We say it all the time, our dogs aren’t just pets, they’re part of the family. So if you’re anything like us, we know you feel the same. Seeing your dog suffer is incredibly hard. Unfortunately, tummy pain can be a real problem for dogs with sensitive stomachs. So finding options that help their tummies stay happy is the top concern.
If you’re looking for the best dog treats for sensitive stomachs, look no further. In this post we’ll discuss several treat options and what to look for when shopping. So follow along for more!
Does Your Dog Have a Sensitive Stomach?
Unfortunately, dogs can’t tell us when they feel icky or what’s causing it. But some tell-tale signs make spotting tummy troubles a bit easier. Vomiting and diarrhea are the more common signs, but a loss of appetite and rapid swallowing are signs too.
Here’s a list of the most common symptoms of digestive problems in dogs:
- Nausea & Vomiting. Rapid swallowing and dry-heaving are signs of nausea. And your dog may throw up food, bile, or clear fluid.
- Diarrhea. This is pretty self-explanatory. Diarrhea often results in more bowel movements than usual.
- Constipation. Difficulty or infrequency dropping doggy-doo.
- Dehydration. Dry gums, decreased skin elasticity, sunken eyes – all signs of dehydration, which can be a sign of digestive issues.
- Reduced appetite. Your pup may refuse to eat or eat much less, having lost interest in food.
- Lethargy. If your dog loses energy, stops playing and running as much as usual, this could be a sign of digestive problems too.
- Tummy issues. Signs of stomach pain, like whining or other signs of discomfort when touched.
- Excessive gas. When your dog’s flatulence hits new levels of frequency and stank. Also bloating.
- Weight loss. If your pup loses a significant amount of body weight, it can be due to digestive problems.
- Changes in stool appearance. Blood or mucus in the stool may indicate a sensitive stomach issue. Changes in smell, color, or consistency as well.
So you know the signs, but how do you get to the root of the issue? How do you help your pup avoid those problems? Let’s talk about that.
The Avoidable
Lots of things can cause an upset stomach:
- Food allergies
- Food sensitivities
- Changing brands of dog food
- Even a minor diet change like adding a new topper can throw things off
So be mindful when making changes to their diet, and when possible, do it slowly. So if you’re switching to a new brand or flavor of kibble, it’s usually best to make the switch gradually. That way, their bodies have a moment to adjust.
One of the best things you can do when selecting new dog food or looking for the best dog treats for sensitive stomachs is to look for items with simple ingredients. So a short list of easy-to-say ingredients. This may save you a lot of headaches (and icky messes!) when feeding Fido. Clean, high-quality ingredients found in nature generally bode well with most dogs. Knowing what to watch out for and giving the best dog treats for sensitive stomachs can be extremely helpful.
Lastly, dogs will be dogs. Sometimes, that means getting into things they shouldn’t. Sometimes this is unavoidable, but you can certainly take steps like putting human food and dog treats out of reach. Also, make sure you seal those trash containers!
The Unavoidable
Medication and stress are other factors that can cause a dog’s stomach to become upset. Though immensely helpful in some situations, medications and antibiotics can affect even the hardiest of stomachs. When illness pops up, sticking to mild foods like plain white rice, unseasoned pieces of chicken, and bone broth is usually best.
Some dogs also deal with separation anxiety which can cause an upset tummy. Many pet parents turn to puzzle toys to help occupy and distract dogs. These games are meant to be challenging and intellectually stimulating. Simply fill the toy with scrumptious treats like our Alaskan Salmon Topper-Trainer Treats or tear our Sweet Potato Stix, Chicken Tenders or Salmon Jerky into small bites.
The Best Treats
Finding out exactly what is ailing your dog is the best way to discover what treats will help. However, a couple of options are known for their stomach-soothing qualities.
There are many foods in your own fridge that can calm an upset tummy. Pumpkin, blueberries, broccoli, and sweet potatoes are full of nutrients and may be good options. However, your best bet is easily digestible foods such as chicken, rice, and bone broth.
If you want an easy-to-make (and serve) option you can always reach for a bag of Blue Ridge Naturals’ many all-natural treats. Our Chicken Breast and Sweet Potato Fillets have just five ingredients and combine two amazing, stomach-calming foods. Even simpler, our Sweet Potato Fries are one ingredient and highly digestible. Be ready the next time your pet has a bad day!
Finding a soft and chewy treat can be a huge help. The easier it is to chew, the easier it is to digest. Hard treats can irritate the mouth and esophagus, exacerbating the issue. Real meat sources and gentle grains like rice or oats are best when picking how to alleviate stomach problems in both us and our pets. All of our meats are sourced from here in the US and are of the highest quality.
Does your dog have food allergies? Read The Ultimate Guide to Hypoallergenic Dog Treats
What To Avoid
To keep your dog safe there are foods you should absolutely avoid, even if you don’t they don’t have a sensitive stomach. Grapes, onion, garlic, tomatoes, and citrus are never safe for your pooch.
To help combat the sensitive stomachs of our canine friends, avoiding common treats such as rawhide chews, animal bones, and artificial treats can also be helpful. While marketed for your pooch, these can negatively affect your dog’s digestive health. When searching through the aisle of treats, read labels and avoid those mentioning:
- Corn
- Wheat
- Gluten
- Meat byproduct
- Artificial colors
- Propylene glycol
- Rendered fat
- Artificial flavors
Because these ingredients can trigger food allergies or food intolerance, and can be difficult to digest.
More Great Options
You can avoid the endless ingredient list scanning or messy kitchen by trying out some of Blue Ridge Naturals’ treats! With simple ingredients and made right here in the USA, you can be sure your furry family member is getting the best.
We have high standards and guarantee there are no artificial colors, unhealthy preservatives or additives in our treats. This makes them perfect for even the most sensitive of stomachs. Our Sweet Potato Dog Treats are grain and filler free, which makes them more digestible. See below for other great options.
Beef Infused Sweet Potato Fries
The combination of all-natural beef broth and nutrient-dense sweet potato leads to the perfect stomach-calming treat.
Chicken Tenders
Real, US-sourced meat and natural ingredients known to calm sensitive stomachs make this an awesome treat for Fido. You can trust that your pooch will be back to play in no time flat.
Sweet Potato Bones
Just one ingredient and it’s a stomach ache-fighting superfood! Sweet potatoes are packed with nutrients, fiber, and vitamins. Your furry friend will feel better faster than you can say potato!
