As a dog owner, I’ve always strived to provide the best care for my furry friend. One of the most challenging aspects has been managing his sensitive stomach. Over the years, I’ve encountered numerous instances of digestive issues, from frequent bouts of diarrhoea to incessant vomiting. These episodes not only affected my dog’s health but also caused a lot of worry and stress for me. Finding the right food that keeps his stomach calm and nourishes his body became my top priority.
Through extensive research and consultation with veterinarians, I discovered that dogs with sensitive stomachs require a diet that is gentle yet nutritionally complete. This journey led me to explore various types of dog food, from specialised commercial brands to homemade recipes, all aimed at easing digestive discomfort. In this article, I will share what I’ve learned about the best foods for dogs with sensitive stomachs, including specific ingredients to look for and avoid, and the benefits of certain diets.
I’ve realised that the right diet can make a world of difference for a dog with a sensitive stomach. It not only helps alleviate immediate symptoms but also improves overall health and well-being. By paying attention to the ingredients and ensuring a balanced diet, I’ve managed to keep my dog’s digestive issues at bay. Whether you’re dealing with a similar situation or just want to be prepared, understanding the best food choices for a sensitive stomach is essential for any dog owner.
Join me as I delve into the specifics of what makes a diet suitable for a dog with a sensitive stomach. From my personal experiences and insights gained from experts, I hope to provide a comprehensive guide that will help you make informed decisions for your beloved pet. After all, a happy stomach means a happy dog, and there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing your furry friend thrive.
Understanding Your Dog’s Sensitive Stomach
As a dog owner, noticing that my furry friend is experiencing digestive discomfort can be quite concerning. It took me a while to realise that my dog’s frequent stomach upsets were not just occasional incidents but a sign of a sensitive digestive system. Recognising the signs and understanding the causes behind a sensitive stomach is crucial in managing their diet effectively.
From my experience, dogs with sensitive stomachs often show symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive gas, and a lack of appetite. These signs can be triggered by various factors, including food intolerances, allergies, and even stress. It’s essential to observe these symptoms closely and consult with a veterinarian to determine the underlying causes and appropriate dietary adjustments.
Identifying Triggers and Symptoms
Identifying what specifically triggers my dog’s digestive issues was a key step in addressing their sensitive stomach. Common triggers include specific ingredients in their food, such as certain proteins or grains, as well as abrupt changes in diet. I found it helpful to keep a food diary, noting everything my dog eats and any reactions they have, which assisted in pinpointing problematic ingredients.
Common Symptoms of a Sensitive Stomach:
- Frequent vomiting or regurgitation
- Loose stools or diarrhoea
- Excessive gas and bloating
- Lack of appetite or picky eating habits
Understanding these symptoms helped me to seek appropriate veterinary advice and make informed decisions about my dog’s diet. Additionally, the veterinarian provided valuable insights into potential food allergies and intolerances, which often require special diets or hypoallergenic food options.
Managing Diet for a Sensitive StomachTransitioning to a new diet specifically formulated for dogs with sensitive stomachs can significantly improve their digestive health. I chose foods that are easy to digest and free from common allergens. Consulting with my vet, we decided on limited ingredient diets and foods that contain probiotics, which promote healthy gut flora.
Steps to Manage Diet:
- Introduce new food gradually to avoid shocking the digestive system.
- Select foods with high-quality, easily digestible proteins.
- Avoid ingredients known to cause allergies, such as wheat, corn, and soy.
- Incorporate probiotics to support gut health.
By carefully selecting the right food and monitoring my dog’s response, I noticed a significant improvement in their overall well-being. Their energy levels increased, and the digestive issues became much less frequent. This journey taught me the importance of understanding and addressing my dog’s sensitive stomach with a tailored and mindful approach to their diet.
Key Ingredients to Look For in Dog Food
When selecting the right food for a dog with a sensitive stomach, it’s crucial to understand the specific ingredients that can make a significant difference. By paying attention to what’s in their food, you can help ensure your dog’s digestive system stays healthy and their overall well-being is maintained. Here, I’ll discuss the most beneficial ingredients to seek out in dog food.
From easily digestible proteins to essential nutrients that support gut health, choosing the right components can be a game-changer for your pet. Let’s delve into some of the most important ingredients that should be on your radar.
Beneficial Ingredients for Sensitive Stomachs
- Single Source Protein: Opt for dog food that contains a single source of protein, such as lamb, chicken, or fish. This can help in identifying any potential allergens and makes the food easier to digest.
- Limited Ingredient Diet: Foods with fewer ingredients reduce the chance of upsetting your dog’s stomach. Look for formulas that keep it simple and focus on essential nutrients.
- Prebiotics and Probiotics: These are crucial for maintaining a healthy gut flora. Ingredients like chicory root or specific strains of probiotics can support digestive health and enhance nutrient absorption.
- High-Quality Carbohydrates: Choose dog food that includes easily digestible carbohydrates like sweet potatoes or brown rice. These provide essential energy without causing digestive distress.
- Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids: These fatty acids, often found in fish oil or flaxseed, are important for reducing inflammation and supporting skin and coat health, which can be beneficial for dogs with food sensitivities.
- Avoid Common Allergens: Ingredients like corn, soy, and wheat are common allergens and can be hard to digest. Selecting food that avoids these can help prevent adverse reactions.
Best Choices for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
Finding the right food for a dog with a sensitive stomach can be a challenge. I’ve spent a lot of time researching and testing different options to ensure my furry friend gets the nutrition he needs without the discomfort. Through trial and error, I’ve identified several high-quality options that have worked wonders for my pet’s digestive health.
If your dog is experiencing digestive issues, it might be due to the ingredients in their current diet. Ingredients like artificial additives, grains, or certain proteins can trigger stomach problems. Switching to a specially formulated food can make a significant difference. Here are the best foods I’ve found for dogs with sensitive stomachs:
Recommended Dog Foods
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Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin
This formula is crafted with easy-to-digest ingredients, including chicken and barley. It’s enriched with prebiotic fibre to promote gut health and improve stool quality. My dog showed noticeable improvements in just a few days.
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Royal Canin Gastrointestinal Low Fat
Designed specifically for dogs with gastrointestinal issues, this food is low in fat and highly digestible. It has been a lifesaver for managing my dog’s chronic stomach sensitivities.
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Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Diet
This grain-free recipe uses a single protein source and limited ingredients to minimise food sensitivities. The addition of pumpkin helps soothe digestive upset, making it a favourite in our household.
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Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach
Featuring salmon as the primary ingredient, this food is gentle on the stomach and supports skin health. Its inclusion of rice and oatmeal provides easily digestible carbohydrates.
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Wellness Simple Limited Ingredient Diet
This option focuses on simple, natural ingredients, avoiding common allergens. My dog has thrived on the turkey and potato formula, showing significant reductions in digestive distress.
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Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets
With a focus on limited ingredients, this food helps reduce the chance of food sensitivities. The sweet potato and fish formula is particularly gentle on the stomach.
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Nutro Limited Ingredient Diet
This grain-free formula is crafted with ten key ingredients or less, ensuring it’s easy to digest. The lamb and sweet potato variety has been especially beneficial for my dog’s sensitive stomach.
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Instinct Raw Boost Mixers
These freeze-dried raw pieces can be added to regular kibble to enhance nutritional value and digestibility. They’ve been a great addition to my dog’s diet, providing a protein boost without upsetting his stomach.
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Merrick Limited Ingredient Diet
With a single source of animal protein and easily digestible carbohydrates, this food supports healthy digestion. The real deboned meat is always a hit with my dog.
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Canidae Pure Limited Ingredient Premium Food
This food uses just eight key ingredients and is free from grains and fillers. It’s available in a variety of flavours, but the salmon and sweet potato recipe has been particularly soothing for my dog.
Grain-Free vs. Grain-Inclusive Diets for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
When it comes to choosing the right diet for a dog with a sensitive stomach, the debate between grain-free and grain-inclusive diets is quite prominent. I’ve spent a considerable amount of time researching and experimenting with both types of diets for my dog, who has a delicate digestive system. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each option is crucial in making an informed decision.
In my experience, grain-free diets have gained popularity primarily due to their perceived benefits for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. These diets replace grains like wheat, corn, and rice with alternative carbohydrate sources such as sweet potatoes, peas, and lentils. Supporters argue that grain-free diets can reduce the likelihood of digestive issues and allergic reactions, as grains are often blamed for causing these problems. However, it’s essential to note that not all dogs are allergic to grains, and a grain-free diet isn’t a universal solution.
Evaluating Grain-Free Diets
Grain-free diets offer several potential benefits. They often contain higher amounts of protein and lower levels of carbohydrates, which can be advantageous for dogs requiring a more protein-rich diet. Additionally, some dogs may digest grain alternatives more easily, leading to fewer gastrointestinal upsets. On the downside, recent studies have suggested a possible link between grain-free diets and certain heart conditions in dogs, such as dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). While the research is ongoing, it’s something I consider seriously when choosing a diet.
Moreover, grain-free options can be more expensive and sometimes harder to find compared to grain-inclusive foods. When opting for a grain-free diet, I ensure it includes a variety of high-quality ingredients to meet my dog’s nutritional needs comprehensively.
The Case for Grain-Inclusive Diets
Grain-inclusive diets, on the other hand, incorporate grains that can be beneficial for many dogs. These grains provide essential nutrients, including fibre, which aids in digestion and maintains a healthy gastrointestinal tract. For some dogs, grains can actually be easier to digest than certain grain substitutes found in grain-free diets. The key is to select high-quality, whole grains such as brown rice, barley, and oats, rather than processed fillers that offer little nutritional value.
One advantage I’ve found with grain-inclusive diets is their affordability and availability. They are generally more cost-effective and easier to find in various formulations and flavours. When switching to a grain-inclusive diet, I pay close attention to how my dog’s stomach reacts, as each dog is unique in its dietary needs.
Ultimately, the choice between grain-free and grain-inclusive diets should be based on your dog’s specific health requirements and how they respond to different foods. Consulting with a veterinarian is always a wise step to ensure that the chosen diet is nutritionally balanced and suitable for a dog with a sensitive stomach.
- Grain-free diets may reduce allergies but could pose other health risks.
- Grain-inclusive diets provide essential nutrients and are typically more affordable.
- Individual dietary needs vary, so monitor your dog’s reaction to dietary changes.
The Benefits of Limited Ingredient Diets
As a pet owner, I’ve discovered that managing my dog’s sensitive stomach can be quite a challenge. Over the years, I’ve tried various approaches to improve her digestion and overall health. One of the most effective strategies I’ve found is switching to a limited ingredient diet. This type of diet focuses on using fewer ingredients, making it easier to identify and eliminate potential allergens or irritants.
Transitioning to a limited ingredient diet has brought significant improvements to my dog’s wellbeing. By simplifying her diet, I’ve been able to provide her with high-quality nutrition while avoiding common triggers that upset her stomach. This approach not only helps in pinpointing specific sensitivities but also ensures that she gets the essential nutrients without unnecessary additives.
Advantages of Limited Ingredient Diets
There are several key benefits to feeding a dog with a sensitive stomach a limited ingredient diet. Firstly, these diets typically include a single source of protein and a single source of carbohydrates. This simplicity makes it much easier to identify which specific ingredient might be causing digestive issues. For example, if a dog reacts negatively to chicken, switching to a diet with a novel protein like duck or venison can alleviate symptoms.
Additionally, limited ingredient diets often exclude common allergens such as soy, wheat, and dairy. By removing these potential irritants, many dogs experience fewer digestive problems and an overall improvement in their gastrointestinal health. This reduction in allergens can also lead to healthier skin and coat, as well as reduced itchiness and inflammation.
Another benefit is that these diets are typically free from artificial preservatives, colours, and flavours. This means the food is less processed and closer to its natural state, which can be easier on a sensitive stomach. Feeding my dog a diet that prioritises natural, wholesome ingredients has had a noticeable impact on her energy levels and overall vitality.
- Single protein and carbohydrate sources
- Exclusion of common allergens
- Free from artificial additives
- Improved digestive health
- Healthier skin and coat
In conclusion, adopting a limited ingredient diet has proven to be a practical and effective solution for managing my dog’s sensitive stomach. By focusing on simplicity and quality, I’ve been able to support her health and ensure she enjoys her meals without discomfort. If your dog struggles with digestive issues, I highly recommend considering a limited ingredient diet as a beneficial option.
Homemade Dog Food Recipes for Sensitive Stomachs
When my dog started showing signs of a sensitive stomach, I knew I had to change his diet. Commercial dog foods, even those labeled for sensitive stomachs, often contain fillers and preservatives that can exacerbate digestive issues. I decided to prepare his meals myself to ensure he gets only the best ingredients.
Creating homemade dog food for a sensitive stomach involves choosing easily digestible ingredients that are gentle on the digestive system. Here are some recipes that have worked wonders for my dog, providing him with balanced nutrition while being kind to his tummy.
Simple Chicken and Rice
This recipe is a staple for dogs with sensitive stomachs. It’s straightforward, with only a few ingredients, ensuring it’s easy to digest.
- Ingredients: 1 cup of cooked chicken breast, 1 cup of cooked white rice, 1/2 cup of cooked carrots
- Instructions:
- Boil the chicken breast until fully cooked, then shred it into small pieces.
- Cook the rice according to the package instructions.
- Steam or boil the carrots until soft, then chop into small pieces.
- Mix the chicken, rice, and carrots together in a large bowl.
- Let the mixture cool before serving it to your dog.
Turkey and Sweet Potato
This meal is rich in fibre and easy on the stomach, making it perfect for dogs with digestive sensitivities.
- Ingredients: 1 cup of ground turkey, 1 cup of cooked sweet potatoes, 1/2 cup of green beans
- Instructions:
- Brown the ground turkey in a pan until fully cooked.
- Boil or bake the sweet potatoes until tender, then mash them.
- Steam the green beans until soft, then chop into small pieces.
- Combine the turkey, sweet potatoes, and green beans in a bowl.
- Allow the mixture to cool before feeding your dog.
Fish and Pumpkin Delight
Fish is a great protein source for dogs with sensitive stomachs, and pumpkin helps regulate digestion.
- Ingredients: 1 cup of cooked white fish (such as cod or tilapia), 1/2 cup of canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling), 1/2 cup of cooked peas
- Instructions:
- Bake or steam the white fish until it flakes easily with a fork.
- Cook the peas until soft.
- Mix the fish, pumpkin, and peas in a bowl.
- Let the mixture cool completely before serving it to your dog.
These recipes have made a noticeable difference in my dog’s health and happiness. By preparing his meals at home, I can ensure he’s getting high-quality, digestible ingredients tailored to his sensitive stomach. If you have concerns about your dog’s diet, it’s always best to consult with a veterinarian before making significant changes.
Transitioning Your Dog to a New Diet
When my dog started showing signs of a sensitive stomach, I knew it was time to switch to a more suitable diet. Changing your dog’s food can be a delicate process, especially if they have digestive issues. The goal is to make the transition as smooth as possible to avoid any upset stomachs or other problems.
I began by selecting a high-quality dog food designed specifically for sensitive stomachs. It’s important to choose a product with easily digestible ingredients and limited additives. With my new choice in hand, I planned out a gradual transition over a period of about seven to ten days.
Steps for a Smooth Transition
- Start Slowly: On the first day, I mixed a small amount of the new food with my dog’s current food. The ratio was about 75% old food to 25% new food.
- Gradual Increase: Over the next few days, I gradually increased the proportion of the new food while decreasing the old food. By day three or four, the mix was about 50/50.
- Monitoring Health: I closely monitored my dog for any signs of digestive upset, such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or loss of appetite. If I noticed any issues, I slowed the transition process, maintaining the current ratio for an extra day or two.
- Complete Switch: By the end of the transition period, I aimed for a 100% switch to the new food. This step should only happen if the dog shows no adverse reactions.
- Consistency is Key: I made sure to feed my dog at the same times each day to help their digestive system adjust to the new diet.
During the transition, I also kept an eye on my dog’s stool quality, which is a good indicator of how well they are adjusting to the new food. Firm, well-formed stools are a sign that the transition is going smoothly. Additionally, ensuring my dog had plenty of fresh water available was crucial to aid digestion.
Switching your dog’s diet takes patience and careful observation. By making gradual changes and monitoring your dog’s health, you can help ensure a smooth transition to a new food that supports their sensitive stomach. This careful approach can make a significant difference in your dog’s overall well-being and happiness.
Monitoring Your Dog’s Reaction to New Food
Introducing new food to a dog with a sensitive stomach requires careful observation to ensure it agrees with them. I start by gradually incorporating the new food into their diet, mixing it in small portions with their existing food.
Once the transition begins, I monitor my dog closely for any signs of discomfort or digestive issues. This involves observing their stool consistency and frequency, noting any changes like diarrhea or constipation. Additionally, I pay attention to their overall energy levels and behaviour, as these can also be indicators of how well they are tolerating the new food.
Key Observations:
- Stool Quality: Regularly check the firmness and colour of their stool. Loose or watery stool may indicate a sensitivity to the new food.
- Energy Levels: Note any changes in their activity levels or lethargy, which could suggest digestive discomfort.
- Appetite: Monitor their interest in food. A sudden lack of appetite might signal an issue.
Signs That Your Dog’s Food is Effective
After transitioning my dog to a new diet tailored for sensitive stomachs, I observed several positive signs indicating that the food was working well for him.
- Improved Digestive Comfort: I noticed a significant reduction in instances of bloating, gas, and discomfort after meals. This change indicated that the new food was gentler on my dog’s stomach, allowing for smoother digestion.
- Steady Energy Levels: One clear indicator that the food was benefiting my dog was his consistent energy throughout the day. He seemed more alert and active without the spikes and crashes in energy that were evident with his previous diet.
- Healthy Coat and Skin: Over time, I observed that my dog’s coat appeared shinier and healthier. His skin seemed less prone to dryness or irritation, which suggested that the food was providing essential nutrients to support his overall skin health.
- Regular Bowel Movements: Another positive change I noticed was the regularity and consistency of my dog’s bowel movements. This indicated that the new food was being well-absorbed and tolerated by his digestive system, resulting in firmer stools.
Overall, these observable improvements reassured me that I had chosen a suitable diet for my dog with a sensitive stomach. Monitoring these signs regularly helped me to ensure that his nutritional needs were being met effectively, supporting his health and well-being.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Feeding Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
When it comes to feeding dogs with sensitive stomachs, avoiding certain mistakes can significantly improve their health and comfort. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Quick Diet Changes: Abruptly switching your dog’s food can upset their stomach even more. Introduce new foods gradually over several days to allow their digestive system to adjust.
- Ignoring Ingredient Labels: Not all “sensitive stomach” dog foods are created equal. Always read the ingredients list to ensure it avoids common allergens or irritants such as grains, artificial additives, or certain proteins.
- Overfeeding: Feeding too much can overwhelm a sensitive stomach. Follow recommended portion sizes based on your dog’s weight and activity level.
- Feeding Table Scraps: Human food often contains ingredients that are harmful or difficult for dogs to digest. Avoid feeding table scraps to prevent stomach upset.
- Inconsistent Feeding Schedule: Dogs with sensitive stomachs benefit from a regular feeding routine. Try to feed them at the same times each day to help stabilize their digestive system.
- Skipping Vet Consultation: Assuming a sensitive stomach is solely a dietary issue can overlook underlying health concerns. Always consult your vet to rule out medical conditions or allergies.
By avoiding these common mistakes, you can help manage your dog’s sensitive stomach more effectively and ensure they enjoy a happier, healthier life.
Best Food To Feed A Dog With Sensitive Stomach
Eukanuba Sensitive Digestion Highly Digestible Complete Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs with Chicken 12 kg
Features
| Part Number | 8710255172149 |
| Model | 8710255172149 |
| Size | 12 kg (Pack of 1) |
| Language | Italian |


Burgess Sensitive Hypoallergenic Dog Food Scottish Salmon and Rice, Transparent, 12.5 kg (Pack of 1)
Features
| Part Number | BG1931NET |
| Model | FD00026KK1 |
| Color | transparent |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2011-11-14T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 1 count (Pack of 1) |


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Burgess Sensitive Hypoallergenic Dog Food Adult British Turkey and Rice, Transparent, 12.5 kg (Pack of 1)
£34.99
Features
| Part Number | BG1995NET |
| Model | FD10025KK1 |
| Color | transparent |
| Release Date | 2012-10-10T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 1 count (Pack of 1) |


Burgess Sensitive Dry Dog Food Lamb, 12.5 kg (Pack of 1)
£34.99
Features
| Part Number | BG1823NET |
| Model | FD00025K |
| Color | brown |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 12.5 kg (Pack of 1) |


Pooch & Mutt - Health & Digestion, Complete Dry Dog Food (Grain Free), Salmon and Sweet Potato, 10kg
£56.00
Features
| Part Number | GR00142212 |
| Model | 195511/3854 |
| Color | transparent |
| Release Date | 2015-03-30T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 10 kg (Pack of 1) |
| Language | English |


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Eukanuba Sensitive Skin Hypoallergenic Complete Dry Dog Food for Adult Dogs with Fish 12 kg
Features
| Part Number | 81378272 |
| Model | 81378272 |
| Release Date | 2012-04-23T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 12 kg (Pack of 1) |
| Language | Italian |


Hills Science Plan Adult Medium Sensitive Stomach & Skin Chicken Dry Dog Food - 14kg
£57.17
Features
| Part Number | 604385 |
| Model | 604385 |
| Size | 14 kg (Pack of 1) |
| Language | Spanish |


Burgess Sensitive Dry Senior Dog Food 7+ Rich in Turkey, 12.5 kg
£33.17
Features
| Part Number | FD10030KK1 |
| Model | FD10030KK1 |
| Color | red |
| Size | 1 count (Pack of 1) |


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Hills Canine Sensitive Stomach and Skin 3kg
Features
| Size | 3 kg (Pack of 1) |


Hills Science Adult 1+ Sensitive Stomach And Skin Medium With Chicken Dry Dog Food 14kg
Features
| Size | 14 kg (Pack of 1) |


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Q&A:
What is the best food to feed a dog with a sensitive stomach?
The best food for a dog with a sensitive stomach is a limited ingredient diet that is easy to digest. Look for formulations that feature novel proteins and carbohydrates, as well as avoid common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy.
Should I consider grain-free dog food for a dog with a sensitive stomach?
While grain-free options are popular, they may not always be the best choice for a dog with a sensitive stomach. Some dogs actually do better with a small amount of grains like rice or oats, as these can be gentle on the digestive system.
How can I transition my dog to a new food if it has a sensitive stomach?
When transitioning to a new food for a dog with a sensitive stomach, do it gradually over 7-10 days. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food with the old food and gradually increase the proportion of the new food while monitoring your dog’s digestion.
