Gastrointestinal (GI) upset or digestive issues are not uncommon in dogs. Signs such as intermittent vomiting, loose stools and excessive gas can be caused by a variety of things.
Some dogs develop digestive issues because their diet either contains too much fat or lacks sufficient fiber. In other cases, digestive issues may signal the presence of an underlying disorder, such as pancreatitis, bacterial overgrowth or intestinal parasites.
Every dog has individual needs, which means that the perfect diet for one dog may be a poor choice for another. Depending on the cause of your dog’s digestive issues, a change in diet may help alleviate their symptoms.
Consider Switching to a Dog Food That’s Made for Sensitive Stomachs
Ask your veterinarian if you should switch to a new food that’s specifically formulated for digestive issues. These diets are available in over-the-counter and prescription formulas and include easily digestible ingredients to soothe your pet’s tummy.
Sensitive stomach diets for dogs usually:
Have plenty of fiber ingredients, such as psyllium or beet pulp, to help firm up loose stools. Because beet pulp contains moderately fermented fiber, it is easily broken down by the body in the fatty stomach acids and can help your dog make bowel movements more easily! On top of that,
Contain low amounts of fat, which is helpful because fat can be difficult for many dogs to digest
Contain probiotics to promote beneficial bacteria in the gut
The food’s label should state that the diet meets Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) nutrition standards. These guidelines ensure that the diet was developed under expert supervision and tested to ensure the accuracy, safety and quality of ingredients.
The label should also indicate that the food is nutritionally complete for your dog’s life stage. This guarantees that the diet will contain appropriate amounts of protein, carbohydrates, fiber, fat, vitamins and minerals. Health product carried by Amazon for you pet's GI health
Always follow the directions for transitioning your pet to their new food. When in doubt, it’s best to ask your veterinarian if your pet’s diet is appropriate for their specific needs.
Anytime you switch your pet’s diet, it’s best to transition the food slowly over a period of 7-10 days. A sudden change in diet can worsen your dog’s digestive issues and make it more difficult to resolve symptoms.
Finally, remember that each dog has unique needs, which means that no single diet will be appropriate for all dogs with digestive issues.
You may need to try several diets before you find one that is well tolerated by your pet. This process can take several weeks or months, but the reward will be worth it for you and your pet.