Dogs with sensitive digestion
WHAT YOU WILL READ IN THE TEXT:
- What causes sensitive digestion in dogs?
- Which dog breeds are prone to digestive problems?
- Which food is suitable for a dog with sensitive digestion?
- Is grain-free food better for dogs with sensitive digestion?
Our pets will always try to eat everything they get under their noses, even though in most cases they certainly shouldn't.
It is true that there are dogs with digestive systems that can tolerate almost anything they ingest. Yet there are more dogs with sensitive digestive systems, and with them we have to be extra careful.
If your pet belongs to this second group, read on to find out what causes sensitive digestion and how to adjust your four-legged friend's diet.
What causes sensitive digestion in dogs?
There are many factors that affect a dog's digestion and sensitivity. While many of these causes can be prevented, sometimes it is simply a matter of genetics and factors we unfortunately have no control over.
Nutrition
The first thing to consider is: what does your dog eat on a daily basis? Is he getting a lot of leftover human food, too many snacks, or perhaps food that contains sugars and a lot of fats?
Unhealthy food, or food not suitable for dogs, can be one of the causes of common digestive problems. This can lead to abdominal pain, flatulence, poor stools or even diarrhoea.
When choosing treats for your dog, it is also always advisable to choose healthier options with a high meat content and as few additives and preservatives as possible.
Food allergies
Food allergies in dogs are one of the most common causes of digestive problems. In this case, certain foods cause a physical reaction in the dog.
The most common allergens in dogs are:
- cereals
- wheat
- dairy products
- chicken
- beef
- soy
These foods can cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, bloating and flatulence, excessive scratching, fatigue and more.
If a food allergy is suspected, a vet will usually recommend an elimination diet. This way, it can be determined exactly which foods are causing the reaction in your dog.
Stress and anxiety
It may sound unbelievable, but sensitive digestion is directly linked to stress and anxiety in dogs. If your pet is anxious or frequently experiences stress for any reason, chances are he will also have digestive problems.
For stress, anxiety and anxiety disorders in dogs, it is always wise to consult a specialist, such as a behavioural therapist who specialises in dog behaviour. This way, you can best help your beloved pet.
Which breeds are prone to digestive problems?
Unfortunately, some dog breeds are more prone to digestive problems than others. These are some of the breeds that are more likely to suffer from this:
- Boxer
- Shih Tzu
- Labrador Retriever
- Great Dane
- Yorkshire Terrier
However, this does not mean that every dog of these breeds will automatically have sensitive digestion, just as it does not mean that other breeds cannot suffer. Every dog is unique, but some breeds are naturally more sensitive than others.
Which food is suitable for a dog with sensitive digestion?
If your dog has sensitive digestion, his diet should consist of easily digestible ingredients. Here are some foods that may be good for your sensitive four-legged friend:
- Fish, such as salmon or whitefish
- Sweet potato (sweet potato)
- Pumpkin
- Bone broth
So when choosing food for your dog, it is a good idea to pay attention to ingredients like these. You can also offer some extra support by adding pumpkin puree or cooked bone broth to his meal, for example.
A combination of these ingredients can help reduce tummy aches and digestive problems. Salmon-based food is often considered an excellent choice for dogs with sensitive digestion.
In addition, it may be useful to consider dietary supplements that can support and soothe your dog's digestive system.
Apipet Gastro is specially formulated for dogs with sensitive digestion and contains all-natural ingredients - propolis, bee pollen and ginger, which are known to have a calming effect on your dog's stomach.
The great thing is that this supplement is now also available in the form of snacks, which makes giving a lot easier AND what dogs love!
Is grain-free food better for dogs with sensitive digestion?
Although it is common to cook rice and chicken for a dog with digestive problems, many vets still recommend a grain-free diet to. This is because grains are a common allergen in dogs, which can lead to a secondary reaction and worsening of symptoms.
It is therefore generally advisable to eliminate grains from the diet of a dog with sensitive digestion.
Conclusion
There are many possible causes of digestive problems in dogs, and unfortunately we cannot always influence all the factors.
It is always wise to choose easily digestible food for a dog with sensitive digestion. Should you find that symptoms persist, consult a vet to determine the underlying cause and find appropriate treatment.