AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.
It’s never fun to see our furry friends not feeling their best. Like humans, dogs can have sensitivities to certain ingredients, react to changes in diet or catch a bug that causes tummy troubles. Problems related to sensitive stomachs can manifest in various ways and have a range of causes, so it’s always best to confer with your vet. But if you need to change up your pup’s food, the best dog foods for sensitive stomachs can help them get back on their feet and feel their best.
Causes and symptoms of sensitive stomachs in dogs
The most obvious symptoms of a sensitive stomach in a dog are vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and bloating. However, stomach sensitivity can also manifest in the form of itching and other skin problems, along with weight loss. These symptoms can arise from a variety of issues, though, which can make pinning down the problem a challenge. There are some common causes to be aware of, which can help you start to narrow down the issue.
Change in diet
First, dogs can experience sensitive stomachs when their diet suddenly changes. Switching to a new food can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea and bloating. That’s because abrupt changes or the “introduction of new foods can disrupt the balance of bacteria in the gut, leading to digestive upset,” explains Dr. Andrea Johnston, a board-certified small animal veterinary internist and medical board member at The Vets. So, when switching to a new food, “gradually transition your dog over several days to minimize the risk of digestive upset,” Johnston recommends.
Allergies
Food intolerances or allergies can also cause tummy trouble, usually manifesting as itching, digestive issues or skin problems. Like us, “dogs can develop allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients in their diet, such as grains, proteins or additives,” explains Johnston. If your pup has sensitivities, you may need to find a specific dog food for allergies.
Illness
Of course, some illnesses can cause stomach issues in pups as well. For example, pancreatitis, or “inflammation of the pancreas, can result in a sensitive stomach in dogs. Symptoms may include abdominal pain, loss of appetite and vomiting,” explains Dr. Sara Ochoa, a veterinarian with a doctorate in veterinary mMedicine from St. George University and co-founder of How To Pets. Bacterial or parasitic infections, such as Giardia, gastroenteritis and a number of different types of worms, can also cause stomach sensitivity with a range of gastrointestinal symptoms, including diarrhea, weight loss and a pot-bellied appearance.
Anxiety
Finally, anxiety, changes in routine or environmental stressors can play a role. “Just like humans, dogs can experience stress or anxiety, which can affect their stomach,” says Ochoa. “Symptoms may include decreased appetite, vomiting and loose stools.”
What to consider when choosing dog food for sensitive stomachs
Protein source
Protein is incredibly important for dogs, as it’s “essential for muscle development and overall health,” explains Ochoa. “Look for options with real meat as the primary protein source, rather than meat by-products.” However, some dogs develop sensitivities to certain proteins, so you may need to try different proteins to find the right one. Johnston suggests trying novel protein sources such as duck, venison or rabbit if your pup has sensitivities to chicken or beef.
Number of ingredients
The number of ingredients in dog food, like human food, can indicate food quality, which could be essential when dealing with a sensitive stomach. Plus, fewer ingredients means fewer options that could cause problems with a sensitive tummy. “Opt for dog food with limited ingredients to minimize the risk of triggering stomach sensitivities,” says Ochoa. “Look for options with simple and easily digestible proteins like chicken or lamb. Avoid foods with artificial additives or fillers.” Choosing dog foods with fewer ingredients can also be helpful if you’re attempting to identify particular ingredients that could be the culprit for stomach issues.
Probiotics and prebiotics
Probiotics and prebiotics can help support a healthy digestive system in dogs. “These beneficial bacteria can help regulate gut flora and improve digestion, reducing the likelihood of stomach upset,” explains Ochoa. Some food will come with probiotics and prebiotics added directly into the food, or you can purchase it separately to add on as needed.
Grain-free options
Some dogs with sensitive stomachs could benefit from grain-free food. That’s because “grain-free dog food is often easier to digest and can help alleviate stomach issues,” explains Ochoa. “However, make sure the grain-free option still provides essential nutrients like fiber and carbohydrates from other sources.”
While eliminating certain ingredients may be necessary to relieve stomach upsets, you still need to consider important nutrients when selecting the right dog food for sensitive stomachs. Ochoa suggests looking for easily digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or peas instead of complex carbs like grains and gluten.
Veterinary guidance
A sensitive stomach can signal a bigger issue and pinning down the exact cause can be tricky. Even when you find the problem, finding the right dog food for sensitive stomachs can be overwhelming, with so many options out there. Be sure to consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns and if symptoms of a sensitive stomach last for more than a few days.
Our top picks for the best dog food for sensitive stomachs
Best dog food for sensitive stomach and diarrhea: Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Sensitive Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food, 15.5-lb bag
A diarrhea attack from a dog’s sensitive stomach is miserable for everyone, so choose foods carefully for pups. Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin uses “easily digestible ingredients and prebiotic fiber, so it's a go-to for diarrhea-prone dogs,” says Ochoa. The digestible formula also “helps support optimal nutrient absorption,” says Dr. Katy Nelson, senior veterinarian at Chewy. It features real chicken first, giving you confidence that your pup is getting quality protein. As a bonus, “the recipe also delivers a generous source of vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a lustrous coat,” Nelson explains.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 4, 15.5 or 30-pound bags.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Chicken & barley.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Price on publish: $81.98 for a 30-pound bag.
What we like:
- Easily digestible.
- Real chicken is the first ingredient.
- Prebiotic fiber supports a balanced microbiome.
- Also aids in promoting healthy skin and coats.
What we don’t like:
- Uses beet pulp, which some dogs may not like.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This Hill’s Science Diet food uses easily digestible ingredients and a prebiotic fiber to help with diarrhea from a sensitive stomach.
Get it here: Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Best dry dog food for sensitive stomachs: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Adult with Probiotics Lamb & Oat Meal Formula High Protein Dry Dog Food, 4-lb bag
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach is a great dry dog food for sensitive stomachs in part because it’s available in three different protein options. You can choose between salmon, lamb or turkey, allowing you to find a formula that works best for your dog’s gut and taste buds. All flavors are made with quality, easily digestible ingredients. They are free of wheat, soy and artificial flavors that can cause upset, and feature antioxidants for a healthy immune system.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 4, 16, 24, 30 or 40-pound bags.
- Life stage: Adult or puppy.
- Flavors: Salmon & rice, lamb & oatmeal, turkey & oatmeal.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Price on publish: $71.98 for a 24-pound bag.
What we like:
- Three different protein options.
- Available for puppies, adults and large breeds.
- Free of wheat, soy and artificial flavors.
- Uses highly digestible fibers.
What we don’t like:
- Salmon flavor doesn’t have probiotics.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach is available in three different protein options and in puppy, adult or large breed formulas.
Get it here: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Best dog food for puppies with sensitive stomachs: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Puppy Gastrointestinal Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Puppy Gastrointestinal Dry Dog Food
Royal Canin dog food for sensitive stomachs is formulated specifically for puppies. It’s ideal for both long-term and short-term digestive sensitivities and can be rehydrated to help puppies transition from milk to solid food. In terms of ingredients, it has “enhanced omega-3 fatty acids, like EPA and DHA, and a fiber blend to help support digestive health. It also includes selected prebiotics to help support a healthy gastrointestinal microbiome,” explains Nelson.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 8.8 or 22-pound bags.
- Life stage: Puppy.
- Flavors: Not listed.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Price on publish: $63.99 for an 8.8-pound bag.
What we like:
- Includes prebiotics.
What we don’t like:
- Animal protein byproducts are the primary ingredients.
- Expensive.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This Royal Canin puppy food features easily digestible ingredients, probiotics to support a healthy microbiome and a fiber blend to help with sensitive tummies.
Get it here: Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Puppy Gastrointestinal Dry Dog Food
Best dog food for sensitive stomach and vomiting: Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts Chicken Recipe Fresh Dog Food
Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts Chicken Recipe Fresh Dog Food
A long list of ingredients can open up opportunities for reactions. Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts frozen food features a relatively short ingredient list, so there’s less of a chance for something to irritate your dog’s stomach and cause vomiting. Chicken is the first ingredient, followed by easily digestible items like sweet potatoes, oats and cranberries. The natural ingredients will also be easier to digest, which is ideal for dogs with sensitive tummies.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 4 1.5-pound bags, 4.5-pound bag, 4.5-pound bag in a bundle of two or four.
- Life stage: All life stages.
- Flavors: Chicken.
- Type: Frozen.
- Price on publish: $39.99 for a 4.5-pound bag.
What we like:
- Minimal ingredients.
- High-protein content with real chicken.
- No preservatives or meat byproducts.
- Antioxidant-rich.
What we don’t like:
- Must be stored properly and used within seven days of opening.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts is a frozen food made of simple, easy-to-digest ingredients with plenty of protein.
Get it here: Freshpet Vital Fresh Cuts Chicken Recipe Fresh Dog Food
Best wet dog food for sensitive stomachs: Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Wet Food
Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Grain-Free Turkey & Potato Formula Canned Dog Food, 12.5-oz, case of 12
Wet food can be a must for dogs who struggle chewing, or if you want to encourage hydration because of the higher moisture content. This Wellness canned food features turkey and turkey broth as the first ingredients, with no additional fillers or animal byproducts. It also uses easily digestible carbohydrates, which help to provide a soothing mealtime experience. It’s grain-free and promotes optimal energy levels along with a healthy coat to keep your pup at their best.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 12.5-ounce can, available in 12 or 24-pack.
- Life stage: All life stages.
- Flavors: Turkey & potato.
- Type: Canned wet food.
- Price on publish: $52.56 for 12-can case.
What we like:
- Features added vitamins and minerals for overall nutrition.
- No meat by-products or fillers.
- Uses easily-digestible carbohydrates.
- Promotes optimal energy and healthy skin and coat.
What we don’t like:
- No pull tab on the can.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
This Wellness canned food uses simple, straightforward ingredients that are easily digestible while promoting hydration.
Get it here: Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Wet Food
Best senior dog food for sensitive stomachs: Canidae Pure Senior Recipe
CANIDAE Grain-Free PURE Senior Limited Ingredient Chicken, Sweet Potato & Garbanzo Bean Recipe Dry Dog Food, 22-lb bag
Canidae dog food for sensitive stomachs is tailored for older dogs to keep your senior pup going strong. It includes probiotics for better digestion and is made with simple, easily digestible ingredients. They claim that antioxidants help boost the immune system, while glucosamine and chondroitin support healthy joints. It’s made without corn, wheat or soy and contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, a must for sensitive stomachs.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 12 or 22-pound bag.
- Life stage: Senior.
- Flavors: Chicken, sweet potato and garbanzo bean.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Price on publish: $74.99 for a 22-pound bag.
What we like:
- Includes probiotics for healthy digestion.
- Antioxidants make for a healthy immune system.
- Supports healthy joints.
- Simple ingredients are easy to digest.
What we don’t like:
- Only available in one flavor.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
The Canidae Pure Senior recipe uses ingredients tailored for older dogs to keep them at their best while being easy to digest.
Get it here: Canidae Pure Senior Recipe
Best canned dog food for sensitive stomachs: Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain-Free Salmon & Vegetable Entree Canned Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain-Free Salmon & Vegetable Entree Canned Dog Food, 12.8-oz, case of 24
If your pup prefers wet food, Hill’s Science Diet option is a great wet dog food for sensitive stomachs. “This grain-free recipe is formulated to help support optimal digestive and skin health and contains natural fibers for improved stool pickup,” says Nelson. It also features omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E for healthy skin and coats, promoting overall wellness.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 12.8-ounce cans in case or 12 or 24.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Salmon & vegetable, turkey & rice or chicken & vegetable.
- Type: Canned wet food.
- Price on publish: $93.36 for 24-case.
What we like:
- Omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E help support skin and coat health.
- Easy to digest.
- Promotes hydration.
- Grain-free.
What we don’t like:
- Limited shelf life once opened.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach canned food is easy to digest and uses natural fibers to promote better stool pickup.
Get it here: Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain-Free Salmon & Vegetable Entree Canned Dog Food
Best grain-free dog food for sensitive stomachs: Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient Formula
Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient Formula
If your dog is sensitive to grains it can be hard to find food options, but Taste of the Wild Prey dog food is fully grain-free. Lentils are the second ingredient and the only source of carbohydrates in this food, limiting any potential for upset stomach due to grains. Additionally, probiotics aid digestion, while minerals, vitamins, antioxidants, omega fatty acids and DHA all promote overall wellness and complete nutrition.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 8 or 25-pound bag.
- Life stage: All life stages.
- Flavors: Angus beef, trout or turkey.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Price on publish: $65.99 for 25-pound bag.
What we like:
- Works for all life stages.
- Uses high-quality protein.
- Includes probiotics.
- Lentils are the only source of carbs.
What we don’t like:
- Can be hard to find.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
With a quality protein source, probiotics and no grains, Taste of the Wild Prey is a fantastic choice for grain-sensitive dogs.
Get it here: Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient Formula
Best dog food for large breeds with sensitive stomachs: Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken Dry Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken Dry Dog Food, 22-lb bag
Hill’s Science Diet dog food is made specifically for large breeds with sensitive stomachs. It’s a larger kibble than most, which is ideal for larger pups. The food features prebiotics, whole-grain oats and pumpkin to “support regular and healthy stools and aid in cultivating a healthy microbiome and overall digestive well-being,” says Nelson. Plus, it uses real, high-quality chicken as the primary ingredient, so you can trust you are getting a quality protein source for your dog.
Specifications:
- Packaging size:12 or 22-pound bag.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Chicken.
- Type: Dry kibble.
- Price on publish: $83.99 for 22-pound bag.
What we like:
- No artificial flavors, colors or preservatives.
- Features prebiotics and pumpkin for healthy stools.
- Real chicken is the first ingredient.
- Larger kibble size is ideal for big dogs.
What we don’t like:
- Expensive.
- Only one flavor.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Hill’s Science Diet food offers a larger kibble size and plenty of gut-friendly ingredients for larger dogs.
Get it here: Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Large Breed Chicken Dry Dog Food
Best fresh dog food for sensitive stomachs: Nom Nom Fresh Pet Food
Nom Nom Freshly-Made Frozen Grain-Free Beef Mash Dog Food, 14-oz pouch, case of 7
For picky eaters, fresh food may be the only way to entice a dog to eat their meals. Nom Nom is a fantastic fresh dog food for sensitive stomachs because it uses “whole, restaurant-quality ingredients,” explains Ochoa. It works for all life stages and is available in four different protein flavors to keep your dog interested. Nom Nom individually cooks all ingredients gently to lock in nutrients and then mixes them in small batches. It ships food within six months of being made, so you know it’s fresh when it arrives.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 14-ounce pouch, case of 7.
- Life stage: All life stages.
- Flavors: Beef, chicken, pork or turkey.
- Type: Frozen fresh food.
- Price on publish: $75.99 for beef.
What we like:
- Uses whole, quality ingredients.
- No fillers or by-products.
- Four protein options.
- Gently cooked to maximize digestibility.
What we don’t like:
- Limited shelf life when thawed.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
Nom Nom makes all its whole-ingredient food in small batches and ships it within six months to keep it fresh.
Get it here: Nom Nom Fresh Pet Food
Best soft dog food for sensitive stomachs: Purina ONE SmartBlend Tender Cuts in Gravy
Purina ONE SmartBlend Tender Cuts in Gravy
Purina One SmartBlend Tender Cuts is more than just a wet food — it includes soft chunks of real meat to entice your dog. There are no artificial preservatives, colors or flavors and zero fillers of any kind, so there’s a lower chance that something will irritate your dog’s sensitive stomach. “Soft and easy to eat, this wet food combines antioxidants and omega fatty acids for overall health and is gentle on sensitive stomachs,” says Ochoa.
Specifications:
- Packaging size: 12-pack of 13-ounce cans.
- Life stage: Adult.
- Flavors: Beef & barley, chicken & brown rice.
- Type: Canned wet food.
- Price on publish: $18.52 for beef & barley 12-pack.
What we like:
- Affordable.
- Soft and easy to eat.
- Gentle on sensitive stomachs.
- Provides a nutritionally complete diet.
What we don’t like:
- Only available in a 12-pack.
The AP Buyline takeaway:
With soft chunks of meat and an enticing gravy, this Purina ONE food is easy to eat and digest.
Get it here: Purina ONE SmartBlend Tender Cuts in Gravy
How we selected the best dog food for sensitive stomachs
Dog health is extremely important to me, so I relied on the expert advice of veterinarians when selecting the best dog food for sensitive stomachs. Since a range of factors can cause sensitive stomachs, I aimed to include various food types with a mix of different ingredients to meet the needs of many dogs. Finally, I chose foods for different life stages, so whether you have a brand new puppy or a dog up there in years, you can find a recommendation here.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
How do I know if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
Unfortunately, identifying a sensitive stomach in a dog can be challenging. “If you’re always on the watch for how your pup’s stools are looking, avoiding giving them certain foods or searching for the ‘perfect’ diet to settle their tummy, you likely have a dog with a sensitive stomach,” says Nelson.
The most obvious signs of a sensitive stomach are vomiting and diarrhea. Of course, it’s not unusual for dogs to have occasional vomiting or diarrhea, but “frequent occurrences suggest a problem,” explains Johnston.
It’s also important to keep an eye on the frequency and consistency of your dog's bowel movements. Changes in bowel movements can indicate a problem and “soft or watery stools, blood in the stool or mucus may indicate digestive issues,” says Johnston. Flatulence is also something to watch (or rather, listen and smell) for. Occasional gas is normal, while “excessive flatulence can indicate digestive discomfort,” says Johnston. If your dog has foul-smelling gas frequently, it may be a sign of a sensitive stomach.
Ochoa and Johnston also explain that a loss of appetite could signal stomach issues like sensitivity. If your dog is reluctant to eat, that’s a red flag. “Conversely, some dogs may exhibit increased hunger due to poor absorption of nutrients,” says Johnston. In the same vein, Johnston explains that digestive issues can lead to weight fluctuations. “If your dog is losing weight unexpectedly, it could be related to their digestive health,” she says.
Stomach sensitivity can result in abdominal discomfort. To check for this, touch your dog’s abdomen. If they show signs of discomfort when you touch or press on their abdomen, that could be an indicator that they have a sensitive stomach. Likewise, whining, pacing or restlessness can also be signs of abdominal discomfort.
Though it may seem counterintuitive, a dull coat or skin irritations can also be signs of a sensitive stomach. Pay attention to any changes to your dog’s skin and coat, as “dogs with sensitive stomachs may often have skin issues like itchiness, redness or a dull coat,” explains Ochoa.
Finally, keep an eye out for any behavioral changes. Unfortunately, dogs can’t tell us what’s wrong, and their discomfort may come through in unexpected ways. “Dogs with digestive discomfort may display changes in behavior such as lethargy, irritability or reluctance to engage in activities they normally enjoy,” says Johnston. If your pup is acting differently than normal, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
What are some common ingredients to avoid in dog food for sensitive stomachs?
If you already know that your dog’s stomach is sensitive, there are some ingredients that you can avoid to prevent flare-ups. Alternatively, if you’re trying an elimination diet to determine the cause of stomach upset, the following ingredients may be worth avoiding.
First, for some dogs, high-fat foods can cause problems. “While dogs need fat for energy, excessive fat intake can lead to digestive issues, particularly in dogs with pancreatitis,” explains Johnston. She recommends avoiding dog foods that contain high levels of fat, such as those with animal fats or certain oils.
The second ingredient to avoid may sound familiar: dairy. “Many dogs are lactose intolerant, meaning they lack the enzyme necessary to digest lactose, a sugar found in milk,” says Johnston. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, avoid foods with any dairy products, and skip the cheese and yogurt.
Artificial sweeteners and additives can cause gastrointestinal distress as well. “Ingredients like artificial colors, flavors and preservatives can be tough on a sensitive stomach,” says Ochoa. Likewise, “artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic to dogs and can cause digestive problems,” explains Johnston. If you’re looking for dog food for sensitive stomachs, be sure to avoid any of those fillers and sweeteners. And if you give human food to your furry friend, check the ingredients to ensure that it's free of artificial ingredients, especially sweeteners, as well.
Finally, grains with gluten are best avoided if your dog has a sensitive tummy. “Grains like wheat, corn and soy that contain gluten can be difficult for some dogs to digest,” Ochoa says. “Look for grain-free or gluten-free options to support your dog's sensitive stomach.”
Can dogs develop sensitivities to food over time?
Dogs can develop sensitivities to food over time, so if your pup’s long-time food isn’t agreeing with them, don’t fret. There are many reasons for this, including simply age. “Just like humans, dogs' digestive systems can change as they age. What once suited their stomachs perfectly might now cause irritation or an allergic reaction,” explains Ochoa.
Repeated exposure to food can also cause dogs to develop sensitivities. “Their immune system may start to recognize certain ingredients as foreign or harmful, triggering a response upon consumption,” says Ochoa. That’s especially true of dog foods that contain common allergens like wheat, corn, soy and artificial additives. “Over time, continuous exposure to these ingredients can result in sensitivities that manifest as digestive problems or skin issues in your furry friend,” she says. Certain breeds are also predisposed to food allergies and sensitivities, which means they may be more likely to develop reactions to specific ingredients over time.
Is wet or dry food better for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Each dog and situation is different, so wet or dry food isn’t inherently better for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Wet food can be easier to digest and chew because of its softer texture, making it a common option for sensitive stomachs. It also features a higher moisture content, helping to keep your dog hydrated. That extra hydration is key if your dog doesn’t drink much on its own or if it has symptoms that could lead to dehydration.
AP Buyline’s content is created independently of The Associated Press newsroom. Our evaluations and opinions are not influenced by our advertising relationships, but we might earn commissions from our partners’ links in this content. Learn more about our policies and terms here.