Best Senior Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs: Top Picks for 2024

As dogs age, their nutritional needs change and they may become more prone to digestive issues. One common issue is a sensitive stomach, which can cause discomfort and digestive upset. Senior dogs with sensitive stomachs require a diet that is easy to digest and gentle on their stomachs. This is where senior dog food for sensitive stomachs comes in.

Senior dog food for sensitive stomachs is specially formulated to be easy on a dog’s digestive system. It typically contains high-quality, easily digestible proteins, as well as fiber and prebiotics to support digestive health. Additionally, it may be free from common allergens or irritating ingredients, such as wheat, corn, and soy.

When choosing the best senior dog food for a sensitive stomach, it is important to pay attention to the ingredients list. Look for high-quality proteins, such as chicken or fish, as well as easily digestible carbohydrates, such as rice or sweet potatoes. Avoid ingredients that may cause digestive upset, such as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

We spent hours researching and testing various brands of senior dog food for sensitive stomachs to identify the top options for your furry friend.

Best Senior Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

As dogs age, their digestive systems become more delicate, and they may require a special diet to keep them healthy. If your senior dog has a sensitive stomach, finding the right food can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best senior dog food for sensitive stomachs. Our team has researched and tested various products to bring you the most reliable options that are gentle on your furry friend’s stomach. Check out our top picks below.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dry Dog Food Senior Adult 7 Plus Salmon and Rice Formula – 16 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality senior dog food that is easy on your dog’s sensitive stomach, then Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dry Dog Food is a great option. Made with salmon as the #1 ingredient, this dog food is formulated to promote joint support and mobility, digestive health, and immune function. Here are the pros and cons of this product:

Pros

• Contains easily digestible oatmeal and rice for sensitive stomachs
• Includes glucosamine and EPA for joint support and mobility
• Fortified with natural prebiotic fiber and antioxidants for digestive and immune health

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of salmon
• More expensive than some other senior dog food options

This dog food is packed with high-quality ingredients that are designed to promote your dog’s overall health and well-being. The combination of salmon, oatmeal, and rice makes it easy to digest for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and the addition of glucosamine and EPA helps to keep joints healthy and mobile. Plus, the natural prebiotic fiber and antioxidants support digestive and immune health.

In terms of cons, this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies, as it contains salmon as the primary protein source. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of salmon, so it may take some time to get them used to the flavor. Finally, this dog food is more expensive than some other senior dog food options, so it may not be the best choice if you’re on a tight budget.

Overall, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dry Dog Food is a great option for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s packed with high-quality ingredients that promote overall health and well-being, and it’s formulated to be easy on your dog’s digestive system. If you’re looking for a high-quality senior dog food that will keep your dog healthy and happy, then this is definitely a product worth considering.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dry Dog Food Senior Adult 7 Plus Salmon and Rice Formula – 24 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that caters to the specific needs of your senior dog with sensitive skin and stomach, then Purina Pro Plan Senior dry dog food for Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice Formula Adult 7 is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• Made with salmon as the #1 ingredient for high protein content
• Easily digestible combination of oatmeal and rice
• Contains glucosamine and EPA to promote joint health and mobility

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with fish allergies
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• Relatively expensive compared to other dog food options

We’ve been using Purina Pro Plan Senior dry dog food for Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice Formula Adult 7 for our senior dog for a while now and have seen noticeable improvements in his overall health and wellbeing. The salmon-based formula is high in protein, making it an excellent choice for maintaining lean muscle mass and promoting heart health.

The combination of oatmeal and rice in this dog food makes it easily digestible, which is especially important for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Additionally, the inclusion of glucosamine and EPA supports joint health and mobility, which is crucial for senior dogs.

One potential downside of this dog food is that it may not be suitable for dogs with fish allergies, as salmon is the primary ingredient. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this dog food, so it may take some trial and error to find the right fit.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Senior dry dog food for Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice Formula Adult 7 for any senior dog with specific dietary needs. While it may be relatively expensive compared to other dog food options, the quality ingredients and targeted nutrition make it well worth the investment.

Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Salmon -amp; Vegetable Entrée, 12.8 Ounce (Pack of 12)

If you’re looking for a wet dog food that’s gentle on your adult dog’s sensitive stomach and skin, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Salmon -amp; Vegetable Entrée is worth checking out. Here’s what we found:

Pros

• The wet dog food is made with natural ingredients, which is always a plus in our book.
• The easily digestible, grain-free formula with natural fibers makes for improved stool pickup.
• The omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E in the formula help support healthy skin and coat.

Cons

• The compact, mushy texture of the food may need to be watered down with broth to make it easier for your dog to eat.
• Some customers have reported that the stew texture and pieces may not be the best option for dogs recovering from dental surgery or tooth extractions.
• The product is not recommended for puppies and pregnant or nursing dogs.

Overall, we think Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Salmon -amp; Vegetable Entrée is a solid choice if you’re looking for a wet dog food that’s formulated for optimal digestive and skin health. It’s made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients you can trust, and comes in a 12-pack of 12.8-ounce cans. Give it a try and see if it works for your furry friend!

Blue Buffalo Basics Adult Dry Dog Food for Skin -amp; Stomach Care

If you’re looking for high-quality dog food that’s gentle on your senior dog’s stomach, Blue Buffalo Basics Adult Dry Dog Food for Skin -amp; Stomach Care may be the right choice for you.

Pros

• Made with real, high-quality salmon as the #1 ingredient
• Formulated with healthy ingredients that support gentle digestion and nourish skin -amp; coat
• Contains exclusive, antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits to support your dog’s immune system

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with severe allergies
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste
• More expensive than some other dog food options

We recently tried Blue Buffalo Basics Adult Dry Dog Food for Skin -amp; Stomach Care with our senior dog who has a sensitive stomach. We were pleased to find that the salmon and potato recipe was gentle on her digestive system and she seemed to enjoy the taste.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy. This makes it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.

In addition, we were impressed by the inclusion of exclusive LifeSource Bits in the formula. These antioxidant-rich bits help support our dog’s immune system and overall health.

While Blue Buffalo Basics Adult Dry Dog Food for Skin -amp; Stomach Care is more expensive than some other dog food options, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and gentle formula make it worth the investment for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Basics Adult Dry Dog Food for Skin -amp; Stomach Care to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that’s gentle on their senior dog’s stomach and supports their overall health and well-being.

Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Turkey -amp; Potato 11-lb Turkey -amp; Potato 11 Pound (Pack of 1)

In our experience, we would highly recommend the Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Turkey -amp; Potato 11-lb Turkey -amp; Potato 11 Pound (Pack of 1) for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Pros

• The limited-ingredient dog food is a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.
• The small-bite kibble and balance of carbohydrates and protein meet small breed’s needs.
• The precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals carefully selected by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• The dog food is a bit pricey compared to other brands in the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the turkey and potato flavor.
• The 11-lb bag may not last long for larger dogs.

We have found that the Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Turkey -amp; Potato 11-lb Turkey -amp; Potato 11 Pound (Pack of 1) helped our senior dog with a sensitive stomach. The small-bite kibble is perfect for smaller dogs and the balance of carbohydrates and protein meets their higher energy needs. We also appreciate that the dog food does not contain any chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs, making it a great option for dogs with food sensitivities.

The precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in the dog food also supports our dog’s immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance. However, we do acknowledge that the dog food is a bit pricey compared to other brands in the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the turkey and potato flavor, so it may take some time for them to adjust. Lastly, the 11-lb bag may not last long for larger dogs, so it may be best to purchase the larger size for them.

Overall, we believe that the Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Turkey -amp; Potato 11-lb Turkey -amp; Potato 11 Pound (Pack of 1) is a great investment for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Potato 24-lb Salmon -amp; Potato 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a limited-ingredient dog food that is easy on your senior dog’s sensitive stomach, then Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Potato 24-lb Salmon -amp; Potato 24 Pound (Pack of 1) is a good option.

Pros

• This dog food starts with real salmon, making it a great source of protein for your dog.
• It is a limited-ingredient dog food that doesn’t contain any chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs, which is great for dogs with food sensitivities.
• The antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits provide a precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that are carefully selected to support immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs that are allergic to fish.
• Some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this dog food.
• This dog food is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market.

We recently tried Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Potato 24-lb Salmon -amp; Potato 24 Pound (Pack of 1) for our senior dog with a sensitive stomach. We were impressed with the quality of the ingredients, and our dog seemed to enjoy the taste of the food. We noticed that he had less gas and his stools were firmer and more regular.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs that are allergic to fish. Additionally, some customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this dog food, so it may not be the best option for picky eaters. Finally, this dog food is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Potato 24-lb Salmon -amp; Potato 24 Pound (Pack of 1) for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs who need a limited-ingredient dog food that is easy to digest.

Hill’s Science Diet Senior Adult 7 Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Senior Adult 7 Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Pros

• Perfect poop in 7 days
• Supports ultimate digestive well-being and a healthy microbiome for adult dogs age 7 plus
• Premium dog food that promotes regularity and healthy stools

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• A bit expensive compared to other brands
• Not suitable for dogs younger than 7 years old

We have been using this product for a while now, and our senior dog with a sensitive stomach has never been happier. The chicken recipe is of high quality and the perfect size for her elder teeth. We noticed a significant difference in her digestion and overall well-being after feeding her this dog food.

One of the best things about this product is that it promotes regularity and healthy stools. We noticed a difference in her bowel movements within 7 days of feeding her this dog food. The ActivBiome Technology ingredient blend of prebiotics helps balance her gut microbiome, which affects not only her digestive health but also her overall well-being.

Although it is a bit expensive compared to other brands, we believe that it’s worth the investment for our dog’s health. However, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s essential to introduce it gradually and mix it with their old food.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for the best senior dog food for sensitive stomachs, Hill’s Science Diet Senior Adult 7 Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. It’s a premium dog food that promotes regularity and healthy stools while supporting your dog’s digestive well-being and overall health.

Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Healthy Weight Dry Dog Food, Turkey -amp; Potato

If you’re looking for a limited-ingredient dog food that is gentle on your senior dog’s sensitive stomach, then Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The single animal protein source of real turkey, along with easily digestible carbohydrates like potatoes, peas, and pumpkin, makes it a good option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• It’s a healthy weight dog food with reduced calories from fat, which can help your senior dog manage their weight.
• The precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in the LifeSource Bits supports immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• It’s a bit pricey compared to some other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the turkey and potato flavor.
• The kibble size may be a bit too large for some dogs to comfortably chew.

We’ve been feeding our senior dog Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his digestion. He used to have frequent bouts of diarrhea, but since switching to this dog food, his stools have been consistently firm and well-formed.

In addition to its digestive benefits, we appreciate that this dog food is made with high-quality, natural ingredients and doesn’t contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. We also like that it’s formulated to support healthy weight management, which is important for our senior dog’s overall health.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs. It may be a bit pricier than some other dog food brands, but the quality of the ingredients and the digestive benefits make it well worth the investment.

Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health while nourishing skin, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is a great choice.

Pros

• Promotes digestive health
• Nourishes skin and coat
• Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption

Cons

• Contains chicken, which may not be suitable for all dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other dog foods

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for our senior dog who has a sensitive stomach. We were impressed with how quickly our dog took to the food and how much better his digestion was after just a few days. We also noticed that his coat looked shinier and healthier.

One of the things we like about this dog food is that it uses prebiotic fiber to fuel gut bacteria and support a balanced microbiome. This helps promote digestive health and makes it easier for our dog to absorb nutrients. We also appreciate that it’s made with natural ingredients and provides an excellent source of vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids to nourish our dog’s skin and coat.

While our dog seems to love the taste of this food, we do know that some dogs may not like it as much. Additionally, the fact that it contains chicken may not be suitable for all dogs, especially those with chicken allergies. Finally, it is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market, which may be a consideration for some pet owners.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes skin and coat.

Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Senior Food

If you’re looking for a senior dog food that can help with sensitive stomachs, then Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Senior Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• This kibble is highly digestible and probiotic-coated, which helps support gut health for overall wellbeing and vitality.
• It contains high-quality protein from chicken and wholesome grains from brown rice, which help optimize nutrient absorption and support high digestibility.
• The kibble is smaller and more porous, which makes it easier for dogs with aging gums and teeth to eat. It also contains glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to support strong joints and hips.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste of this food as much as other brands.
• A few customers have reported that their dogs experienced diarrhea after eating this food.
• The price point for this food is higher than some other senior dog food options.

We’ve been using this food for our senior dog with a sensitive stomach and have noticed a significant improvement in his digestion. The kibble is easy for him to eat and he seems to really enjoy the taste. We also appreciate that it contains prebiotic fibers and guaranteed levels of probiotics to support his immune system and overall wellbeing. While the price point is a bit higher than some other options, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the positive impact on our dog’s health make it worth the investment. Overall, we highly recommend Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Senior Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best senior dog food for a sensitive stomach, there are a few things to keep in mind. We understand that it can be overwhelming to navigate through the various options available in the market. Therefore, we have put together a simple buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

Consider the Ingredients

The first thing to look for when choosing a senior dog food is the ingredients list. You want to make sure that the food is made with high-quality, easily digestible ingredients. Avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as these can cause digestive issues in dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Look for foods that contain a single source of protein, such as chicken, lamb, or fish. This can help reduce the risk of food allergies and intolerances. Additionally, foods that contain prebiotics and probiotics can help promote a healthy digestive system.

Texture and Flavor

Senior dogs with sensitive stomachs may have trouble digesting certain textures and flavors. Therefore, it is important to choose a food that your dog enjoys eating, but also one that is easy to digest. Wet or canned food is often a good option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as it is easier to digest than dry kibble.

Nutritional Value

Senior dogs have different nutritional needs than younger dogs. When choosing a senior dog food, look for one that is specifically formulated for older dogs. These foods often contain lower levels of fat and calories, which can help prevent obesity and other health problems.

Additionally, look for foods that contain vitamins and minerals that are essential for senior dogs, such as glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health.

Conclusion

Choosing the best senior dog food for a sensitive stomach can be a daunting task, but by considering the ingredients, texture, flavor, and nutritional value, you can make an informed decision. Remember to consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet, especially if your dog has a history of digestive issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top recommended dog foods for senior dogs with digestive issues?

There are several dog food brands that are recommended for senior dogs with digestive issues. Some of the top recommended brands include Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Royal Canin. These brands offer specialized formulas that are designed to be gentle on a senior dog’s digestive system.

How can I identify the healthiest dog food for an older dog with a sensitive stomach?

When selecting a dog food for an older dog with a sensitive stomach, it is important to look for high-quality ingredients that are easy to digest. Avoid dog foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Look for dog foods that are specifically designed for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs.

What options are available for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs and diarrhea?

For senior dogs with sensitive stomachs and diarrhea, it is important to choose a dog food that is easy to digest and gentle on the stomach. Some options include boiled chicken and rice, canned pumpkin, and probiotics. It is important to consult with a veterinarian before making any changes to a senior dog’s diet.

Which dog foods are best for aging dogs with a tendency to vomit?

For aging dogs with a tendency to vomit, it is important to choose a dog food that is easy to digest and does not contain any ingredients that may trigger vomiting. Some options include Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Dog Food, Royal Canin Digestive Care, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula.

Are there specific soft or dry dog foods that are easier on the stomach for senior dogs?

Both soft and dry dog foods can be easy on the stomach for senior dogs, depending on the individual dog’s needs. Soft dog foods may be easier to digest for dogs with dental issues, while dry dog foods can help to promote dental health. It is important to choose a dog food that is specifically designed for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs.

What should I feed a senior small breed dog with a sensitive digestive system?

For a senior small breed dog with a sensitive digestive system, it is important to choose a dog food that is easy to digest and contains high-quality ingredients. Some options include Wellness Complete Health Small Breed Senior Dog Food, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Small Breed Senior Dog Food, and Hill’s Science Diet Small Paws Adult 7 Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Dog Food.