When a Belly Rub Won't Do: How to Help Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs

In the world of dogs, no two tummies are alike. In fact, some mutt guts have more in common with garbage disposals than a digestive tract. Still plenty of other pooches need fine-tuning, harkening the days of low-budget, high school microscopes.

But discerning between a sensitive tum-tum and a more serious underlying condition can prove difficult. Mostly because the same or similar symptoms arise in either scenario. Let’s grab a leash and walk through the steps to getting your doggo’s digestive system and gut health back on tract.

What are the signs of sensitive stomach in dogs?

The Regulars are Irregular

When you first encounter vomiting, diarrhea, dog stomach gurgling, loss of appetite or other digestive issues, you may want to grab the pots and pans to try something plain like cooked chicken and rice with no seasoning.

But if symptoms continue or escalate, take your pal to the vet as persistent stomach issues could be an indicator of serious health conditions.

Scratch Off Scratching

It’s also possible that your dog has an allergic reaction to something in their food. Often the protein source is the culprit. Look into swapping chicken for beef, beef for egg, or any combination thereof.

One possible tipoff of a food allergy is excessive itchiness. If your pal is scratching a lot, make sure you inform your vet on your visit.

A Smaller Menu

Once allergies and more serious conditions are ruled out, it’s time to narrow down your doggo’s diet. Start by limiting intake to just their dog food—this means no table scraps, treats or flowers in the garden. Eliminating the other food sources will help you determine if what’s in the bowl is the problem.

• Quick Reminder: A dog’s digestive system can change with age, so it is possible for something to work for years and all of a sudden become ill-suited. Don’t rule out food because it has worked in the past.

Sensible Solutions

If dog digestive issues persist with a narrow diet, consider food specifically designed for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These will often be low in fat, free of grain and minimally processed. You’ll want to introduce these food changes slowly, however. Increase the ratio from old-time staple to new food over the course of 7-10 days.

Keep Barking Up That Tree

Finding the perfect diet is not always simple. It may require home remedies rather than commercial solutions or even a prescription food diet recommended by your veterinarian. But your pup will surely thank you for all your hard work when you finally figure it out.

Tamed that tummy. Now what?

Once you’ve discovered a digestive care plan that works, and you're ready to re-introduce a few treats back into their diet, consider Fruitables®.

One of the best products for dogs with sensitive stomachs is our digestive supplement. Available in two varieties, Pumpkin and Superblend™, our dog food toppings support your dog's immune system and gut microbiome with digestive enzymes that can help sooth a dog's upset stomach.

Our Biggies™ Pumpkin & Blueberry, Yogos™ Strawberry & Banana and Baked Pumpkin & Cranberry treats are made with simple ingredients that are free of wheat, corn, soy protein, artificial flavors and colors. Because sometimes a no nonsense, yummy treat makes all the sense in the world. Even for sensitive fellows.

Dog Upset Stomach FAQs

Can dogs digest bones?

Long story short – yes and no. Dogs can digest certain types of bones, but it's best to avoid giving your dog things like chicken bones, fish bones and the like. They're too small and sharp for dogs to digest properly.

What are the benefits of digestive enzymes for dogs?

Digestive enzymes help your dog break down the food in its diet. Some digestive enzymes occur naturally, such as in pumpkin. Try Fruitables Pumpkin Digestive Supplement!

Should I be worried if my dog's stomach is making noises?

In general, your dog's stomach gurgling is due to its digestive system working properly. But if stomach gurgling and loud noises persist for more than a few hours, your pup may have ingested something not-so-great.

What does "good bacteria" mean when it comes to my dog's gut health?

Just like humans, dogs have "good" and "bad" bacteria in their guts. Good bacteria refers to the little creatures that help break down your dog's food. An overgrowth of bad bacteria can be a cause of many of the digestive issues outlined in this article as well as discomfort for your best bud.