Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach and Diarrhea: Top Picks for Relief

Is your dog suffering from an upset stomach? Dogs with sensitive stomachs often exhibit symptoms such as vomiting, loose stools, flatulence, or diarrhea. For pet owners, it can be heartbreaking to watch your pup suffer due to constant tummy troubles.

Understanding the root cause of your dog’s sensitive stomach is the first step in helping them. Sometimes it’s due to food sensitivities; other times it's a reaction to artificial additives or poor-quality proteins. Whatever the cause, choosing the best dog food is an important part of helping them find relief.

This guide spotlights the best dog food for sensitive stomach and diarrhea. All the dog foods we've listed below are made with organic, human-grade ingredients to support healthy digestion and promote natural gut flora.

Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

Venison & Zucchini Recipe

This specially-formulated recipe is made with wild-hunted venison and organic produce. It offers a high-protein, low-inflammatory option for dogs with sensitive digestive systems.

Why It Works for Dogs with Diarrhea and Sensitive Stomachs:

• Wild Venison as a Novel Protein: Venison is one of the least common proteins used in commercial dog food. It's perfect for dogs with protein-specific food intolerances. We source our venison from wild-hunted deer. Its meat is lean and less inflammatory, making it easier for sensitive dogs to digest.
• Organic Zucchini and Yellow Squash: These vegetables are rich in fiber and water content. They help to hydrate the colon and improve stool consistency. Their gentle fiber supports regular bowel movements without irritating the gut.
• Naturally Foraged Source: The deer used in this recipe lived freely in the wild, foraging on natural diets like grass and herbs. This eliminates exposure to processed feeds and antibiotics, which are common culprits in dog food sensitivities.
• Minimal Supplementation: Only essential nutrients are added, reducing the chance of digestive upset caused by synthetic additives often found in mass-market dog food brands.
• Veterinarian-Approved Formulation: Designed by a PhD veterinary nutritionist, this recipe is complete and balanced for all life stages. Recommendations by Dr. Rebecca Remillard, PhD, DVM, DACVN, support the use of venison in elimination diets for managing chronic digestive issues and dog food allergies.

Shop our Venison & Zucchini recipe today.

Grain-Free Fish Recipe

For pups needing an omega-rich, grain-free option, this dog food for sensitive stomachs features wild-caught pollock and salmon skin, along with certified organic veggies.

Why It Works for Dogs with Diarrhea and Sensitive Stomachs:

• Lean Pollock & Salmon Skin: Pollock is a white fish known for its light, easily digestible protein, while salmon skin is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that combat inflammation, enrich healthy coats, and promote a clean gut lining. This dog food supports both digestion and immune health.
• Grain-Free for Low Allergen Potential: Removing grains helps reduce the risk of food allergies and intolerances that can trigger diarrhea. It's particularly beneficial for dogs already diagnosed with grain sensitivity.
• Organic Sweet Potatoes and Zucchini: These vegetables offer gentle fiber that helps solidify stools and soothe the intestinal tract. Sweet potato, in particular, is widely recommended in veterinary nutrition for managing gastrointestinal symptoms.
• Anti-Inflammatory Omega-3s: High levels of omega-3 fatty acids from fish help reduce gastrointestinal inflammation. A study published in Animals supports the role of omega-3 fatty acids in alleviating symptoms of inflammation in dogs and improving their overall quality of life.
• No Artificial Ingredients: Like all California Dog Kitchen recipes, this one avoids artificial preservatives, colors, and unnecessary fillers, ensuring the digestive system is not overburdened.

Shop our Grain-Free Fish recipe today.

Lamb & Squash Recipe

This fresh, gently-cooked dog food for sensitive stomachs is ideal for picky eaters. Featuring Australian-raised lamb and USDA Certified Organic vegetables and grains, it strikes the perfect balance between flavor and digestibility.

Why It Works for Dogs with Diarrhea and Sensitive Stomachs:

• Lamb as a Novel Protein: Lamb is a lean, easily digestible meat that’s uncommon in mainstream dog food. Its novel status reduces the risk of allergic reactions, which are a common trigger for digestive upset.
• Organic Quinoa: Quinoa is a complete protein that’s gentle on the digestive system. It contains all nine essential amino acids and provides slow-releasing carbohydrates that aid digestion and maintain stable energy levels.
• Yellow Squash and Sweet Potatoes: Both are fiber-rich vegetables that help regulate bowel movements and soothe gastrointestinal inflammation. According to a study published in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, the soluble fiber in squash and sweet potatoes provides beneficial gut bacteria and improves stool quality.
• Minimal Supplements: With only a handful of supplement ingredients, this recipe will not overwhelm your dog’s digestive system with synthetic additives. Supplements and additives are common allergens in commercial pet food.
• Veterinarian-Designed: Developed by a PhD veterinary nutritionist, this recipe meets the AAFCO and NRC standards for all life stages. It's a trustworthy, balanced option for both puppies and adult dogs.

Shop our Lamb & Squash recipe today.

Chicken & Rice Recipe

This gently-cooked dog food is a go-to choice for pups with frequent digestive upset or recovering from bouts of diarrhea. It’s clean, comforting, and easy for sensitive digestive systems to process.

Why It Works for Dogs with Diarrhea and Sensitive Stomachs:

• Easily Digestible Chicken: It's made from USDA-inspected, hormone-free chicken meat (thigh, heart, and liver). This recipe provides high-quality protein that’s gentle on the stomach and unlikely to cause irritation.
• Organic White Rice: This is one of the most commonly recommended ingredients by veterinarians for dogs with diarrhea. It’s bland, easy to digest, and helps bind loose stools.
• Organic Sweet Potatoes and Kale: These veggies provide additional fiber and essential nutrients to support healthy gut function and aid nutrient absorption.
• Familiar Ingredients for Bland Diets: This dog food mirrors the classic “boiled chicken and rice” diet that veterinarians recommend for an upset tummy, but with added complete, balanced nutrition.
• Backed by Veterinary Practice: Chicken and rice are common ingredients in managing digestive upset and are frequently cited in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition as part of treatment protocols for gastrointestinal disturbances.

Shop our Chicken & Rice recipe today.

Grain-Free Turkey Recipe

Our gently-cooked grain-free turkey supports gut health without overwhelming the digestive system. It’s ideal for pups dealing with food allergies or inflammatory bowel issues.

Why It Works for Dogs with Diarrhea and Sensitive Stomachs:

• Lean, High-Quality Turkey: This dog food includes ground turkey along with organ meats like heart, gizzard, and liver. These are easily digestible proteins with essential nutrients that support digestive function and immune health.
• Grain-Free for Allergy-Prone Dogs: Eliminating grains reduces the chance of food intolerance reactions, which often manifest as diarrhea or vomiting in sensitive dogs.
• Organic Sweet Potatoes, Kale, and Blueberries: These high-quality ingredients provide a fiber boost to help regulate bowel movements and add antioxidants to support overall gut integrity.
• No Artificial Additives: Free from wheat, corn, soy, and synthetic preservatives.
• Designed by a Veterinary Nutritionist: Carefully formulated to meet AAFCO and NRC guidelines. Studies in Animal Nutrition show that grain-free, minimally processed diets can help alleviate symptoms in dogs with inflammatory digestive conditions.

Shop our Grain-Free Turkey recipe today.

Buyer's Guide: What To Look For When Buying Dog Food For Sensitive Pups

Feeding your pup highly processed or low-grade ingredients found in different dog foods increases the risk of food intolerance and gastrointestinal inflammation. For better digestive health, here’s what to prioritize when looking for dog food for sensitive stomachs.

The Best Dog Food Ingredients For Sensitive Stomachs

The right food for sensitive stomachs depends on your furry friend’s symptoms and health history. In general, choose dog foods with:

• Novel Proteins: These proteins are less commonly used in commercial pet food, lowering the chance of triggering an immune response. They are effective in elimination diets aimed at pinpointing specific intolerances.
• Limited Ingredient Diets: Fewer ingredients make it easier to identify the source of an upset stomach. These diets are perfect for a sensitive stomach because they put less stress on your dog's digestive system by eliminating unnecessary complexity.
• Homemade Dog Food: An unbalanced homemade diet can lead to nutrient deficiencies, which may worsen gut health over time. Consult a veterinary nutritionist to ensure your dog's diet meets AAFCO and NRC standards for all life stages.
• Human-Grade: These ingredients provide clean, whole-food nutrition with better nutrient absorption. Organic produce also avoids pesticide residues that may disrupt gut flora.
• Balanced Macronutrients: A proper macronutrient profile supports metabolic function, energy levels, and healthy digestion. Too much fat or indigestible carbs can contribute to diarrhea or loose stools.
• No Artificial Preservatives or Fillers: Additives like BHA, BHT, and food dyes can irritate the gut lining and worsen symptoms in sensitive dogs. Clean ingredient lists reduce exposure to unnecessary chemicals.
• Backed by Science-Based Research: Formulas created with the guidance of veterinary nutritionists are more reliable for managing chronic digestive conditions. Look for products that have been tested and verified for complete nutrition.

Dog Food Brands and Options

High-quality dog food for sensitive stomachs should:

• Prioritize human-grade, organic ingredients.
• Avoid overly processed dry foods and choose gently-cooked, fresh food options instead.
• Choose a brand that’s transparent about sourcing and formulation.

At California Dog Kitchen, our recipes use human-grade and ethically sourced ingredients. We make our dog food to soothe sensitive stomachs and entice picky eaters. Check out our collection of novel proteins for gently-cooked dog food that’s USDA-certified organic. It contains no synthetic fillers, preservatives, or additives, such as wheat or soy.

What Causes a Sensitive Stomach and Diarrhea in Dogs?

According to the MSD Veterinary Manual, sensitive stomachs and diarrhea in dogs can be acute or chronic. These sensitivities signal anything from a minor food reaction to a more serious medical issue. Identifying the correct cause is crucial in selecting the most suitable dog food or treatment plan.

Diarrhea can stem from:

• Food Intolerance or Allergy: These are among the most common causes, often triggered by proteins, grains, or artificial additives in different foods. Symptoms can appear suddenly or develop over time as sensitivities emerge.
• Bacterial or Viral Infections: Contaminated water, spoiled food, or contact with other infected animals can lead to gastrointestinal infections. These can disrupt the balance of gut bacteria, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.
• Intestinal Parasites: Worms and protozoa like Giardia can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestive health, leading to chronic loose stools and nutrient malabsorption. Regular fecal exams are vital in diagnosing these issues.

If your dog has a sensitive stomach or diarrhea, you may observe symptoms like:

• Loose Stools: A change in stool consistency is often the first and most obvious sign of a digestive problem.
• Flatulence: Excessive gas may indicate an imbalance in gut bacteria or difficulty digesting certain foods.
• Abdominal Pain: Dogs may show discomfort through whining, reluctance to move, or a hunched posture.
• Weight Loss: Chronic diarrhea can interfere with nutrient absorption, leading to noticeable weight changes over time.
• Itchy Skin: Skin irritation or persistent scratching can be a sign of food sensitivities linked to digestive issues.

When Should You Be Concerned Enough to Contact a Veterinarian?

Call your veterinarian if:

• Diarrhea Lasts More than 48 Hours: Prolonged diarrhea can lead to dehydration and may indicate a deeper issue.
• There's Blood or Mucus in the Stool: These are signs of inflammation or infection and require prompt evaluation.
• Your Dog is Lethargic or Vomiting: Multiple symptoms together may signal a systemic issue, not just a sensitive stomach.

What are Home Remedies for Dogs with Diarrhea and Sensitive Stomachs?

• Withhold food for 12–24 hours, unless your veterinarian says otherwise. Giving the digestive system a rest can help clear up mild cases of diarrhea. Keep the water down to help with dehydration.
• Offer a bland diet of boiled chicken and white rice. These foods are easy to digest and help firm up stools while providing gentle nourishment.
• Use probiotics to restore gut bacteria. Supplements containing beneficial bacteria, such as Lactobacillus, can rebalance the microbiome and improve stool quality.

Transitioning to a New Dog Food

When dealing with a sensitive stomach, switching the dog’s diet too quickly can lead to an upset stomach, even if the new food is healthier. A gradual transition gives your dog’s immune system and gut time to adapt to the new ingredients and slowly soothes a sensitive stomach.

• Start With 25% New Food, 75% Old Food: Begin by mixing a small portion of the new food with your dog’s current food to minimize shock to the digestive system.
• Gradually Shift to 100% New Food: Increase the ratio of new food over 7–10 days. Implement dietary adjustments based on your dog's response.
• Monitor for Signs of Digestive Upset: Watch for loose stools, vomiting, or loss of appetite. If symptoms arise, slow the transition or consult your veterinarian.

Veterinary Prescription Diets for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs

For dogs with a sensitive stomach and chronic diarrhea, or those diagnosed with digestive disorders like inflammatory bowel disease, a standard commercial food may not be enough. Diets from a veterinarian offer targeted nutritional support, such as:

• Tailored to Specific Needs: A dog's diet should be formulated to address specific medical conditions, including sensitivities and malabsorption.
• Contain Novel or Hydrolyzed Proteins: These protein sources are designed to avoid immune responses and reduce gut irritation.
• Should Be Discussed with a Veterinarian: Your veterinarian can determine if your dog requires a prescription diet and help you monitor progress.

FAQs

What Is the Difference Between Soft Stools and Diarrhea in Dogs?

Soft stools are formed but loose in consistency. Diarrhea is watery, often frequent, and usually a sign of inflammation or infection.

When Should an Owner Be Concerned About Doggy Diarrhea and Seek Veterinary Care?

Seek veterinary attention if diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours, contains blood, or is accompanied by vomiting, lethargy, or dehydration.

What Causes Sensitive Stomachs and Diarrhea in Dogs?

Common triggers include food intolerance, infections, parasites, stress, or sudden dietary changes.

What Are Home Remedies for a Dog With Diarrhea?

If you want to treat a dog's sensitive stomach, you can withhold food briefly, provide a bland diet of boiled chicken and rice, and add probiotics to restore gut flora.

What Qualities Make a Dog Food Good for Diarrhea?

Look for dog foods with limited ingredients, easily digestible proteins, no additives, and ingredients that support gut health.

Are Wet Foods Better Than Dry Food for Sensitive Stomachs?

Yes. Wet, gently-cooked dog foods preserve more nutrients, are easier to digest, and typically avoid the harsh processing and additives found in kibble.

We are Here For Your Pup: Shop our Gently-Cooked Dog Food

Dogs with sensitive stomachs and diarrhea need a diet that supports their digestive health. At California Dog Kitchen, we provide the best dog food options that are designed by experts and trusted by pet parents. Our high-quality, fresh foods for dogs with sensitive stomachs contain novel proteins and organic vegetables. We gently cook our recipes with your dog’s health in mind.

If you’re looking for the best dog food to soothe your furry friend’s tummy, browse California Dog Kitchen today for tried-and-tested recipes.

References

1. Carlisle, C., Metzger, B. T., Tintle, N. L., Polley, K., Jackson, K. H., Le Brun-Blashka, S., ... & Harris, W. S. (2024). The Effects of Omega-3 Supplementation on the Omega-3 Index and Quality of Life and Pain Scores in Dogs. Animals, 14(21), 3108.
2. Chiofalo, B., De Vita, G., Presti, V. L., Cucinotta, S., Gaglio, G., Leone, F., & Di Rosa, A. R. (2019). Grain-free diets for utility dogs during training work: Evaluation of the nutrient digestibility and faecal characteristics. Animal Nutrition, 5(3), 297-306.
3. Defarges, A., Blois, S., Hall, E. J., Gibson, T. W. G., & Mitchell, K. D. (2018, May). Disorders of the stomach and intestines in dogs. MSD Veterinary Manual.
4. Remillard, R. (2015, March 31). Choosing the right elimination diet for food allergic cases (Proceedings). DVM360.
5. Tanprasertsuk, J., Tate, D. E., & Shmalberg, J. (2022). Roles of plant‐based ingredients and phytonutrients in canine nutrition and health. Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition, 106(3), 586-613.