iHeartDogs is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you
There are a few things worse than dealing with diarrhea in your German Shepherd! We asked our 800,000 members in the pit bull community on Facebook the following question: “What’s the best food for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach?”
We’ve summarized the best responses below. Always remember to check with your veterinarian before making changes that affect your German Shepherd’s health. iHeartDogs is reader-supported, so some of the links below may be paid affiliate links at no additional cost to you.
Best Foods for a German Shepherd with a Sensitive Tummy
We used dog food with Salmon listed as the number one ingredient. We also fed our GS 3 times a day with the smallest portion before bed. Changing from 2 to 3 feedings a day made a huge difference. The last feeding before bed was just a handful so he would not get an empty stomach. We also added cooked chicken.
👍 Upvotes: 5
Our vet has us using Science Diet low-fat ID. It’s a prescription. We use both canned and dry food.
👍 Upvotes: 11
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs
ProPlan sensitive skin & stomach, salmon & rice! Use this for my German Shepherd and for my Lab. Highly recommend!
👍 Upvotes: 12
iHeartDogs 3-in-1 Probiotic for Dogs with Pumpkin for Improved Digestion & Gut Health
Not a food recommendation, but would HIGHLY recommend this probiotic chew from Amazon. My dog thinks they are a treat, and it solidified her poop in about 3 days.
👍 Upvotes: 8
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food
My girl loves Science Diet Sensitive Stomach and Skin and does well with it. I also cook chicken and rice.
👍 Upvotes: 1
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food With Probiotics for Dogs
After trying multiple Rx and non-Rx brands, my hospice foster did best on Purina Pro Plan for Sensitive Skin and Stomach (salmon and rice, large breed). I think dogs, like people, are individuals – what works best for one may not work for another.
👍 Upvotes: 3
Vet check first. EPI is very common in GSD’s. We’ve had 2 with it that required medication (PanaKare, prescription-pricey, but they don’t need much-I’m sure other prescription enzymes help the pancreas process food), and they did wonderfully on BilJac feed. One of our shepherds now can’t process grain(not EPI), and he does great on grain-free kibble(Natural Balance duck and sweet potato). Grain-free isn’t good for young dogs, but he started on it at 8, so we feel ok about it. Again, a vet will help you diagnose what is wrong and the proper course of care
👍 Upvotes: 2
Out of my 4 shepherds, 2 have sensitive stomachs, and we use Victor professional for all of them, and they all do great on it.
👍 Upvotes: 13
RELATED: The Complete Dog Food Guide: Nutrition, Ingredients, Feeding & How to Choose
Farmers Dog. My shepherd has a very sensitive stomach and none of the regular/store brands that he could tolerate. Highly recommend Farmer’s Dog
👍 Upvotes: 1
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food
My shepherd had a sensitive stomach, and I fed her Hills Science Diet, and sometimes I would boil chicken and mix it with rice for her.
👍 Upvotes: 14
Solid Gold Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach All Ages – Grain Free – w/Salmon & Vegetables
Solid Gold Sensitive Stomach is the only food our GSD can eat. After 6 months of runny poop and trying 5 different sensitive stomach diets, this is the only one that has worked for him. We even tried home-cooked chicken & rice. The vet suggested Solid Gold & it worked! He’s been on it for 2 1/2 yrs with no problems.
👍 Upvotes: 0
Home-cooked. I used to make rice with meat like salmon or chicken. Used vegetables and some chicken stock. Whole eggs (with shells) and a handful of vitamins and spices. You can find good recipes online for them. It actually isn’t too expensive either, especially when you buy in bulk. You can also meal prep so you can easily make a week’s worth of food at once.
👍 Upvotes: 0
Canidae Pure Farm to Bowl Cage-free Duck & Sweet Potato
I give my boy Canidae pure duck or bison. It’s expensive, and I need to try to find something less expensive. I’ve had 5 gsd’s, and they were all fine on totw, but this guy can’t tolerate something in it. I’ve tried all of them. I’ve also used Wellness Simple, very good, but I can’t afford it
👍 Upvotes: 0
Took me 2 years to figure something out for my pup. Been on it for 8 years. No complaints since
👍 Upvotes: 0
Frequently Asked Questions About Foods for German Shepherds with Sensitive Stomachs
1. What is the best food for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach?
The best food is typically a highly digestible formula with limited ingredients, often featuring proteins like salmon and easily digestible carbohydrates like rice.
2. Why do German Shepherds have sensitive stomachs?
German Shepherds are prone to digestive issues due to genetics, food sensitivities, or conditions like EPI (Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency).
3. Is salmon-based dog food good for sensitive stomachs?
Yes, salmon-based diets are often recommended because they are easier to digest and less likely to trigger allergies compared to common proteins like chicken.
4. Should I feed my German Shepherd smaller, more frequent meals?
Yes, feeding smaller meals multiple times a day can help reduce digestive stress and prevent an empty stomach, which may improve symptoms.
5. Can probiotics help with digestive issues?
Yes, probiotics can support gut health by balancing beneficial bacteria and improving digestion, which may reduce diarrhea and discomfort.
6. Is chicken and rice good for a sensitive stomach?
Yes, boiled chicken and rice is a common bland diet that can help settle the stomach and is often used during digestive flare-ups.
7. Should I consider prescription dog food?
Prescription diets can be very effective for dogs with severe or chronic digestive issues, as they are specifically formulated for easier digestion.
8. Can grain-free diets help German Shepherds?
Some dogs benefit from grain-free diets, especially if they have grain sensitivities, but this should be discussed with a veterinarian.
9. How do I transition my dog to a new food?
Transition slowly over several days by mixing the new food with the current food to avoid worsening digestive issues.
10. When should I take my German Shepherd to the vet?
If your dog has persistent diarrhea, vomiting, weight loss, or signs of pain, it’s important to consult your veterinarian.
11. Can homemade food help with sensitive stomachs?
Homemade food can help if properly balanced, as it allows you to control ingredients and avoid known triggers.
Supporting Your German Shepherd’s Digestive Health
Managing a sensitive stomach in your German Shepherd starts with choosing the right diet and staying consistent. Focusing on high-quality, easily digestible ingredients and avoiding common triggers can help reduce digestive upset and improve overall comfort. Since every dog is different, it may take some trial and adjustment to find the best solution. With patience and guidance from your veterinarian, you can help your German Shepherd maintain a healthy digestive system and enjoy meals without discomfort.
Toledo, United States.