If your dog frequently experiences gas, diarrhea, vomiting, or loose stools, they may have a sensitive stomach. The right dog food can help support digestion, improve nutrient absorption, and keep your dog feeling comfortable after meals.

Sensitive-stomach formulas typically contain easily digestible proteins, prebiotic fibers, and limited ingredients that are gentle on the digestive system.

Below are some of the best dog foods for sensitive stomachs available at PetSmart, selected based on ingredient quality, digestibility, and customer reviews.

Quick Picks: Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

1. Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin

Best overall sensitive stomach dog food

This formula from Hill’s is one of the most recommended options for dogs with digestive issues. It’s designed to be highly digestible and includes prebiotic fiber to support healthy gut bacteria.

Key benefits

• Highly digestible ingredients for easier nutrient absorption

• Prebiotic fiber to support gut health

• Vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat

• Chicken as the first ingredient

This food is specifically formulated for dogs prone to digestive upset while also supporting healthy skin and coat.

Best for:
Adult dogs with frequent stomach sensitivity.

2. Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach (Salmon & Rice)

Best salmon-based sensitive stomach food

Some dogs have trouble digesting chicken-based foods. This salmon formula provides high-quality protein with easily digestible rice.

Key benefits

• Real salmon as the first ingredient

• Rice and oatmeal for gentle digestion

• Probiotics for digestive health

• Omega fatty acids for skin support

Best for:
Dogs with chicken sensitivities or food allergies.

3. Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet

Blue Buffalo Basics Adult Dog Turkey Formula

Best limited-ingredient dog food

Limited ingredient diets can help dogs with food sensitivities by reducing potential allergens.

Key benefits

• Single animal protein source (turkey)

• Grain-free recipe with potatoes

• No chicken, corn, wheat, soy, or dairy

• Supports digestive health with simple ingredients

Best for:
Dogs with suspected food allergies.

4. Royal Canin Digestive Care

Royal Canin Medium Digestive Care Dry Dog Food

Best premium digestive formula

Royal Canin specializes in targeted nutrition formulas developed with veterinary research.

Key benefits

• Balanced fiber blend for digestive support

• Highly digestible proteins

• Formulated for optimal stool quality

Best for:
Dogs with ongoing digestive issues needing premium nutrition.

What Causes Sensitive Stomachs in Dogs?

Many factors can trigger digestive problems in dogs:

• Food allergies or intolerances

• Low-quality ingredients

• Sudden diet changes

• Stress or illness

• Breed sensitivities

Common symptoms include:

• Loose stools

• Gas

• Vomiting

• Reduced appetite

Switching to a digestive-friendly dog food often helps improve symptoms.

Ingredients to Look for in Sensitive Stomach Dog Food

When choosing food for dogs with sensitive digestion, look for:

Easily digestible proteins

Examples:

• chicken

• turkey

• salmon

Gentle carbohydrates

Examples:

• rice

• oatmeal

• sweet potatoes

Digestive support ingredients

• prebiotic fiber

• probiotics

• omega fatty acids

These nutrients help support gut health and nutrient absorption.

Ingredients to Avoid

Dogs with sensitive stomachs may react poorly to:

• artificial preservatives

• fillers

• excessive fat

• unknown meat by-products

Limited ingredient formulas are often a safer choice.

How to Transition to a New Dog Food

Switching dog food too quickly can worsen stomach problems.

Use a 7-day transition:

This helps your dog adjust gradually.

Final Thoughts

Finding the right dog food can make a huge difference for dogs with digestive sensitivities.

Top choices like:

• Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food

• Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula

• Blue Buffalo Basics Adult Dog Turkey Formula

offer high-quality nutrition designed to support healthy digestion and overall wellbeing.

If your dog continues to experience digestive issues, consult a veterinarian to rule out underlying health problems.