The Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach

Some dogs have tummy problems that may be difficult to fix. Signs of a sensitive digestive system are diarrhea, vomiting, flatulence, or even under-eating. With the right dry dog food though, you may be able to help cure your pup’s upset stomach. Below are some ingredients to look out for in dog food that could help.

Quality Proteins

Lamb is a great choice when it comes to dog food for sensitive stomachs. Lamb isn’t a common protein, meaning that most dogs haven’t had the chance to develop an allergy or food sensitivity to it. It’s also an easily-digestible protein which is great for avoiding stomach upsets. Salmon based dog food is also great for dogs with sensitive stomachs AND skin. Salmon is a lighter protein that can be great for that sensitive tummy. Fish also tends to be super helpful for skin and coat in general because of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids naturally found in fish proteins, so this salmon dog food recipe is a great option for dogs who struggle with dry, itchy skin. It also helps with making their coat healthy and shiny.

Omega Fatty Acids

Healthy fats are an essential part of your dog’s balanced diet. Examples of these healthy fats are omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They help absorb vitamins, promote energy, and aid in brain and heart health. Another big benefit is that these fatty acids contain anti-inflammatory properties. By finding healthy foods with Omegas, such as Ultimates, you are providing your pet with the proper nutrition they need. 

Ancient Grains

Ancient grains such as brown rice, pearled barley, and flaxseed have high digestibility. These grains also provide your dog with plenty of fiber to aid in gut health. Ancient grains also provide a great source of vitamins such as Vitamin B, Zinc, and Magnesium which are great additions to your dog’s diet, providing them with energy as well.

Beet Pulp

While beet pulp may sound like a strange ingredient to include in your furry friends’ sensitive stomach dog food diet, it actually has many health benefits. Beet pulp is the result of removing sugar from regular beets. This low sugar vegetable promotes growth of helpful bacteria in your dog’s gut. Fiber occurs resulting in healthy digestion and makes your pet’s stool firm and regular.

Pet Food Recommendation

There are a variety of veterinary diets available for sensitive stomachs, but these can be very pricey. Within the Ultimates brand of advanced, affordable nutrition, you can find great sensitive options. High quality protein choices such as Ultimates Sensitive with Lamb Protein and Ultimates Sensitive Salmon Protein are great for all life stages. Adult dogs and puppies can both enjoy great nutrition from these recipes. With the addition of Whitefish Meal in each diet, it provides adequate levels of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) to support your puppy’s brain development and growth.

Dog Allergies

In some cases, a sensitive stomach can be something more than just food sensitivities. Food allergies are a whole other issue. According to the VCA Animal Hospital, “A food allergy is one of the most common allergies or hypersensitivities known to affect dogs. In a pet with an allergy, the immune system overreacts and produces antibodies to substances that it would normally tolerate. In an allergic reaction to a food, antibodies are produced against some part of the food, usually a protein or complex carbohydrate. Since antibody production is required for an allergy to develop, food allergies usually manifest after prolonged exposure to one brand, type, or form of food.”

Signs of a food allergy can include itchy skin, paws, or ears. Common proteins that can cause allergies to flare are beef and chicken. That is why choosing a more unique protein option such as lamb or salmon could be beneficial to your dog’s sensitive stomach and/or allergies. 

A food allergy can be diagnosed by conducting a food trial with a special diet or taking a blood test. Your veterinarian will be able to help determine which route is best for you and your dog. Unfortunately, there is no cure for food allergies in dogs. The best way to help is by avoiding certain ingredients and choosing the right diet fit for your dog. 

Finding the best dog food for a sensitive stomach will get your dog’s health back on track. Ingredients such as high-quality proteins, ancient grains, and vegetables like beet pulp are nutritious additions to your dog’s diet. As always, we recommend consulting with your veterinarian to see if a special diet can help or if there are underlying conditions.