Best Dog Foods for Sensitive Stomachs: A Comprehensive Guide

Dogs are known for their love of food, but for some, eating can be a painful experience. Dogs with sensitive stomachs can suffer from a variety of symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and gas. To help alleviate these symptoms, many pet food companies have developed specialized dog food formulas that are gentle on the stomach.

When it comes to choosing the best dog food for sensitive stomachs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to look for high-quality ingredients that are easy to digest. This can include things like lean proteins, whole grains, and vegetables.

Another key factor to consider is the presence of common allergens like wheat, soy, and corn. Many dogs with sensitive stomachs also have food allergies, so it’s important to choose a formula that is free from these ingredients.

Lastly, it’s important to look for a formula that is specifically designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These formulas often contain added probiotics and other digestive aids to help promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of gastrointestinal upset.

With so many options on the market, choosing the best dog food for sensitive stomachs can be a daunting task. In the following sections, we’ll take a closer look at some of the top options available to help make your decision a little easier.

Best Dog Foods for Sensitive Stomachs

We understand that finding the right dog food for your furry friend with a sensitive stomach can be a daunting task. That’s why we’ve researched and compiled a list of the best dog foods for sensitive stomachs. Our list includes a variety of options, including grain-free and limited ingredient diets, to help you find the perfect match for your pup. Read on to discover our top picks for the best dog foods for sensitive stomachs.

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 while nourishing skin, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food fuels gut bacteria and supports a balanced microbiome, promoting optimal digestive health.
• Vitamin E, omega-6 fatty acids, and other nutrients nourish skin and promote a lustrous coat.
• This dog food is highly digestible, making it easier for your dog to absorb nutrients and pick up stools.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• The kibble size may be too small for larger breeds.
• This dog food may be more expensive than other options.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food for our dog with a sensitive stomach, and have been very happy with the results. The prebiotic fiber has helped regulate her digestion, and her coat looks shiny and healthy.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it’s worth trying a small bag first to see if your dog enjoys it. Additionally, the kibble size may be too small for larger breeds, so if you have a big dog, you may want to consider a different option.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin, Small Bites Dry Dog Food for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. It’s a bit more expensive than some other options, but the quality ingredients and digestive benefits make it worth the investment.

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

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

Pros

• This dog food is highly digestible, which means optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick up.
• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food supports a balanced gut microbiome in your grown dog.
• Packed with vitamin E and omega 6 fatty acids, this dog food nourishes your dog’s skin and helps maintain a healthy, shiny coat.

Cons

• The kibble size may not be suitable for small dogs.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with severe digestive issues.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for our dog with a sensitive stomach and skin, and we have seen a significant improvement in his overall health. The kibble is easy to digest, and our dog loves the taste. Plus, his coat is looking shinier and healthier than ever before.

One thing to keep in mind is that the kibble size may be too large for small dogs. Additionally, if your dog has severe digestive issues, this dog food may not be the best option for them. However, for most dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is a great choice.

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

Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Adult Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that’s gentle on your furry friend’s stomach, then Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Adult Dry Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

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

Cons

• Contains blueberries which some dogs may be sensitive to
• May not be as palatable for picky eaters
• Slightly more expensive than some other brands

We’ve been feeding our dog Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Adult Dry Dog Food for a few weeks now and have noticed a significant improvement in his digestion. He used to have loose stools and occasional vomiting, but since switching to this food, he’s been much more regular and hasn’t had any stomach issues.

One thing we really like about this dog food is that it’s made with real chicken as the #1 ingredient. We feel good about feeding our dog high-quality protein sources like this. Additionally, the clinically proven prebiotic fiber helps to support his digestive health and maintain stool quality.

Another great feature of this dog food is the exclusive antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits. These help to support our dog’s immune system and overall health. We appreciate that Blue Buffalo includes these in their recipes.

While there are a few cons to consider, such as the presence of blueberries which some dogs may be sensitive to, we feel that the benefits of this dog food far outweigh any potential drawbacks. If you’re looking for a dog food that’s gentle on your dog’s stomach and made with high-quality ingredients, then Blue Buffalo True Solutions Blissful Belly Adult Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

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

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

Pros

• Promotes digestive health with prebiotic fiber
• Nourishes skin with vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids
• Highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick up

Cons

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

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for our dog for the past few months and have noticed a significant improvement in his digestive health and skin condition. The prebiotic fiber helps maintain a balanced gut microbiome, while the vitamin E and Omega 6 fatty acids keep his coat shiny and healthy.

One thing we appreciate about this dog food is that it’s highly digestible, which means our dog can absorb more nutrients and we have an easier time picking up after him. However, we do want to note that if your dog has severe digestive issues, this may not be the best option for them.

While our dog seems to enjoy the taste of this dog food, we have heard from other dog owners that their dogs don’t like it as much. It’s important to note that every dog is different, so it’s worth giving this dog food a try to see if your dog likes it.

Overall, we believe that Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin issues. While it may be more expensive than some other dog food brands, we believe it’s worth the investment for the health and well-being of our furry friend.

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

If you’re looking for a dog food that is specially formulated for optimal digestive health, Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food is worth considering.

Pros

• This dog food promotes digestive health while nourishing skin.
• It’s formulated to be highly digestible for optimal nutrient absorption and easier stool pick up.
• Made with natural ingredients, it provides an excellent source of vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to nourish your dog’s skin and maintain a healthy, shiny coat.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food.
• It’s a bit more expensive than other dog foods.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs.

We’ve been using Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Adult Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve noticed a significant improvement in our dog’s digestive health. He used to have frequent bouts of diarrhea, but since we switched to this dog food, his stools have become firmer and more regular.

We also appreciate that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and provides essential nutrients for our dog’s overall health. Plus, the kibble size is perfect for our medium-sized dog, and he seems to enjoy the taste.

However, we have noticed that some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, so it may not be suitable for picky eaters. Additionally, it’s a bit more expensive than other dog foods, so it may not fit everyone’s budget. Lastly, the kibble size may not be suitable for smaller dogs, so keep that in mind if you have a toy breed.

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

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 and skin, Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The prebiotic fiber in this dog food helps to feed your small dog’s microbiome, promoting optimal digestive health.
• The smaller kibble size, along with the vitamin E, omega 6 fatty acids, and other nutrients, helps to nourish your dog’s skin and promote a lustrous coat.
• This dog food is made with natural ingredients and is formulated with decades of cutting edge research to be a great tasting dog food that small dogs can truly enjoy.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste of this dog food, as with any dog food.
• This dog food may not be suitable for puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs.
• Some users may find this dog food to be a bit pricey compared to other dog foods.

We highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Dry Dog Food for small and toy breed dogs with sensitive stomachs and skin. This dog food is formulated with little dogs in mind to provide an optimal balance of nutrients specifically for miniature and toy breed dogs. The precise balance and highly digestible ingredients make this dog food a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The natural ingredients in this dog food make it a healthy and nutritious option for your furry friend.

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’re looking for a limited-ingredient dog food that’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Potato is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The single animal protein source, deboned salmon, is gentle on the stomach and easy to digest.
• The limited-ingredient recipe doesn’t contain any chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs, making it perfect for dogs with food sensitivities.
• The precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals supports immune system health, life stage needs, and a healthy oxidative balance.

Cons

• The price point is higher than some other dog food options on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the salmon flavor.
• The kibble size may not be suitable for very small dogs.

We recently tried Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Potato for our dog who has a sensitive stomach. We were impressed with the single animal protein source, deboned salmon, which was gentle on our dog’s stomach and easy to digest. We also appreciated that the recipe didn’t contain any chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs, which can be common allergens for dogs with food sensitivities.

Our dog seemed to really enjoy the taste of the salmon flavor, and we noticed that her coat looked shinier and healthier after eating this food for a few weeks. We also liked that the precise blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals supported our dog’s immune system health and life stage needs.

The only downside we found was that the price point for this dog food was higher than some other options on the market. Additionally, the kibble size may not be suitable for very small dogs. However, overall we were very happy with our experience using Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food, Salmon -amp; Potato and would recommend it to others looking for a high-quality, limited-ingredient dog food for their furry friend.

Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care, Natural Adult Small Breed Dry Dog Food, Turkey -amp; Potato 11-lb

If you’re looking for a natural, limited-ingredient dog food that supports gentle digestion, Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care is a great option for your furry friend.

Pros

• Made with a single animal protein source (real turkey), potatoes, peas, and pumpkin to support gentle digestion
• Does not contain chicken, beef, corn, wheat, soy, dairy, or eggs, making it a good option for dogs with food sensitivities
• Contains antioxidant-rich LifeSource Bits, a precise blend of vitamins and minerals to support immune system health and life stage needs

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the small bite kibble
• May not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies
• More expensive than some other dog food options

We’ve been using Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care for our small breed dog with a sensitive stomach for several months now and have noticed a significant improvement in his digestion. The small bite kibble is easy for him to eat and he seems to enjoy the taste. We appreciate that it doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or preservatives and is made with high-quality, natural ingredients.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we believe that the quality of the ingredients and the benefits to our dog’s health are worth the extra cost. Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Basics Skin -amp; Stomach Care for small breed dogs with sensitive stomachs.

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

If you’re looking for a highly digestible dog food that is gentle on your dog’s stomach and nourishing for their skin and coat, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• With prebiotic fiber to support a balanced microbiome
• Made with natural ingredients and added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids
• Excellent source of vitamin E and Omega-6 fatty acids to nourish skin and maintain a healthy, shiny coat

Cons

• Contains chicken as the main protein source, which may not be suitable for all dogs with sensitive stomachs
• Some reviewers have reported that the kibble size is too large for smaller dogs
• Relatively expensive compared to other dog food brands

We recently tried Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food for our dog who has a sensitive stomach. We were impressed with how easily digestible the food was for him, and we noticed improvements in his overall digestive health within a week of starting him on this food.

One of the standout features of this dog food is the prebiotic fiber, which helps to support a balanced microbiome in the gut. This is important for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as an imbalance of gut bacteria can lead to digestive issues.

We also appreciated that this dog food is made with natural ingredients and added vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It’s reassuring to know that we’re feeding our dog a high-quality diet that is providing him with the nutrients he needs to thrive.

While we were pleased with our experience with Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, it’s worth noting that this dog food may not be suitable for all dogs with sensitive stomachs. The main protein source is chicken, which some dogs may be allergic to or have trouble digesting. Additionally, some reviewers have reported that the kibble size is too large for smaller dogs.

Overall, if you’re looking for a high-quality dog food that is gentle on your dog’s stomach and nourishing for their skin and coat, Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach -amp; Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula

If you’re looking for a dog food that is gentle on your furry friend’s stomach, Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula is a great option.

Pros

• The formula is easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
• The high protein formula contains real salmon as the first ingredient, providing a high-quality source of protein for your dog.
• The formula is fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health, ensuring that your dog’s digestive system stays healthy and strong.

Cons

• The product is relatively expensive compared to other dog food brands.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the formula, so it may take some time to find a flavor that your dog enjoys.
• The product may not be suitable for dogs with severe food allergies.

We recently tried out Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula for our dog who has a sensitive stomach. We were impressed with how easily digestible the formula was, and our dog had no trouble keeping the food down. The high protein formula also helped to keep our dog feeling full and satisfied throughout the day.

One thing to keep in mind is that the formula is relatively expensive compared to other dog food brands. However, we believe that the high quality of the ingredients justifies the cost. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of the formula, so it may take some time to find a flavor that your dog enjoys.

Overall, we would highly recommend Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Salmon and Rice Formula to anyone looking for a high-quality dog food that is gentle on the digestive system.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best dog food for sensitive stomachs, there are several key features to consider. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that you are providing your furry friend with the best possible nutrition without causing any digestive issues.

Firstly, it is important to choose a dog food that is made with high-quality ingredients. Look for products that use real meat as the primary ingredient, as this will provide your dog with the protein and nutrients they need to thrive. Avoid foods that contain artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, as these can cause digestive upset in some dogs.

Another important factor to consider is the type of food you are feeding your dog. Wet food may be easier for some dogs to digest, while others may do better with dry kibble. You may also want to consider limited ingredient diets, which are formulated with a smaller number of ingredients to reduce the risk of triggering digestive issues.

When selecting a dog food for sensitive stomachs, it is also important to pay attention to the fiber content. High-fiber foods can help regulate digestion and promote healthy bowel movements, but too much fiber can cause stomach upset. Look for foods that contain moderate levels of fiber, and gradually introduce new foods to your dog’s diet to avoid sudden changes that could cause digestive problems.

Finally, consider any other health issues or dietary restrictions your dog may have. For example, dogs with food allergies may require a specialized diet, while older dogs may benefit from foods that are formulated with joint-supporting ingredients.

By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best dog food for your furry friend’s sensitive stomach and ensure that they are getting the nutrition they need to stay healthy and happy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the recommended ingredients to look for in dog food for sensitive stomachs?

When looking for dog food for sensitive stomachs, it is important to look for ingredients that are easily digestible. Some recommended ingredients include rice, potatoes, sweet potatoes, and easily digestible proteins such as chicken, turkey, and fish. It is also important to avoid ingredients such as corn, wheat, and soy, as these can be difficult for dogs with sensitive stomachs to digest.

How can I tell if my dog has a sensitive stomach?

Some common signs that your dog may have a sensitive stomach include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, and bloating. If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best course of action.

What is the difference between food for sensitive stomachs and regular dog food?

Food for sensitive stomachs is formulated to be easily digestible and gentle on the digestive system. Regular dog food may contain ingredients that can be difficult for dogs with sensitive stomachs to digest, leading to digestive upset.

Are there specific types of protein that are better for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Easily digestible proteins such as chicken, turkey, and fish are often recommended for dogs with sensitive stomachs. It is important to avoid proteins that are difficult to digest, such as beef and pork.

What are the benefits of homemade dog food for dogs with sensitive stomachs?

Homemade dog food allows you to control the ingredients that go into your dog’s food, making it easier to avoid ingredients that may cause digestive upset. However, it is important to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your homemade dog food is nutritionally balanced.

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

Feeding your dog smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day can help to reduce digestive upset. It is also important to avoid overfeeding, as this can put additional strain on the digestive system. Your veterinarian can provide guidance on the appropriate feeding schedule for your dog.