Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach: Top Picks for 2024

If you have a dog with a sensitive stomach, you know how important it is to find the right food. The wrong type of food can lead to digestive issues, discomfort, and even serious health problems. That’s why we’ve spent hours researching and testing various types of dog food to find the best options for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for sensitive stomachs, there are a few critical things to consider. First and foremost, you want to choose a food that is easy to digest. Look for foods that are made with high-quality, easily digestible proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish. You’ll also want to avoid foods that contain common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.

Another important factor to consider is the type of food you choose. Wet food, dry food, and semi-moist food all have their pros and cons. Wet food is more easily digestible and can be a good option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, but it can also be more expensive and spoil faster. Dry food is more affordable and has a longer shelf life, but it can be harder to digest. Semi-moist food is a good compromise between wet and dry food, but it can be harder to find.

After extensive research and testing, we’ve identified the best dog food options for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Our top picks include brands like Blue Buffalo, Hill’s Science Diet, and Purina Pro Plan. These foods are made with high-quality ingredients, are easy to digest, and are free from common allergens. Plus, they’re available in a variety of different types and flavors to suit your dog’s preferences.

Choosing the right dog food for your pup with a sensitive stomach can be a daunting task, but with our top picks, you can feel confident that you’re making the right choice.

Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach

We understand how difficult it can be to find the perfect dog food for your furry friend with a sensitive stomach. That’s why we’ve scoured the market to bring you the best options available. Our team of experts has analyzed the ingredients, nutritional value, and customer reviews to create a comprehensive list of the top dog foods for sensitive stomachs. Whether your dog has a food allergy or simply struggles with digestion, we have a solution for you. Check out our top picks below.

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

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for adult dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. The prebiotic fiber in this dog food promotes digestive health while nourishing skin, and it is formulated to be highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick up.

Pros

• Promotes digestive health while nourishing skin
• Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick up
• Packed with vitamin E and omega 6 fatty acids to help your grown dog get a lustrous coat and healthy skin

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• May be too expensive for some pet owners
• Not suitable for puppies or dogs with severe digestive issues

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for our adult dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin, and it has been a game changer for us. Our dogs love the taste, and we have noticed a significant improvement in their digestive health and skin condition.

The prebiotic fiber in this dog food supports a balanced gut microbiome in grown dogs, and the natural ingredients provide an excellent source of vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and help maintain a healthy, shiny coat.

We also appreciate that this dog food is formulated with decades of cutting-edge research and is backed by animal feeding tests using AAFCO procedures to provide complete and balanced nutrition for maintenance of adult dogs.

In conclusion, if you are looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes skin, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs and Skin.

Purina One Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food Natural with Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients – 31.1 lb. Bag Digestive Health Chicken 31.1 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dry dog food that’s easy on your furry friend’s stomach, Purina One Plus Digestive Health Formula is worth considering.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real chicken, which provides a good source of protein for your dog’s muscles.
• The formula is highly digestible and enriched with probiotics to support digestive wellness, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• The blend of four antioxidants, including vitamins E and A, plus the minerals zinc and selenium help support immune health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this food.
• The kibble size may be too large for some smaller dogs.
• The bag is quite large and may be difficult to store if you have limited space.

We’ve been using Purina One Plus Digestive Health Formula for our dog with a sensitive stomach for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his digestion. The kibble is a good size for our medium-sized dog, and he seems to enjoy the taste. We appreciate that the formula includes real chicken as the first ingredient and is free of artificial flavors and preservatives.

One thing to note is that the bag is quite large, so if you have limited space for storing dog food, you may need to transfer it to a smaller container. Additionally, some dogs may not enjoy the taste of this food, so it’s worth keeping that in mind if you’re considering it for your furry friend.

Overall, we recommend Purina One Plus Digestive Health Formula for dogs with sensitive stomachs who need a highly digestible, nutritious food.

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

If you’re looking for a dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes your dog’s skin, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Small Bites Dog Food may be the right choice for you.

Pros

• This dog food is specially formulated for optimal digestive health, using prebiotic fiber to fuel gut bacteria and support a balanced microbiome.
• The smaller kibble size promotes digestive health while nourishing skin, with vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and other nutrients that help maintain a healthy, shiny coat.
• Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Small Bites Dog Food is packed with natural ingredients, added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, and is highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick-up.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, and it may take some time to transition to it.
• This dog food may be more expensive than other brands, but it is worth the investment for the quality of ingredients and benefits it provides.
• This dog food is formulated for small breeds, so it may not be suitable for larger dogs.

We recently switched to Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Small Bites Dog Food for our dog with a sensitive stomach and skin issues. We noticed a significant improvement in his digestion and overall health after just a few weeks of use. The smaller kibble size is perfect for his small breed, and he loves the taste of the chicken and barley recipe.

The natural ingredients and added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids give us peace of mind that we are providing our dog with the best possible nutrition. The only downside is that it is more expensive than other brands, but we believe it is worth the investment for the quality and benefits it provides.

Overall, if you’re looking for a dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes your dog’s skin, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Small Bites Dog Food.

IAMS Proactive Health Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken and Whole Grains, 30 lb. Bag

If you are looking for a dog food that is complete and balanced for adult dogs with 0% fillers, then IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food is a good option to consider.

Pros

• The smaller kibble size is perfect for dogs with smaller mouths and makes mealtime more enjoyable.
• The recipe is made with real chicken as the first ingredient and includes 7 essential nutrients to support a healthy heart.
• Enriched with antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food.
• The bag is quite large, which may be difficult to store for some people.
• The price may be higher than other dog food options on the market.

We have been using IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for a while now, and we have noticed that our dog’s coat is softer and shinier. The smaller kibble size is perfect for our dog, who has a smaller mouth, and she seems to enjoy the taste of the food. We appreciate that the recipe includes 7 essential nutrients to support a healthy heart and is enriched with antioxidants to help maintain a strong immune system.

While the bag is quite large, we have found that it lasts a long time, which is a plus. However, the price may be higher than other dog food options on the market, which may be a consideration for some people. Overall, we recommend IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Minichunks Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs who need a complete and balanced diet.

Purina ONE Dry Dog Food Lamb and Rice Formula – 31.1 lb. Bag

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help with your furry friend’s sensitive stomach, Purina ONE’s Natural Lamb and Rice Formula could be a great choice.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real lamb, which provides a good source of protein to help support strong muscles.
• The formula includes prebiotic fiber, which can help maintain your dog’s gut health and provide immune support.
• The kibble is made with natural sources of glucosamine, vitamins A and E, and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help support joint health, bright eyes, and a shiny coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of lamb.
• The kibble may be too hard for some dogs to chew.
• The formula may not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies.

We’ve been using Purina ONE’s Natural Lamb and Rice Formula for a while now, and we’ve been impressed with the results. Our dog has a sensitive stomach, but this food hasn’t caused any issues. The kibble is a good size and shape, and our dog seems to enjoy the taste. We’ve also noticed that her coat looks shinier and healthier since we started using this food.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of lamb. If your dog is a picky eater, you may want to try a small bag of this food before committing to a larger size. Additionally, some dogs may have trouble chewing the kibble if they have dental issues or are elderly. In these cases, you may want to consider a softer food.

Overall, we think Purina ONE’s Natural Lamb and Rice Formula is a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The high-quality ingredients and added vitamins and minerals make it a nutritious option, and the prebiotic fiber can help support your dog’s gut health. If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that can help keep your furry friend healthy and happy, we’d definitely recommend giving this one a try.

IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food for Small Dogs with Real Chicken

If you’re looking for a dog food that caters to your small breed dog’s nutritional needs, IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken might be a great option.

Pros

• First ingredient is real, farm-raised chicken
• Promotes skin and coat health with omega-6 fatty acids
• Specially formulated toy breed dog food meets the specific wellness and nutritional needs of adult small breed dogs

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Contains some fillers like corn and wheat
• Not suitable for dogs with severe food allergies

We recently tried IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for our small breed dog and were impressed with the results. The first thing we noticed was the high-quality ingredients, with real chicken being the first ingredient. Our dog seemed to love the taste and had no trouble digesting the food.

One of the things we appreciated about this dog food was its focus on skin and coat health. The omega-6 fatty acids in the formula helped keep our dog’s coat shiny and healthy-looking. We also noticed that our dog had more energy and seemed to be more active after switching to this food.

While we were happy with the results, we did notice that the food contains some fillers like corn and wheat. This may not be an issue for some dogs, but those with food sensitivities may need to avoid this food. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction when introducing this food.

Overall, we would recommend IAMS Small -amp; Toy Breed Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken for small breed dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritionally balanced food that promotes skin and coat health.

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 is specifically formulated for small and toy breed dogs with sensitive stomachs, then Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• This dog food uses prebiotic fiber to feed your small dog’s microbiome for optimal digestive health.
• The smaller kibble size is perfect for small and toy breed dogs.
• Made with natural ingredients, this dog food is formulated with decades of cutting-edge research to provide optimal digestive health while nourishing your dog’s skin.

Cons

• This dog food is not recommended for puppies, pregnant, or nursing dogs.
• The price may be higher compared to other dog foods in the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for our small dog with a sensitive stomach, and we were impressed with the results. Our dog’s digestive health improved significantly, and we noticed a visible improvement in her skin and coat.

The prebiotic fiber in the dog food helped feed our dog’s microbiome, which led to optimal digestive health. The small kibble size was perfect for our small dog, and she loved the taste of the chicken recipe.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small and toy breed dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s made with natural ingredients, formulated with decades of cutting-edge research, and provides optimal digestive health while nourishing your dog’s skin.

Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Digestion Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a premium dog food that promotes regularity and healthy stools, Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Digestion dry dog food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Supports ultimate digestive well-being and a healthy microbiome
• Contains ActivBiome Technology, an exclusive blend of prebiotics
• High quality chicken is the ingredient

Cons

• Relatively expensive compared to other dog foods
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Small bag size may not be cost-effective for larger dogs

We recently tried this dog food with our own furry friend and were impressed with the results. Our dog’s digestive system seemed to be working better and we noticed a significant improvement in the quality of his stools.

The high quality chicken ingredient is a plus, as it provides a good source of protein for our dog. Additionally, the ActivBiome Technology in the food helps to balance the microbiome in our dog’s gut, which is important for overall health.

However, the price of this dog food is relatively high compared to other brands on the market. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the food, so it may take some time to transition them to this new diet. Lastly, the small bag size may not be cost-effective for larger dogs or those who eat a lot.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Digestion dry dog food for those looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health. While it may be more expensive than other brands, the benefits are worth it for our furry companions.

Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food, Adult, Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin, Chicken Recipe, 30 lb. Bag Chicken -amp; Barley 3.75 Gallon (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that promotes digestive health and nourishes your dog’s skin, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is a fantastic choice. We highly recommend it for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin issues.

Pros

• Promotes digestive health while nourishing skin
• Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick-up
• Packed with vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to help your grown dog get a lustrous coat and healthy skin

Cons

• Some dogs may not enjoy the taste
• A bit pricier than other options
• May not work for dogs with severe digestive issues

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for our dog with sensitive stomach issues for a few months now, and we’ve seen a noticeable improvement in his digestion and overall health. The food is packed with prebiotic fiber to support a balanced gut microbiome, which has helped to reduce his stomach issues and improve his digestion.

One of the things we love about Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is that it’s highly digestible, which means that our dog is able to absorb more nutrients from his food and produce fewer stools. This makes it easier to clean up after him and reduces the risk of accidents in the house.

We’ve also noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s coat and skin since we started using this food. The vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids in the food have helped to make his coat shinier and his skin healthier, which is a great bonus.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin issues. It’s a bit pricier than some other options, but we think it’s worth the investment for the health benefits it provides.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This highly digestible formula is made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient, and contains clinically proven prebiotic fiber to support a healthy gut.

Pros

• Made with real high-quality chicken as the #1 ingredient
• Clinically proven prebiotic fiber to support digestive health
• Exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits for immune system support

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog food brands
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• May not be suitable for dogs with severe digestive issues

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Adult Dry Dog Food is a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. We found that our dog loved the taste of real chicken and whole grains, and we appreciated that it’s gentle on the stomach. We also liked that it does not contain any chicken (or poultry) by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than some other brands. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and clinically proven prebiotic fiber make it worth the investment. Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s made with healthy, wholesome ingredients and is designed to help maintain stool quality and digestive health.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for sensitive stomachs, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Ingredients

The first thing to look at when choosing a dog food for sensitive stomachs is the ingredients. Make sure to choose a product that is made from high-quality, easily digestible ingredients, and avoid those that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and additives. Some common ingredients to avoid include corn, wheat, soy, and by-products.

Protein Source

The protein source is another important consideration. Look for a product that contains a high-quality protein source, such as chicken, turkey, or fish. Avoid products that contain low-quality protein sources, such as meat by-products or plant-based proteins.

Nutritional Value

Make sure to choose a product that provides a balanced and complete nutritional profile for your dog. Look for a product that contains all of the essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that your dog needs to stay healthy and strong.

Special Formulations

There are many dog food products on the market that are specifically formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These products may contain special ingredients that help to soothe and calm the digestive system. Look for products that are labeled as “sensitive stomach” or “digestive health” formulas.

Feeding Guidelines

Make sure to follow the feeding guidelines provided on the product packaging. Overfeeding can lead to digestive upset and other health problems. It’s also important to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their feeding as needed to maintain a healthy weight.

By keeping these key features in mind, you can choose the best dog food for your sensitive-stomached pup.

Frequently Asked Questions

What ingredients should I look for in dog food for sensitive stomachs?

When selecting dog food for a sensitive stomach, it is important to look for easily digestible ingredients. Some ingredients to consider include high-quality proteins like chicken, turkey, or fish, and easily digestible carbohydrates like rice or sweet potatoes. Avoid ingredients that are known to cause digestive issues, such as soy, corn, and wheat.

How can I tell if my dog’s food is causing stomach sensitivity?

If your dog is experiencing stomach sensitivity, they may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, or a lack of appetite. It is important to consult with your veterinarian if you suspect your dog is experiencing digestive issues.

Are there specific brands recommended for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

There are several brands that offer dog food specifically formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Some popular options include Hill’s Science Diet, Blue Buffalo, and Purina Pro Plan. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best option for your individual dog.

What is the role of grain-free diets in managing sensitive stomachs in dogs?

Grain-free diets have become increasingly popular in recent years, but there is limited scientific evidence to support their use in managing sensitive stomachs in dogs. In fact, some studies suggest that grain-free diets may actually increase the risk of heart disease in dogs. It is important to consult with your veterinarian before making any dietary changes for your dog.

How often should I feed my dog if they have a sensitive stomach?

It is generally recommended to feed dogs with sensitive stomachs smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This can help to prevent digestive upset and promote better digestion. Your veterinarian can provide specific recommendations based on your dog’s individual needs.

Can homemade diets be suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Homemade diets can be a suitable option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, but it is important to ensure that the diet is nutritionally balanced and meets your dog’s individual needs. It is recommended to consult with a veterinary nutritionist to develop a homemade diet plan for your dog.