Many dogs suffer from a range of stomach and skin issues, and their food could be making matters worse. Firstly, it’s important to rule out serious conditions, so it’s vital to take your pet to the vet to find out what’s going on as soon as possible. If the problem turns out to be an allergy or food intolerance, then managing your dog’s diet should improve matters. Where this is the case, you’ll need to provide your pet with food specially designed for stomach and skin issues; we’ve rounded up the best of the bunch below.
1. Easily Digestible Shop Bought Options
There are now lots of dog food options on the market for dogs with allergies; most are grain-free and will contain easily digestible ingredients such as egg and plant-based proteins, and also incorporate a range of vitamins, minerals, and omegas to promote overall good health and a glossy coat.
You could also consider ‘natural’ dog food and ranges that are locally grown and don’t contain any GMO ingredients. For extra convenience, why not sign up for a pet food delivery service: have a look at this list which contains some of the best service providers available, including those who offer products made from premium ingredients and that are gentle on tummies. There are lots of discounts available for bulk orders, too, which will be delivered to your door at a time to suit you.
Most store-bought dog food is safe to give to your pet daily and long-term, but check the labels carefully and ask your vet for advice if you’re unsure.
2. Home-Made Meals
Home-made food is a great option if your pet suffers from digestive issues, and, best of all, you will know exactly what’s gone into it. Try these easy to prepare options:
Boiled Chicken or Turkey Breast – this source of high-quality protein is easy to digest, and your furry friend will love the meaty taste.
Tinned Tuna or Salmon – another high-protein choice, opt for options canned in water, rather than in oil or brine, and avoid tuna or salmon that contains salt or seasoning, which can upset a dog’s stomach.
White Rice – packed full of nutrients and extremely gentle on the digestive system, simply cook the rice as you would for yourself, ensuring it has cooled sufficiently before serving it to your pet.
Sweet Potato – wholesome and healthy, but be sure to peel first.
Bone Broth – packed with vitamins and nutrients and gentle on the tummy, this is a great treat for your dog. Cool thoroughly and skim off any fat from the top before offering it to your dog.
3. Raw Diets
Raw diets are being increasingly seen as a natural way to feed pets that offers many health benefits. Typically, a raw diet for dogs incorporates raw meat, bones, and vegetables to reflect what dogs’ wild cousins, wolves, eat – the idea is that other ingredients are surplus to requirements and could be responsible for the skin and tummy problems that some dogs suffer from. Some companies supply this type of dog food, with several offering deliveries; this food needs to be kept in the freezer, and a pack simply removed the night before it’s required.
Those feeding their pet a raw diet frequently report that their dog is healthier, less liable to illness, and has a glossy coat, and noticeably improved muscle tone. Raw diets have also been linked to increased longevity, faster healing, and, in the case of working dogs, enhanced performance.
4. Prescription Diets
If your dog has a severe food allergy or intolerance, then your vet may advise that they be put onto a prescription diet to manage their condition. Where this is the case, a nutritionist will be involved to make sure that your pet is given a diet that fulfills all of its needs and supplies the necessary daily amount of vitamins and minerals.
5. Supplementary Support
A daily vitamin supplement may make a big difference to your furry friend’s skin condition, as well as promote a healthy coat. Omega oils are the best for this, so look for supplements that include fish oil, omega-3 or omega-6 fatty acids, probiotics, or prebiotics.
As well as being good for the skin, an omega-3 supplement has been linked to improving kidney and heart health and cognitive function and may prevent lymphoma and arthritis. Ensure that you buy any supplements from a reputable manufacturer, and check with your vet before giving any supplements to your pet to ensure their suitability and safety.
Treat Time!
Your canine companion needn’t miss out on treats just because she’s got a sensitive tummy; there are plenty of chews and snacks on the market that your dog’s digestive system will love as much as their taste buds do.
Opt for a healthy treat that’s designed for easy digestion, or select a product that targets a specific issue; for example, a probiotic treat that boosts the immune system promotes good gut health and targets the bacteria that cause bad breath. Other options can alleviate skin problems, reduce gas, or help to prevent tooth decay,
Article Submitted By Community Writer
