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There are a few things worse than dealing with diarrhea in your Golden Retriever! We asked our 800,000 members from the Golden Retriever community on Facebook the following question: “What’s the best food for a Golden Retriever with a sensitive stomach?”
We’ve summarized the best responses below. Always remember to check with your veterinarian before making changes that affect your Golden Retriever’s health. iHeartDogs is reader-supported, so some of the links below may be paid affiliate links at no additional cost to you.
29 Best Foods for a Golden Retriever with a Sensitive Tummy
Royal Canin HP Hypoallergenic Hydrolyzed Protein Dog Food
My dog eats Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein. It’s expensive, but no more vomiting or diarrhea.
Author: Sue M.
Likes: 0
Whatever brand you choose, add a tablespoon of pumpkin purée to it once a day. Purée can be found at pet stores.
Author: Linda L. M.
Likes: 4
Blue Buffalo True Solutions Digestive Care Natural Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs, Chicken
My dog (Grizz…AKA Grizzly Bear) eats Blue Buffalo Blissful Belly. It’s the only dog food that he can tolerate, and this food works really well for him. He also takes one capsule of Proviable daily.
Author: Lee W.
Likes: 7
iHeartDogs 3-in-1 Probiotic for Dogs with Pumpkin for Improved Digestion & Gut Health
Not a food recommendation, but would HIGHLY recommend this probiotic chew from Amazon. My dog thinks they are a treat, and it solidified her poop in about 3 days.
Likes: 8
Farmina sensitive stomach kibble, and if that doesn’t work, their prescription gastro line
Author: Sue G.
Likes: 1
American Natural Premium Sensitive Care Pet Food
We have had American Natural Premium for years, and our goldens do fantastic.
Author: Nicole Walling S.
Likes: 1
Authority Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin Salmon and Rice Dry Dog Food
My golden was getting so sick after she would eat. We did a ton of tests, and it was determined that she was allergic to all proteins except for salmon. We give her salmon and rice. She is doing great! You can get this at PetSmart.
Author: Jane F.
Likes: 0
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Dry, Adult Salmon & Rice Formula, Digestive Health
Pro Plan Purina Salmon & Rice for Sensitive Skin. My Golden has had allergy issues since he was a puppy, and our Vet highly recommended this food. He’s been taking it for the past year, and he loves it.From what I understand, salmon is very good for dogs.
Author: Allyson B.
Likes: 3
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food, Chicken
Science diet/ Hill’s diet: Sensitive stomach & skin. That is what our hospital always recommends
Author: Riley J.
Likes: 1
A mixture of boiled chicken and pumpkin or sweet potato puree works well in the short term. Feed twice a day, then use a high-quality dog food like 4 Health brand. I’ve had Goldens for 50 years, and this always helps.
Author: Helen S.
Likes: 0
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Dry, Adult Salmon & Rice Formula, Digestive Health
My vet recommended Purina Pro Plan salmon & rice. It’s for dogs with sensitive skin & stomach. My 12-year-old Golden Retriever has been on it for 4 years & no problems.
Author: Cindy M.
Likes: 1
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Dry, Adult Salmon & Rice Formula, Digestive Health
Purina ProPlan Sensitive Stomach Salmon and Rice works very well with our goldens.
Author: Joy L.
Likes: 2
Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Adult Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
I had to switch my puppy to limited-ingredient dog food. Mostly just the dry food. I like “natural balance” limited ingredient. I do duck and sweet potato or venison and sweet potato.
Author: Patricia L M.
Likes: 0
Nutrish Rachael Ray Adult Dry Dog Food Real Chicken & Veggies Recipe
I like Rachel Ray Nutrish chicken flavor, as does my dog.
Author: Susan C.
Likes: 1
Blue Buffalo Basics Large Breed Adult Dry Dog Food, Skin & Stomach Care, Limited Ingredient Diet for Dogs, Turkey Recipe
Blue Buffalo basics. My dog has a sensitive stomach, and this has worked for him!
Author: Jane Shipman G.
Likes: 0
Farmers Dog. Expensive but worth it. They love it
Author: Sara S.
Likes: 0
Authority Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin Salmon and Rice Dry Dog Food
I use Authority sensitive stomach formula and a tablespoon of Authority pumpkin each meal for my Goldendoodle. Works very well.
Author: Jim S.
Likes: 0
The farmer’s dog, dog food
Author: Chris S.
Likes: 0
Zignature, Kangaroo Limited Ingredient Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
My Golden had severe food allergies. Zignature was the last brand of food he was able to eat without reacting. My new puppy survived Parvo before he came to me. Grandma Mae’s was the only kibble he could digest, but limited proteins due to food allergies. He is now eating Zignature Kangaroo and doing well.
Author: Nicole E.
Likes: 0
Adult Dog Food for Skin & Stomach Sensitivities, Salmon and Pea Formula
The best thing I found for my senior dog was VetDiet. A little pricey, but he found relief from his belly issues and allergies.
Author: Beth G.
Likes: 0
Canidae Pure Farm to Bowl Pasture-Raised Lamb & Sweet Potato, Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
I have tried it all, different foods, pumpkin, probiotics, and the list goes on. What works best for my golden is Canidae Lamb with peas. It is grain-free, but it has a Taurine supplement to combat any taurine deficiency.
Author: Jennifer R.
Likes: 0
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Adult Dry Dog Food
Blue Buffalo Fish & Brown Rice
Author: Sharon R.
Likes: 1
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Dry, Adult Salmon & Rice Formula, Digestive Health
Purina Pro Plan sensitive skin and stomach
Author: Debbie Zelik S.
Likes: 2
Cooked sweet potato, chicken, and rice for a week, you can also give them a teaspoon of Metamucil 2x a day on their food
Author: Adele B.
Likes: 0
Fromm Classic Adult Dog Food – Premium Dry Dog Food for Large, Medium, & Small Breeds – Chicken Recipe
Fromm’s I used it with all of my Goldens and they all had sensitive stomachs…
Author: Edward K.
Likes: 1
Taste of The Wild Pacific Stream Grain-Free Dry Dog Food With Smoke-Flavored Salmon
Taste of the wild salmon great
Author: Buzz W.
Likes: 0
Purina Pro has a food containing ‘canine probiotics’ which you could try. Purina Pro also makes sensitive system feed
Author: Nancy S.
Likes: 0
Dr. Marty’s supplemental dog food. My guy loves it, and they have sensitive stomach options. Go online
Author: Jack R.
Likes: 0
Brown rice, ground turkey, and pumpkin. Mine had diarrhea his whole first year until I started cooking for him.
Author: Ivy E.
Likes: 0
Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food, Chicken
Our Golden eats Hills Sensitive Skin and Stomach.
Author: Nancy H.
Likes: 0
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best foods for Golden Retrievers with sensitive stomachs?
Golden Retrievers with sensitive stomachs do best on easily digestible foods such as boiled chicken, white rice, sweet potatoes, and pumpkin. These ingredients are gentle on the digestive system and help reduce irritation. Many high-quality commercial dog foods formulated for sensitive digestion can also be a good option.
2. Why do Golden Retrievers commonly have sensitive stomachs?
Golden Retrievers can have sensitive stomachs due to genetics, food allergies, or intolerances. Their digestive systems may react poorly to certain proteins, fillers, or artificial additives. Stress and sudden dietary changes can also contribute to digestive issues.
3. Is chicken safe for Golden Retrievers with sensitive stomachs?
Yes, plain boiled chicken is often recommended because it is lean and easy to digest. It provides high-quality protein without added fats or seasonings that could upset the stomach. However, some dogs may develop chicken allergies, so monitoring reactions is important.
4. Can rice help soothe a Golden Retriever’s upset stomach?
White rice is commonly used to help settle an upset stomach because it is bland and easy to digest. It can help firm up stools and provide a quick source of energy. Brown rice is nutritious but may be harder to digest for sensitive dogs.
5. Are sweet potatoes good for sensitive digestion in dogs?
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of fiber and are gentle on the digestive system. They help regulate bowel movements and provide essential vitamins like vitamin A. Cooked and mashed sweet potatoes are best for easy digestion.
6. Is pumpkin beneficial for Golden Retrievers with stomach issues?
Pumpkin is highly beneficial because it is rich in fiber and helps with both diarrhea and constipation. It supports gut health and improves stool consistency. Plain canned pumpkin (not pie filling) is the safest option.
7. What proteins are easiest for sensitive Golden Retrievers to digest?
Easily digestible proteins include turkey, lamb, fish, and sometimes duck. These are often used in limited-ingredient diets to reduce allergic reactions. Novel proteins can also help if your dog is sensitive to common ones like beef or chicken.
Helping Your Golden Retriever Thrive from the Inside Out
Caring for a Golden Retriever with a sensitive stomach can feel like a balancing act, but the right diet can make all the difference. By choosing gentle, high-quality foods and paying close attention to how your dog responds, you can help ease digestive issues and bring back their happy, energetic spirit. Every dog is unique, so don’t be discouraged if it takes some time to find the perfect fit. Stay consistent, introduce changes gradually, and always keep your vet in the loop for the best results. With the right approach, you’re not just feeding your dog—you’re supporting a healthier, more comfortable life filled with wagging tails, playful moments, and plenty of love.
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