Choosing the perfect dog food for a Rottweiler with a sensitive stomach can be a real puzzle, but this article is all about putting those pieces together.
In this article, we’re going to explore not just the best dog food options for Rottweilers with sensitive tummies but also dive into some related topics like common ingredients found in dog food that might cause stomach upset.
We’ll also take you through a buyer’s guide for sensitive dog food, pointing out exactly what you should look for on that label and what might be best to avoid.
And if you like making meals for your dog at home, we have a special part that will show you how to make food that tastes good and is easy on your Rottweiler’s sensitive stomach.
But if you are not interested in all these things and just want recommendations, then here are some of the best dog foods for Rottweilers with Sensitive Stomach:
- Best Over All: Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Dog Food
↓ Jump to Review - Best for Rottweiler Puppies: Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Puppy Food
↓ Jump to Review - Best Over All: Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
↓ Jump to Review - Limited Ingredients: Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
↓ Jump to Review - Best Wet Dog Food: Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
↓ Jump to Review - Most Affordable Option: Purina ONE +Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food
↓ Jump to Review - Best Grain-Free Option: Solid Gold Leaping Waters – Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
↓ Jump to Review
What Causes Sensitive Stomachs in Rottweilers?
Sensitive stomachs in Rottweilers can be a real hassle. Sometimes it’s genetics, or it might be a specific food that’s causing the problem.
Here’s what might cause it:
- Food Allergies: Just like some people are allergic to peanuts or milk, Rottweilers can be allergic to certain ingredients in their food. This could be things like chicken, beef, or grains. It’s like their stomachs are saying, “Nope, don’t like that!”
- Poor-Quality Ingredients: Imagine eating really bad cafeteria food every single day. Gross, right? If a dog’s food is made with low-quality ingredients, it can upset their stomach. You wouldn’t want to eat yucky food, and neither does your dog.
- Sudden Changes in Diet: You know how if you suddenly eat a lot of candy and junk food, you might feel sick? Dogs can feel that way too if you change their food all at once. It’s best to take it slow and mix the new food with the old one for a while.
- Infections or Illnesses: Sometimes, it’s not the food but something like a virus that’s messing with your Rottweiler’s stomach. This is serious stuff, so if you think it might be an infection, you should definitely talk to the vet.
- Eating Something They Shouldn’t Have: Dogs can be curious and sometimes eat things they shouldn’t, like garbage or stuff off the ground. It’s like if your little brother ate mud pies from the backyard. Probably not going to feel great after that!
How to Determine if Your Dog Has a Sensitive Stomach (Symptoms)
Look for signs like:
- Vomiting: If your dog’s throwing up, it’s a big sign that something’s not right. It’s like if you ate something that didn’t agree with you, your stomach would be like, “Get it out!” Dogs are the same way. If it happens once, it might just be a fluke, but if it keeps happening, it’s time to take notice.
- Diarrhea: This is another red flag. If your dog’s poop is loose or watery, that’s not normal. It’s kinda gross to think about, but it’s a major clue that something’s up with their stomach.
- Licking Their Lips or Drooling More Than Usual: Dogs lick their lips or drool when their stomachs are upset. It’s a subtle sign, but if you notice it happening a lot, especially after they eat, it could mean their tummy is unhappy.
- Eating Grass: You might see your dog munching on grass outside. It’s weird, but some dogs do this when their stomachs are upset. No one’s exactly sure why, but it’s like they’re trying to make themselves feel better with a little salad!
- Acting Grumpy or Tired: If your usually happy-go-lucky Rottweiler is suddenly acting grumpy or tired, it might be because their stomach hurts. Think about how you feel when you have a stomachache – you probably don’t feel like playing or running around either.
- Making Weird Noises: Sometimes, you might hear your dog’s stomach making strange noises. If it’s loud enough for you to hear, it could be a sign that their stomach is acting up.
It might be a good idea to write down what you’re noticing and then talk to your vet about it. They can help you figure out what’s going on and how to make your pup feel better.
Common Ingredients in Dog Food That Can Upset Dog Stomachs
Here are some of the most common ingredients that can upset your Rottweiler stomach:
Dairy Products: Most dogs can’t digest dairy well. This means things like milk, cheese, and yogurt might not sit well with your Rottweiler’s tummy.
Fatty Foods: Fatty foods can be really hard for dogs to digest. If the food has too much fat in it, it could cause an upset stomach.
Spicy Foods: Dogs aren’t used to eating spicy foods, so they might not agree with their digestive system. It’s best to avoid anything with too much spice.
Certain Grains: Some dogs can have trouble with grains like corn, wheat, or soy. These might lead to tummy troubles, so you might want to look for dog foods that don’t contain them if you notice any problems.
Artificial Colors and Preservatives: Just like people should avoid too many artificial things in their food, the same goes for dogs. These unnecessary additives might upset your dog’s stomach.
Foods That Are Too Rich: Dog foods that are overly rich or have too many new ingredients can cause problems. Sometimes simple is better, and sticking to foods with fewer, high-quality ingredients might be the way to go.
Human Foods: Some human foods, like chocolate, onions, and garlic, are toxic to dogs and can cause serious stomach issues or even worse problems. Always make sure what you’re feeding them is safe for dogs.
It’s all about paying attention to what you’re feeding them and maybe even doing some trial and error with different foods to see what works best. While we are at it, if you have any doubts regarding how to feed and how much to feed your dog, here’s a complete Rottweiler Feeding Guide.
Dog Food Recommendations for Rottweilers with Sensitive Stomach
Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Dog Food
Wellness CORE Digestive Health Dry Dog Food is specifically crafted to meet the needs of dogs with sensitive tummies. Whether it’s chicken, fish, or plant-based recipes, they’ve designed it to be both nutritious and delicious, so it’s easy on your pup’s stomach.
First 5 Ingredients
- Deboned Chicken
- Turkey Meal (source of Chondroitin Sulfate)
- Chicken Meal (source of Glucosamine)
- Brown Rice
- Barley
These first five ingredients form the base of the food and ensure that it’s packed with proteins and grains that are easily digestible.
What We Like
- Digestive Health Support: The blend of prebiotic fibers, probiotics, and digestive enzymes means your Rottweiler’s gut will be in good hands.
- Tons of Choices: Whether you need food for puppies, seniors, or large breeds, they’ve got something for you.
- Immune System Boost: 70% of your pet’s immune system is located in their digestive system, so having a healthy microbiome is essential, and this food supports that.
- Healthy Skin and Coat Support: Your dog’s skin and coat will look shiny and feel soft thanks to the quality ingredients.
What We Don’t Like
- It Can Be Pricey: If you’re on a budget, the price tag might be a little steep.
- Contains Beet Pulp: Some pet parents might not like the inclusion of beet pulp, as it’s seen as a controversial ingredient by some.
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Puppy Food
When it comes to feeding your Rottweiler puppy, you really need to take good care of their sensitive stomach. That’s why Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Puppy Food with Salmon & Rice Formula could be an excellent choice for you.
This puppy kibble is made with real salmon as the number one ingredient, and it’s also filled with nutrients like DHA for brain and vision development, antioxidants to help the immune system, and omega-6 fatty acids for a shiny coat.
They even add probiotics to help with digestion, so your puppy can enjoy their food without any tummy troubles.
First 5 Ingredients
- Salmon
- Rice
- Barley
- Fish Meal
- Canola Meal
What We Like
- Salmon is the First Ingredient: It’s super awesome that real salmon is the primary ingredient, making it tasty and nutritious for your pup.
- Designed for Sensitive Stomachs: With gentle ingredients like rice and added probiotics, this is really thoughtful for puppies with sensitive tummies.
- Supports Growth & Development: With all the goodies like DHA, antioxidants, and calcium, it helps in building strong bones, and supporting brain and vision development.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin is specially made to take care of our furry friends who have stomach issues.
This food is a favorite among many vets in the United States and is designed to support a balanced gut and keep your dog’s skin and coat looking awesome.
It’s got real chicken and prebiotic fiber in it, and it’s packed with vitamins to make sure your dog feels great. Plus, they have options like wet food and a version for small breeds, too.
First 5 Ingredients
- Chicken
- Chicken Meal
- Yellow Peas
- Cracked Pearled Barley
- Brown Rice
These are the big players in this dog food, with fresh chicken taking the lead. They make sure your dog is getting a good, healthy meal.
What We Like
- Real Chicken: It’s got real chicken, so you know your pup is getting quality protein.
- Prebiotic Fiber: This helps with digestion and makes your dog’s tummy happy.
- Fatty Acids and Vitamin E: These are great for keeping your dog’s skin and coat healthy.
- Backed by Vets: A lot of veterinarians around the country trust and recommend this stuff.
What We Don’t Like
- Beet Pulp: Some dogs might turn their nose up at this. Beet pulp is in there, and not every pooch likes it.
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Natural Balance’s limited ingredient blend is all about keeping things simple and high quality. This recipe is designed to minimize the chance of reactions to food by using fewer ingredients.
Even though it might be a bit pricier, the quality of what’s inside makes up for it! With 24% protein and omega-3 fatty acids, it supports not only the tummy but also your Rottie’s overall well-being.
First 5 Ingredients
- Salmon: A top-quality protein source.
- Menhaden Fish Meal: Another great protein, good for muscles.
- Sweet Potatoes: Tasty and easy on the stomach.
- Cassava Flour: A carbohydrate that helps hold everything together.
- Potatoes: Another gentle carb source.
What We Like
- Fewer Ingredients: With a limited ingredient list, there’s less chance of upsetting your Rottie’s stomach.
- Quality Proteins: Salmon and menhaden fish meal are great for your dog’s muscles.
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are awesome for keeping your Rottie’s joints healthy.
What We Don’t Like
- Lacks Joint Health Supplements: I wish it had more stuff to support joint health.
- Price: It’s not cheap, but hey, quality often comes with a price tag.
Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Turkey & Rice Stew is designed to make your Rottweiler feel good inside and out. Made for grown dogs, it’s specially made to support both digestive and skin health. This tasty, slow-cooked stew comes in a delightful turkey flavor that’s sure to make your dog’s mealtime exciting. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients like vitamin E and omega-6s to help nourish your dog’s coat. Not to mention, it’s designed to be easily digestible!
First 5 Ingredients
- Chicken Broth
- Turkey
- Carrots
- Pork Liver
- Rice
These ingredients show that this wet food is filled with wholesome items like turkey and carrots, alongside nourishing chicken broth.
What We Like
- Full of Nutrients: With vitamin E and omega-6s, it helps keep your Rottweiler’s skin and coat shiny and healthy.
- Digestible: Made with natural ingredients to promote better stomach health and easier stool pickup.
- Tasty Flavor: The turkey and rice stew flavor is something that dogs usually love, so mealtime becomes a treat!
Purina ONE +Plus Digestive Health Formula Dry Dog Food
Purina One Plus Digestive Health Formula is specially made for adult dogs with sensitive stomachs. This dry dog food is not only affordable but also focuses on digestive health.
Real chicken is the main ingredient, and the food also includes probiotics to support your Rottie’s digestive wellness.
Plus, it has vitamins and minerals to nourish their skin and coat, keep their teeth strong, and boost their immune system. It’s like a whole health package in a bag!
First 5 Ingredients
- Chicken
- Rice Flour
- Whole Grain Corn
- Corn Gluten Meal
- Whole Grain Wheat
These ingredients make sure that the food is tasty and provides the nutrients your dog needs. Chicken gives them good protein, while grains add necessary carbs.
What We Like
- Affordable Price: This is great for any budget!
- Real Chicken as the First Ingredient: This provides quality protein.
- Probiotics Included: These help with digestion.
- Added Vitamins and Minerals: They support overall health, including skin, coat, teeth, and immune system.
- No Artificial Flavors or Preservatives: That’s always a good thing.
What We Don’t Like
- Use of Rice Flour and Corn Gluten Meal: These aren’t the top picks for dog food ingredients.
- Chicken as a Primary Protein: Chicken is common in food allergies, but they offer a salmon blend if this is a concern.
Solid Gold Leaping Waters – Dry Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach
Solid Gold Leaping Waters Sensitive Stomach Dog Food is designed for dogs with digestive troubles. Made with salmon and vegetables, this food is grain and gluten-free, and it provides omega fatty acids and antioxidants for your dog.
It’s suitable if your vet recommends a grain-free diet, but it’s worth noting that not all dogs need this type of diet.
First 5 Ingredients
- Salmon
- Ocean fish meal
- Chickpeas
- Lentils
- Peas
What We Like
- Provides Omega Fatty Acids: Helps to support your dog’s skin and coat.
- Salmon is the First Ingredient: A great source of protein for your dog.
- Grain & Gluten Free: Useful if your vet has recommended a grain-free diet.
What We Don’t Like
- Grain-free Concerns: The FDA is investigating grain-free dog foods with legumes like peas and lentils, possibly linking them to heart health issues in larger breeds like Rottweilers.
- Price: At $73 for a 22-pound bag, it may not be an option for everyone.
- Strong Odor and Kibble Size: Some pet parents have mentioned the strong smell, and the kibble might be too large for small dogs.
Buyer’s Guide for Sensitive Dog Food – What to Look for
Picking the right food for a Rottweiler with a sensitive stomach can seem challenging, but it’s not. Here’s a handy guide to help you find the perfect food:
1. Read the Ingredients List
This is where you can find out what’s really in the food. Look for high-quality ingredients, like real meat.
If you see anything that you know might upset your dog’s stomach, like dairy or spicy stuff, then it might be best to put it back on the shelf.
2. Look for Specific Labels
Some dog foods are specially made for sensitive stomachs. These will often have a label like “for sensitive digestion” or “gentle formula.”
These are made to be easier on your dog’s tummy, so they might be a great option.
3. Avoid Artificial Additives
Try to find dog food without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. These can be hard on a dog’s stomach.
Think of it like picking the healthiest option for yourself at the grocery store.
4. Consider Grain-Free Options
If you think grains might be the problem, you could try grain-free dog food.
These don’t have things like corn, wheat, or soy, which can sometimes cause issues.
5. Consult with Your Vet
Your vet knows your dog’s health better than anyone, so it’s always a good idea to ask them for recommendations.
They might even have some specific brands or types of food they think would work best for your Rottweiler.
6. Think About the Protein Source
Some dogs might be sensitive to certain types of meat. If you know your dog has a problem with something like chicken or beef, look for a food that has a different main protein, like fish or lamb.
7. Pay Attention to Fats
Too much fat can be tough on a sensitive stomach. Look for foods that have a moderate amount of healthy fats. It’s about finding the right balance.
8. Consider Special Diets
Sometimes, the best option might be a special prescription diet from your vet. These are specially formulated to help with specific health issues and might be just what your Rottweiler needs.
Home-Cooked Meals for Rottweilers with Sensitive Stomachs
Making home-cooked meals for your dog can be a lot of fun, and it lets you have total control over what goes into their food.
Here’s what you need to know to get started:
Talk to Your Vet First: Before you whip up anything in the kitchen, it’s super important to talk to your vet. They can help you figure out what ingredients will be best for your Rottweiler’s sensitive stomach and make sure you’re meeting all their nutritional needs.
Start with Simple Ingredients: Lean meats like chicken or turkey, cooked vegetables like carrots or peas, and some cooked rice or potatoes can be great starting points. These are usually gentle on a dog’s tummy.
Avoid Certain Foods: Just like with store-bought dog food, there are things you should avoid in home-cooked meals too. Stuff like onions, garlic, chocolate, and grapes are big no-nos. They can be really harmful to dogs.
Don’t Overdo the Spices: Dogs don’t need spices like we do. In fact, some can upset their stomachs. So keep things plain and simple. No need to make it fancy!
Be Mindful of Portions: You’ll want to make sure you’re feeding your dog the right amount. Too much or too little food can cause problems. Your vet can help you figure out the right portion size for your pup.
Keep a Consistent Routine: Just like with people, changing up a dog’s diet all of a sudden can cause tummy troubles. So once you find a meal that works, try to stick with it or make slow changes if needed.
Consider Supplements: Sometimes, home-cooked meals might not have everything a dog needs, like certain vitamins or minerals. Your vet might recommend adding some supplements to make sure your Rottweiler is getting everything they need.
Store Properly: If you’re making meals ahead of time, make sure to store them properly. Airtight containers in the fridge or freezer will keep the food fresh and safe for your dog to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How do I know if my Rottweiler’s stomach issues are serious?
A: If your dog is vomiting, has diarrhea, or seems really unhappy for more than a day or two, it’s a good idea to talk to your vet. They’ll check to make sure it’s not something serious and help you figure out what to do.
Q: Can I just switch to a different store-bought dog food?
A: You can try a different dog food, especially one made for sensitive stomachs. But remember, it’s always best to switch slowly by mixing the new food with the old one over a week or so. And keep an eye on your dog to see how they’re doing with the change.
Q: Is it okay to feed my Rottweiler table scraps?
A: It’s usually best to avoid giving your dog food from the table, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. Some human foods can be harmful to dogs, and it’s hard to know what might cause problems.
Q: Can I feed my Rottweiler a vegetarian or vegan diet?
A: Dogs usually need some meat in their diet, so a vegetarian or vegan diet might not be the best choice, especially for a dog with a sensitive stomach. If you’re thinking about this, definitely talk to your vet first to make sure it’s safe and healthy for your pup.
Q: How long will it take to see improvement if I change my dog’s diet?
A: Every dog is different, so it might take some time to see a change. It could be a few days or even a few weeks. Just be patient and keep an eye on your dog to see how they’re doing.
Q: Is it expensive to feed my Rottweiler food for a sensitive stomach?
A: It can be more expensive to buy special dog food or cook homemade meals, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Talk to your vet about options that fit your budget, and remember, a healthy and happy dog is worth it!
Final Thoughts
I hope this helps clear up some questions you might have! It’s all about knowing your dog and working with your vet to find the best way to keep your Rottweiler’s tummy happy.
