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Tummy Troubles? Best Foods for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
We all want our pups to be happy, healthy and full of energy all the time, but just like us humans, dogs get the occasional off day. Whether it’s a sneaky food allergy, a mild tummy bug, or an intolerance to something in their bowl, chances are your dog will experience a case of the dreaded dodgy tummy at some point. Yep, we’re talking loose poops, grumbly bellies, and maybe even a little bit of sick on the rug.
Most of the time, an upset stomach isn’t anything to panic about. It can just happen. But for some dogs, tummy trouble becomes a regular thing, something more chronic that needs ongoing care. That’s where understanding dogs with sensitive stomachs becomes so important.
First things first, always chat with your vet before making any big changes to your dog’s diet. They’ll help you pinpoint the exact cause and rule out anything more serious. Once you’ve got the green light, though, there are lots of gentle, gut-loving ways to help. From specially formulated food toppers to tasty, functional dog treats and supplements for dogs with sensitive stomachs, there are now more options than ever.
In this guide, we’ll help you find the best treats and foods to help dogs with sensitive stomachs feel better from the inside out, so they can get back to doing what they do best.
Why Does My Dog Have a Sensitive Stomach?
If your dog seems to have more off days than usual when it comes to their tummy, you’re not alone. Dogs with sensitive stomachs are more common than you might think, and there are a few usual suspects behind the belly drama.
The most common culprits are food intolerances and allergies. Just like humans, dogs can react poorly to certain ingredients in their food. It might be a specific protein like chicken or beef, grains, dairy, or even artificial additives and preservatives. Sometimes, their body just doesn’t agree with it, and the result is often loose stools, gas, vomiting, or general digestive upset. It’s not because you’ve done anything wrong, it’s simply because their physiology isn’t’ made for that certain ingredient.
And sometimes, it’s not an allergy at all. It can just be that your dog has a more delicate digestive system. Some pups just can’t handle rich or fatty foods, sudden changes in diet, or even stress, which can wreak havoc on their gut. In rarer cases, an underlying health issue might be to blame, which is why it’s so important to check in with your vet if tummy troubles become frequent. Once you know what’s causing the discomfort, you can make smart swaps and additions to their diet to better support dogs with sensitive stomachs.
The Best Foods for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
With so many products on the market, knowing what to feed dogs with sensitive stomachs can feel a bit overwhelming. From grain-free recipes to limited-ingredient treats and probiotic-packed toppers, the choices are endless and not every option will work for every pup. To help you make a start, here are some of the best ingredients that are known to work well!
Fish
Fish is a fantastic protein source for dogs with sensitive stomachs and it’s often one of the first ingredients vets recommend when your pup needs a gentler diet. It’s naturally easy to digest, lower in saturated fat than many other meats, and packed full of omega-3 fatty acids, which help soothe inflammation in the gut and support healthy skin and coats which is a nice bonus if your dog’s tummy issues are allergy-related.
Many dogs who struggle with more common proteins like beef or chicken do really well on fish-based diets. It’s also a great option for dogs with food intolerances, since it’s considered a “novel protein” for many pups, meaning their bodies haven’t developed a sensitivity to it.
A lot of high quality dog foods will be available with fish as their main ingredient whether it’s a white fish like cod or haddock, or oily fish like salmon. The same goes for dog treats and food toppers. For example, Ardens Grange’s Tasty Salmon Dog Treat Paste is a wonderful on the go treat for pups that need to swap out red meat-based treats with something naturally hypoallergenic.
Chicken
Chicken is one of the most common proteins in dog food, and for many dogs with sensitive stomachs, it’s another gentle and easy-to-digest option. It’s lean, mild in flavour, and packed with high-quality protein to support muscle maintenance and energy levels.
Plus, it’s often included in limited-ingredient diets, making it easier to pinpoint and avoid potential triggers. That said, some dogs can develop sensitivities to chicken over time, so always keep an eye on how your pup responds.
Thankfully, there’s no shortage of chicken dog treats for dogs. Our pups particularly love the Natures Variety Freeze-Dried Bites. They’re made from 100% chicken, with no added extras, and freeze-dried so they stay fresh for longer and keep their intense meaty flavour!
Peas & Green Beans
Peas and green beans are two gentle veggies that can be kind to dogs with sensitive stomachs. They’re full of fibre, which helps regulate digestion, and they’re low in fat so they’re ideal for pups who struggle with richer foods.
Peas also contain plant-based protein and essential vitamins like A, K, and several B vitamins. Green beans, meanwhile, are a crunchy, satisfying treat that can help with weight management (especially in dogs who love to snack). Just serve them plain, cooked or raw!
Sweet Potato
One of my pup’s favourite foods is sweet potato, and it works especially well for his sensitive tummy. They’re a super food that is rich in fibre, which helps regulate your dog’s bowel movements and supports overall gut health. Plus, they’re packed with natural antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamin A, C, and potassium.
Their natural sweetness makes them extra appealing to picky eaters, and because they’re low in fat and easy to digest, they’re often a staple in sensitive-stomach-friendly diets. You can find sweet potato in many dried dog food or you can serve them cooked, plain, and mashed or cubed for a gentle boost to your dog’s meals.
You can also find sweet potato in lots of healthy treats for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The Furr Boost Salmon, Sweet Potato & Blueberry Dog Drink feels made for this article, featuring three ingredients that are all great for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The liquid treat can be served as a drink or frozen onto a lick mat or in a treat dispenser for a long lasting snack.
Ginger
You might have been offered ginger biscuits or sweets when you yourself have felt nauseous. Well, it turns out ginger isn’t just for humans and can really benefit dogs with sensitive stomachs too. Known for its anti-nausea and anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help soothe upset tummies, reduce bloating, and calm mild gastrointestinal discomfort.
It’s especially handy for dogs who experience motion sickness or get a little queasy after eating. Just be sure to serve it in very small amounts and always introduce it slowly. You can also find it as an ingredient in many of Denzel’s dog treats including their Gingerbread Chews. Alongside dried ginger, they contact dried carrot, fresh banana and cinnamon turmeric – even more ingredients to help with sensitive bellies.
There are also many delicious dog treats and food toppers made with pumpkin worth exploring. The 100% Natural Pure Pumpkin Powder for Dogs is great for sprinkling on top of your pup’s evening meal to a little digestive boost. Alternatively, fill up their favourite treat dispenser with some Pumpkin Spice Peanut Butter and benefit their tummy and their mind!
Turmeric
Turmeric is a golden wonder, literally! This bright yellow spice is famous for its anti-inflammatory benefits, which can be especially helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs, particularly if inflammation is playing a role in their digestive issues.
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin that supports gut health, joint health, and even immune function. It’s often included in natural supplements for dogs with chronic tummy troubles or food sensitivities. Just remember that turmeric should be given in dog-safe doses and it’s most effective when paired with a healthy fat or protein.
The Golden Paste Co. Turmeric Paste is a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as it’s good to go as an on the move treat or can easily be mixed in with other supplements, dried biscuits or with some peanut butter to be slathered onto a delicious lick mat.
Grain-Free Dog Treats & Foods
For some dogs with sensitive stomachs, grains can be a source of digestive distress, especially if they have a gluten intolerance or allergy. Sadly, most store-bought dog foods are filled with grains so we suggest taking a look at some grain-free foods and treats to swap their usual diet out with.
These formulas often replace grains like wheat, corn, or soy with gentler carbohydrates like sweet potato or legumes. The result is easier digestion and fewer upset tummies. While not all dogs need to go grain-free, for those who do, it can make a big difference.
One of easiest ways to spot grain free dog treats is to check the packaging, as most are labelled that way. Alternatively, anything labelled 100% chicken or something similar indicates a snack with just one ingredient – aka no grains! Wild Pack’s Natural Dog Treats are the perfect example, made using only 100% British made meat.
Blueberries
Finally, although they might be tiny, blueberries are mighty when it comes to dogs with sensitive stomachs. They’re packed with antioxidants, fibre, and vitamin C, all of which support digestive health and help reduce inflammation.
Because they’re low in calories and naturally sweet, they also make a great snack or topper, especially for pups who need a little variety in their diet. A nice bonus: blueberries also support brain health and can give your dog’s immune system a nice little lift. Just serve them fresh or frozen, and keep portions small to avoid overdoing the fibre.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, nothing matters more than making sure your dog feels their absolute best, inside and out. If your pup’s been having tummy troubles, it can be a bit worrying - and, let’s be honest, a bit messy too. But with the right support, a little patience, and your vet’s guidance, things can improve more quickly than you might think.
Finding the right foods for dogs with sensitive stomachs is sometimes a bit of trial and error. What works wonders for one pup might not suit another. That’s why it’s so important to start with your vet, rule out anything serious, and then explore your options slowly and thoughtfully. Thankfully, there are more gentle, nourishing choices available than ever before, from easy-to-digest proteins like fish and chicken, to tummy-friendly toppers and supplements packed with gut-loving goodness.
At WOOOF, we’ve got your back (and your dog’s belly!). Our huge range of treats, toppers, and supplements for dogs with sensitive stomachs is designed to help you support your pup’s wellbeing without compromising on taste or fun. Because every dog deserves to feel good and eat well, even with a sensitive tummy.
The Author: Charlotte Harris
Charlotte has been a writer and dog owner her whole life, so combining these two things together is a dream come true. Her greatest love is her oversized Golden Retriever, Milo, who has a love of tough chews and anything filled with peanut butter!
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How do I know if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
If your dog regularly has loose stools, gas, vomiting, or shows little interest in food, they might have a sensitive stomach. Occasional tummy upsets happen, but if it's frequent, it’s worth chatting to your vet to rule out allergies or other underlying issues.
Can dogs develop food intolerances over time?
Yes, dogs can develop sensitivities or intolerances to foods they’ve eaten for years. It’s not uncommon for an ingredient like chicken or beef to suddenly cause tummy issues. If you notice changes, your vet can help you identify the culprit with an elimination diet or testing.
What foods should I avoid if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
Rich, fatty foods, dairy, highly processed treats, and artificial additives can be harsh on sensitive stomachs. Stick to limited-ingredient diets, avoid sudden food changes, and steer clear of table scraps, no matter how convincing those puppy eyes are!
