Best treats for dogs with sensitive stomachs

When it comes to treating dogs with sensitive stomachs, it’s essential to choose treats that are gentle on their digestive system. Dogs with sensitive stomachs often experience issues like vomiting, diarrhea, or general discomfort after eating certain foods. Choosing the right treats can make a significant difference in their comfort and health. Here’s a guide to the best treats for dogs with sensitive stomachs:

1. Limited Ingredient Treats

Limited ingredient treats are a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These treats contain fewer ingredients, which reduces the chance of triggering food sensitivities or allergies. Typically, these treats use a single source of protein and a minimal amount of carbohydrates and fats, making them easier to digest.

Examples:

• Zuke’s Mini Naturals: These treats have a simple ingredient list, usually consisting of chicken or duck as the protein source and are free from grains, gluten, and artificial additives.

• Natural Balance L.I.D. (Limited Ingredient Diet): Known for using one animal protein and a single carbohydrate, these treats are formulated for dogs with food sensitivities.

2. Pumpkin-Based Treats

Pumpkin is widely recognized for its digestive benefits. It’s rich in fiber, which helps regulate bowel movements and soothe an upset stomach. The high fiber content also promotes healthy digestion without being too harsh on a sensitive stomach.

Examples:

• Merrick Power Bites with Pumpkin: These treats combine pumpkin with other beneficial ingredients like real beef and are easy to digest.

• Solid Gold Leans with Pumpkin: These treats are designed to support sensitive stomachs while also providing essential nutrients like probiotics.

3. Chicken and Rice Treats

Chicken and rice are often recommended by veterinarians for dogs with digestive issues. This combination is gentle on the stomach and can help firm up stools, making it ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those recovering from an upset stomach.

Examples:

• Hill’s Ideal Balance Soft-Baked Naturals with Chicken & Rice: This treat is designed with easily digestible ingredients and promotes a balanced diet for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

• Wellness Soft Puppy Bites with Chicken & Rice: These treats are made for sensitive stomachs and are a good choice for puppies as well.

4. Probiotic Treats

Probiotics can help maintain a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut, which is essential for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Probiotic treats support digestion and overall gut health, often reducing symptoms like gas, diarrhea, and bloating.

Examples:

• Virbac Epi-Soothe Probiotic Chews: These chews are formulated to support healthy digestion and contain beneficial probiotics for gut health.

• PetHonesty Probiotics for Dogs: Although typically marketed as daily chews, they also function as treats and help to restore balance to the digestive system.

5. Sweet Potato Treats

Sweet potatoes are high in fiber and are a gentle, natural food source for dogs with sensitive stomachs. They also provide a source of vitamins and minerals that support digestive health. Sweet potato treats are often easy to digest and can help regulate bowel movements.

Examples:

• The Honest Kitchen’s Dehydrated Sweet Potato Chews: These treats are made from pure, whole food ingredients and are gentle on a dog’s stomach.

• Caru Daily Dish Sweet Potato & Chicken Bites: Made with sweet potatoes and chicken, these treats are easy to digest and provide a healthy source of fiber.

6. Turkey-Based Treats

Turkey is another lean protein option that is easy on a dog’s stomach. It’s lower in fat than some other meats, and many dogs with sensitive stomachs do well with turkey-based foods. Turkey also contains essential amino acids that are great for muscle development and overall health.

Examples:

• Canidae PURE Limited Ingredient Treats with Turkey: These treats are designed for sensitive stomachs, with turkey as the primary protein and minimal ingredients for easy digestion.

• The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain Turkey and Pumpkin Treats: This combination is both gentle and nutritious, helping to promote a healthy digestive system.

7. Fish-Based Treats

Fish, such as salmon or whitefish, is another protein that is easy on a sensitive stomach. Fish is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which support the skin and coat while being light on the stomach. Fish-based treats also tend to be naturally low in fat, making them suitable for dogs with digestive issues.

Examples:

• Orijen Freeze-Dried Fish Treats: These treats contain 100% fish, with no fillers or artificial additives, making them a highly digestible option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

• Wild Earth Dog Treats: These plant-based treats include ingredients like pea protein and are perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs that need something different from meat-based options.

8. Oatmeal-Based Treats

Oatmeal is another ingredient that can help soothe a dog’s stomach. It is gentle and provides soluble fiber, which helps in regulating digestion. Oatmeal treats are often a good choice for dogs with mild stomach sensitivities.

Examples:

• Buddy Biscuits Oatmeal & Apple: These treats are made with wholesome oats and apples, both of which are gentle on the stomach.

• Rocco & Roxie Gourmet Biscuits: Their oatmeal-based treats are designed to be easily digestible and free from common allergens.

9. Carrot-Based Treats

Carrots are low-calorie, fiber-rich vegetables that are gentle on the digestive system. They’re an excellent choice for treating dogs with sensitive stomachs because they provide essential nutrients without causing upset.

Examples:

• Blue Buffalo Dog Biscuits with Carrot: These treats contain carrots along with other healthy ingredients that promote digestive health.

• Nature Gnaws Carrot Chews: These chews offer a natural, safe, and easy-to-digest option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

10. Rice & Lamb Treats

Lamb is another protein that is less likely to cause allergic reactions in dogs, especially compared to beef or chicken. Combined with rice, these treats become a good option for dogs who need a balanced, easy-to-digest snack.

Examples:

• Natural Balance L.I.D. Lamb & Brown Rice Treats: These treats use lamb as the primary protein and rice for fiber, making them an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

• Merrick Lamb Treats: These treats are made from lamb and are specifically designed for easy digestion and a gentle impact on your dog’s stomach.

Key Considerations When Choosing Treats for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs

1. Avoid Artificial Additives: Treats with preservatives, artificial flavors, and colors can irritate your dog’s stomach. Opt for natural treats that are free from these additives.

2. Look for Hypoallergenic Ingredients: If your dog has a known food sensitivity, choose treats that are hypoallergenic, with a limited number of ingredients to help reduce the risk of adverse reactions.

3. Monitor Portion Sizes: Even with the best treats, overfeeding can lead to digestive issues. Stick to the recommended serving sizes to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach.

Treating dogs with sensitive stomachs requires a bit of trial and error, but with the right choices, you can keep your dog happy and comfortable. By selecting high-quality, easily digestible treats and paying attention to ingredient lists, you can provide your dog with a snack that doesn’t compromise their digestive health.