When your pup has a delicate stomach, finding food that will soothe their discomfort is of utmost importance. The ideal food features easily digestible proteins that support a healthy gut microbiome – as well as gradual diet transitions for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
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Easily Digestible Proteins
Of course, some dogs are born with sensitive stomachs while others develop symptoms due to diet or disease. To ensure that your pet receives all the essential nutrients it requires, select food with easily digestible proteins – animal proteins like chicken and lamb have high biological value; plant proteins such as brown rice or pearled barley also make great choices as easily digestible sources. Other healthy options may include beet pulp (which comes as the byproduct from juicing beets) or flax seed for additional nutritional support.
Dogs have sharp, serrated molars and jaw structures designed to allow them to efficiently chew up large chunks of meat, with saliva helping lubricate their meal before it enters their esophagus, where acid breaks it down further.
When choosing food for a dog with sensitive stomach, look for protein sources that are easily digestible and of high-quality. Reducing ingredients may also help reduce digestive upset; some foods even come packed with probiotics to support his or her gut microbiome.
Omega Fatty Acids
Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids (EFAs) are an integral part of any dog’s diet, providing energy, modulating inflammation, processing hormones and supporting heart and brain health.
Alpha-linolenic acid, found in plant sources like flaxseed and sunflower seeds, cannot be produced by dogs and must come from food. Other two omega-3 fatty acids found in food sources such as fish are: eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Dogs with delicate stomachs require easily digestible proteins that reduce risk of gastrointestinal upset. Consider lamb, turkey or fish as sources of protein to ensure your pup stays happy and healthy in his digestive system. Hill’s Science Diet offers this kibble made of lamb which may help those who may have food allergies or sensitivities to it digest it more readily; additionally it’s free from wheat, corn and soy as well.
Prebiotics
Prebiotic-rich diets help your dog’s gut build the good bacteria it needs for better digestion and absorption of nutrients from its food, improving both digestion and absorption. Look for sensitive stomach dog food containing these nutritious ingredients.
If your pup has a sensitive tummy, it’s essential that you collaborate with his veterinarian in finding the appropriate food. They will be able to suggest an easily digestible diet with wheat and corn as common allergens; and provide guidance for at-home remedies that will keep him feeling happy and healthy. Be sure to gradually introduce any changes by gradually mixing in new food over a few days – this will prevent his digestive system from being disturbed too quickly. Look for products made up of easily digestible proteins, omega fatty acids and prebiotics as these will have less likely been an excellent option for these pets.
Limited Ingredients
Dogs with sensitive stomachs can experience various digestive symptoms, including diarrhea and vomiting – symptoms which could indicate an underlying health condition. To find food suitable for their tummies, it’s wise to seek professional advice from your veterinarian for recommendations.
Diets low in carbohydrates tend to be easier for dogs with sensitive stomachs. This is because reducing glucose in their bloodstream reduces bloat and diarrhoea symptoms.
Hill’s Science Diet offers several foods designed for sensitive stomachs that contain easily digestible proteins while omitting common allergens like wheat. Their Sensitive Stomach & Skin Formula, for instance, features animal-sourced proteins along with 13 active ingredients that have been carefully chosen to provide balanced nutrition to your pet. Furthermore, prebiotics and probiotics help balance gut bacteria of your pet to reduce digestive upset symptoms.
