How to Transition Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs

Kristina Voltin
Apr 8
4 min read

Updated: Apr 10

Managing your dog's sensitive stomach can be challenging, but the right approach can make a big difference. Here's a quick guide to help:

Switch diets gradually: Sudden changes can upset digestion. Mix new food with the old one over 10 days (starting with 10% new, increasing daily).
Choose simple, high-quality ingredients: Look for easily digestible proteins, sweet potatoes, or pumpkin for fiber.
Avoid additives and fillers: Stick to natural, wholesome ingredients.
Add moisture to food: Rehydrate freeze-dried food with warm water for better digestion.

Monitor your dog’s stool, energy, and appetite during the transition. If issues arise, slow down the process. Stick to a feeding schedule and avoid table scraps to support digestion. For lasting results, opt for sensitive-stomach dog food with gut-friendly nutrients. Always consult your vet if problems persist.

How to Switch Dog Food Gradually (To Avoid Stomach Upset)

Step-by-Step Diet Transition Guide

Switching your dog's diet too quickly can lead to digestive issues. Here's a clear step-by-step guide to help you make the transition smoothly.

Step 1: Mix Foods Gradually

Introduce the new food slowly by mixing it with your dog's current food. Use the following schedule to ease the transition:

Day	Current Food	New Food
1–2	90%	10%
3–4	75%	25%
5–6	50%	50%
7–8	25%	75%
9–10	0%	100%

"We gradually made the transition from raw food to this freeze dried and our dog goes crazy, spins in circles, as we are grabbing for the bag. He's always had a picky stomach but the gradual transition had no problems." – Colin J [1]

Step 2: Watch for Changes

Keep an eye on your dog's stool, energy levels, appetite, and any unusual digestive sounds. If you notice any issues, stick with the current food ratio for an extra day before moving forward.

"We started transitioning Nef over to Loyal Saints a few weeks ago and he is loving it! We have already noticed a huge improvement in some of the stomach issues we were noticing on his previous food. Excited to see how else this new food benefits Nefarian." – NefariansMom [1]

Step 3: Add Moisture to Food

For freeze-dried food, rehydrate it with warm water using a 1:1 ratio. Let it sit for 3–5 minutes before serving. This step improves texture, makes digestion easier, keeps your dog hydrated, and ensures better nutrient absorption.

Picking Foods for Sensitive Stomachs

After making gradual changes to your pet's diet, the next step is selecting foods designed for sensitive stomachs. The right food can make a big difference, as easily digestible, high-quality ingredients help support better digestion.

Simple Ingredients That Help

For pets with sensitive stomachs, focus on foods with:

High-quality proteins: Look for human-grade protein sources that are easy to digest.
Nutrient-packed vegetables: Ingredients like sweet potatoes and pumpkin provide helpful fiber.
Wholesome fibers: These support smoother digestion and overall gut health.

"We prioritize thoughtful formulations that not only nourish your pet but also enhance their vitality and happiness. By focusing on optimal nutrition, we help ensure that every pet thrives, enjoying an active and flourishing life." - Loyal Saints Pets [1]

It's equally important to know which ingredients to avoid to protect your pet's sensitive stomach.

Ingredients to Avoid

Steer clear of foods with additives and fillers, as these can upset digestion. Instead, choose formulas that rely on simple, natural ingredients to minimize potential issues.

Supporting Gut Health

Foods enriched with natural nutrients and a consistent feeding schedule can help promote healthy gut bacteria, which play a key role in digestion.

"At Loyal Saints, we believe that healthy ingredients lead to happy, vibrant lives for our beloved pets." - Loyal Saints Pets [1]

This balanced approach can significantly improve digestion and overall well-being. Many pet owners have reported noticeable improvements in their dog's stomach issues after switching to higher-quality food [1].

Tips for Success

Switching your dog's diet? Consistency is key. Here are two simple tips to help with digestion during the transition.

Stick to a Feeding Schedule

Feed your dog at the same times each day. Offering meals twice daily, spaced evenly, can make digestion easier.

Avoid Table Scraps

Skip giving your dog human food during this time. Even small amounts can upset their stomach, so it's best to stick with their dog food.

Conclusion: Next Steps for Better Digestion

Helping a dog with a sensitive stomach takes patience and careful adjustments. Gradually introducing new food and keeping an eye on their progress can make a big difference in their overall digestive health.

Opt for sensitive-stomach dog food that uses simple, high-quality ingredients. For example, Loyal Saints freeze-dried raw dog food offers natural nutrients and wholesome fibers that support gut health. One pet owner shared their experience:

"We have already noticed a huge improvement in some of the stomach issues we were noticing on his previous food. Excited to see how else this new food benefits Nefarian" [1]

Since every dog is different, it's important to monitor how they respond to dietary changes. If problems persist, reach out to your veterinarian for guidance.