What is a sensitive stomach in dogs?
A sensitive stomach in dogs can present in different ways, from vomiting and diarrhoea to excessive wind and changes in stool consistency. Some dogs may experience occasional digestive upset, while others have recurring symptoms that affect their comfort and wellbeing. Understanding the possible causes and choosing an appropriate diet can help support your dog’s digestive health.
What causes a sensitive stomach in dogs?
There are several reasons why a dog may have a sensitive stomach, and the cause can vary from one dog to another. Common contributing factors include:
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Food intolerances: Some dogs have difficulty digesting particular ingredients, such as lactose in dairy products, which can lead to digestive upset.
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Food allergies: An immune response to a specific food ingredient, often a protein, can cause symptoms such as itchy skin and digestive problems.
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Dietary changes: Switching foods too quickly can upset the digestive system, so it’s best to introduce a new diet gradually over at least 7-10 days.
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Eating things they shouldn’t: Scavenging, eating table scraps or consuming unsuitable foods can trigger digestive upset.
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Stress and changes in routine: Travelling, changes in their environment or other stressful experiences can affect digestion.
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Underlying health conditions: Parasites, infections and other gastrointestinal conditions can lead to digestive upset and may even cause long-term effects.
Signs of a sensitive stomach in dogs
Signs can vary, but common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhoea, loose stools, excessive wind and abdominal discomfort. You may also notice changes in appetite or inconsistent bowel movements.
How long symptoms last often depends on the underlying cause. Digestive upset caused by sudden dietary changes may be short-lived and settle once your dog’s digestive system adjusts to the new ingredients. However, ongoing issues, including food allergies or other gastrointestinal conditions, can cause recurring symptoms over weeks or months, with flare-ups occurring intermittently. Monitoring your dog’s symptoms and eating habits can help you recognise patterns and identify when veterinary advice may be needed.
What to feed a dog with a sensitive stomach
Choosing an appropriate, complete and balanced diet can help support digestive health. Look for a food that suits your dog’s individual needs and life stage and avoid making frequent or sudden changes to their diet. Introducing new food gradually over a period of at least 7-10 days can help minimise the risk of digestive upset.
The Naturediet range offers a variety of protein sources, including salmon, white fish, lamb, chicken and turkey. Our Purely range contains 92% meat, complemented by essential vitamins and minerals to provide a complete and balanced diet. With simple recipes and clear labelling, you can easily understand what’s in your dog’s bowl and make an informed choice based on their needs.
Naturediet’s Grain Free range offers another option for owners looking to explore different dietary choices for their dogs. Made without added grains, such as wheat, maize, barley and rice, these recipes provide a complete and balanced meal. Grain-free food isn’t automatically better for every dog with a sensitive stomach, as digestive sensitivities can have various causes. However, if you’re considering a grain-free diet, it’s important to choose a nutritionally complete recipe that suits your dog’s individual needs.
When to see a vet
If you suspect a food allergy or intolerance, your vet can advise on the best approach to investigate potential triggers. They may recommend a carefully managed elimination diet, which involves feeding a specific diet while excluding other ingredients that could affect the results. Following veterinary guidance throughout this process is important to help identify potential triggers accurately and ensure your dog continues to receive the nutrients they need.
However, digestive upset isn’t always linked to diet, and changing your dog’s food may not resolve symptoms caused by stress, anxiety or an underlying health condition. If your dog experiences persistent or recurring symptoms, it’s important to speak to your vet to help identify the underlying cause and determine the most appropriate course of action. You should also seek prompt veterinary advice if you are concerned for your dog’s health.
Choosing the best dog food for a sensitive stomach
Every dog is different, and finding a suitable food may take time. If you’re unsure which diet is right for your dog, our nutrition team is on hand to help. Contact us at nutrition@naturediet.co.uk for free, friendly advice.