Some dogs have delicate stomachs and benefit from sensitive dog food to improve their well-being.
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Best dry dog food for sensitive stomachs in 2024
Good digestion in dogs is essential for their health. However, when it comes to digestibility, not all dog food is the same! Some more delicate animals benefit from sensitive dog food.
Not surprisingly, a dog's digestion is facilitated by a quality diet. Digestion dog food is specially formulated to avoid frequent problems such as diarrhoea, vomiting, and flatulence. The raw ingredients, like meat and cereals, are carefully selected to prevent excess residues that can cause irritation. The protein, carbohydrate, and fibre content is calculated to facilitate the dog's digestion.
If your pet has fragile intestines, these special digestion kibbles for sensitive dogs will make their life easier. And if your four-legged friend is fussy, we've got you covered! Browse our guide and discover sensitive stomach dog food in different flavours to satisfy the pickiest ones.
Summary
What is a digestive disorder in dogs?
Stomach disorders in dogs manifest by vomiting, stool consistency changes, flatulence, and/or poor appetite.
A distinction is generally made between acute disorders, the famous gastroenteritis with its sudden vomiting and diarrhoea, and chronic or recurrent conditions, including those that may persist for several weeks. Acute gastroenteritis can be caused by food or infection. It may be treated in a few days.
Dogs with sensitive digestion frequently suffer from chronic diarrhoea associated with vomiting and poor appetite. That can be a sign of an inadequate diet but also indicate various organic diseases. A trip to the vet is strongly recommended in this case.
Why should I buy digestion food for sensitive dogs?
If your dog suffers from poor digestion, vomiting or loose stools and the vet can't find what's causing it, the culprit may be your pet's weak intestines. A special diet for sensitive dogs is then highly recommended.
These kibbles are beneficial for several reasons:
- They contain highly digestible animal products such as lamb or salmon
- They are rich in fibre and prebiotics, great for transit and intestinal flora
- They are highly digestible and produce little food residue that irritates the intestines
- Some contain natural clays, which promote more consistent stools
- Some do not contain cereals. Although there's nothing wrong with grains in general, as long as they are well cooked, they can cause discomfort to some animals
- They ensure properly shaped stools that are easier to pick up!
How do I know if my dog is digesting well?
A dog with good digestive health does not vomit and produces brown, well-shaped but not hard droppings once or twice a day. They have a good appetite, and their weight is stable.
It is vital to check your dog's stools regularly. Soft, slimy, liquid or bloody stools are abnormal. Dry droppings that are difficult to pass are a sign of constipation. Flatulence is not only unpleasant but also indicates excessive fermentation in the colon.
If your dog vomits or has abnormal stools, it is not digesting its food properly.
How can I help my dog's digestion?
It's not always easy! A meal that is perfect for one dog may not be ideal for another. You will have to find what works for your pet!
Kibbles are preferred to fresh meat because of the risk of bacterial contamination, especially in the case of raw meat, and the cost.
If your pet is having trouble digesting its food, opt for dog food for a sensitive stomach. There are kibbles for all tastes and sizes.
Once you've made your choice, stick to it. The slightest deviation can lead to a digestive accident. Avoid table scraps, treats, or your friend's dog's kibble as a backup when you suddenly run out of your own.
Instead, serve the sensitive dog food in two meals. Pick an anti-glutton bowl to slow down food intake and facilitate digestion if you have a greedy dog.
When changing your pet's diet, make a dietary transition over eight days by mixing the two types of food.
Make sure your dog remains physically active, as that is essential for its digestion. Be careful not to have them exercise after a meal; that especially applies to large dogs likely to suffer from stomach dilatation-torsion.
How do I know if my dog does not tolerate its kibble?
Unsuitable kibble is usually evidenced by stomach problems: vomiting, diarrhoea, flatulence, and weight loss. Your dog may also develop a distaste for poorly digestible food. Your pet's vitality and the quality of their coat will also be affected.
If you notice these symptoms, make sure to act quickly! Incorrect feeding triggers inflammation of the digestive tract, which can last for some time. For your pet's well-being and health, choose dry dog food for sensitive stomachs without delay.
