Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
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Finding the best food for a dog with a sensitive stomach can be tricky. That’s because even though some digestive problems can be controlled with a simple change in diet…
Others can be caused by something far more serious… which would require professional help for proper diagnosis.
Once your vet has ruled out a serious medical condition, you may wish to see if your dog’s digestive issues may be caused by either a food allergy… or a food intolerance… and if your pet might benefit from a simple change in diet.
On this page… we’ll share with you The Dog Food Advisor’s 10 best foods for a dog with a sensitive stomach… and we’ll answer the 7 most frequently asked questions about feeding dogs with food-related digestive issues.
Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs April 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for sensitive stomachs for April 2024.
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1. We Feed Raw Turkey Patties
Turkey Patties is one of 6 frozen raw recipes included in our review of the We Feed Raw product line.
This We Feed Raw Turkey Patties derives most of its animal protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
High quality ingredients. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix Type Grain-free, raw Protein Percentage 49% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com"I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for 3 years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs."
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2. The Farmer's Dog Fresh
Fresh Pork is one of 4 fresh recipes evaluated in our review of The Farmer’s Dog product line.
This Farmer’s Dog recipe acquires the majority of its animal protein from fresh pork. Dry matter label analysis confirms the recipe contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 28% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
A fresh, human-grade recipe custom designed and packaged to fit the nutritional needs of all puppy breeds. As close to a homemade dog food as you can get. Not cheap. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients USDA Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and adults (including large breed puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TheFarmersDog.com"We have noticed clearer eyes, shinier coat, and much more energy!"
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3. Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Formula for Adult Dogs
Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach is one of 4 dry recipes rated in our review of the Diamond Care product line.
Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach derives the bulk of its animal protein from highly digestible dried egg. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 28% protein, 14% fat and 50% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
A complete and balanced, limited ingredient recipe… safe for daily, long-term feeding.
Diamond Care Sensitive Stomach Dry Dog Food
Read our review of the full Diamond Care Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients My dog is an old girl and suffers with stomach issues. This has helped her with that. I recommend it to anyone with pets who have stomach issues. And it smells good too. No grains. It's a great dog food. Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog is an old girl and suffers with stomach issues. This has helped her with that. I recommend it to anyone with pets who have stomach issues. And it smells good too. No grains. It's a great dog food."
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4. Raised Right Dog Food
Raised Right Beef is one of 11 fresh recipes included in our review of the Raised Right product line.
Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus… especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-free (carrots, cranberries) Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only -
5. Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin is one of 4 sensitivity recipes covered in our review of the Hill’s Science Diet Adult product line.
This Science Diet formula derives the lion’s share of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 22% protein, 14% fat and 55% estimated carbs… creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.
A balanced option that includes prebiotic fiber to encourage the growth of natural gut bacteria and help regulate stools. Recommended by veterinarians.
Read our review of the full Hill’s Science Diet Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, yellow peas, cracked pearled barley, brown rice Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 22% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My 13yr old corgi has been having stomach issues for a couple years and I have tried all sorts of things. She loves this food and so far, no issues. No more nausea and vomiting and better stools! Very pleased."
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6. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Salmon and Rice is one of 4 sensitive skin and stomach recipes analyzed in our review of the Purina Pro Plan product line.
This Purina Pro Plan recipe acquires the main portion of its animal protein from fresh salmon. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 30% protein, 18% fat and 44% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 62%.
A highly digestible, single-protein formula recommended by breeders and veterinarians alike… with favorable ratings from verified users, too.
Read our review of the full Purina Pro Plan Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Salmon, barley, rice, oat meal, canola meal Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 30% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"In the past 2 years, I have spent $1000's of dollars and tremendous hours of research trying every organic and natural option for my beloved Goldens and their sensitive tummies and allergies. I remain baffled why some foods seem to work for a few months and then they don't. Our breeder and 3 different vets have always stood by Purina Pro Plan. While I still don't love the long list of ingredients, my fur babies are high energy and active pups with shiny coats and happy bellies."
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7. Wellness Core Digestive Health
Digestive Health Wholesome Grains Chicken and Brown Rice is one of 6 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Wellness Core product line.
Wellness Core Digestive Health derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh chicken, turkey meal, and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 13% fat and 45% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%.
A highly digestible, probiotic-coated dry kibble formula, enhanced with digestive enzymes, prebiotic fibers and probiotics to support optimal gut health. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Core Digestive Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned Chicken, turkey meal , chicken meal , brown rice, barley, oat groats Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog has some digestive issues and this was recommended to us by our veterinarian. Ever since making the change we've had zero issues. I cannot say enough good things about this food. We even moved our senior furbaby to their formula and she's been acting so much younger ever since."
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8. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal Low Fat Kibble
Unrated
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal is one of 5 dry digestive recipes included in our review of the Royal Canin product line.
Royal Canin Gastrointestinal gets the bulk of its meat protein from chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 22% protein, 9% fat and 60% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 43%.
A highly digestible, low-fat formula that’s ideal for treating a wide array of canine digestive disorders. Recommended by veterinarians.
This dog food is not rated due to its intentional therapeutic design.
Read our review of the full Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Gastrointestinal Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Brewers rice, chicken by-product meal, wheat, barley, natural flavors Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 22% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This is a quality dog food. My dog had very bad digestive issues. Since we switched her to Royal Canin Gastrointestinal she has been doing very well. Plus, she loves it."
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9. Wellness Simple Ingredient
Wellness Simple Ingredient Turkey is one of 6 dry recipes contained in our review of the Wellness Simple Ingredient product line.
This Wellness recipe derives the major part of its meat protein from fresh turkey and turkey meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 29% protein, 13% fat and 49% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 46%.
With no grains, gluten or wheat, this limited ingredient diet makes an affordable option for both skin and stomach sensitivities. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned turkey, turkey meal, potatoes, peas, dried ground potatoes Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 29% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dogs have stopped itching and chewing and they both love this food!"
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10. Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Puppy and Adult Dry Recipe
Nulo Sensitive Digestion is one of 4 limited ingredient recipes rated in our review of the Nulo Freestyle Limited Plus product line.
This Nulo Freestyle formula takes the greatest share of its meat protein from fresh salmon and salmon meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 20% fat and 39% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
Boasts a single source of animal protein… which helps eliminate a number of potential allergens, like chicken, eggs or peas. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nulo Freestyle Limited Plus Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned salmon, salmon meal, chickpeas, chickpea flour, canola oil Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and adults (including large breed puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dogs have been eating Nulo for about 2 years now and they love it! One on my dog was always super picky but also has allergies. My other one had a sensitive stomach. Both have had no issues since switching to Nulo. It’s a bit pricey but I think it’s worth it."
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11. Hill's Prescription Diet I/D Digestive Care
Unrated
Hills Prescription I/D Digestive Care with Turkey is one of 5 wet recipes covered in our review of the Hills Prescription Diet product line.
This Hill’s prescription formula of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 23% protein, 9% fat and 60% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%.
A professional veterinary design with a long-term, proven history. Highly recommended.
This dog food is not rated due to its intentional therapeutic design.
Read our review of the full Hill’s Prescription Diet I/D Canine Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Water, turkey, rice, pork liver, egg product, corn Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 23% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adult and medium/small breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My fur baby was having problems with his bowel movements, and his vet prescribed this for him. He devours his food (especially) with this food, but it helped with his digestive issues. I saw an immediate difference."
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12. Go! Sensitivities Limited Ingredient Diet
Go! Sensitivity and Shine Salmon is one of 6 dry recipes analyzed in our review of the Go! Sensitivities product line.
Created as a limited ingredient option with no by-product meals, wheat, corn or soy. The addition of probiotics also promotes digestive health, while omega 3’s help maintain a healthy skin and coat.
This Go! limited ingredient formula gets the lion’s share of its animal protein from fresh salmon and salmon meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 27% protein, 13% fat and 52% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
This is a great option for dogs with both skin and stomach sensitivities. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Go! Sensitivities Limited Ingredient Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients De-boned salmon, salmon meal, tapioca, peas, lentils Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 27% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and adults (including large breed puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My English Bulldog Ruth seemed to be allergic to everything. She kept getting rashes on her underbelly and ear infections. We had her on royal canine Rx special food but she hated the taste of it. It was always partially eaten. We heard about this and thought to give it a try. She liked it from day 1 and her rashes cleared up within days. No problem with stool either. I feel like we won the lottery with this dog food."
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13. Instinct Raw Boost Gut Health
Raw Boost Gut Health is one of 12 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Instinct Raw Boost product line.
This Instinct product acquires the major part of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 19% fat and 39% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
A highly digestible formula containing no corn, wheat or soy. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Instinct Raw Boost Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, peas, tapioca, canola oil Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 34% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog loves it! We were trying to find the best type of meal for him, and rawboost was a life changer!"
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14. Canidae Grain Free Pure Dry Dog Food
Canidae Pure Lamb and Pea is one of 10 limited ingredient recipes included in our review of the Canidae Grain-Free Pure product line.
This Canidae formula gets most of its animal protein from both lamb and poultry meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 20% fat and 36% estimated carbs… which produces a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
A popular, limited ingredient diet that’s free of gluten, grain, wheat and soy. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Canidae Grain Free Pure Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Lamb, chicken meal, turkey meal, sweet potato, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Dog with allergies to gluten and several other things LOVES this food, and it loves his stomach! No allergic reactions! We are now sporting clear skin, a healthy shiny coat, no itching, no odor and happily moving forward with life! Great dog food! And very reasonably priced."
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To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
Some of the most common signs your dog may be suffering from a sensitive stomach include one or more of the following:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gas or bloating
- Decrease in activity
- Gurgling noises
- Signs of abdominal pain
In the following video, Dr. Al Townshend, staff veterinarian at Wellpet, discusses the signs of food allergy or ingredient intolerance in dogs… and how the right diet can help control a sensitive stomach.
What type of dog food is best for a sensitive stomach?
There are 3 types of food that may help a dog with a food-related digestive problem:
- Limited ingredient dog food
- Hypoallergenic dog food
- Prescription GI dog food
What is a limited ingredient dog food?
Limited ingredient diets are dog foods that contain fewer components… which can help you pin down the specific ingredient to which your pet may be sensitive.
The best limited ingredient dog foods typically contain:
- Single novel protein
- Limited number of ingredients
- Most protein sourced from meat
- Low to moderate fat
- Probiotics (to aid digestion)
What should I avoid in a limited ingredient dog food?
Avoid feeding any limited ingredient recipe that contains any of the following low quality items:
- Excessive fillers (soybean hulls, wheat mill run, corn bran, etc.)
- Artificial flavors
- Coloring agents
- Controversial preservatives
- Chemical additives
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog foods are made by using proteins that have been chemically “split” into their basic amino acid building blocks.
That way, the offending ingredient becomes virtually “invisible” to your dog’s immune system… so your dog is less likely to have an allergic reaction to the food.
What are prescription GI dog foods?
Prescription GI (gastrointestinal) dog foods are special purpose diets made for dogs suffering from digestive problems. These recipes typically include similar limited ingredient or hypoallergenic designs.
However, in addition, they also include ingredients specifically designed to support healthy digestion.
How do I safely transition to a new food if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, be patient. Don’t rush the transitioning process. Take your time to minimize the chance of GI upset.
Start with about 20-25% of the “new” food and 75-80% of the “old” food. Then, slowly increase that amount to a full 100% over the next 7 to 10 day period.
