI tract.
The next three ingredients are rice flour, pearled barley, and oatmeal, which are mild carbohydrates that are well-tolerated by even the most sensitive dogs.
The ingredients list also features many important vitamins like B, K, and D. There’s also an antioxidant blend containing Vitamin A, Vitamin E, selenium, and zinc. These vitamins and minerals will keep your dog’s immune system and joints nice and healthy.
Most dogs suffering from stomach sensitivity will be able to thrive on this mild, nutritionally balanced food, which is why it gets top marks from us. Its full supply of nutrients alongside its vitamin content make it a top pick for dogs with sensitive tummies.
Pros
- Easily digestible
- Protein-rich
- High in omega-3
Cons
This emerges as our top pick to feed dogs with sensitive stomachs because of its unique formulation, comprising salmon that promotes a healthy heart, quality carbohydrates that go easy on the tummy, and lastly, oatmeal that promote healthy skin with the help of its omega-6 fatty acid content.
#2 Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Stomach And Skin Formula
- One (1) 30 lb. Bag - Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs, Salmon & Rice Formula
- Oat meal is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system. High protein formula, with real salmon as the first...
- Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health. Used to be known as FOCUS Sensitive Skin and...
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Stomach Dog Food has a lot of the same features as our top pick, but it’s a bit easier on the wallet. Its main ingredients are salmon, barley, and rice, which are all easy to digest and induce less stress on sensitive stomachs.
This formula has more fiber than our top pick because of ingredients like barley and chicory root inulin, a type of prebiotic fiber. The extra fiber makes this food ideal for dogs who have loose stools because it will bulk things up. If your dog is gassy, though, we’d recommend avoiding this dog food because fiber can increase gas.
One of the great things about Purina Pro Plan is that it doesn’t contain common allergens like soy, corn, and wheat. If your dog shows signs of food allergies like chronic scratching, frequent ear infections, diarrhea or vomiting, then you should switch to an allergy-friendly food like this one.
This dog food is nutritionally balanced, full of vitamins and minerals, and allergy friendly, so it’s a great alternative to our pricier top pick. This food provides the best value for money as it is cheaper than the alternatives, but has many of the top features such as a high protein value.
Pros
- Contains prebiotic fiber
- Allergy friendly
- High in protein
Cons
#3 Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Dog Food
- Contains (1) 24 Pound Bag of Dry Dog Food
- Supported by Natural Balance’s ‘Buy With Confidence’ guarantee, ensuring quality, safety, and nutrition in every...
- Natural Balance L.I.D. dry dog food purchase
If your dog has food allergies, this kibble from Natural Balance is a great option. It has a limited number of ingredients, so it exposes your dog to fewer potential allergens. It doesn’t contain wheat, which is a common allergen, or any other grains. Sweet potatoes and salmon are the two main ingredients. They make this dog food both low in fat and high in fiber.
The low, 10% fat content in this kibble is great for dogs with diarrhea, which is one of the reasons we recommend this kibble. Additionally, this dog food contains balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids which will help your dog to maintain healthy skin. There are absolutely no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives which means this food is suitable for all breeds which may have significant food allergies.
This limited ingredient dog food is a great choice for dogs who have food allergies or diarrhea and has lots of vitamins and minerals to ensure that your dog will thrive on it. This dog food is the perfect pick if your dog has many food allergies.
Pros
- High fiber
- Grain free
- Allergy friendly
- Low fat
Cons
#4 Solid Gold Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
- Take the 'Leap' Today! - Solid Gold Leaping Waters is a natural dry dog food made with a special cold water salmon and...
- Probiotic Support for Digestion & Immunity - This dog food includes 90 million patented live probiotics per pound for...
- Cleansing Superfood Support – Features a pure blend of 20 superfoods that are high in vitamins and nutrients to...
The Solid Gold Dog Food is jam-packed with important nutrients and is specially formulated for sensitive stomachs. Salmon is its main ingredient, so it has plenty of omega-3, omega-6, and DHA. The third and fourth ingredients are chickpeas and lentils, so there’s a fair bit of fiber in this formula.
Twenty superfoods including blueberries and spinach round out the ingredients list. These fresh ingredients are full of antioxidants that will support your pup’s immune system and overall health. Additionally, it includes probiotics which are rich in fiber. This can make digestion easier for your dog and also promote excellent gut health. There is an excellent balance of ingredients in this food which means you can be sure that your dog gets the full amount of nutrients.
This dog food is grain-free and stripped of common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy, which is an added bonus. It means you can be confident that this food won’t trigger food allergies related to the above groups.
This is one of the most nutritious foods for sensitive pups we’ve come across, which is why we recommend it. It is packed with nutrition that contains high-quality protein and many superfoods which means your Dog is able to thrive.
Pros
- Grain free
- Free of corn, wheat, and soy
- Contains 20 superfoods
- Contains prebiotic fib
Cons
#5 Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Dog Food
- Easily Digested protein & a narrow selection of high quality ingredients make this tasty recipe easy on a sensitive...
- Antioxidants (vit. E) are important so the levels for the IMMUNE system and we are told that what sets this recipe apart...
- Nutrient rich and HIGHLY digestible with PROPRIETARY PROBIOTICS that survive and thrive in the GI tract; at levels
The main ingredients in Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Dog Food are potatoes and eggs. Eggs are a great source of highly digestible protein, riboflavin, and selenium, while potatoes contain minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. The nutrients found in these ingredients will give your dog energy, support his immune system, improve his joint health and help him achieve a silky coat.
Its specifically formulated sensitive stomach recipe is grain-free, so it’s a great option if your dog has a wheat allergy or sensitivity. It also contains psyllium seed husk, which is a good source of fiber, and probiotics, which aid digestion and may reduce diarrhea and intestinal inflammation. The taste of this dog food is particularly good, with many buyers noticing how much their dog seemed to enjoy it.
We recommend this kibble because it’s easily digestible, high in quality protein from eggs, and full of beneficial vitamins and probiotics. Also, it has a fantastic taste which sets it apart from other dog food.
Pros
- Contains probiotics
- Grain free
- Easily digestible
Cons
#6 Blue Buffalo Natural Digestive Care Adult Dry Dog Food
- SENSITIVE STOMACH DOG FOOD: Our Blissful Belly adult dog food is made with highly digestible ingredients including a...
- NATURAL INGREDIENTS RECOMMENDED BY VETERINARIANS: BLUE True Solutions is a natural dog food made with the finest...
- STARTS WITH HIGH-QUALITY CHICKEN: This delicious dry dog food is formulated with wholesome ingredients including fruits,...
Chicken is the first ingredient in this Blue Buffalo Natural Digestive Care Dog Food. Chicken is a great source of amino acids like glucosamine that promote bone health. It also helps dogs build lean muscle mass and gives them lots of energy.
This kibble has fiber and prebiotics to improve your dog’s digestion. It also contains a balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6. It’s important that your pup gets a balanced ratio of omegas because too much omega-6 can cause inflammation in the body. There is also a fair amount of chicken fat included which has linoleic acid. This acid is essential for a dog’s health.
Dogs with food allergies can enjoy this food too because it’s free of corn, wheat, soy, and grains, which is one more thing we love about it. It is a highly digestible food that is suitable for most dogs with sensitive stomachs.
This dog food is high in protein and chock full of fresh, real ingredients like chicken and peas, which is why we recommend it. The real, farm-raised chicken adds a nice natural touch that your dog can greatly benefit from.
Pros
- Allergy friendly
- Contains prebiotics
- Science-based formulation
Cons
#7 Wellness Simple Natural Dog Food
- LIMITED INGREDIENT DOG FOOD: Natural, grain free, limited ingredient recipe crafted with a single source of animal...
- A LIFETIME OF WELLBEING: Natural prebiotics support a healthy digestive system, antioxidants support a strong immune...
- WHOLE BODY HEALTH: Supported by omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics and taurine for a healthy heart
This is another limited ingredient dog food from Wellness that’s great for dogs with food allergies and intolerances. It contains just one protein source, lamb, which is easily digestible and full of the amino acids that your dog needs to build and maintain muscle.
Oatmeal, ground rice, millet, and flaxseed round out the ingredients list. All of these ingredients are easy on the tummy and good sources of fiber. There is no gluten, wheat, fillers, or any artificial additives. This makes it a perfect pick for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Lamb is one of the easiest proteins to digest, which is why we recommend this dog food. We also love that it contains limited ingredients, which is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and tons of important vitamins and minerals. The fact that it is proudly made in the USA is also a big bonus.
Pros
- Allergy friendly
- Easily digestible and goes easy on sensitive stomachs
- High in protein
Cons
#8 Blue Buffalo Basics Grain Free Dog Food
- STARTS WITH REAL TURKEY: This grain free adult dry dog food features a single animal protein source along with potatoes,...
- LIMITED INGREDIENT DOG FOOD: BLUE Basics is a limited ingredient grain free dog food that doesn’t contain any chicken,...
- ANTIOXIDANT-RICH LIFESOURCE BITS: A precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals carefully selected by holistic...
If your dog is allergic to common protein sources like beef or chicken, then the Blue Buffalo Basics Dog Food is a great option. It contains turkey, which is not commonly found in dog food but is a lean, digestible, high-quality protein. Highly digestible carbs like pumpkin and potato compliment the turkey and add extra nutrients.
This dog food also has a special blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals selected by pet nutritionists and added fiber from chicory root and peas. The Turkey protein is also high-quality which ensures your dog receives the best nutrition. This alternative source is rare; however, it is perfect for dogs who are allergic to the main sources of protein in dog food.
We love this dog food because it’s easy on the tummy, loaded with vitamins, and high in protein. It is a good pick if your dog is allergic to the main ingredients commonly found in dog food.
Pros
- Anti-oxidant rich
- Contains no chicken or beef
- No artificial flavoring or preservatives
Cons
Dog Food For Sensitive Stomachs Buyer’s Guide
One of the best ways to soothe your pup’s sensitive tummy is by switching to a sensitive formula dog food. You should choose food with high-quality ingredients and adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals.
All of the dog foods we’ve recommended in this article meet those requirements and are good, nutritionally sound choices. But you should still choose a new type of food carefully to ensure that it meets your dog’s unique needs.
Related: Best Limited Ingredients Dog Food
What Causes Stomach Sensitivity In Dogs?
One of the most common reasons for your dog’s sensitive stomach is a reaction to something in their diet. They might have an intolerance, sensitivity or allergy to one of the ingredients they are getting every day and need help from you on what foods can be eaten without any reactions by them.
If you’ve tried a variety of different foods, and your dog is still having stomach problems – please consult with a veterinarian. There are many conditions that can cause similar symptoms as the ones seen in dogs with sensitive stomachs – such as stomach cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.
Related: 24/7 Emergency Vets Near You
Always Consult With A Medical Professional First
Your vet will run blood tests to see what’s going on and may want to perform other tests and scans based on the results. Your vet might discover a gastrointestinal condition like gastritis or inflammatory bowel disease. If your pup has a digestive disorder, he may have to take medications and eat an allergy-friendly, sensitive formula dog food.
We recommend that you get a test done if symptoms seem minor come on irregularly. Conditions and allergies can develop quickly, and it is always better to get them diagnosed as soon as possible.
Some Dogs Are Just Born With It
Sometimes no clear cause can be found for the digestive distress your pup is experiencing. Some dogs are just born with sensitive stomachs. In this case, it will take some experimentation to figure out which food and lifestyle changes improve your dog’s symptoms. You can discuss the option with a veterinarian who will be able to describe the condition in more detail.
Maybe your pet needs a slow feeder bowl to prevent him from chowing down on his food, which can cause bloating. Maybe smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day will jive better with his digestive system than his current feeding schedule. Reducing your pet’s stress levels by taking them for a walk can reduce stress levels which can cause an upset stomach.
Be Observant – Identify What Could Be Causing The Allergies
By taking a holistic approach to your dog’s digestive health, you’ll be able to manage troublesome symptoms more effectively. You can manage food allergies by having a test done. Once you have found the ingredients that trigger this allergy, you can formulate a diet that strictly avoids any foods that can cause symptoms.
It is important to strictly avoid giving your dog any food that they may allergic to.
Even small amounts can cause significant stomach distress and various other symptoms. It requires paying attention to what you feed your dog and always checking the ingredients list of any dog food that you buy for your pet.
What To Look For In A Dog Food For Sensitive Stomachs?
Breed
One of the things you’ll need to consider is your dog’s breed. Some breeds are prone to certain food intolerances. Irish Setters and Wheaten Terriers, for example, are known to be sensitive to gluten. Research your dog’s breed and see if any common food sensitivities pop up. Try removing the offending ingredient from your pup’s diet and see if there’s any improvement in symptoms.
Life Stage
Make sure you pick food that’s appropriate for your dog’s life stage, too. Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different nutritional needs, so you should choose a food that’s been formulated for both sensitive tummies and your dog’s life stage.
New Protein Source
You should also make sure that you pick food with a different protein source than your dog is currently eating. Some dogs can’t tolerate certain proteins, so try out a new protein and see if your pup starts feeling better.
Different Ingredients For Different Symptoms
You also need to consider your dog’s specific symptoms when choosing a new food. If your dog’s main symptom is loose stools, for example, then you should choose dog foods with added fiber. Some dogs need extra fiber in their diets to bulk up their stool and prevent diarrhea. Inulin and psyllium are both great sources of fiber.
If your dog passes a lot of gas, though, fiber may actually worsen the problem, so it’s very important to factor in your dog’s specific symptoms when you’re picking out food.
Lookout For These Easily Digestible Ingredients
Dogs can suffer from sensitive stomachs due to a wide range of factors and the cause isn’t always obvious. Your Vet can make some recommendations, as to which food your dog should avoid. However, in general, there are specific characteristics that are found in highly digestible food. These types of foods tend to cause dogs with sensitive stomachs far fewer problems.
Grains
Grains are a key cause of stomach issues in dogs who have sensitivity. Therefore, anything with fewer grains, or easily digestible whole grains is recommended. This includes grains such as brown rice and oats.
Poultry & Lamb
Easily digestible food for dogs includes chicken, lamb, brown rice, and potatoes. It is true that all dogs are different, however, the vast majority can digest the above foods with ease. Therefore, you can focus on a diet that has these ingredients.
Probiotics
It is important to look for foods that specifically contain digestion aids. This can include foods with probiotics or ones high in fiber. Both of these factors will aid digestion, and this is why many of the foods on our list contain one of the two ingredients in their food.
Related: Best Dog Probiotics
The Lesser The Ingredients, The Better
In general, bland food tends to be the most digestible for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Basic meats and rice tend to be a good option. Many other dog foods have a wide range of ingredients and can be quite complex. This can cause issues for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and it is a reason why the foods on our list are relatively simple and bland.
Another key factor in digestibility is the ingredients present in a certain type of food. The more ingredients there are, the more likely the food is to cause digestion issues in dogs with sensitive stomachs. Of course, it is important for your dog to get a full and balanced diet. However, this can be achieved by limiting unneeded ingredients such as additives and focusing on whole foods that only contain a few vital ingredients.
How To Transition Your Dog To A New Food
Transitioning your dog to a new food can cause more stomach discomfort if you don’t do it correctly. Just like humans, dogs have gut flora that helps break down and digest their food. It can take the gut flora a while to adjust to brand new food, so if you make the switch too abruptly, your dog may experience uncomfortable symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
A cold-turkey approach can cause a strong negative reaction in your dog, especially if it has a sensitive stomach. The best way to prevent this from happening is to introduce the new kibble into your dog’s diet slowly. You can do this by mixing his current food with the new food.
On the first day of the transition, you should replace about ten percent of your dog’s old food with the new one. Each day you should increase the percentage of the new food by ten. So, on the second day, you can feed your dog 20% new food and 80% old food, and on the third day, you can increase the percentage of the new food to 30. However, if your dog has a sensitive stomach, you should allow for up to 6 weeks before completing the transition. Additionally, you have to mix the food carefully.
You should continue with a mixed diet until the stools of your dog are firm. This confirms that a healthy transition has been made and your dog’s sensitive stomach is accustomed to the new diet.
It is important to keep some things in mind when transitioning your dog’s food. It is vital you take caution if you are transitioning from dry food to wet food. Canned food can be very appetizing for a dog so it may seem like a quick transition would occur. However, their stomach may not be able to handle a fast change.
You should be sure to mix the canned food and dry food when transitioning properly. A transition that occurs too quickly can cause a dog with a sensitive stomach to become very ill.
Final Thoughts
We hope that this post has given you the information that you need to tackle your dog’s digestive issues. A sensitive stomach can cause distress for both pet and owner.
We recommend that you start by feeding your dog Purina One, it is an easily digestible dog food that will put your pup back on the road to wellness. It packs all the essential ingredients that your dog needs to thrive, and it has the perfect balance for your pooch with a sensitive stomach.
