Best Dog Food for Dogs with Digestive Issues: Top Picks and Expert Advice

Dogs are known for their love of food, but for some dogs, mealtime can be a struggle. Dogs with digestive issues often have trouble digesting certain ingredients, which can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Fortunately, there are dog foods specifically designed to help dogs with digestive issues.

The best dog food for dogs with digestive issues should be easy to digest and free from ingredients that can trigger digestive upset. In addition, it should be packed with nutrients to support your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. When shopping for dog food for dogs with digestive issues, it’s important to pay attention to the ingredients list and look for foods that are labeled as “digestive care” or “sensitive stomach.”

One critical thing to pay attention to when choosing a dog food for dogs with digestive issues is the type of protein used. Some dogs are sensitive to certain types of protein, such as chicken or beef, and may require a food with a novel protein source like duck or fish. Additionally, it’s important to choose a food that is high in fiber to support healthy digestion.

At our testing facility, we spent hours researching and testing various dog foods to identify the best options for dogs with digestive issues. In the next section, we’ll share our top picks and explain why we think they’re the best choices for your furry friend.

Best Dog Food for Dogs with Digestive Issues

We understand that finding the right dog food for your furry friend can be a daunting task, especially if they have digestive issues. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog foods that are specially formulated to support digestive health. Our team of experts has researched and tested these products to ensure they meet our high standards. Below, you’ll find our top picks for the best dog food for dogs with digestive issues.

Purina ONE Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food Natural with Added Vitamins, Minerals and Nutrients – 16.5 lb. Bag Digestive Health Chicken 16.5 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a dog food that will help your furry friend with digestive issues, then Purina ONE Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food is a great option. We highly recommend this product because of its many benefits.

Pros

• Highly digestible formula enriched with probiotics for digestive support
• Real chicken is the first ingredient, and it includes natural glucosamine sources for joint health
• Contains a SmartBlend of purposeful ingredients and no artificial flavors or preservatives and zero fillers

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food
• The kibble is a bit larger than other dog foods
• May not be suitable for dogs with severe digestive issues

We’ve tried many different dog foods for our furry friends, and we can confidently say that Purina ONE Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food is one of the best. The highly digestible formula enriched with probiotics is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and the real chicken as the first ingredient ensures your dog gets the necessary protein to support their muscles.

We also love that this dog food contains a SmartBlend of purposeful ingredients and no artificial flavors or preservatives and zero fillers. This means that your dog is getting a natural and healthy dog food that will keep them feeling great.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of this food. However, we found that most dogs love the blend of crunchy kibble and meaty morsels. Additionally, the kibble is a bit larger than other dog foods, so it may not be suitable for dogs with smaller mouths.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food for dogs with digestive issues. It’s a great option for anyone looking to give their furry friend a healthy and nutritious dog food that will keep them feeling great.

Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that can help settle digestive upsets in your furry friend, Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Pros

• Specially formulated by Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians to support your dog’s digestive health
• Clinically proven to activate the gut microbiome and help settle digestive upsets
• Highly digestible formula to support easy nutrient absorption

Cons

• Higher price point than some other dog food options
• Only available with a prescription from a veterinarian
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the small kibble

We’ve been using Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food for our dog with digestive issues for several months now and have seen a noticeable improvement in his overall digestive health. The small kibble is easy for him to chew and digest, and the high digestibility of the formula ensures that he’s getting all the nutrients he needs.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the proprietary ActivBiome ingredient technology, which has been shown to rapidly activate beneficial gut bacteria and support a healthy GI microbiome balance. Additionally, the unique blend of prebiotic fibers promotes regular bowel movements and helps balance digestive function.

While the higher price point may be a drawback for some pet owners, we believe that the benefits of this dog food outweigh the cost. Plus, the fact that it’s only available with a prescription from a veterinarian ensures that your furry friend is getting the best possible care and nutrition.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d Digestive Care Chicken Flavor Dry Dog Food for dogs with digestive issues.

Wellness CORE Digestive Health Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that supports your furry friend’s digestive health, Wellness CORE Digestive Health Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Dry Dog Food may be a great option.

Pros

• The highly digestible kibble is coated with probiotics and made with digestive enzymes, prebiotic fibers, and guaranteed levels of probiotics to support gut health for overall well-being and vitality.
• The high-quality protein from chicken and wholesome grains from brown rice help optimize nutrient absorption and support high digestibility, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• This dog food supports immune health and a healthy microbiome, which is essential to ensure your pet’s immune system functions at its best. It also helps protect against excessive inflammation or itchy skin, ensuring a healthy coat.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too large for smaller dogs.
• The price point may be higher compared to other dog food brands.
• A few customers have reported that their dogs did not like the taste of this dog food.

We recently tried this dog food with our furry friend who has a sensitive stomach, and we were pleased with the results. The kibble is easy to digest and has helped improve our dog’s overall well-being. We also noticed an improvement in our dog’s coat, which is now lustrous and soft.

The Wellness CORE Digestive Health Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Dry Dog Food is made in the USA using only the finest globally sourced ingredients, and each recipe is crafted with wholesome, non-GMO ingredients chosen for their nutritional benefits. The recipe is also suitable for all breed sizes, making it a great option for pet parents with multiple dogs.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wellness CORE Digestive Health Chicken -amp; Brown Rice Dry Dog Food for pet parents looking for a dog food that supports their furry friend’s digestive health.

Purina ONE Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that caters to your furry friend’s digestive issues, Purina ONE Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• The first ingredient is real chicken, which is a great source of protein for your dog’s muscles.
• The high-quality ingredients are enriched with probiotics that support your dog’s digestive wellness.
• The formula contains omega-6 fatty acids that help nourish your dog’s skin and coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of the kibble.
• The bag may be too large for some pet owners to store.
• The price point may be higher than other dog foods on the market.

We’ve been using Purina ONE Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food for our dog with digestive issues, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in his overall health. The kibble is highly digestible, and the added probiotics have helped regulate his digestive system.

One of the things we appreciate about this dog food is that it contains no artificial flavors or preservatives and no fillers. We also love that it includes a SmartBlend of purposeful ingredients that support our dog’s immune health.

The kibble is also great for our dog’s teeth and gums, thanks to the calcium content. Plus, the formula is complete and balanced, so we know our dog is getting all the nutrients he needs.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food for pet owners looking for a high-quality dog food that supports their dog’s digestive health.

Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a dog food that supports digestive health and overall wellbeing, Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Dog Food might be the answer. We used it for our dog with digestive issues and were pleased with the results.

Pros

• Highly digestible, probiotic-coated kibble with digestive enzymes, prebiotic fibers, and guaranteed levels of probiotics support gut health for overall wellbeing and vitality.
• High-quality protein from chicken and wholesome grains from brown rice help optimize nutrient absorption and support high digestibility, making it an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• The inclusion of protein and omega fatty acids in the kibble ensures your dog’s coat stays lustrous and soft, and the microbiome in a healthy balance helps protect against excessive inflammation or itchy skin.

Cons

• It’s a bit pricey compared to other dog foods on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble.
• The 4-pound bag may not last long if you have a larger dog.

We noticed that our dog’s digestive issues improved after switching to this dog food. She had fewer bouts of diarrhea and vomiting, and her coat looked healthier and shinier. The kibble is small and easy to digest, even for small dogs. However, it may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies or those who prefer wet food.

Overall, we recommend Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Dog Food for dogs with digestive issues or those who need a high-quality dog food that supports overall wellbeing.

Halo Holistic Plant-Based Recipe With Superfoods, Complete Digestive Health, Vegan Dry Dog Food Bag, Adult Formula, 21-lb Bag Plant-Based with Superfoods 21 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you are looking for a plant-based dry dog food that is not only nutritious but also supports digestive health, then Halo Holistic Vegan Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods is the perfect choice for you and your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, non-GMO ingredients
• Includes prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics for complete digestive health
• Optimal balance of omega fatty acids for healthy skin and coat

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of a plant-based diet
• May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
• More expensive than some other dog foods on the market

We have been using Halo Holistic Vegan Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods for a few months now and have noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestive health. The prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics in the formula have helped regulate his digestive system, and he no longer experiences any bloating or discomfort after meals.

The high-quality ingredients used in the formula have also improved our dog’s overall health and well-being. His coat is shinier and healthier-looking, and he has more energy throughout the day.

While the plant-based diet may not be suitable for all dogs, we have found that our furry friend enjoys the taste and eagerly awaits mealtime. Additionally, we appreciate that the product is made with non-GMO ingredients and does not contain any artificial flavors, preservatives, or colors.

Overall, we highly recommend Halo Holistic Vegan Plant-Based Recipe with Superfoods for dog owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious, and digestive-friendly dog food option.

ACANA Grain Free Dry Dog Food, Free-Run Poultry Dog Food Recipe, 4.5lb Grain Free Kibble Free-Run Poultry 72 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is grain-free and well-balanced, ACANA Grain Free Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice. It is made with free-run chicken, turkey, and cage-free eggs, providing a balanced 60% premium animal ingredients and 40% vegetables, fruits, and nutrients to help your dog thrive.

Pros

• High-quality ingredients
• Grain-free
• Contains added Vitamin E to support a healthy immune system and naturally occurring Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Cons

• Expensive
• May not be suitable for dogs with allergies to chicken or turkey
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We’ve been using this dog food, specifically the Chicken Turkey and Egg mixture, for about 4 years, for our two twin Labradoodle girls. We switched from Fromm after one developed an allergic reaction. We’ve been very happy with the results. Our dogs’ coats are shiny, and they have plenty of energy.

One of the things we love about ACANA Grain Free Dry Dog Food is that it is made with high-quality ingredients. We feel good knowing that we’re feeding our dogs food that is made with free-run chicken, turkey, and cage-free eggs.

Another thing we appreciate about this dog food is that it is grain-free. We believe that dogs should not be eating grains, and we’re glad that ACANA agrees with us.

Finally, we like that this dog food contains added Vitamin E to support a healthy immune system and naturally occurring Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids to support healthy skin and a shiny coat. We’ve noticed that our dogs’ coats are shinier and healthier since we switched to this food.

Overall, we highly recommend ACANA Grain Free Dry Dog Food for dogs with digestive issues. It is a bit expensive, but we believe it is worth the price for the high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition it provides.

OPtimeal Puppy Dog Food – Lamb -amp; Rice

We highly recommend the OPtimeal Puppy Dog Food for small and toy breed puppies with digestive issues. This dry recipe is packed with high-quality animal protein and natural fibers, making it a healthy and wholesome option for your tiny pup.

Pros

• Fresh lamb is the first ingredient, providing your dog with highly digestible quality protein and a taste that can’t be beat.
• Supports muscle and bone development in toy breeds with optimal levels of calcium and phosphorus.
• Contains a blend of soluble and insoluble fibers combined with prebiotics from dried chicory root and FOS to support a healthy digestive system.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the kibble size is too small and causes choking problems.
• The packaging could be sturdier and more secure.
• The price point is higher than some other dog food brands.

OPtimeal Puppy Dog Food is an excellent choice for small breed puppies with digestive issues. The fresh lamb content and natural fibers and prebiotics help support a healthy digestive system, while the high-quality animal protein promotes healthy growth and development. Additionally, the Omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, Zinc, and Copper help maintain optimal skin health and a shiny coat.

We appreciate that the product is proudly Ukrainian and that it contains only clean, minimal ingredients. The feeding guidelines are also helpful, providing clear instructions on how to gradually introduce the food to your puppy’s diet.

Overall, we believe that the OPtimeal Puppy Dog Food is a solid option for pet owners looking for a high-quality, nutritious food for their small breed puppies with digestive issues.

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Natural Digestive Care Adult Dry Dog Food

We highly recommend Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Natural Digestive Care Adult Dry Dog Food for dogs with digestive issues. This dog food is formulated with highly digestible ingredients, including a prebiotic fiber that is clinically proven to support digestive health.

Pros

• Highly digestible ingredients
• Natural ingredients recommended by veterinarians
• Contains prebiotic fiber that supports digestive health

Cons

• Expensive compared to other dog foods
• Contains chicken, which may not be suitable for dogs with chicken allergies
• Some customers reported that their dogs did not like the taste

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Natural Digestive Care Adult Dry Dog Food is made with wholesome ingredients, including real chicken, fruits, vegetables, and fiber sources that are gentle on the digestive system. It is free from chicken (or poultry) by-product meals and contains no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. This dog food is also enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, including antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits.

If you want to help manage your dog’s digestive health naturally, this dog food is an excellent choice. It is formulated by a team of veterinarians and animal nutritionists and is recommended by many pet owners. However, it is more expensive than other dog foods, and some customers reported that their dogs did not like the taste.

Overall, Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Natural Digestive Care Adult Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice for dogs with digestive issues. It is highly digestible, contains natural ingredients, and is clinically proven to support digestive health.

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

We highly recommend Hill’s Pet Nutrition Science Diet Dry Dog Food for dogs with digestive issues. This product is specially formulated to support optimal digestive health while nourishing the skin and coat of your furry friend.

Pros

• Promotes digestive health while nourishing skin
• Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption -amp; easier stool pick up
• Made with natural ingredients

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with poultry allergies
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Pricier than other dog food brands

Our experience with Hill’s Pet Nutrition Science Diet Dry Dog Food has been nothing but positive. Our dog has a sensitive stomach and this dog food has helped her maintain a healthy digestive system. We appreciate that it’s made with natural ingredients and is highly digestible, making it easier for our dog to absorb nutrients and have regular bowel movements.

One of the standout features of this dog food is its prebiotic fiber, which helps support a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog. Additionally, it’s packed with vitamin E and omega 6 fatty acids to help your dog get a lustrous coat and healthy skin.

While this dog food may be pricier than other brands, we believe it’s worth the investment for the health benefits it provides. However, it’s important to note that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with poultry allergies and some dogs may not like the taste.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food for dogs with digestive issues, Hill’s Pet Nutrition Science Diet Dry Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Buying Guide

When choosing the best dog food for dogs with digestive issues, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for when selecting a product:

Ingredients

Check the ingredients list carefully to ensure that the food is made with high-quality, easily digestible ingredients. Avoid foods that contain fillers, by-products, and artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Look for foods that are made with real meat, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the food provides complete and balanced nutrition for your dog. Look for foods that meet the AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for dog food. These standards ensure that the food contains the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals.

Digestibility

Choose a food that is easy for your dog to digest. Look for foods that are labeled as “easy to digest” or “digestive care.” These foods are formulated with ingredients that are gentle on the digestive system, such as rice, chicken, and probiotics.

Special Formulas

Consider special formulas that are designed for dogs with specific digestive issues, such as sensitive stomachs, food allergies, or inflammatory bowel disease. These formulas are often made with novel proteins and carbohydrates that are less likely to cause allergic reactions or digestive upset.

Feeding Schedule

Finally, consider the feeding schedule that works best for your dog. Some dogs do better with smaller, more frequent meals, while others do well with one or two larger meals per day. Talk to your veterinarian about the best feeding schedule for your dog’s specific needs.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best dog food for your furry friend with digestive issues. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top recommended dog foods for sensitive stomachs and diarrhea?

There are several dog foods that are recommended for dogs with sensitive stomachs and diarrhea. Some of the top recommended brands include Royal Canin Gastrointestinal, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin, and Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach. These brands are specially formulated to provide complete and balanced nutrition while being gentle on the digestive system.

How can homemade diets benefit dogs with gastrointestinal problems?

Homemade diets can be beneficial for dogs with gastrointestinal problems because they allow you to control the ingredients and avoid potential allergens. However, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist to ensure that the homemade diet is nutritionally balanced and meets the specific needs of your dog.

Which dry dog foods are considered best for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Some of the best dry dog foods for dogs with sensitive stomachs include Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet, Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet, and Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet. These brands use high-quality, easily digestible ingredients and avoid common allergens.

Are there specific dog foods that help with vomiting due to digestive issues?

Yes, there are several dog foods that can help with vomiting due to digestive issues. Some of the top recommended brands include Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach, and Royal Canin Gastrointestinal. These brands are formulated to be gentle on the digestive system and promote healthy digestion.

What should I feed my senior dog with a sensitive stomach?

Senior dogs with sensitive stomachs may benefit from a senior-specific dog food that is formulated to be gentle on the digestive system. Some of the top recommended brands for senior dogs with sensitive stomachs include Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7 Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Blue Buffalo Life Protection Senior, and Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7 .

Does the type of food (wet or dry) affect a dog’s digestive health?

The type of food (wet or dry) does not necessarily affect a dog’s digestive health. However, some dogs may prefer one type of food over the other, and wet food may be easier for some dogs to digest. It is important to choose a high-quality, easily digestible food that meets the specific needs of your dog, regardless of whether it is wet or dry.