Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
Why you should trust our dog food reviews
We've been reviewing food since 2008 with a proprietary formula in partnership with experts and user feedback. All reviews are verified by our in-house animal nutritionist. Why trust us
Review verified by
All reviews are impartial. We may earn referral fees from links on this page. Some products may be from companies affiliated with Dog Food Advisor's owner—these are marked with an asterisk (*).
A sensitive stomach can make feeding your dog genuinely stressful — but the right food makes a real difference. Whether your dog is dealing with frequent vomiting, loose stools, or chronic gas, diet is often the first and most effective lever to pull.
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, has reviewed hundreds of formulas to find the best dog foods for sensitive stomachs: limited-ingredient recipes, probiotic-rich kibbles, fresh human-grade meals, and vet-prescribed options — all screened for the fillers, artificial additives, and common allergens most likely to cause problems.
What can cause dogs to have a sensitive stomach?
One of the main causes of a sensitive stomach in dogs is caused by sudden diet changes. Switching foods too quickly can upset a dog’s digestive system, so it’s important to make the transition slowly.
There are several medical issues which can cause sensitivities too. Conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or colitis, intestinal parasites, pancreatitis – often caused by fatty foods, as well as bacterial or viral infections, such as parvovirus.
Some breeds are more prone to food intolerances too, including German Shepherds and Great Danes. This is due to genetic predispositions or structural issues in their gastrointestinal system.
Just like us, stressful situations or changes in the environment can lead to upset stomachs in dogs and older dogs may develop sensitivities due to decreased enzyme production or changes in their metabolism.
Signs your dog may have a sensitive stomach
Frequent or occasional vomiting after meals can indicate food intolerance or sensitivity as can chronic diarrhea, constipation or mucus in their stools.
Excessive or particularly smelly gas can be a sign of poor digestion, as well as food coming back up shortly after eating.
If your dog starts to refuse meals or becomes picky about food, this could indicate discomfort with the diet. And some dogs may eat grass to soothe their upset stomach.
Physical signs to look out for include bloating – a visibly distended abdomen or discomfort when touched – and audible gurgling or burping.
If your dog shows persistent signs of a sensitive stomach, consult a veterinarian to identify the underlying cause and develop a suitable dietary or medical plan.
What ingredients cause sensitivities in dogs and why?
Certain dog food ingredients are common triggers for sensitivities or intolerances in dogs. Here’s a list of potential culprits and the reasons why they can cause issues.
Proteins such as beef, chicken, dairy (milk, cheese and yogurt), and eggs are common allergens, as repeated exposure over time can lead to adverse reactions.
Grains including wheat, corn, and soy are popular fillers in dog food and can be difficult to digest. Some dogs can also be gluten intolerant.
Artificial additives and preservatives (e.g., BHA, BHT, Ethoxyquin) can irritate a dog’s digestive system as well as artificial colors and flavors which have no nutritional value.
Fatty or rich ingredients can lead to pancreatitis in sensitive dogs. While grain alternatives, such as legumes (peas, lentils, chickpeas) in large quantities, can lead to sensitivities or gas.
Unspecified meat meals or animal byproducts often found in lower-quality foods can trigger issues. And thickeners, such as carrageenan and guar gum found in wet food can irritate the stomach lining.
Sugar, corn syrup, or artificial sweeteners are unnecessary and can contribute to obesity.
Spices such as garlic and onion powder can be toxic to dogs in even small amounts, as they damage red blood cells and irritate the stomach.
What is the best dog food for dogs with a sensitive stomach?
Once a medical condition has been ruled out by a vet, look for high quality foods which do not contain fillers, artificial preservatives, or by products
A limited ingredient diet may be the best way forward to minimize ingredients that could cause sensitivities. Also foods with added probiotics to support gut health are recommended.
You might also wish to consider specialized formulas designed specifically to aid digestion.
On this page… we’ll share with you the Dog Food Advisor’s best foods for a dog with a sensitive stomach… and we’ll answer the 7 most frequently asked questions about feeding dogs with food-related digestive issues.
Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs March 2026
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best dog food brands for sensitive stomachs for March 2026.
-
Best Dry Food for Dogs with a Sensitive Stomachs
Brothers Complete Ultra Premium Chicken Meal & Egg Formula
For a dry food built specifically around gut health and allergy management, Brothers Complete Ultra Premium Chicken Meal & Egg Formula is a standout.
It is one of four recipes in our review of the Brothers Complete Ultra Premium Advanced Allergy Care Dog Food (Dry) range. Made with quality proteins, prebiotics, and probiotics to promote gut health and aid digestion, it has received the Dog Food Advisor’s highest rating: 5 stars.
This recipe derives the bulk of its protein from antibiotic and hormone-free chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 40.8% protein, 17.4% fat and 29.1% carbohydrates… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 43%.
Highly recommended.
Why we chose this
“Brothers Complete earns its 5-star rating through genuinely clean credentials: antibiotic and hormone-free chicken, built-in pre- and probiotics, and a high-protein, low-carb profile purpose-built for sensitive digestive systems.”
Things we like
- GMO-free
- Crafted in small batches for exceptional quality, safety and freshness
- High-quality, animal-based protein
Things to consider
- Some dogs are sensitive to eggs
- Premium pricing for dry food
- Small brand
Main Ingredients Chicken meal, whole eggs dried, turkey meal, cassava root, peas Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 40.8% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at brothersdogfood.com"All of my dogs have struggled with tender tummies, but ever since discovering Brothers it’s been a complete game changer. Their stomachs have improved like night and day, they look forward to dinner time, and the quality is AMAZING! We’ll forever be a Brothers house and are so grateful to have found this amazing brand."
-
Best Raw Dog Food for Dogs with a Sensitive Stomach
We Feed Raw Turkey Patties
Turkey is one of the most digestible proteins available, making We Feed Raw Turkey Patties a logical first choice for dogs with a sensitive stomach.
This particular recipe is one of six frozen raw foods included in our review of the We Feed Raw product line. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 0% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
Free from fillers, artificial additives and unnecessary processing — exactly what a reactive gut needs. High quality ingredients. Highly recommended.
For more choices: See our Best Raw Dog Food page
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “We Feed Raw Turkey uses very few ingredients to make this complete and balanced. This allows for ingredients which could be sensitising to your particular dog to be avoided. This is also a low-fat recipe which is more gentle on digestion.”
Things we like
- Lean protein source
- Low in fat
- No additives
Things to consider
- Raw feeding requires careful handling
- Needs freezer storage
- Higher-fat recipe
Main Ingredients Turkey tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix Type Grain-free, raw Protein Percentage 49% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and adults Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com"I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for three years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs."
-
Best Wet Food for Dogs with a Sensitive Stomach
The Farmer's Dog Pork
For dogs whose stomachs struggle with heavily processed food, fresh is often the answer. The Farmer’s Dog Pork is one of four fresh recipes evaluated in our review of The Farmer’s Dog product line.
This recipe acquires the majority of its animal protein from fresh pork, and dry matter label analysis confirms it contains 36% protein, 28% fat and 28% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 78%.
Human-grade, preservative-free, deliverd to your home, and custom-portioned to your dog’s individual nutritional needs. As close to a homemade diet as commercial food gets. Highly recommended.
For more choices: See our Best Fresh Dog Food page.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “The Farmer’s Dog Pork is a fresh diet, which utilises pork and pork liver as the single animal protein source. A high quality food, which uses sweet potato and potato as the carbohydrate, avoiding grains.”
Things we like
- Human-grade
- Free from preservatives
- Customized meals
Things to consider
- Premium price point
- Subscription and delivery only
- Higher-fat recipe
Main Ingredients USDA Pork, sweet potato, potato, green beans, cauliflower Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and adults (including large breed puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TheFarmersDog.com"We have noticed clearer eyes, shinier coat, and much more energy!"
-
Best Dog Food for German Shepherds with a Sensitive Stomach
Raised Right Dog Food
German Shepherds are genetically predisposed to digestive sensitivities, and they need a food that takes that seriously. Raised Right Beef does. This recipe is one of 11 included in our review of the Raised Right product line, built around a simple, clean ingredient list of beef, beef liver, and vegetables, including carrots and squash.
Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%. Gently cooked, human-grade, and low in carbohydrates for easy digestion.
One of the best fresh dog foods on the market for any dog. Highly recommended.
For more choices: See our Best Fresh Dog Food page.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Raised Right is a high quality and digestible food which is formulated without any additional vitamins and minerals to meet FEDIAF nutritional requirements for adult dogs. The fat to protein ratio of 39% supports muscle maintenance a healthy weight.”
Things we like
- Gently cooked
- Low carbohydrates
- Easily digestible
Things to consider
- This recipe is for adult dogs only
- Delivery only
- Requires a freezer
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-Free (carrots, cranberries) Protein Percentage 61% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at rasiedright.com"All of our experiences with Raised Right have been top notch."
-
Best High Protein Food for Dogs with a Sensitive Stomach
Maev Raw Chicken Weight & Digestion
When a sensitive stomach combines with high protein needs, Maev Raw Chicken Weight & Digestion is one of the best solutions available.
With only 10 ingredients and a single USDA chicken protein source, it eliminates a wide range of common allergens — no wheat, corn, dairy, or unnecessary additives. It is one of nine recipes in our review of the Maev Raw Dog Food range and earned our highest rating of 5 stars. Dry matter label analysis reveals it contains 44.1% protein, 14.6% fat and 33.3% carbohydrates… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 33%.
Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Maev Raw Dog Food (Raw) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Maev includes chicory root and probiotics to provide enhanced gut health support within a high quality freeze dried grain free diet which is suitable for all life stages. A protein content of 44% on a dry matter basis and a fat to protein ratio of 33% make this a high protein and lean diet.”
Things we like
- High in protein
- Limited ingredients
- Human-grade
Things to consider
- Raw food handling required
- Relatively small brand
- 33% carbs but mostly from vegetables
Main Ingredients USDA chicken, USDA chicken liver, USDA chicken gizzard, green bean, zucchini Type Grain-Free Protein Percentage 44.1% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at maev.com"Obsessed with Maev. My pup, Nori, has been eating the calm mix from Maev. She's obsessed with it and has been having better digestion with it."
-
Best Dog Food for Large Breeds with a Sensitive Stomach
Wellness CORE Digestive Health Large Breed Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe
Large breeds with sensitive stomachs present a specific challenge — they need the digestive support of a gut-focused formula, but scaled for their size and nutritional demands.
Wellness CORE Digestive Health Large Breed Chicken and Brown Rice Recipe meets both. This probiotic-coated kibble is one of six dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dog Food (Dry) range.
It derives the bulk of its animal protein from fresh chicken, turkey meal, and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33.3% protein, 13.3% fat and 45.3% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 40%. Fortified with digestive enzymes and prebiotic fibers.
5-star rated.
Read our review of the full Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dog Food (Dry) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Wellness CORE Digestive Health is designed with enhanced gut and digestive health measures. Nutrients including probiotics, prebiotics and a balance of fibers make this suitable for senstive stomachs. Ingredients such as yucca extract and botanicals with properties aid settling the stomach, such as peppermint and cinnamon are also used.”
Things we like
- Includes pro and prebiotic fibers
- High in protein
- Omega fatty acids and antioxidants
Things to consider
- Adult dogs only
- Grain-inclusive
- Moderate protein levels
Main Ingredients Deboned chicken, turkey meal , chicken meal , brown rice, barley, oat groats Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 33.3% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only (including large breeds) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog has some digestive issues and this was recommended to us by our veterinarian. Ever since making the change we've had zero issues. I cannot say enough good things about this food. We even moved our senior furbaby to their formula and she's been acting so much younger ever since."
-
Best Prescription Food for Dogs with a Sensitive Stomach
Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal
UnratedWhen diet changes alone aren’t enough, Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Gastrointestinal is the prescription option most commonly recommended by vets for chronic or acute GI issues.
It is one of six dry digestive recipes included in our review of the Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Gastrointestinal Dog Food (Dry) range. The bulk of its meat protein comes from chicken meal, and dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 22% protein, 9% fat and 60% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 43%.
This dog food is not rated due to its intentional therapeutic design.
Read our review of the full Royal Canin Veterinary Diets Gastrointestinal Dog Food (Dry) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “This Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Veterinary Diet utilises a combination of fibers and prebiotics to support stool quality and digestive health. It is available only through veterinary practices.”
Things we like
- Low fat
- Prebiotics for gut health
- Soluble fibers
Things to consider
- Prescription required
- Lower protein and higher carbs
- Not intended for long-term feeding
Main Ingredients Brewers rice, chicken by-product meal, wheat, barley, natural flavors Texture Dry Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 22% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"This is a quality dog food. My dog had very bad digestive issues. Since we switched her to Royal Canin Gastrointestinal she has been doing very well. Plus, she loves it."
-
Best Dog Food for Puppies with a Sensitive Stomach
Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Puppy & Adult Salmon Recipe
Finding a limited-ingredient food that’s also safe for puppies is a real challenge. Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Salmon Recipe solves it.
It is one of four limited ingredient recipes rated in our review of the Nulo Freestyle Limited+ Dog Food (Dry) range and features a single animal protein source — fresh salmon and salmon meal — eliminating common allergens like chicken, eggs, and peas. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 20% fat and 39% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
Fortified with Nulo’s proprietary GanedenBC30 probiotic for gut health and immunity. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nulo Freestyle Limited + Dog Food (Dry) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Nulo Limited Plus uses a single animal protein to best suit puppies whose sensitive stomach may be triggered through particular ingredients, allowing these to be avoided. The inclusion of probtiotics, chicory root and functional fibers supports digestive health during growth and development.”
Things we like
- Single protein source
- Limited ingredients
- Fortified with probiotics
Things to consider
- Grain-free
- Chickpeas as primary carb
Main Ingredients Deboned salmon, salmon meal, chickpeas, chickpea flour, canola oil Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Puppies and adults (including large breed puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dogs have been eating Nulo for about 2 years now and they love it! One on my dog was always super picky but also has allergies. My other one had a sensitive stomach. Both have had no issues since switching to Nulo. It’s a bit pricey but I think it’s worth it."
-
Best Dog Food for Great Danes with a Sensitive Stomach
Instinct Raw Boost Gut Health
Great Danes are one of the breeds most prone to digestive sensitivities, and their size means gut issues can escalate fast. Instinct Raw Boost Gut Health addresses this with a smart format: high-protein kibble combined with freeze-dried raw pieces for nutrient density without full raw feeding complexity.
It is one of 12 dry recipes evaluated in our review of the Instinct Raw Boost Dog Food (Dry) range. This formula acquires the major part of its meat protein from fresh chicken and chicken meal. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 34% protein, 19% fat and 39% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 55%.
This digestible, minimally processed formula is highly recommended by our in-house nutritionist, Laura Ward.
For more choices: See our Best Dog Food for Great Danes page.
Read our review of the full Instinct Raw Boost Dog Food (Dry) range here
Why we chose this
Our expert nutritionist, Laura Ward, says: “Instinct Raw Boost is a diet which uses quality protein sources, combined with vegetable sources of carbohydrates. Yeast ingredients and probiotics support immune health and microbiome diversity. Sensitive stomachs are supported through probiotics, prebiotics, yucca extract and a fibers. A high quality food supporting the digestive health of Great Danes.”
Things we like
- Include freeze-dried raw pieces
- Natural probiotics
- Free from common allergens
Things to consider
- Adult dogs only
- Grain-free
- Freeze-dried raw pieces
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken meal, peas, tapioca, canola oil Texture Dry Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 34% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My dog loves it! We were trying to find the best type of meal for him, and rawboost was a life changer!"
How we review dog foods
We read the label.
This may sound simple, but there are thousands of dog foods on the market, and the label is the only source of reliable, standardized and government-regulated data available on every one of them. This includes the AAFCO nutrient profile, the Guaranteed Analysis and the ingredients.
We use our algorithm.
We take the data and enter it into our unique algorithm to produce a different set of figures, including the Dry Matter Analysis (the nutrient levels after water has been removed). This algorithm gives us a base score range on our five-star rating system.
We refine the score.
We take into account other factors, such as the quality of ingredients and the nature of the first few ingredients on the list (and therefore the most prevalent in the food), and narrow the score. The key ingredients are explained in-depth in the review.
Our expert nutritionist takes over.
At this point, our expert pet nutritionist, Laura Ward, goes through the review to check and approve it. She has the authority to make small discretionary changes to the star-rating based on her judgment of a food. We now have our final star-rating.
What other information do we include for dog parents?
Each dog food review includes sample consumer reviews and links to other reviews. It also includes the brand’s recall history. Our Best Dog Food pages also include consumer reviews.
Why we don’t just feed foods to our dogs.
Despite what other dog food review sites claim, simply giving a food to a dog and seeing if they eat it is completely unscientific and has little value as a review method. If you give a kid candy, they’ll happily eat it, but it doesn’t mean it’s good for them. And no one food suits every dog.
It’s also dangerous for dogs. We rate every dog food, good and bad. Why would we deliberately feed a dog bad dog food?
That said, we understand that personal experience of a food is important to dog parents and include consumer reviews on our pages.
What about lab-testing dog food?
Lab-testing dog food can provide useful, in-depth information, but as mentioned, there are thousands of dog foods on the market. We’d love to test them all, but there isn’t a facility in the country that could. Therefore, it’s impossible to have a fair universal rating system using lab tests.
It’s worth noting that dog food brands carry out their own testing. This ensures compliance with AAFCO and FDA pet food standards, as well as checking for pathogens.
Why you should trust our dog food reviews
Dog Food Advisor has been impartially reviewing dog food since 2008. We are the most trusted dog food review site in the United States, with a 4.9-star TrustPilot rating.
Here's why:
We do not accept money, gifts, samples or any other incentives in exchange for special consideration in writing our reviews.
We rate every dog food in the same way, using the only information we believe is equally available for all foods, reliable and therefore fair: what’s on the label. It’s the only way for any review site to rate every dog food on the market.
We focus on ingredients, nutrient profiles and recipes. We look at the ingredients used, including their quality, and review the nutritional analysis and macronutrient balance. We take into account any controversial or harmful ingredients.
Every review is expertly checked and approved by our highly qualified in-house animal nutritionist, Laura Ward.
We report all dog food and dog treat recalls through our Dog Food Recall Alert service, no matter the brand.
For more information, read our How We Rate Dog Food and Disclaimer and Disclosure pages.
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I tell if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
Some of the most common signs your dog may be suffering from a sensitive stomach include one or more of the following:
- Loss of appetite
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Gas or bloating
- Decrease in activity
- Gurgling noises
- Signs of abdominal pain
In the following video, Dr. Al Townshend, staff veterinarian at Wellpet, discusses the signs of food allergy or ingredient intolerance in dogs… and how the right diet can help control a sensitive stomach.
What type of dog food is best for a sensitive stomach?
There are 3 types of food that may help a dog with a food-related digestive problem:
- Limited ingredient dog food
- Hypoallergenic dog food
- Prescription GI dog food
What is a limited ingredient dog food?
Limited ingredient diets are dog foods that contain fewer components… which can help you pin down the specific ingredient to which your pet may be sensitive.
The best limited ingredient dog foods typically contain:
- Single novel protein
- Limited number of ingredients
- Most protein sourced from meat
- Low to moderate fat
- Probiotics (to aid digestion)
What should I avoid in a limited ingredient dog food?
Avoid feeding any limited ingredient recipe that contains any of the following low quality items:
- Excessive fillers (soybean hulls, wheat mill run, corn bran, etc.)
- Artificial flavors
- Coloring agents
- Controversial preservatives
- Chemical additives
What is hypoallergenic dog food?
Hypoallergenic dog foods are made by using proteins that have been chemically “split” into their basic amino acid building blocks.
That way, the offending ingredient becomes virtually “invisible” to your dog’s immune system… so your dog is less likely to have an allergic reaction to the food.
What are prescription GI dog foods?
Prescription GI (gastrointestinal) dog foods are special purpose diets made for dogs suffering from digestive problems. These recipes typically include similar limited ingredient or hypoallergenic designs.
However, in addition, they also include ingredients specifically designed to support healthy digestion.
How do I safely transition to a new food if my dog has a sensitive stomach?
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, be patient. Don’t rush the transitioning process. Take your time to minimize the chance of GI upset.
Start with about 20-25% of the “new” food and 75-80% of the “old” food. Then, slowly increase that amount to a full 100% over the next 7 to 10 day period.
Final word
The Dog Food Advisor does not accept money, gifts, samples or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.
However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Disclosure page.
