There are a few dogs who have sensitive stomachs and that can be a frustrating ordeal for any dog owner. When your dog isn't eating properly or can't digest the food that you are feeding him, this is an indication that something is not right. Many a time, the symptoms like vomiting, tenderness around the abdominal area, nausea, and/or diarrhea are right there, indicating that you need to pay a closer attention to your pooch.

The reason why your dog is having a sensitive stomach is either due to the low quality commercial dog foods, or you are feeding him foods which he is allergic to. Commercial dog foods often contain artificial food additives which can upset your dog's stomach, hence causing the health issues. On the other hand, if you feed him homemade food, then you need to find out what he is allergic to. Maybe it is chicken or bone meal, chocolate, corn, raw eggs, wheat, raisins, ground beef, peanut butter, grapes, onions, or some nuts. Once you find out the kind of allergy (from commercial or home cooked foods), you can take the next step in improving his digestive system and bring his health back to normal. In this article, we will go through the steps which you can take to prevent digestion issues from recurring, and some homemade recipes for the same.

Causes for Sensitive Stomach

Certain allergies may be the triggering factor behind your dog's sensitive stomach. So the first thing you will do is identify the source and nip it in the bud. Not many dog owners know this, but dogs have acidic stomachs which helps them in digesting protein. This protein is found in the foods which you feed them. It is important to know that giving your dogs the right amount of protein in their diet is essential or the acidity in their stomachs will cause the sensitivity.

Now on the other hand, when you keep feeding your dog vegetarian foods like grains, fruits, and vegetables, even though it is a well-balanced diet, their digestive system prefers more meat. This doesn't mean that you shouldn't feed them fresh fruits and vegetables; in fact that is a good thing. But also give them meats like bison and wild boar (free-range) and make sure the foods do not contain any animal by-products.

What to Feed Dogs with Sensitive Stomach

If you have purchased a commercial brand that claims to be the best dog food for sensitive stomachs, follow some guidelines. First, take a bowl and fill it with either warm water or chicken broth. Then add the kibble in this bowl so that it can soak properly. After the kibble has been soaked, you can feed it to your dog, as this technique aids in preventing indigestion.

Now even after restricting few allergens from your dog's diet, if the dog doesn't really show any improvement, then there are some other techniques as well. You can feed him yogurt on a regular basis. Since yogurt has friendly bacteria, it can aid in strengthening his immune system. And by providing a soothing effect on his digestive system, your dog can quickly recover from the weakened immune system. Feeding organic meat, fish, and poultry is also a good option. As these meats don't contain any bacteria, there are no chances of contracting any contamination. Now if you wish to add vegetables to your pooch's diet, opt for leafy vegetables, carrots, and smashed peas; but only in small quantities. This way, you can ensure a healthy and nutritious diet for your darling.

Homemade Dog Food

In this section, we will take a look at what are some homemade food for dogs with sensitive stomach. These recipes will help in calming their stomach down. There are various commercial brands which provide good wholesome foods for your dog. If you would want to feed your dog any of these commercial brands, then choose from Flint River Ranch, Breeder's Choice, Iams, Pro Plan Extra Care, Natural Choice, and Hill's Science Diet; but remember to consult with the veterinarian before changing your dog's diet.

Recipe 1
  • Gather the ingredients - 6 cups buckwheat flour, 2 cups beef broth (low sodium), 1 cup water, and 4 teaspoons basil.
  • Preheat the oven at 325 F.
  • Place all the ingredients inside a food processor and mix properly. We need a dough-like consistency from the mixture.
  • Knead the dough over the workstation and roll the dough into a 1'' thick log.
  • Cut '' thick round circles to form cookies and place on a cookie sheet.
  • Bake cookies for about half an hour and turn the oven off. Let the cookies remain in the oven overnight so they can turn cool.
  • Give these cookies to your dog as snacks the next day.
Recipe 2
  • Gather the ingredients - 4 cups water, 2 cups rice, 1 cups assorted vegetables (no garlic, mushrooms, or onions), and 1 lbs chicken (chunks).
  • In a nonstick pan, add the chunks of chicken, vegetables, water, and rice. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Keep stirring from time to time and set the flame at medium-low.
  • Cover the pan and let the ingredients cook properly; for about 20 to 25 minutes.
  • When the rice and chicken are cooked thoroughly, turn the heat off, and let it cool down.
Remember, while selecting food for dogs with sensitive stomach, make sure that it is easily digestible and won't make their stomachs queasy. For more, personalized information about your dog's sensitive stomach, visit the veterinarian immediately.