What Dog Food do Vets Recommend for Sensitive Stomach?

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The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Limited Ingredient Turkey
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  • Use code VETERINARIANS30 for 30% off
  • The Honest Kitchen Limited Ingredient Turkey dog food is made especially for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
  • Just add warm water for a wholesome & delicious meal. Serve alone as a complete meal for maximum nutrition, or use as a topper to their dry food.
  • Unlike most pet food, this recipe is 100% human grade.

What is Sensitive Stomach Dog Food?

Sensitive stomach dog food is formulated to be highly digestible, with high-quality ingredients, so that it is gentle on your dog’s digestive tract.

The best dog food for sensitive stomach is a special pet food type that is particularly formulated so that it is easily digestible. It contains high-quality ingredients and superfoods that are easy on your dog’s digestive tract.

The best dog food for sensitive stomach usually contains a single protein source, has low-fat content, and is gluten-free. It promotes easy digestion and relieves symptoms of an upset stomach.

Many of these dog foods can be sold as limited ingredient diets that have been loaded with probiotics and prebiotic fiber, omega-3, and omega-6 fatty acids and contain low levels of carbohydrates.

Most dog food brands that sell sensitive stomach dog food will use antioxidants to boost your dog’s diet and immune system; prebiotics to help maintain healthy gut flora, fish oil to help maintain healthy skin and promote a shiny coat; taurine, and other supplements (ex. vitamin E) to improve heart health.

Finally, the best dog food for sensitive stomach will be free from excess carbs, fillers, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives.

How do You Know if Your Dog Has a Sensitive Stomach?

Some of the most common symptoms of a sensitive stomach are loss of appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, gas or bloating, shying away from new foods, decrease in activity (especially in senior dogs), gastrointestinal blockage, loose stools, gurgling noises, and signs of abdominal pain.

What are the Benefits of Sensitive Stomach Dog Food?

There are several benefits of using the best dog food for sensitive stomach:

  • Better Digestion. In addition to using a single source of meat, most sensitive stomach dog foods contain easily digestible ingredients such as sweet potatoes, chickpeas, and brown rice. These enhance your dog’s gut flora and improve their digestion.
  • Manageable Stools. Thanks to a better digestive system, it becomes easier to manage your dog’s stools. It also keeps the stools regular.
  • Stronger Immunity. Shifting to a diet for sensitive stomachs can boost your dog’s immunity. This helps them fight off common infections and diseases.
  • Better Mood. A dog’s mood is dependent on its gut health. Better gut health can directly imply a better mood. This reduces aggressive behavior and keeps your pet happier.
  • More Activity. A healthy and happy dog will often be a more active dog. Shifting to a diet meant for sensitive foods can mean that your dog will play a lot more.

The Best Sensitive Stomach Dog Food Reviewed

With so many stomach formulas available on the market, finding the right one can be tricky. To help owners pick the right one, we have reviewed some of the best dog food for sensitive stomach recipes.

The Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Limited Ingredient Turkey

Summary: This recipe by The Honest Kitchen is the perfect option for sensitive dogs in need of a limited ingredient diet. Made with six simple and nutritious ingredients, the recipe is easily digestible and healthy. Plus, it comes in an easy-to-use dehydrated form that needs to be quickly rehydrated before use. The brand offers six different flavor options with limited ingredients, so there is an option for every dog’s taste preference. Customers can also get 30% off on their first orders of $30+ using code VETERINARIANS30.

Type: Dehydrated dog food 

Best for: Adult dogs 

Flavor Options: Turkey & Parsnip; Fish & Coconut; Duck & Sweet Potato; Chicken & Quinoa; Beef & Chickpea 

Price: $14.99/pound 

Pros
  • 30% off on first orders of $30+ using code VETERINARIANS30
  • Made with just six simple ingredients
  • Human-grade and nutrient-dense recipe 
  • Complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs
  • Can be used on its own or as a dog food topper
  • Available in a variety of unique flavors
Cons
  • Needs to be rehydrated before serving 

Ingredient Analysis

  • Turkey: Turkey is an excellent source of lean protein. It is low in fats and rich in micronutrients. 
  • Parsnips: Parsnip is a superfood for dogs as it is particularly rich in vitamins and minerals. 
  • Navy Beans: Beans provide dogs with healthy and digestible carbs. They are also a good source of plant-based proteins. 
  • Pumpkin: Pumpkin boosts digestion. Rich in natural dietary fiber, pumpkin supports gut health and intestinal motility. 

Review: Amazon customers give this food 4.3 out of 5 stars. They say this is a great formula for dogs in need of a limited ingredient diet. Some pet owners describe the food as a “pupper essential.” Most reviewers agree the food has helped with their dogs’ allergies. 

Just Food for Dogs Sensitive Skin & Stomach Daily Meal

Summary: JustFoodForDogs is the number 1 vet-recommended fresh food brand for dogs. It uses 100% human-grade ingredients and no preservatives. Plus, the recipes are cooked fresh and ready to serve. This product box is specifically combined for dogs with skin and stomach sensitivities, as it is easily digestible and unlikely to cause allergies. 

Type: Fresh Cooked Dog Food 

Best for: Adult Dogs 

Flavor Options: Fish & Sweet Potato; Venison & Squash; Balanced Remedy; Joint & Skin Support

Price: $80.65/7.8lbs

Pros
  • Excellent for sensitive dogs
  • Suitable for all breeds
  • Human-grade ingredients 
  • 50% discount on first variety box 
  • Money-back guarantee
Cons
  • Expensive for some owners 

Ingredient Analysis

  • Fish & Sweet Potato: Wild-Caught Alaska Pacific Cod, Sweet Potatoes, Russet Potatoes, Green Beans, Broccoli, Safflower Oil, Proprietary Blend 
  • Venison & Squash: Ground Venison, Butternut Squash, Sweet Potatoes, Brussels Sprouts, Cranberries, Safflower Oil, Fish Oil, Proprietary Blend
  • Balanced Remedy: Ground Turkey Breast, Long-Grain White Rice, Sushi Rice, Sunflower Oil, Coconut Oil, Flaxseed Oil, Fish Oil, Proprietary Blend
  • Joint & Skin Support: Pork Loin & Tenderloin, Quinoa, Kale, Carrots, Fuji Apples, Fish Oil, Type II Collagen, Proprietary Blend 

Review: Dog owners are happy with this JustFoodForDogs box. They say the food is practical – easy to serve, and their dogs like its taste. Customers are also happy with the food’s effect on their dogs. 

Raised Right Turkey Recipe

Summary: Raised Right Original Turkey Adult Dog Recipe is a specially formulated whole food formula that is highly beneficial for dogs of all breeds and ages, especially those with sensitive stomachs. Preservatives and high-carb fillers such as potatoes, rice, parsnips, or barley are non-existent in this formula, and it only has one source of animal protein. Every Raised Right menu has met the criteria required for food intended for human consumption, and each recipe is only lightly prepared in a kitchen fit for that purpose. Moreover, their low-temp cooking meets the USDA pathogen kill step while maintaining high levels of moisture and nutritional integrity.

Type: Wet dog food

Best for: Dogs of all life stages

Flavor Options: Original Turkey, Original Beef, Original Pork, Original Chicken, Turkey & Pumpkin Paté, Beef & Pumpkin Paté, Pork & Pumpkin Paté, Chicken & Pumpkin Paté

Price: $10.99 per bag

Pros
  • Suitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs
  • Lightly cooked, human-grade, and grain-free
  • Made with 100% whole foods and real meat
  • Free from synthetic vitamins and minerals
  • High-protein and rich in complex B vitamins
Cons
  • Needs to be thawed before serving

Ingredient Analysis: 

  • Turkey Thigh, Turkey Heart, & Turkey Liver: Turkey is high in real protein and rich in selenium, zinc, phosphorus, and iron. 
  • Carrots – Carrots are rich in beta-carotene and are a fair source of Vitamin C, Niacin, and Vitamin B6.
  •  Blueberries: Blueberries are a great source of fiber, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, and potassium. 
  • Organic Spearmint: Organic spearmint is rich in antioxidants and other healthy plant substances that may support hormone balance, regulate blood sugar, and improve digestion for your dogs.
  • Cod Liver Oil: Cod liver oil contains vitamin A, an essential nutrient for immune system function, and omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation in your dog’s body. 
  • Eggshell Powder: Eggshell Powder is high in calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium
  • Flaxseed Oil: Flaxseed oil is rich in both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. 
  • Organic Dried Kelp: Together with folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin B6, organic dried kelp also contains vitamins K, A, C, and E. It also provides moderate levels of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and pantothenic acid.

Review: Many pet owners are well-pleased with Raised Right’s Original Turkey dog food recipe. They reported that it is one of the best formulas they’ve ever given to their dogs, and they were amazed by the product’s high-quality ingredients. To quote one happy customer, “I was having trouble finding food because my dog kept having stomach upset. It worried me a lot. I did a great amount of research and I was even giving him a decent quality name brand prior to Raised Right but he still did not have healthy bowel movements. I found Raised Right looking for an alternative whole food option. Now, my dog does not have any stomach issues at all after eating Raised Right for several months.”

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food

Summary: This particular dog food is our top pick as it contains easily digestible ingredients, in addition to being gentle on your dog’s digestive system. It offers a high-protein formula using real salmon as the first ingredient. It also contains oatmeal that helps soothe their stomachs and improves digestion. The product is further enriched with sunflower oil which is rich in omega-6 fatty acids that help with healthy skin and coat. The dog food also contains prebiotic fiber that replenishes specific intestinal bacteria for digestive health.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Salmon and Rice

Price: $2.20/pound

Pros
  • Help nourish your dog's sensitive systems
  • Made with real salmon
  • Available in specialized formulas depending on your dog
  • Offers high-quality nutrition
  • Supports your sensitive dog's overall health and well-being
Cons
  • The packaging could have been better

Ingredient Analysis

  • Salmon: Salmon is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Barley: Barley includes the whole grain with the hull and bran and is an excellent source of soluble fiber, plus carbohydrates and B vitamins for digestive health in pets.
  • Oatmeal: Oatmeal is a wholesome, high-quality grain rich in B vitamins that gives pets the energy they need.
  • Fish Meal: Fish meal is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.

Review: This adult dog food is great for sensitive stomachs as it features a highly digestible formula. It also nourishes the beneficial bacteria in your dog’s GI tract. Pet owners give this food 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Stomach Large Breed Dog Food

Summary: This dog food is available in a range of specialized formulas that cater to adults, small breeds, large breeds, seniors, and puppies. It also sells a wet formula that offers a soft texture. This dog food is not only easily digestible but also provides your dog with a beneficial, balanced diet. Not only is it great tasting, but it also contains high-quality ingredients that are smooth on your dog’s digestive system. It also nourishes specific intestinal bacteria for digestive health, thanks to the prebiotics it contains. Also, it is free from corn, wheat, or soy.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Salmon

Price: $2.40/pound

Pros
  • Salmon is the first ingredient
  • Formulated with glucosamine and EPA
  • Improves joint health and mobility
  • Digestible and easy on the digestive system
  • Promotes muscle conditioning
Cons
  • Not suitable for small breed dogs
  • Cannot be used as puppy food

Ingredient Analysis

  • Salmon: Salmon is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Barley: Barley includes the whole grain with the hull and bran and is an excellent source of soluble fiber, plus carbohydrates and B vitamins for digestive health in pets.
  • Fish Meal: Fish meal is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.
  • Beef Fat: Beef fat is an ingredient that helps with muscle development and provides sustained energy.

Review: This dog food has been fortified with guaranteed live probiotics for digestive and immune health. It is also affordable for most pet parents. Dog owners give this food 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dry Dog Food

Summary: Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Dog is a special dog food that has been formulated to help improve digestive health. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, this product contains a prebiotic fiber that can improve their gut bacteria and support a balanced microbiome. This product is made with natural ingredients supplemented with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids. As a result, you can expect better skin and a shinier coat. This product is also backed by decades of cutting-edge research.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Chicken and Barley

Price: $2.30/pound

Pros
  • Promotes digestive health while nourishing skin
  • Acts as a great source of prebiotic fiber
  • Formulated to be highly digestible
  • Packed with vitamin E & omega-6 fatty acids
  • Gives your dog a lustrous coat and healthy skin
Cons
  • The smell might be a bit off-putting in rare cases

Ingredient Analysis

  • Chicken Meal: Chicken meal is an extremely rich source of protein, providing pets with supplemental energy and nutrients while aiding digestion.
  • Cracked Pearled Barley: Barley includes the whole grain with the hull and bran and is an excellent source of soluble fiber, plus carbohydrates and B vitamins for digestive health in pets.
  • Brown Rice: Brown rice is a natural whole grain that provides pets with essential B vitamins and minerals, and high-quality complex carbohydrates for energy, and fiber.

Review: This product is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients. It is also recommended by veterinarians. Customers give this food 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Adult Wet Dog Food

Summary: This dog food for sensitive stomachs has been specially formulated to provide optimal digestion and improve skin health. It contains vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids that give your dog a much shinier coat. The dog food is made with natural ingredients that ensure a more firm stool that is easy to pick and dispose of. This wet dog food is sold in a mouthwatering, slow-cooked stew and comes in a delicious turkey flavor.

Type: Wet dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Turkey & Rice Stew

Price: $3.67/can

Pros
  • Formulated to provide optimal digestive health
  • Slow-cooked stew in a mouthwatering turkey flavor
  • Nourishes your grown dog's skin and coat
  • Contains vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids
  • Made with natural ingredients in the USA
Cons
  • More expensive than similar recipes

Ingredient Analysis

  • Turkey: Turkey is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.
  • Carrots: Carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene, fiber, Vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants.
  • Pork Liver: Pork liver is a source of protein, healthy fats, and vitamin A.
  • Chicken: Chicken is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.

Review: This dog food promotes easier stool pickup as it contains ingredients that are easily digestible. Pet parents give this food 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Royal Canin Medium Digestive Care Dry Dog Food

Summary: Royal Canin Medium Digestive Care Dry Dog Food has been created for medium breed dogs older than 12 months of age and weighing 23-55 lb with a sensitive stomach. It contains a unique blend of a highly-digestible combination of protein, prebiotics, and dietary fibers that improve digestion. Additionally, it also supports and nourishes your dog’s intestinal flora. This ensures better stool quality. It also contains proteins that help build your dog’s lean muscle for more playtime.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Vegetable

Price: $3.80/pound

Pros
  • Formulated by veterinarians and nutritionists
  • Delivers precise nutrition for your dog
  • Offers tailored health benefits
  • Contains a special blend of prebiotics
  • Promotes a balanced intestinal flora
Cons
  • Might cause an upset stomach in some dogs
  • Could lead to a minor allergic reaction

Ingredient Analysis

  • Chicken By-Product Meal: Chicken meal is an extremely rich source of protein, providing pets with supplemental energy and nutrients while aiding digestion.
  • Brown Rice: Brown rice is a natural whole grain that provides pets with essential B vitamins and minerals, high-quality complex carbohydrates for energy, and fiber.
  • Chicken Fat: Chicken fat enhances the flavor while supplying omega-fatty acids.

Review: This dry dog food is the perfect complement to Royal Canin Wet Dog Food formulas making it a delicious combination. Customers give this food 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Purina ONE Natural Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food

Summary: This sensitive stomach dog food contains real salmon as its primary ingredient. This helps support strong muscles in your dog’s body and gives them a healthy heart. It contains a SmartBlend of high-quality ingredients formulated along with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids. This helps promote healthy skin and gives your dog a radiant coat. The product includes four antioxidant sources that give your dog a stronger immune system. It also contains natural glucosamine sources for joint health.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Salmon

Price: $1.43/pound

Pros
  • Formulated by veterinarians and nutritionists
  • Nourishes your grown dog's skin and coat
  • Contains vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids
  • Gives your dog a lustrous coat and healthy skin
  • Formulated to provide optimal digestive health
Cons
  • Available on only one flavor

Ingredient Analysis

  • Pearled Barley: Barley includes the whole grain with the hull and bran and is an excellent source of soluble fiber, plus carbohydrates and B vitamins for digestive health in pets.
  • Oat Meal: Oatmeal is a wholesome, high-quality grain rich in B vitamins that gives pets the energy they need.
  • Chicken By-Product Meal: Chicken meal is an extremely rich source of protein, providing pets with supplemental energy and nutrients while aiding digestion.

Review: This dog food contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients and has no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Pet parents give this food 4.7 out of 5 stars.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Pate

Summary: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Pate is the perfect addition to your dog’s meals, thanks to its high-protein formula. Made with real salmon, this dog food offers a taste that your dog will love. It also contains easily digestible rice to make the meal more balanced. It contains natural prebiotic fibers that nourish specific intestinal bacteria for digestive health. If your dog has sensitive skin, this product contains linoleic acid, an omega fatty acid, for healthy skin and coat. Also, it contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

Type: Wet dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Salmon and Rice

Price: $7.1/can

Pros
  • Formulated to provide optimal digestive health
  • Promotes a balanced intestinal flora
  • Help nourish your dog's sensitive systems
  • Promotes digestive health while nourishing skin
  • Acts as a great source of prebiotic fiber
Cons
  • The texture might not suit some dogs

Ingredient Analysis

  • Fish: Fish is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.
  • Salmon: Salmon is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Carrots: Carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene, fiber, Vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants.

Review: This dog food helps improve your dog’s digestive health and offers a delicious texture that even picky dogs love. Dog owners give this food 4.3 out of 5 stars.

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

Summary: This dog food contains highly digestible ingredients that help soothe your dog’s digestive system. It also contains a unique prebiotic fiber clinically proven to improve digestion. This product contains the finest ingredients that have been enhanced with vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial nutrients. Furthermore, in addition to chicken, it also contains other wholesome ingredients, including fruits, vegetables, and fiber sources that are gentle on the digestive system.

Type: Wet dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Chicken

Price: $3.84/can

Pros
  • Formulated by veterinarians and nutritionists
  • Offers tailored health benefits
  • Contains a special blend of prebiotics
  • Improves joint health and mobility
  • Gives your dog a lustrous coat and healthy skin
Cons
  • Could lead to runny stools in some cases

Ingredient Analysis

  • Whitefish: Whitefish is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Chicken Liver: Chicken liver is used to provide pets with protein, iron, vitamin A and delicious natural flavor.
  • Potatoes: Whole, fresh potatoes provide easily digestible carbohydrates, vitamins B & C, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
  • Pea Flour: Packed with the protein, vitamins, fiber, and potassium that pets need, peas support a pet’s GI health.

Review: This dog food contains a unique blend of probiotics that help improve your dog’s digestive health. It also helps your dog get a shiny coat. Dog owners give this food 4.6 out of 5 stars.

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What Should I Look for in Sensitive Stomach Dog Food?

While it is best to consult a veterinary nutritionist, pet parents can do their own research to decide on a good brand that makes food for sensitive stomachs. Your vet might place your dog on a limited ingredient diet or a prescription diet depending on their problems. However, it is still advised to reach the label of the product.

The most common factors that one needs to consider in a sensitive stomach diet include –

  • Low Fat and Carbs. If your dog food contains low amounts of fat and carbs, then you can consider using that brand of dog food. This will prevent unnecessary weight gain and keep your dog’s GI tract functioning well.
  • Probiotics and Prebiotics. Probiotics and prebiotics help improve the quality of gut flora. These are beneficial bacteria that help with digestion.
  • Single Protein Source. Often, a single source of protein can reduce the chance of an allergic reaction in most dogs. Make sure that the protein is present without any meat by-products.

What Ingredients Should Not be in Sensitive Stomach Dog Food?

Some of the most common ingredients that one needs to avoid include beef, dairy, wheat, egg, soy, and pork.

While these can add a lot of flavor to your dog’s meals, they are harmful in the long run. Make sure you read the label on the back of the product to get the full list of ingredients that could be a potential threat to your dog’s digestion.

The food should have the right mix of vitamins and minerals that support a healthy and happy life.

Is Grain Free Better for Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs?

A top sensitive stomach dog food brand will mostly be grain-free or simply contain whole grains, oats, and rice. Furthermore, they will also contain real meat and vegetables without using fillers and preservatives. They will also contain digestible proteins and a small ingredient list.