Best Food for Dog with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Expert Recommendations

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a common gastrointestinal disorder in dogs. It is caused by inflammation of the intestinal tract and can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and weight loss. While there is no cure for IBD, it can be managed with the right diet.

Feeding your dog a high-quality, easily digestible diet is crucial for managing IBD. The right food can help reduce inflammation, promote gut health, and improve nutrient absorption. When choosing the best food for your dog with IBD, it’s important to look for a product that is specifically formulated for dogs with gastrointestinal issues.

One critical thing to consider when selecting the best food for your dog with IBD is the ingredients. Look for a product that contains high-quality proteins, like chicken or fish, and easily digestible carbohydrates, like sweet potato or rice. Avoid ingredients like wheat, corn, and soy, as these can be difficult for dogs with IBD to digest.

At We Know Dogs, we spent hours researching and testing various dog food brands to identify the best options for dogs with IBD. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision about your dog’s diet.

Best Dog Food for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

As dog owners, we understand how challenging it can be to find the right food for our furry friends. And when it comes to dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the task becomes even more daunting. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best dog food options for dogs with IBD. Our team of experts has researched and tested various brands to bring you the top choices that are gentle on your dog’s stomach and promote healthy digestion. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our roundup of the best dog food for IBD.

Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support for Dogs with Renal Support (Tuna Pate)

If you’re looking for a non-prescription food option to support your dog’s kidney health, Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support may be worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated by board-certified veterinarian nutritionists
• Low phosphorus to help manage kidney concerns
• Includes 17 additional vitamins and minerals

Cons

• Some customers reported issues with texture and consistency
• May not be palatable to all dogs
• Relatively expensive compared to other options

In our experience, Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support is a decent option for dogs with renal issues. The low phosphorus formula is a key feature, and the added vitamins and minerals are a nice bonus. We appreciate that it’s formulated by board-certified veterinarian nutritionists, which gives us confidence in the product’s quality.

However, we did notice that some customers reported issues with the texture and consistency of the food, which could be a concern for picky eaters. Additionally, while our own dog seemed to enjoy the Tuna Pate flavor, we’ve seen reviews from other customers who said their dogs didn’t find it palatable.

Lastly, we do think it’s worth noting that Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support is relatively expensive compared to other non-prescription options. While we believe it’s a quality product, it may not be the most cost-effective choice for all pet owners.

Overall, we would recommend Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support for Dogs with Renal Support (Tuna Pate) to those who are looking for a non-prescription food option to support their dog’s kidney health, but we would encourage potential buyers to do their own research and consider their pet’s individual needs and preferences before making a purchase.

Native Pet Relief – Anti Inflammatory for Dogs | Turmeric Polyphenols Green Lipped Mussels for Dogs | Natural Relief for Dogs | Best Dog Arthritis Supplement -amp; Dog Joint Pain Relief | 30 Chews 30 Chicken Chews

If you’re looking for a natural and effective way to relieve your dog’s inflammatory bowel disease, Native Pet Relief might just be the solution you need.

Pros

• The formula is vet-formulated and highly effective, offering powerful pain relief for dogs.
• It contains natural anti-inflammatory ingredients such as turmeric and green lipped mussel to relieve chronic inflammation and promote mobility.
• Native Pet Relief provides natural arthritis pain relief for dogs and is a great alternative to aspirin for dogs.

Cons

• The chews have a strong smell that might not be pleasant for some people.
• Some customers have reported that the chews can be a bit dry and hard.
• The price point is a bit higher than some other dog supplements on the market.

We’ve been using Native Pet Relief for a few weeks now, and we’re happy with the results. Our dog has been struggling with inflammatory bowel disease for a while, and we’ve tried a few different supplements with mixed results. However, Native Pet Relief seems to be doing the trick.

The chews are easy to administer, and our dog seems to like the taste. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in his mobility and overall comfort level since we started giving him Native Pet Relief.

One thing to note is that the chews do have a strong smell, so if you’re sensitive to odors, you might want to keep that in mind. Additionally, some customers have reported that the chews can be a bit dry and hard, which might be an issue for dogs with dental problems.

Overall, we would recommend Native Pet Relief to anyone looking for a natural and effective way to relieve their dog’s inflammatory bowel disease. It’s a bit pricier than some other supplements, but we think it’s worth the investment for the results we’ve seen.

Coco and Luna Milk Thistle for Dogs

If you’re looking for a dog liver and kidney support supplement, Coco and Luna Milk Thistle for Dogs is a great option.

Pros

• Organic Milk Thistle for Dogs.
• Veterinarian Formulated.
• Made in the USA from US and Globally Sourced Ingredients.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste.
• Not suitable for dogs with allergies to chicken.
• May take a few weeks to see results.

We were impressed with how Coco and Luna Milk Thistle for Dogs contains organic milk thistle, which is a safe and powerful ingredient that provides liver support for dogs by eliminating toxins and working as a natural dog detox. The liver supplement for dogs is also a strong cleanser of impurities found in the liver, promotes liver health, and assists with overall kidney support.

We liked that the formula harnesses the benefits of Choline, L-Arginine, Dandelion Root, and Yellow Dock to promote holistic kidney well-being in dogs, aiding in toxin elimination, optimal function, enhancing blood flow to the kidneys, and overall vitality.

We appreciated that Coco and Luna Milk Thistle for Dogs is veterinarian formulated and free from harmful ingredients like Palm Oil, Corn, Soy Derivatives, Synthetic Colors, or Artificial Flavors, prioritizing your pet’s well-being. All of their supplement products are manufactured in the USA in FDA-registered facilities that are NSF and GMP-certified in the USA.

Overall, we highly recommend Coco and Luna Milk Thistle for Dogs for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease or liver and kidney support needs.

Nutro So Simple Meal Complement Wet Dog Food Chicken and Chicken -amp; Duck Recipes in Bone Broth Variety Pack

If you’re looking for a simple yet high-quality meal complement for your dog with inflammatory bowel disease, Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is worth considering.

Pros

• Made with only 7 natural ingredients, including real chicken and duck for high-quality protein.
• Can be used as a mix-in, topper, or snack to add flavor to your dog’s regular food.
• Free from grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.

Cons

• Slightly expensive compared to other wet dog food options.
• Some customers reported that the product clumps together weirdly.
• May not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary requirements or allergies.

We have tried Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement with our dog who has inflammatory bowel disease, and we were pleased with the product. The variety pack includes two different flavors, chicken, and chicken -amp; duck, both of which our dog seemed to enjoy. We found that the product was easy to mix with our dog’s regular food, and it added a lot of flavor to his meals.

One thing we liked about this product is that it contains only a handful of natural ingredients, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. We also appreciated that it is free from grains, chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives, which are common allergens and irritants for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease.

However, we did notice that Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement is slightly more expensive than other wet dog food options. Additionally, some customers reported that the product clumps together weirdly, which may be a concern for some pet owners. Finally, it’s essential to note that this product may not be suitable for dogs with specific dietary requirements or allergies.

Overall, we would recommend Nutro So Simple Wet Dog Meal Complement to pet owners looking for a high-quality, simple, and tasty food option for their dogs with inflammatory bowel disease.

Forza10 Dermo Allergy Dog Food

If you’re looking for a solution to your dog’s skin allergy, we highly recommend the Forza10 Dermo Allergy Dog Food. This specially formulated dry dog food is designed to improve skin health, eliminate allergens, and provide relief for minor skin ailments and allergies for sensitive skin, while promoting overall dog health and wellness.

Pros

• Rich in raw fish proteins, fiber, and omega 3 fatty acid, this dog food is perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs that are prone to allergies and itching.
• Contains no GMOs, gluten, artificial colors, or flavors, making it a healthy and safe choice for your furry friend.
• Hydrolyzed fish protein in the dog food for coat helps with food allergy and inflammatory bowel disease.

Cons

• The smell of the food can be quite strong and may not be appealing to some dogs.
• The price point may be a bit higher than other dog food brands on the market.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the food, but this can be easily remedied by mixing in some wet food or toppers.

We’ve been using Forza10 Dermo Allergy Dog Food for a few months now, and we’ve seen a significant improvement in our dog’s skin health. His itching and redness have reduced, and his coat looks healthier and shinier than ever before. The dog food is easy to digest, and we’ve noticed a decrease in his stomach upset and bowel issues.

The dog food also has a great taste, and our dog loves it. We appreciate that it contains therapeutic plants and fruit extracts for better taste and skin health support. Overall, we highly recommend the Forza10 Dermo Allergy Dog Food to anyone looking for a solution to their dog’s skin allergy or sensitive stomach issues.

Canidae All Life Stages Premium Wet Dog Food

If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty food option for your dog with inflammatory bowel disease, Canidae All Life Stages Premium Wet Dog Food is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• Nutritionally dense wet food, crafted with chicken along with wholesome grains and simmered in broth for great taste, made without corn, wheat or soy
• Complete and balanced goodness for all ages, breeds and sizes, making it a great choice for multi-dog households
• Formulated with antioxidants and probiotics to support a healthy digestive and immune system, along with a nutritious blend of vitamins and minerals to support healthy joints, skin and coat

Cons

• Some reviewers have noted that the food can be dry and hard to get out of the can
• Some dogs may not like the flavor or texture of the food
• The price point may be higher than some other wet food options

We recently tried Canidae All Life Stages Premium Wet Dog Food and were impressed with the quality and taste. The chicken and rice formula is a great option for dogs with food sensitivities, as it only contains chicken and chicken liver as protein sources. The food is also free from wheat, corn, soy, fillers, antibiotics, hormones, and anything artificial.

Our dog with inflammatory bowel disease had no issues with the food and seemed to enjoy it. We appreciated the added antioxidants and probiotics for digestive and immune support, as well as the blend of vitamins and minerals for overall health.

While some reviewers have noted that the food can be dry and hard to get out of the can, we did not experience this issue. However, it’s worth noting that some dogs may not like the flavor or texture of the food.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Canidae All Life Stages Premium Wet Dog Food for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease. While the price point may be higher than some other wet food options, the quality and nutrition make it worth the investment.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for a grain-free dog food for your furry friend with inflammatory bowel disease, I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is a great option. Made with real chicken and duck, it is free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, and is gluten-free.

Pros

• Real meat as the first ingredient
• Grain-free and gluten-free
• No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

Cons

• May not be suitable for dogs with poultry allergies
• Strong smell may be unappealing to some dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste

This dog food is a great choice for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease because it is free from grains and other ingredients that can cause digestive issues. The real meat as the first ingredient ensures that your dog is getting high-quality protein, and the absence of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives means that your dog is not consuming any unnecessary chemicals.

I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food is also free from gluten, which can be beneficial for dogs with sensitivities to this ingredient. However, it is important to note that this dog food contains chicken and duck, so it may not be suitable for dogs with poultry allergies.

One potential downside of this dog food is the strong smell, which may be unappealing to some dogs. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it may take some trial and error to find out if this food is a good fit for your furry friend.

Overall, we recommend I and Love and You Naked Essentials Dry Dog Food for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease who need a high-quality, grain-free diet.

Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support for Dogs with Renal Support (Chicken Formula Crumble)

If you’re looking for a non-prescription dog food that helps manage kidney concerns, Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support for Dogs with Renal Support (Chicken Formula Crumble) is worth considering.

Pros

• Formulated by board-certified veterinarian nutritionists
• Helps protect your dog’s vital kidney function
• Fortified with 17 additional vitamins and minerals

Cons

• Strong smell
• Powder texture may not be appealing to all dogs
• Some dogs may not like the taste

We were impressed with how Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support for Dogs with Renal Support was formulated by board-certified veterinarian nutritionists. This provides peace of mind that the food is well-researched and balanced for dogs with kidney concerns.

The low phosphorus content (0.4% max) is a key feature that helps protect your dog’s vital kidney function for improved renal health and prolonged lifespan. We also appreciated that the food is developed with palatability in mind, making it more enticing for picky eaters. The adjustable water to food ratio allows you to customize the texture for your dog’s preference and increase overall hydration.

While the food is fortified with 17 additional vitamins and minerals, some dogs may not like the taste or texture. The strong smell of the powder may also be off-putting for some pet owners. However, with one 4 lb bag lasting 10 days, this food is a cost-effective option for dogs with kidney concerns.

Overall, we recommend Dave’s Pet Food Kidney Support for Dogs with Renal Support (Chicken Formula Crumble) for pet owners looking for a non-prescription dog food that helps manage kidney concerns.

Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food

If you’re looking for a natural dog food that supports your dog’s kidney function, Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

• Formulated to support your dog’s kidney function
• Made with high-quality, real chicken
• Contains controlled levels of phosphorus and sodium to support your dog’s kidney health

Cons

• Requires veterinarian’s authorization
• Some dogs may not like the taste
• Kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs

We recently tried this kidney care dog food on our dog who has inflammatory bowel disease, and we were impressed with the results. The controlled levels of protein and minerals helped manage our dog’s kidney workload, and the real chicken made it a tasty option for our picky eater. We also appreciated that it contains no artificial flavors or preservatives.

One downside is that it requires a veterinarian’s authorization, but this is to ensure that it is the right fit for your dog’s specific needs. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it may take some time to transition them to this food. Lastly, the kibble size may be too large for smaller dogs, so it’s important to keep that in mind.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Natural Veterinary Diet KS Kidney Support Dry Dog Food for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease who need a diet to support their kidney function.

Fifth -amp; Fido Kidney Support for Dogs

If you’re looking for a comprehensive supplement to support your dog’s kidney, bladder, liver and adrenal health, the Fifth -amp; Fido Kidney Support for Dogs is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The unique blend of natural herbs, including milk thistle, licorice root, and ashwagandha root, promote better kidney and liver function, and may reduce frequent urination.
• The supplement is tailored for pets with special needs, and may support dogs with Cushings and adrenal issues, enhancing your pet’s vitality and wellness.
• The product is fortified with milk thistle, which not only supports liver health but also aids in cleansing, ensuring your dog’s liver is protected and nourished.

Cons

• Some customers have reported that the supplement smells bad and their dogs refuse to eat it.
• It may take a while to see noticeable improvements in your dog’s health, as with any supplement.
• The dosage chart can be confusing, especially for dogs that fall in between weight categories.

We have been using the Fifth -amp; Fido Kidney Support for Dogs for a few weeks now, and we have noticed a positive change in our dog’s urinary and bladder health. The supplement is easy to administer, and the dropper makes it easy to measure the correct dosage. While our dog doesn’t seem to mind the taste, we have heard from some customers that their dogs refuse to eat it due to the smell. However, we believe that the benefits of this supplement outweigh the cons, and we would recommend it to any dog owner looking for a comprehensive supplement to support their dog’s health.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying food for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease, there are a few important factors to consider to ensure that you are choosing the best product for your furry friend. Here are some key features to look for:

Limited Ingredient Diet

A limited ingredient diet (LID) can be beneficial for dogs with inflammatory bowel disease as it can help to reduce the risk of food sensitivities and allergies. Look for dog food that contains a limited number of ingredients, ideally with a single source of protein and carbohydrate.

High-Quality Protein

Protein is essential for your dog’s health, but it’s important to choose high-quality protein sources. Look for dog food that contains real meat as the first ingredient, such as chicken, turkey, or lamb. Avoid dog food that contains by-products or fillers.

Digestibility

Dogs with inflammatory bowel disease can have difficulty digesting certain foods, so it’s important to choose dog food that is highly digestible. Look for dog food that contains easily digestible carbohydrates, such as rice or sweet potato. Avoid dog food that contains corn, wheat, or soy.

Probiotics

Probiotics can help to support your dog’s digestive health by promoting the growth of good bacteria in the gut. Look for dog food that contains added probiotics, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus or Bifidobacterium animalis.

Caloric Density

Dogs with inflammatory bowel disease may have difficulty maintaining a healthy weight, so it’s important to choose dog food that is calorie-dense. Look for dog food that contains a high number of calories per cup, but be sure to follow feeding guidelines to avoid overfeeding your dog.

By considering these factors when choosing dog food for your furry friend, you can help to ensure that you are providing them with the best nutrition possible to support their digestive health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What dietary changes can help manage symptoms in dogs with IBD?

Dietary changes can play a significant role in managing symptoms in dogs with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We recommend feeding a highly digestible diet that is low in fat and fiber. This can help reduce the workload on the digestive system and minimize inflammation. Additionally, feeding smaller, more frequent meals can help prevent flare-ups.

Are there specific ingredients to look for in dog food for managing IBD?

When selecting dog food for managing IBD, it’s important to look for easily digestible ingredients. We recommend foods that contain high-quality proteins, such as chicken, turkey, and fish, as well as easily digestible carbohydrates, such as rice and sweet potato. Avoid ingredients that are known to be common allergens, such as beef and dairy.

How can homemade diets benefit dogs with inflammatory bowel disease?

Homemade diets can be beneficial for dogs with IBD, as they allow for greater control over ingredients and can be tailored to the individual dog’s needs. However, it’s important to work with a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that the diet is balanced and meets all of the dog’s nutritional requirements.

What role does hydrolyzed protein play in dog foods for IBD?

Hydrolyzed protein is a type of protein that has been broken down into smaller molecules, making it easier for the body to digest. It can be beneficial for dogs with IBD, as it reduces the risk of an allergic reaction. However, it’s important to note that not all dogs with IBD will require a hydrolyzed protein diet.

Can a natural diet improve the condition of a dog with IBD?

While there is no definitive evidence that a natural diet can improve the condition of a dog with IBD, some owners have reported success with feeding a natural diet that is low in fat and fiber. It’s important to work with a veterinarian to ensure that the diet is balanced and meets all of the dog’s nutritional requirements.

What are the recommended commercial dog foods for IBD management?

There are several commercial dog foods that are specifically formulated for dogs with IBD. These foods are typically highly digestible and low in fat and fiber. Some examples include Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d, Royal Canin Gastrointestinal, and Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric. However, it’s important to work with a veterinarian to determine which diet is best for your individual dog.