Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach Small Breed: Top Picks and Buying Guide

Dogs are not just pets, they are family members. As pet owners, we always want the best for our furry friends. One of the essential things we can do for them is to provide them with a well-balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. However, some dogs have sensitive stomachs, and finding the right food for them can be challenging. This is especially true for small breeds, which have specific dietary requirements.

Small breed dogs have faster metabolisms than larger dogs, which means they need to eat more frequently. They also have smaller stomachs, which means they can’t eat as much at one time. This makes it even more important to find a dog food that is easy to digest and won’t upset their stomachs.

When looking for the best dog food for sensitive stomach small breed, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, look for a food that is specifically designed for small breeds. These foods usually have smaller kibble sizes, which are easier for small dogs to chew and digest. Second, look for a food that is made with high-quality ingredients. Avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products, as these can be hard on your dog’s stomach. Finally, talk to your veterinarian. They can recommend a food that is tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

We spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and explain why we chose them.

Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach Small Breed

As pet owners, we understand the importance of providing our furry friends with the best nutrition possible. However, for dogs with sensitive stomachs, finding the right food can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dog food options for small breeds with sensitive stomachs. Our top picks are based on ingredients, digestibility, and overall quality. Read on to find the perfect food for your furry friend.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 4 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that caters to your small breed dog’s sensitive stomach and skin, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food helps with optimal digestive health.
• The smaller kibble size is perfect for small and toy breeds.
• The natural ingredients in this dog food promote healthy skin and a lustrous coat.

Cons

• This dog food may not be suitable for puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs.
• It may take a while for your dog to get used to the new food.
• Some dogs may experience loose stools or upset stomachs when transitioning to this new diet.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog with a sensitive stomach and skin for a few months now, and we’ve been impressed with the results. Our dog’s coat is shinier, and she seems to be digesting her food better.

The prebiotic fiber in this dog food is a game-changer, as it helps maintain a healthy digestive system. The smaller kibble size is perfect for small and toy breeds, making it easier for them to chew and digest. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients, which is important for our dog’s overall health.

While this dog food is not suitable for puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs, it’s a great option for adult small and toy breed dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. It may take a while for your dog to get used to the new food, and some dogs may experience loose stools or upset stomachs during the transition period. However, we think it’s worth it in the long run for the health benefits it provides.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Adult Dog Food Small Breed Salmon and Rice Formula – 4 lb. Bag

This is a great option for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs who need a high-protein diet to keep up with their active lifestyle.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real salmon, which is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
• The formula is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics to support digestive and immune health.
• The natural prebiotic fiber nourishes specific intestinal bacteria for digestive health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of salmon, so it may take some time to get them used to this formula.
• The kibble size may be too small for some dogs, so it’s important to monitor their eating habits and adjust accordingly.
• This formula may be more expensive than other options on the market.

We recently tried out the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Small Breed Formula for our dog, who has a sensitive stomach and is very active. We were very pleased with the results! The kibble size was perfect for our small dog, and she seemed to enjoy the taste of the salmon formula. We also noticed that her coat looked shinier and healthier after switching to this food.

One of the things we really appreciated about this formula was the inclusion of live probiotics to support digestive and immune health. We noticed that our dog’s digestion was much better after switching to this food, and she seemed to have more energy throughout the day. We also liked that the formula is free from corn, wheat, soy, and poultry by-product meal, which are common allergens for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Overall, we highly recommend the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Small Breed Formula for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs who need a high-protein diet to keep up with their active lifestyle. It may be more expensive than other options on the market, but we believe the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the investment.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Adult Dog Food Small Breed Salmon and Rice Formula – 16 lb. Bag Salmon, Rice 16 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a high-quality dog food that is designed to meet the needs of small breeds with sensitive stomachs, then the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Adult Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Formulated high in protein to meet the needs of highly active small dogs
• High protein formula, with real salmon as the first ingredient
• Fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health

Cons

• A bit pricy compared to other similar dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the flavor as much as other brands
• The packaging doesn’t come with a zip lock for storage

We recently tried this dog food for our small breed dog who has a sensitive stomach, and we are extremely happy with the results. The high protein formula, with real salmon as the first ingredient, is perfect for meeting the needs of highly active small dogs. We noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s energy levels and overall health after switching to this food.

Another great feature of this dog food is that it is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health. This is especially important for small breeds that are prone to digestive issues. We noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestive health after switching to this food.

While the price of this dog food is a bit higher than other brands, we believe that it is worth the investment for the health benefits it provides. However, some dogs may not like the flavor as much as other brands, so it’s important to consider your dog’s preferences before purchasing.

Overall, we highly recommend the Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Adult Dog Food for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s an excellent choice for improving your dog’s overall health and well-being.

Nature’s Logic Dog Food Canine Meal Feast, Pork Pork 25 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that supports healthy digestion, Nature’s Logic Canine Pork Meal Feast is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Made with 100% natural ingredients and no synthetic vitamins or minerals
• Contains 38% protein with 90% from premium meat sources
• Includes prebiotics and probiotics to support healthy digestion

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• More expensive than some other brands
• Not suitable for dogs with pork allergies

We recently switched to Nature’s Logic Canine Pork Meal Feast for our small dog with a sensitive stomach, and we’ve been very pleased with the results. The kibble is made with high-quality, natural ingredients and contains no synthetic vitamins or minerals. We appreciate that the protein comes from premium meat sources, and that prebiotics and probiotics are included to support healthy digestion.

One thing to note is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food. Our dog took to it right away, but we’ve heard from other pet owners that their dogs were hesitant to eat it at first. Additionally, this food is more expensive than some other brands, so it may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Logic Canine Pork Meal Feast for small dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s a high-quality, nutritious food that supports healthy digestion and overall wellness.

Open Farm Grain-Free Small Breed Dog Recipe

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that caters to small breeds with sensitive stomachs, we recommend the Open Farm Grain-Free Small Breed Dog Recipe.

Pros

• The bite-size portions are perfect for small breeds with higher metabolic rates.
• Made with humanely raised chicken, turkey, and functional ingredients like chicory root and green-lipped mussel, this kibble is loaded with high-quality protein.
• The added antioxidants, Vitamin A, and New Zealand green-lipped mussels promote healthy vision and hip and joint support.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the food has a strong vegetable smell that their dogs don’t like.
• This dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market.
• A few customers have reported that their dogs had digestive issues after eating this food.

We recently tried this dog food with our small breed dog who has a sensitive stomach, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog loved the taste of the kibble and had no trouble digesting it. We appreciated the transparency of the brand, as we were able to trace the origin of every ingredient using the lot number on the bag.

Overall, we highly recommend the Open Farm Grain-Free Small Breed Dog Recipe for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality, limited ingredient dog food for your small breed with a sensitive stomach, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• ZIWI’s air-drying process naturally preserves all ingredients without artificial fillers, making it an excellent choice for picky eaters.
• Made up of 96% fresh meat, organs, and bones, as well as powerhouse superfoods like green mussels, organic kelp, and green tripe.
• Ethically and sustainably sourced meats and seafoods from New Zealand’s free-range farms and pristine blue waters with no added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.

Cons

• ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is definitely on the pricier side of dog foods.
• Some dogs may not take to the taste or texture of the air-dried food.
• Some customers have reported receiving bags that are smaller than advertised.

We have found that ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food has been an excellent choice for our small breed dog with a sensitive stomach. The limited ingredients make it easy to digest, and the high-quality ingredients mean we can feel good about what we’re feeding our furry friend.

One thing to keep in mind is that ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is definitely on the pricier side of dog foods. However, we have found that because it is so nutrient-dense, we actually feed less of it than other dog foods, which helps offset the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend giving ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food a try if you’re looking for a high-quality, limited ingredient dog food for your small breed with a sensitive stomach.

NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food, Chicken and Rice, 26LB 26 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that’s gentle on your small breed’s stomach, NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Contains prebiotics and probiotics to promote a healthy gut
• Balanced Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids along with L-Carnitine, taurine, choline chloride, and DL Methionine supplementation promote heart health
• Grain-inclusive formula meets AAFCO guidelines for all life stages

Cons

• Some users have reported the food being too hard for their dog’s teeth
• A few customers have complained about the price being too high
• A small number of dogs did not enjoy the flavor

We’ve been using NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food for our small breed dog with a sensitive stomach for several months now, and we’ve been very happy with the results. The prebiotics and probiotics in the formula have helped regulate our dog’s digestion, and the balanced fatty acids and other supplements have helped keep his heart healthy.

One thing to note is that the kibble is quite hard, so if your dog has dental issues, this may not be the best option for them. Additionally, the price point is a bit higher than some other options on the market, but we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend NutriSource Adult Dry Dog Food for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s a great way to ensure your pup is getting the nutrition they need to thrive.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a quality dog food that is free of grains and fillers, then I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. Our experience with this product has been overwhelmingly positive, and we highly recommend it to any dog owner looking for a healthy and tasty food option for their furry friend.

Pros

• The first ingredient is pasture-raised lamb and bison, which provides a high-quality source of protein for your dog.
• This food is packed with 30% protein, which helps to boost energy and maintain lean muscle mass in your dog.
• The addition of pre and probiotics helps to promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

Cons

• The price point may be higher than some other dog food brands on the market.
• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this food, as it does not contain any fillers or artificial flavors.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds of dogs.

In our experience, we have found that I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The absence of grains and fillers means that this food is easy to digest and does not cause any digestive upset in our furry friends. Additionally, the high-quality protein source and added pre and probiotics help to promote overall health and well-being in our dogs.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the use of pasture-raised lamb and bison as the first ingredient. This provides a high-quality source of protein that is easily digestible and helps to maintain lean muscle mass in our dogs. Additionally, the 30% protein content is higher than many other dog food brands on the market, which helps to keep our dogs energized and active throughout the day.

Another benefit of this dog food is the addition of pre and probiotics. These ingredients help to promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements, which is especially important for dogs with sensitive stomachs. We have noticed a significant improvement in our dogs’ digestion since switching to this food, and we appreciate the added health benefits that come with these ingredients.

While the price point of this dog food may be higher than some other brands, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the health benefits make it well worth the investment. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this food, as it does not contain any fillers or artificial flavors. However, we have found that most dogs enjoy the taste of this food and eagerly gobble it up at mealtime.

Overall, we highly recommend I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food to any dog owner looking for a healthy and tasty food option for their furry friend. With high-quality ingredients, added pre and probiotics, and no grains or fillers, this dog food is an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs and those who need a high-protein diet to maintain their energy and health.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Small -amp; Mini Breeds, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 15 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a dog food that will help your small breed dog with a sensitive stomach, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is a great option. We’ve used it with our own dog and have found it to be effective in promoting digestive health while also nourishing the skin and coat.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food helps to feed your dog’s microbiome, promoting optimal digestive health.
• The smaller kibble size is perfect for small and toy breed dogs, and the formula is specifically designed to provide an optimal balance of nutrients for these breeds.
• The natural ingredients used in this dog food are highly digestible and promote healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Cons

• This dog food is a bit more expensive than some other options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the chicken and barley recipe.
• The feeding guidelines can be a bit confusing, so be sure to consult with your vet to determine the appropriate amount to feed your dog.

In our experience, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food has been a great choice for our dog with a sensitive stomach. The prebiotic fiber has helped to promote digestive health, and we’ve noticed an improvement in his skin and coat since switching to this food. The smaller kibble size is perfect for our small breed dog, and he seems to enjoy the taste of the chicken and barley recipe.

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that will help your small breed dog with a sensitive stomach, we would definitely recommend giving Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food a try.

Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a great dry dog food for your small breed dog with a sensitive stomach, this Hill’s Science Diet food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• This dog food is formulated to be highly digestible, which makes it easier for your dog to absorb the nutrients and helps with stool pick-up.
• The smaller kibble size is perfect for small breed dogs, and the added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids help to keep your dog’s skin and coat healthy and shiny.
• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food promotes gut health by supporting a balanced microbiome.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste of this dog food, so it may not be the right choice for picky eaters.
• This dog food is on the expensive side, so it may not be the best option if you’re on a tight budget.
• While this dog food is formulated for small breed dogs, it may not be suitable for all small breeds, so it’s important to check with your vet before making the switch.

We recently tried this dog food with our small breed dog who has a sensitive stomach, and we were really pleased with the results. Our dog had no trouble digesting the food, and we noticed a significant improvement in her coat and overall health. The smaller kibble size was perfect for her, and we appreciated the added vitamins and minerals that helped to keep her coat shiny and healthy.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food may not be the right choice for all small breed dogs. Some customers have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste of the food, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction and switch to a different food if necessary.

Overall, we would definitely recommend this Hill’s Science Diet dog food to anyone with a small breed dog who has a sensitive stomach. While it may be a bit on the expensive side, the benefits of this high-quality dog food are definitely worth the investment.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best dog food for a small breed with a sensitive stomach, it’s important to look for certain features to ensure that your furry friend gets the right nutrition without any digestive issues. Here are some factors to consider:

Ingredient Quality

The quality of the ingredients in the dog food is crucial, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Look for high-quality protein sources, such as chicken, turkey, or fish, as the main ingredient. Avoid dog foods that contain by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives, as these can cause digestive problems.

Limited Ingredient Diet

Consider a limited ingredient diet dog food that contains fewer ingredients, which can be easier for your dog to digest. These types of dog foods usually contain a single source of protein and carbohydrate, which can help identify any food allergies or sensitivities.

Grain-Free

Some small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs may be sensitive to grains, so consider a grain-free dog food. Grain-free dog foods usually contain alternative sources of carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or peas.

Probiotics and Prebiotics

Probiotics and prebiotics can help maintain a healthy digestive system in dogs. Probiotics are live bacteria that can help balance the gut flora, while prebiotics are a type of fiber that nourishes the beneficial bacteria in the gut. Look for dog foods that contain these ingredients.

Small Kibble Size

Small breed dogs have smaller mouths and teeth, so look for dog foods that have smaller kibble size. This can make it easier for your dog to chew and digest the food.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your small breed dog with a sensitive stomach. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should we look for in dog food for a small breed with a sensitive stomach?

When choosing dog food for a small breed with a sensitive stomach, it is important to look for ingredients that are easy to digest. High-quality proteins, such as chicken, turkey, or fish, are a good choice. Avoid foods that contain by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives. Additionally, look for foods that contain added vitamins and minerals, as these can help support your dog’s overall health.

How can we tell if our small breed dog needs a special diet for its sensitive stomach?

If your small breed dog is experiencing digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, it may benefit from a special diet for sensitive stomachs. Additionally, if your dog has a history of digestive issues, it may be more prone to developing problems in the future. Talk to your veterinarian to determine if a special diet is necessary for your dog.

What are the differences between wet and dry dog food for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Both wet and dry dog food can be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs, but there are some differences to consider. Wet food may be easier to digest because it has a higher moisture content, but it can spoil more quickly and may be more expensive. Dry food is more convenient and can help keep your dog’s teeth clean, but it may be harder to digest and can be less palatable.

Are there specific brands recommended for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs?

There are many brands of dog food that are formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and your veterinarian may recommend a specific brand based on your dog’s individual needs. Some popular brands include Hill’s Science Diet, Royal Canin, and Blue Buffalo.

How often should we feed our small breed dog with a sensitive stomach to prevent issues?

Feeding your small breed dog small, frequent meals throughout the day can help prevent digestive issues. Aim for three to four small meals per day, rather than one or two large meals. Additionally, be sure to provide plenty of fresh water for your dog to drink.

What are the signs that our small breed dog’s food is suitable for its sensitive stomach?

If your small breed dog’s food is suitable for its sensitive stomach, it should be easy to digest and should not cause any digestive issues such as vomiting or diarrhea. Your dog should also have a healthy appetite and maintain a healthy weight. If you notice any changes in your dog’s behavior or health, talk to your veterinarian to determine if a change in diet is necessary.