What to Feed a Dog With a Sensitive Stomach

Dealing with sensitive stomach issues in dogs can be frustrating and worrying for dog parents. Identifying the cause of digestive upsets, determining which foods dogs can and can not eat, and creating a diet that will nourish your pet without contributing to digestive issues is stressful. At Primal Pet Foods, we believe that a dog’s diet is the foundation of their health and we’re dedicated to crafting premium-quality, nutrient-focused raw pet food recipes that are gentle on sensitive stomachs and packed with proteins, vitamins, and minerals your dog needs to thrive. Explore how a raw diet may help support better digestive health for dogs with a sensitive stomach or indigestion due to food ingredient intolerances or allergies.

What Are the Signs of a Sensitive Stomach in Dogs?

If your dog has a sensitive stomach or digestive upset, you may note vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, gas, or changes in appetite. These signs may point to digestive concerns caused by food sensitivities or allergies. To determine the root cause of your dog’s digestive distress, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian.

Is a Raw Diet Good for Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs?

Premium-quality, highly digestible recipes made with nutritionally complete ingredients are an important part of a dog’s diet. Primal Pet Foods has developed our raw pet food recipes with these factors in mind. Raw food mimics your dog’s natural, ancestral diet and provides a biologically appropriate source of nutrition. Minimal processing preserves the natural vitamins and minerals in the highly digestible ingredients—and because our pet food formulas are free from common allergens, our raw diets support your dog's digestive and gastrointestinal health.

Primal Pet Foods offers a range of raw food recipes free from common allergens like grains, gluten, and potatoes. By providing your dog with a Primal Pet Foods raw diet, you're not just feeding them; you're nourishing them. Our raw food formulas are designed to support optimal digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote overall gut health—allowing your dog to thrive.

Best Ingredients for Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs

Primal Pet Foods incorporates a variety of healthy ingredients and nutrient-rich recipes that help support digestive health. Below are options to consider first when supporting your dog's optimal digestive health:

• Goat milk is an easily digestible protein source that’s rich in probiotics. Pour goat milk over your dog’s bowl for a meal addition that supports gut health and nutrient absorption.

• Bone broth is packed with collagen, glucosamine, and other nutrients that support gut health and overall digestive well-being while also boosting hydration. It’s also easy to serve: pour bone broth over kibble or mix it into raw food.

• Pumpkin and squash are packed with fiber and vitamins to support your pet’s digestive health and metabolism.

• Easy-to-digest proteins, including fish, may be less likely to cause stomach upset in sensitive dogs.

• Novel proteins, like venison, rabbit, and duck, are less likely to trigger food sensitivities in dogs with allergies or ingredient intolerances.

How Can I Improve My Dog's Digestive System?

Because an imbalance in the microbiome can contribute to food sensitivities, it’s important to support your dog’s digestive microbiome, including through diet. This means choosing pet food recipes made with ingredients that promote overall gut health. Additional ways to support sensitive systems include:

• Strive for portion control, as overeating or eating too quickly can affect the digestive system

• Slowly transition between foods to prevent gastrointestinal upset caused by rapid diet changes

• Ensure proper hydration, which aids in the absorption of vitamins and minerals and supports digestion

• Always feed according to your dog’s life stage to ensure they are getting the ideal nutrients for their age

• Focus on reducing stress, which may contribute to digestive upset

• Rule out allergies, especially if symptoms don't improve 

Supporting your dog’s digestive health doesn’t have to be stressful: Primal Pet Foods provides plenty of options for highly digestible, biologically appropriate feeding to ensure your dog is in their prime—including nourishing feeding options for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Look no further than our raw pet food diets to support long-term health and vitality. For more pet tips and advice, explore our blog.