Dog food for sensitive digestion

What does sensitive digestion mean in your dog?

"Sensitive gut" is not a diagnosis, but a collective term for stomach and intestinal symptoms. These can include loose or hard stools, flatulence, a bloated belly, or vomiting. There can be many causes: food, stress, a sudden change in food, worms, or an underlying condition.

That’s why the order matters. If your dog has had intestinal problems for a while, first ask your vet to rule out possible causes. Then you can look at how dog food for sensitive digestion can help soothe your dog’s stomach. That way, you know you’re addressing the right problem. Your dog’s stool is a good indicator: it tells you a lot about how digestion.

is working. Which food is right for your dog’s symptoms?

Not every sensitive stomach is the same. The best food depends on the symptoms you’re seeing. Use this as a guideline, not as a substitute for advice from your vet.

Loose or inconsistent stools

Are your dog’s stools often soft or do they keep changing? Choose food with a simple composition and as few different ingredients as possible. Food with a single protein source, also known as monoprotein, makes it easier to find out what your dog tolerates well.

If the problem lasts longer than a few days, or your dog has acute diarrhea, first read what to feed a dog with diarrhea and contact your vet if things don’t improve soon.

A sensitive stomach and vomiting

For a dog with a sensitive stomach, it often helps to divide their food into several small portions throughout the day. Soft, steamed wet food is easier for many dogs to digest than a large bowl of kibble all at once. If your dog vomits regularly or suddenly, a visit to the vet is a good idea. Dog food for a sensitive stomach is a supplement, not a solution to the underlying cause.

Flatulence and a rumbling stomach

Flatulence often has a cause outside the food bowl. This could be gulping down food, a sudden change in food, or sneaking table scraps. Look into that first. In addition, food with easily digestible proteins and no unnecessary fillers can help reduce the amount of undigested food left in the intestines.

Digestive issues along with itching or skin problems

Does your dog have an upset stomach as well as itching, lick their paws a lot, or have a dull coat? A food intolerance could be a factor. In that case, hypoallergenic dog food with protein sources your dog hasn't had before is often a sensible next step. Ask your vet which approach is best.

Wet food or kibble for sensitive digestion?

Both can work well. It mainly depends on your dog.

• Wet food for sensitive digestion is moist, soft, and especially tasty to many dogs. Steamed wet food is gently prepared. A good choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs, dogs with poor appetites, and senior dogs.
• Dog kibble for sensitive digestion is convenient to use and easy to portion. Easily digestible dog kibble without grains or potatoes is gentle on the stomach. We use yellow peas as a carbohydrate source in our kibble.
• Combining them. You can also feed wet food and kibble together. Just do so gradually, so your dog's digestive system has time to adjust.

What is the best dog food for sensitive digestion?

The honest answer: the best dog food for sensitive digestion is the food your dog tolerates well. This varies from dog to dog. However, there are a few things to look out for. Make sure the food:

• Contains a clearly identified protein source, so you know what your dog is eating;
• Has a short ingredient list;
• Contains no artificial colors, flavors, or aromas;
• is grain-free and gluten-free for a gentler effect on the stomach;
• Contains easily digestible ingredients.

If a food meets these criteria and your dog responds well to it after a few weeks, you're on the right track.

Switching to a different food for a sensitive stomach or digestive system

A gradual transition is especially important for a sensitive stomach. Take your time: 10 to 14 days instead of the usual week. For example:

• Days 1 to 3: 75% old food, 25% new food;
• Days 4 to 6: 50% old food, 50% new food;
• Days 7 to 10: 25% old food, 75% new food;
• From day 11: new food only.

Monitor your dog's stools closely during the transition. If they become looser, go back a step and transition more gradually. After that, don't switch foods too often: your dog's gut thrives on routine. Not sure which food your dog can tolerate? Try a sample pack to test it gradually.

Tips for a calm tummy, beyond food

Food is important, but it's not the only thing that affects your dog's stomach and intestinal issues. These tips can also help your dog beyond the food bowl:

• Set mealtimes. Routine helps digestion. Divide food into two or more small portions a day.
• Slow-feeder bowl. Does your dog eat very quickly? A slow-feeder bowl helps them swallow less air.
• Rest after eating. Let your dog rest quietly after eating. For large dogs, this also reduces the risk of bloat.
• No table scraps. Snacks count too. For example, choose gluten-free dog treats with simple ingredients.
• Fresh water. Make sure clean, fresh water is always available.
• Keep stress low. Give your dog a quiet place to eat, without too much activity around them.
• Deworm regularly. Worms can also cause intestinal problems.

Order dog food for sensitive digestion

At Riverwood, you'll find dog food for sensitive digestion that's grain- and gluten-free, made with natural ingredients and no artificial additives. Choose from gently steamed wet food with a single protein source, wet food with multiple protein sources, or easily digestible kibble.

Order on a business day before 3:00 p.m. and we'll ship your order the same day, with secure payment, including payment after delivery. Prefer advice in store first? Riverwood is also available at a pet store near you.

Frequently asked questions

How quickly will I know if my dog is tolerating the new food?

Your dog's stools often show within 2 to 4 weeks whether they're tolerating the new food well. If the issue involves their skin or coat, it usually takes longer to see a difference.

When should I take my dog to the vet?

Always take your dog to the vet if you see blood in their stool, if they vomit and seem lethargic, or if diarrhea lasts longer than a day or two. Be extra prompt with a puppy or an older dog. Better to call one time too many than not enough.