Frequent symptoms of digestive problems in pets include diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and malabsorption. While this may resemble a Pepto Bismol advertisement, it’s crucial to identify the best food for dogs with an upset stomach. Discover the ideal dog food for a sensitive stomach in Canada.
DOG FOOD FOR SENSITIVE STOMACHS
If dogs have chronic gastrointestinal problems, they may have a reaction to any changes in their diet, including table scraps, food, treats, and even anything they may have accidentally consumed. Continue reading for tips on caring for dogs with sensitive stomachs through the use of readily digestible pet food.
Due to the possibility of digestive reactions, numerous dog owners avoid switching their dog’s food and feel anxious about it.
You will discover in this blog post all about your dog’s digestive system, including its reactions and the types of foods that can prevent gastrointestinal distress.
Common Signs That Your Dog Has a Sensitive Stomach:
Although most dogs experience digestive issues to some degree, there are certain indications that you may observe more often. Identifying the signs of tummy problems can enable you to respond and resolve the issues promptly, offering your pooch a protein source that is readily digestible.
The following are some typical indicators that your pet might have a delicate stomach:
- Gas
- Loose stool/Diarrhea, either frequent or intermittent
- Vomiting, different from regurgitation (which is usually due to eating too fast )
- Inconsistent stool quality, frequently changing without dietary changes
- ‘Scooting’ or dragging their bums on the ground
- ‘Cling-ons’ are pieces of stool that stick to the rectum area (long hair pets excluded)
- Excessive grass eating, usually accompanied by vomiting
- Bowel movements outside of litter box/appropriate areas
- Tummy gurgling
Your puppy’s stomach problems may be caused by various factors. While sporadic symptoms can result from dietary adjustments, consumption of inedible substances, or stress, persistent or recurring digestive problems could be linked to food sensitivities, imbalances of digestive bacteria, and genetic predisposition.
Make sure to observe the frequency and severity of symptoms as they could assist you in deciding whether a dietary alteration is necessary.
Quick Tour of Your Dog’s Digestive Tract
Once you are aware of what to be cautious of, it is recommended to gain a deeper comprehension of your pet’s digestion process and the potential causes for adverse reactions before taking any action.
By taking this tour, you can determine whether changing your pet’s diet would resolve their sensitivities or if a more extensive care plan is needed.
Mouth
Food digestion begins in the mouth where your dog’s teeth and saliva work together to break down the food.
The structure of dogs’ teeth and jaw, along with their digestive system, is intended for the purpose of tearing and digesting meat. Dogs possess sharp, jagged molars and a broad jaw that moves up and down to cut through meat, similar to scissors, and enables them to consume big pieces.
Saliva helps to moisten food, facilitating its smooth travel through the esophagus and into the stomach.
Stomach
After passing through previous digestive stages, the stomach becomes a crucial stop for the process. Canine stomachs deploy acid and bile to facilitate the breakdown of nutrients. Considering dogs’ low gastric pH, it is understandable that their stomachs are highly acidic. What is the recommended diet for dogs with a sensitive stomach?
The secretion of hydrochloric acid aids in the production of pepsin, an enzyme responsible for breaking down the proteins in food during digestion.
Small Intestine
The process of digestion involves a critical stage in the small intestine, where essential nutrients such as minerals, vitamins, and amino acids are extracted from food and transported to the respective organs for absorption.
The pancreas assists in breaking down nutrients so they can cross the intestinal barrier and enter the bloodstream for distribution. Intestinal bacteria contribute to digestion by fermenting excess carbohydrates and safeguarding against harmful bacteria and infection.
The insufficient presence of beneficial microorganisms in the small intestine can lead to inadequate digestion of food and consequent exhibition of various indications of food sensitivities.
Large Intestine
The small intestine of healthy canines will refuse undigested or unutilized nutrients and harmful substances, directing them to the large intestine for the completion of the digestive process.
The primary role of the large intestine is to eliminate surplus water from waste and ready it for elimination. Proper hydration in your dog is facilitated by the absorption of water through the large intestine.
If the intestinal tract experiences irritation or inflammation, the pH balance may be altered, causing an imbalance. Your pet’s system will attempt to restore balance by sending water through the intestines, resulting in looser, softer stool or diarrhea.
Types of Food
Your dog’s digestive health can be affected by the type of food you give them. Proper digestion and a strong immune system both rely on the quality and quantity of ingredients in their food. It’s important to explore common food formats to ensure you are feeding your pet the most suitable type of food for their digestion, and seek prescription diets if necessary, particularly if your dog has any food allergies.
Kibble
While kibble isn’t necessarily harmful to digestion, it may not be suitable for all dogs experiencing digestive problems. Refrain from feeding your dog kibbles that are rich in carbohydrates, especially those with a high glycemic index as they can cause digestive reactions due to the sugars and digestive stress associated with these ingredients.
To ensure that a significant portion of calories, energy, and nutrients are deriving from easily digested ingredients that do not promote unhealthy gut bacteria, seek out diets that are low in glycemic index and restrict carbohydrates.
Canned
Wet food is generally more digestible than kibbles owing to its reduced carbohydrate content, ground or shredded texture that aids in easier breakdown, and high moisture content which enhances digestibility.
Although it may seem appealing, canned food can still cause discomfort to those with delicate stomachs, depending on the ingredients. Furthermore, relying solely on canned food can be quite costly.
Raw Dog Foods
Sensitive stomachs benefit from raw dog food diets which are minimally processed, low in carbs and sugars, and easy to digest with high efficiency.
It should be noted that raw food diets are high in protein and fat, which may be excessive for certain pets. To manage weight problems, it is essential to regulate the amount of food consumed. However, if pets have previously endured conditions such as pancreatitis, introducing and feeding this kind of diet may be dangerous if not done appropriately.
Freeze-Dried and Dehydrated
Freeze-dried or dehydrated foods provide an excellent option to raw diets. These foods have fewer ingredients and contain lower amounts of simple carbohydrates. They undergo a moisture-removal process that involves very little or no heat, which preserves the nutrients in their natural form.
10 Best Dog Foods for Sensitive Stomachs and Vomiting in 2023
If you have a dog with a delicate stomach or tendency to vomit, finding the right dog food can be a challenge. However, there are 20 dog food products that are ideal for maintaining their wellbeing and contentment. Consider various factors when selecting the best food for your furry friend.
1. Pupper Chicken Topper
The primary aim of Fuel was to prioritize physical well-being and top-notch performance. They utilize free-roaming poultry, authentic vegetables, and completely natural ingredients that are packed with nutrients.
The Pupper Fuel canine cuisine is a wholesome and balanced meal that satisfies all the dietary requirements of your furry friend. Its formula encompasses a blend of 13 efficacious ingredients that collaboratively craft the perfect, spew-safe dog grub.
2. Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Potato
Your furry friend will be satisfied with Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Turkey and Potato Recipe, a dry dog food that is grain-free and made with only one protein source and easily digestible carbohydrates.
Made in the USA, this dry dog food is enriched with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, probiotics, glucosamine, and taurine. It is free from wheat, corn, soy, gluten, and any artificial additives such as flavors, colors, or preservatives.
3. Nom Nom Fresh
Nom Nom is a business that transports wholesome dog food that is fit for human consumption directly to your doorstep. The recipes utilized are devised by veterinary experts and pet nutritionists and are constructed in the United States using top-notch components.
There are three meal options available that correspond to your dog’s weight, age, and energy level. Additionally, you have the option to personalize your meal plan.
Nom Nom’s cooking method involves slow-cooking to retain the full taste and nutrients of their recipes. In addition, only fresh ingredients are utilized, with no frozen items included.
4. Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato
Fresh salmon is utilized in this meal as a rich source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, along with the inclusion of sweet potatoes which provide significant amounts of carbohydrates and fiber.
Crafted from top-notch ingredients, this food is manufactured in the USA and is both free of grains and lacking in artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
The Canidae Grain-Free Pure Real Salmon and Sweet Potato Recipe is an ideal choice for dogs that suffer from allergies or sensitivities.
5. Taste of the Wild Prey Angus Beef Limited Ingredient Dog Food
This food is made with Angus beef, which is a great source of protein. It also has peas and potatoes, which are an excellent source of carbohydrates and fiber.
Made with premium ingredients in the United States, this food does not have any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Additionally, it is completely devoid of grains.
6. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Chicken Flavor
High-quality chicken and hydrolyzed soy protein are the key ingredients in this dog food, which also contains prebiotics and probiotics to aid in maintaining a healthy digestive system.
It is free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. This food is made in the USA with high-quality ingredients.
Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Chicken Flavor is an ideal option for dogs suffering from allergies or sensitivities. Created by a team of nutritionists and veterinarians, this food is specifically designed to promote your dog’s overall well-being.
7. Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Rice Dog Food
Turkey, a fantastic protein source, and brown rice, an outstanding source of carbohydrates and fiber, are used to prepare this food.
Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet Turkey and Rice Dog Food is ideal for dogs that have allergies or sensitivities since it is made in the USA using high-quality ingredients and is free of grains as well as artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
8. Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP
Hydrolyzed chicken, a fantastic protein source, is utilized in the production of this dish. In addition, potatoes are included, offering a plentiful supply of both carbohydrates and fiber.
This top-notch grain-free food, produced in the USA using superior ingredients, is free of artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors. Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP is the ideal diet for allergy-prone or sensitive pets. It was formulated by veterinarians and nutritionists to promote your dog’s welfare.
9. Brothers Complete Advanced Allergy Lamb Meal and Egg
Using lamb meal, a terrific protein source, and eggs, which are wonderful sources of protein and omega-three fatty acids, this dish is created.
This nourishment is manufactured in the USA utilizing exceptional constituents and is completely free of grains, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Brothers Complete Advanced Allergy Lamb Meal and Egg is ideal for canines with allergies or sensitivities.
10. Hill’s Prescription Diet Z/D Skin Food Sensitivities
High-quality chicken and hydrolyzed soy protein are used in the preparation of this food, along with prebiotics and probiotics to assist in promoting a healthy digestive system.
Hill’s Prescription Diet Z/D Skin Food Sensitivities, produced in the USA using superior ingredients, is beneficial for dogs that suffer from allergies or sensitivities and does not contain any synthetic colors, flavors or preservatives. The formulation of this food was created by veterinary professionals and nutritionists to foster the well-being of your canine.
