What to Feed a Dog With a Sensitive Tummy

Doggy diarrhea is no one’s favorite topic. But if your pup’s been having tummy troubles, you know how quickly it goes from “we’re fine” to “should I be Googling emergency vet clinics?” Whether it’s a one-time thing or part of a pattern, knowing what (and what not) to feed them can make a huge difference.

Here’s what you need to know about helping your dog bounce back—and how to make food choices that support a healthier, happier belly in the long run.

Why Dogs Get Diarrhea (and When to Worry)

Diarrhea in dogs is super common—and usually temporary. The most common causes include:

• Diet changes (like switching kibble too fast or trying new treats)
  
• Food intolerances or allergies
  
• Stress (new environments, travel, visitors)
  
• Eating something sketchy (hello, garbage bin raids)
  
• Bacterial or viral infections
  
• Parasites (like giardia or worms)
  

If the diarrhea is severe, frequent, or comes with vomiting, blood, or major lethargy—call your vet. But for the occasional upset? The fix often starts with food.

Best Foods to Feed a Dog With Diarrhea

When your dog’s digestive system is acting up, the goal is to give it a break with bland, easy-to-digest meals. Here’s what works:

1. Boiled Chicken & White Rice

Skinless, boneless chicken breast and plain white rice are the gold standard. They’re gentle, filling, and won’t irritate the gut.

2. 100% Pure Canned Pumpkin

Pumpkin is loaded with soluble fiber, which helps bulk up stool. Just make sure it’s plain—no spices, sugar, or pie filling.

3. Bone Broth

Great for hydration and nutrition, especially if your pup doesn’t want solid food. It’s soothing and packed with gut-friendly minerals.

4. Plain Boiled Potatoes or Sweet Potatoes

A great source of carbs and fiber. Make sure they’re peeled, cooked, and unseasoned.

5. Prescription or Sensitive Stomach Dog Food

If this is a recurring issue, talk to your vet about specially formulated food that supports gut health long-term.

Hydration Matters More Than You Think

When dogs have diarrhea, they lose more fluids than usual. Dehydration can sneak up fast, especially in smaller breeds. Keep water fresh and available at all times. You can also:

• Offer ice cubes if they’re not drinking
  
• Use low-sodium bone broth to encourage sipping
  
• Add water directly to their food for extra moisture
  

Signs of dehydration: dry gums, lethargy, sunken eyes, or sticky saliva. Call your vet if you’re unsure.

Sample Feeding Schedule for an Upset Tummy

When your dog has diarrhea, feeding them the right foods is only half the equation—how and when you feed them matters, too. Smaller, frequent meals can ease digestive stress and give their gut time to recover. Here's a simple two-day schedule to help you get started:

Day 1

• Morning: Small serving of white rice + bone broth
  
• Afternoon: Plain boiled chicken + a spoonful of pumpkin
  
• Evening: Small serving of rice + pumpkin mix
  
  

Day 2

• Morning: Chicken + white rice
  
• Afternoon: Chicken + sweet potato
  
• Evening: Pumpkin + a small bit of regular kibble (if stool is firmer)
  

Always keep meals small, simple, and spaced evenly throughout the day.

What to Avoid Feeding a Dog With Diarrhea

Even if your dog’s appetite is strong, not everything “tasty” is tummy-friendly. Certain foods can worsen symptoms or trigger a relapse just when your pup’s starting to feel better. Here’s what to steer clear of:

• Fatty meats, dairy, or butter
  
• Rich treats or anything heavily seasoned
  
• Raw veggies or table scraps
  
• Bones (even “natural” ones)
  
• Processed foods with artificial dyes, flavors, or fillers

Reading Dog Food & Treat Labels Like a Pro

Choosing the right food starts with reading the label—and knowing what all those long words really mean. For sensitive dogs, the ingredient list can either soothe their system or send it into a spiral. Here's how to decode labels and shop smarter for your pup.

• Short ingredient lists: The fewer, the better
  
• Named proteins: “Chicken” or “beef” is better than “meat meal”
  
• Avoid: Corn, soy, wheat, glycerin, BHA, BHT, artificial flavors
  
• Bonus: Look for “Made in USA” and USDA-inspected facilities
  

Clean ingredients = fewer surprises for your dog’s gut.

Vet Approved Treats: Clean, Simple, Digestive-Friendly

Need a treat your dog can enjoy without digestive drama? Joyride Kitchen’s freeze-dried treats are made with just one or two ingredients:

• USA-sourced ranch-raised chicken or beef liver
  
• No grains, fillers, or preservatives
  
• Freeze-dried raw = all the nutrients, none of the junk
• Perfect for training, snacking, or a protein topper
  
  

Your dog gets the flavor they crave. You get peace of mind. 👉 Explore Joyride Kitchen Treats

Keep It Simple. Keep It Gentle.

Diarrhea is no fun—for your pup or for you. But with the right food, a little patience, and some clean treat options, you can help your dog feel better fast.

Stick to gentle meals, keep them hydrated, and treat their tummy with care. Because even the most sensitive pups deserve tail wags, clean bowls, and guilt-free snack time.