Does your furry friend’s tummy rumble with discomfort? Watching your dog suffer from an upset stomach can be heartbreaking, and figuring out what to feed them can feel like a puzzle. You want to help them feel better fast, but the sheer variety of “sensitive stomach” dog foods out there can be overwhelming and even confusing. Are you worried about picking the wrong food and making things worse?
This post is here to help you navigate the world of dog food for upset stomachs. We understand your frustration and desire to find the best solution for your pup. By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clearer understanding of what ingredients to look for, what to avoid, and how to choose a food that will soothe their digestive system and bring back their happy wag.
Let’s dive into the best options and strategies for feeding your dog when their tummy needs a little extra care.
Top Dog Food For Upset Stomach Recommendations
No. 1
Under the Weather Bland Diet for Dogs | Easy to Digest for Sick Dogs | Always Be Ready | Contains Electrolytes - All Natural Freeze Dried 100% Human Grade Meats | 1 Pack - Chicken, Rice - 6oz
- NO MORE COOKING - JUST ADD WATER! When dogs experience digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, vets recommend feeding a “bland diet” to soothe the digestive tract until normal digestion is restored. Shelf life: 36 months from manufacturing date. EXP date Printed on the back of the pouch near the bottom seal as EXP MM/YY.
- OUR AWARD-WINNING BLAND DIET is freeze dried and contains white rice, and 100% human grade white meat chicken, raised cage free with NO antibiotics or hormones. Enhanced with a powerful electrolyte blend to boost hydration and energy.
- VET-FORMULATED AND VET RECOMMENDED - Freeze dried bland diets soothe your pup's tummy during times of digestive upset, including travel, surgery, medications, and changes in daily routine. Bland Diets can also be used as a topper to help ease your dog’s transition back to their regular diet.
- CONVENIENCE - Just add water and this freeze-dried formula re-hydrates in minutes! With a 3-year shelf life, being prepared with a quick and healthy meal solution for when your dog is feeling under the weather, has never been easier! Keep a few Bland Diets in your pantry so when a digestive issue develops, you can skip the prep and get your pup feeling better faster!
- MANUFACTURED IN THE USA - With only the highest quality human grade ingredients, FREE OF By-Products, Gluten, Artificial Flavors, and Dies.
No. 2
Fruitables Pumpkin Digestive Supplement, Made with Pumpkins for Dogs, Healthy Fiber Supplement for Pet Nutrition, Packed with Superfoods, 15 oz
- SUPPORTS DOG DIGESTIVE SUPPORT & REGULARITY: Made with natural pumpkin for dogs, this supplement delivers fiber for dogs & helps maintain healthy digestion, supports dog gut health, and provides gentle constipation relief for dogs
- HELPS WITH DOG UPSET STOMACH RELIEF: The perfect blend of dog pumpkin puree & fruit & veggie fibers provides dog tummy relief & aids in dog upset stomach relief; great for occasional digestive issues or sensitive stomachs to help your pup feel their best
- GENTLE FIBER SUPPLEMENT FOR DOGS & CATS: Ideal pumpkin for cats and canned pumpkin for dogs, this versatile formula offers natural diarrhea relief for dogs and constipation relief for dogs, supporting balanced digestion without harsh additives or fillers
- NATURAL SUPPORT FOR DOG & CAT DIGESTIVE HEALTH: Made with pure pumpkin for dogs and is an effective firm up pumpkin for dogs solution; perfect for pet parents seeking a trusted, natural way to promote pumpkin for dogs digestion and cat constipation relief
- TRUSTED QUALITY FOR PET HEALTH: A safe addition to your pet dog supplies; promotes gut health for dogs, supports stool quality, and contributes to overall dog health, making it an essential tool for achieving that “perfect poop” goal every pet owner loves
No. 3
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Adult 1-6, Stomach & Skin Sensitivity Support, Wet Dog Food, Variety Pack: Chicken, Turkey Stew, 2.8 oz Pouch, Case of 12
- Formulated to provide optimal digestive health in adult dogs
- Slow-cooked stew in a mouthwatering turkey flavor grown dogs love
- Promotes easier stool pickup with easily digestible ingredients
- Nourishes your grown dog's skin and coat with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids
- Add variety to meal time with Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken & Vegetable Entrée
No. 4
KOHA Limited Ingredient Bland Diet for Dogs, Chicken and White Rice Sensitive Stomach Wet Dog Food, Sold in Over 5,000 Vet Clinics & Pet Stores, Gentle Easy to Digest Bland Diet Dog Food, Pack of 6
- NO COOKING NECESSARY: When your vet suggests feeding your dog a bland chicken and white rice diet, there's no need to waste time cooking. KOHA Bland Diet is convenient and ready-to-serve!
- PERFECT FOR SENSITIVE STOMACHS: KOHA Bland Diet is ideal for dogs struggling with loose stool, diarrhea, and upset stomach. This gently formulated limited ingredient dog food has just one protein source (chicken) for easy digestion. It also includes white rice and pumpkin to support healthy stools and regularity.
- FEED DAILY OR USE AS A TOPPER: This bland diet for dogs can be fed exclusively to your pup, or be used as a topper to enhance their current diet.
- FOR CHRONIC UPSET STOMACH OR FLAREUPS: Whether your dog suffers from chronic digestive issues, or is experiencing a flareup from things like stress, medication, or travel, KOHA Bland Diet can be fed to help get their tummy back on track!
- NO FILLERS OR ARTIFICIAL INGREDIENTS: KOHA Bland Diet uses only the most high quality ingredients. This sensitive stomach dog food is free from junky fillers like peas, potatoes, corn, soy or artificial preservatives that can cause digestive issues.
No. 5
Under the Weather Bland Diet for Dogs | Easy to Digest Stomach Support for Sick Dogs | Contains Electrolytes, All Natural | 1 Pack - Turkey, Oatmeal, Sweet Potato & Slippery Elm - 6oz
- 𝐍𝐎 𝐌𝐎𝐑𝐄 𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐊𝐈𝐍𝐆 - 𝐉𝐔𝐒𝐓 𝐀𝐃𝐃 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑! When dogs experience digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, vets recommend feeding a “bland diet” to soothe the digestive tract until normal digestion is restored. Shelf life: 36 months from manufacturing date. EXP date Printed on the back of the pouch near the bottom seal as EXP MM/YY.
- 𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐀𝐖𝐀𝐑𝐃-𝐖𝐈𝐍𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐆 - Freeze-dried dog treat bland diet features a carefully crafted blend of nutritious ingredients, including oats, turkey breast meat, sweet potato powder, and slippery elm powder. Specifically formulated to soothe and support dogs and puppies with poor digestion or upset stomachs. Enhanced with a powerful electrolyte blend to boost hydration and energy.
- 𝐕𝐄𝐓-𝐅𝐎𝐑𝐌𝐔𝐋𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐃 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐕𝐄𝐓 𝐑𝐄𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐄𝐍𝐃𝐄𝐃 - This tasty bland diet dog food is expertly formulated and approved by veterinarians with simple and natural top-notch, human-grade ingredients. Specifically designed for dogs with pancreatitis, these diets can help alleviate digestive strain, reduce inflammation, and support faster recovery of dogs with digestive tract concerns. Bland Diets can also be used as a topper to help ease your dog’s transition back to their regular diet.
- 𝐂𝐎𝐍𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐈𝐄𝐍𝐂𝐄 - Just add water and this freeze-dried formula re-hydrates in minutes! With a 3-year shelf life, being prepared with a quick and healthy meal solution for when your dog is feeling under the weather, has never been easier! Keep a few Bland Diets in your pantry so when a digestive issue develops, you can skip the prep and get your pup feeling better faster!
- 𝐌𝐀𝐍𝐔𝐅𝐀𝐂𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄𝐃 𝐈𝐍 𝐓𝐇𝐄 𝐔𝐒𝐀 - With only the highest quality human grade ingredients, FREE OF By-Products, Gluten, Artificial Flavors, and Dyes.
No. 6
IAMS Advanced Health Healthy Digestion Adult Dry Dog Food with Real Chicken, 4.5 lb. Bag
- Complete and Balanced for Adult Dogs: IAMS Advanced Health Healthy Digestion is a 100% complete and balanced meal that contains 0% fillers, and supports whole body health with essential nutrients
- Ideal Poop in 10 Days: This highly digestible formula for easy digestion supports regularity and healthy stools with a blend of natural fiber and prebiotics
- Made with Real Chicken: IAMS Advanced Health Healthy Digestion dry kibble is made with real farm-raised chicken as the #1 ingredient and is formulated without wheat, artificial flavors or preservatives*
- Supports Nutrient Absorption: Fiber from beet pulp and prebiotics in this recipe support nutrient absorption
No. 7
Under the Weather Bland Diet for Dogs | Easy to Digest for Sick Dogs |Always Be Ready | Contains Electrolytes - All Natural Freeze Dried 100% Human Grade Meats | 1 Pack - Rice, Chicken & Pumpkin - 6oz
- NO MORE COOKING - JUST ADD WATER! When dogs experience digestive upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, vets recommend feeding a “bland diet” to soothe the digestive tract until normal digestion is restored. Shelf life: 36 months from manufacturing date. EXP date Printed on the back of the pouch near the bottom seal as EXP MM/YY.
- OUR AWARD-WINNING BLAND DIET is freeze dried and contains white rice, and 100% human grade white meat chicken, raised cage free with NO antibiotics or hormones. Enhanced with a powerful electrolyte blend to boost hydration and energy.
- VET-FORMULATED AND VET RECOMMENDED - Freeze dried bland diets soothe your pup's tummy during times of digestive upset, including travel, surgery, medications, and changes in daily routine. Bland Diets can also be used as a topper to help ease your dog’s transition back to their regular diet.
- CONVENIENCE - Just add water and this freeze-dried formula re-hydrates in minutes! With a 3-year shelf life, being prepared with a quick and healthy meal solution for when your dog is feeling under the weather, has never been easier! Keep a few Bland Diets in your pantry so when a digestive issue develops, you can skip the prep and get your pup feeling better faster!
- MANUFACTURED IN THE USA - With only the highest quality human grade ingredients, FREE OF By-Products, Gluten, Artificial Flavors, and Dies.
No. 8
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food, Chicken, 4 lb. Bag
- Triple support for stomach, skin and immune system health
- Highly digestible formula with prebiotic fiber that is gentle on the stomach for optimal nutrient absorption
- Enriched with Vitamin E and Omega-3 & 6 fatty acids, for healthy skin and a lustrous coat
- Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, for a healthy immune system
- 27 key nutrients, including essential vitamins, minerals, and omega 3 & 6 fatty acids. Complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs’ health
Finding the Right Food for Your Dog’s Tummy Troubles
When your furry friend isn’t feeling well, a sensitive stomach can be a real worry. You want to give them the best food to help them feel better quickly. This guide will help you choose the right dog food for an upset stomach.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for dog food for an upset stomach, keep these important features in mind.
- Easily Digestible Ingredients: Look for foods with simple, easy-to-digest ingredients. This means fewer complex proteins and carbohydrates that can be hard for a dog’s stomach to break down.
- Limited Ingredient Diets (LID): These foods have fewer ingredients. This helps pinpoint what might be causing the upset. It also reduces the chance of your dog reacting to something.
- Added Prebiotics and Probiotics: These are good bacteria that help balance your dog’s gut. They can aid digestion and support a healthy tummy.
- Soothing Ingredients: Some foods include ingredients like pumpkin or ginger. These can help calm an upset stomach and reduce nausea.
- Low Fat Content: High-fat foods can sometimes make stomach issues worse. Opt for foods with a moderate or lower fat percentage.
Important Materials and Ingredients
The ingredients in your dog’s food matter a lot. For an upset stomach, certain materials are better than others.
- Lean Proteins: Think chicken, turkey, or white fish. These are usually easier for dogs to digest than red meats or complex proteins.
- Simple Carbohydrates: White rice or sweet potatoes are good choices. They provide energy without being too hard on the stomach.
- Fiber: A small amount of fiber, like from pumpkin, can help regulate digestion. Too much fiber, however, can sometimes cause more issues.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fish oil, these can help reduce inflammation in the gut.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a dog food great for an upset stomach, and what can make it worse?
- Improves Quality:
- Foods specifically formulated for sensitive stomachs.
- Natural ingredients without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- Brands that are transparent about their ingredient sourcing and manufacturing.
- Reduces Quality:
- Foods with a long list of hard-to-pronounce ingredients.
- High levels of fillers like corn, wheat, or soy, which can be common allergens or hard to digest.
- Foods with excessive amounts of fat or artificial additives.
User Experience and Use Cases
Many dog owners turn to special foods when their dog shows signs of an upset stomach.
Common Signs of Upset Stomach:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy (low energy)
- Bloating or gas
When to Use Sensitive Stomach Food:
- Sudden Illness: If your dog suddenly starts having tummy troubles, a switch to a sensitive stomach food can help them recover.
- Food Allergies or Intolerances: If you suspect your dog is sensitive to certain ingredients, a limited ingredient diet is a good starting point.
- Post-Surgery or Illness: After a vet visit or a period of illness, a dog’s digestive system might need gentle support.
- Long-Term Management: Some dogs have chronic digestive issues and benefit from being on a sensitive stomach diet long-term.
Always consult your veterinarian before making significant changes to your dog’s diet, especially if they have ongoing health concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main key features to look for in dog food for an upset stomach?
A: You should look for easily digestible ingredients, limited ingredients, added prebiotics and probiotics, soothing ingredients like pumpkin, and low fat content.
Q: Are limited ingredient diets (LID) good for dogs with upset stomachs?
A: Yes, LID foods are great because they have fewer ingredients, making it easier to identify potential triggers and reducing the chance of a reaction.
Q: What kind of protein sources are best for a dog with an upset stomach?
A: Lean proteins like chicken, turkey, or white fish are usually the easiest for dogs to digest.
Q: Should I avoid all grains when my dog has an upset stomach?
A: Not necessarily. Simple carbohydrates like white rice are often well-tolerated. However, some dogs may be sensitive to grains, so a grain-free option might be better for them.
Q: How do prebiotics and probiotics help?
A: Prebiotics and probiotics are beneficial bacteria that help balance your dog’s gut flora, aiding digestion and supporting overall gut health.
Q: Can I feed my dog homemade food for an upset stomach?
A: While possible, it’s crucial to consult your veterinarian to ensure a homemade diet is balanced and meets all your dog’s nutritional needs. Store-bought sensitive stomach formulas are often easier to get right.
Q: How long should I feed my dog a sensitive stomach food?
A: This depends on the reason for the upset stomach. For temporary issues, a few days to a week might be enough. For chronic problems, your vet might recommend it long-term.
Q: What signs tell me my dog has an upset stomach?
A: Common signs include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, and increased gas.
Q: Can I mix sensitive stomach food with my dog’s regular food?
A: It’s usually best to switch to the new food gradually to avoid further upsetting their stomach. Mix a small amount of the new food with the old for a few days.
Q: When should I take my dog to the vet for an upset stomach?
A: You should always contact your vet if your dog is vomiting repeatedly, has severe diarrhea, shows signs of pain, or if the upset stomach lasts more than 24-48 hours.