Sensitive Stomachs in Dogs: Are They Really on the Rise?
If it seems like more dogs than ever are struggling with sensitive stomachs, you’re not alone in noticing the trend. Recurring diarrhoea, intermittent vomiting, and general digestive discomfort are increasingly common concerns among pet parents. But are sensitive stomachs truly more prevalent, or are we simply more attuned to them?
The reality is that multiple factors may be contributing to this perceived rise in digestive issues. From changes in diet and lifestyle to environmental stressors and medical influences, there’s a lot at play. Understanding these elements can help you make informed choices to support your dog’s digestive health.
What Causes a Sensitive Stomach in Dogs?
While digestive issues may seem more common, they are often the result of multiple factors rather than a single cause. Some dogs naturally have sensitive digestive systems (hello, Cavoodles!), while others may develop issues due to changes in their environment, diet, or stress levels. By recognising these influences, pet parents can take proactive steps to promote gut health and overall well-being.
1. Stress and the Gut-Brain Connection
Stress doesn’t just affect behaviour—it has a profound impact on gut health (Gui et al., 1989). Just like in humans, stress can trigger digestive upset or sensitive stomach’s in dogs, leading to diarrhoea, nausea, or reduced appetite.
Common stressors include:
- Changes in routine (new home, new family member, travel)
- Separation anxiety
- Overstimulation (loud noises, chaotic environments)
- Poor socialisation or fear-based behaviours
For more information on managing a stressed dog, you can refer to this article: A Holistic Approach to Calming Dog Anxiety and Stress.
The gut and brain are closely linked via the gut-brain axis, meaning emotional stress can manifest as physical symptoms. Managing stress through consistent routines, mental enrichment, and a calm environment can help prevent gut-related issues.
2. Our Relationship with Dogs has Changed
Decades ago, dogs were often kept outdoors or had working roles, with less direct human observation. Today, dogs are integral family members, often sleeping in our beds and receiving high levels of attention. As a result, we are more likely to notice subtle signs of digestive distress.
Additionally, modern pet parents are proactive about their dog’s health, seeking solutions at the first sign of discomfort rather than waiting for symptoms to resolve on their own. This heightened awareness may make digestive issues seem more prevalent when, in reality, they are simply being recognised and addressed earlier.
3. Environmental Factors & Toxins
The modern environment is filled with potential triggers for sensitive stomachs in dogs. Exposure to pesticides, cleaning chemicals, air pollution, and even the materials used in food packaging can contribute to gut inflammation or irritation.
Dogs that spend time on treated lawns, walk on city streets, or come into contact with household cleaning agents may ingest small amounts of toxins that disrupt their microbiome. When they walk through these areas and later lick their paws, they can inadvertently consume harmful chemicals, further exacerbating gut health issues, and creating that sensitive stomach of theirs.
Ways to reduce exposure:
- Opt for natural cleaning products
- Avoid heavily treated outdoor areas
- Provide filtered water
Here you can find some further tips on How to Make your Home Truly Pet-Friendly.
4. Neutering and Gut Health
Hormones play a crucial role in overall health, including digestion. Neutering has been linked to changes in metabolism and gut microbiota, which can affect digestion. Some studies suggest that neutered dogs may have a higher risk of gastrointestinal issues due to hormonal shifts that alter gut function (He et al., 2021).
You can read more about this in The Neutering Debate: When is the Right Time to Desex Your Dog?
While neutering offers many benefits, including population control and disease prevention, supporting gut health post-neutering with a high-quality diet and targeted probiotics can help mitigate digestive changes.
5. The Role of Diet, Leaky Gut & Food Intolerances
Diet is one of the most significant factors influencing gut health. Many dogs struggle with ultra-processed foods containing artificial additives, low-quality protein sources, and fillers that irritate the gut lining. Over time, this can lead to leaky gut syndrome—a condition where the intestinal barrier becomes overly permeable, allowing harmful particles to enter the bloodstream. This disruption contributes to inflammation, food intolerances, and chronic digestive issues (Pilla & Suchodolski, 2020).
While probiotics can be beneficial for a sensitive stomach, their effectiveness often depends on the overall condition of the digestive system. If the gut lining is already compromised, introducing probiotics alone may not be enough to restore balance. Addressing underlying gut health issues—such as inflammation and intestinal permeability—can help create an environment where beneficial bacteria can thrive.
Supporting gut health involves a holistic approach, including:
- Prebiotics – Provide nourishment for beneficial gut bacteria
- Probiotics – Help maintain a healthy microbial balance
- Digestive enzymes – Assist in nutrient breakdown and absorption
- Gut-supportive nutrients – Such as specific fibres and anti-inflammatory compounds that promote intestinal health
Rather than focusing on probiotics as a quick fix, taking steps to improve overall gut function can lead to more lasting digestive support for your dog.
Food intolerances, particularly to proteins like chicken or beef, can further aggravate digestive issues, especially when the gut is already compromised. Transitioning to a single-protein diet and incorporating fresh, balanced whole foods can help identify and eliminate problematic ingredients while promoting gut healing.
Are Sensitive Stomachs Truly More Common in Dogs?
The answer is complex. While environmental toxins, diet, and stress may be contributing to an increase in digestive issues, the way we care for and observe our dogs has also evolved.
With greater awareness and improved access to fresh, balanced nutrition, we now have more tools than ever to support gut health. By making small, thoughtful changes to diet and lifestyle, we can help our dogs thrive—no matter how sensitive their stomachs may be.
If your dog struggles with digestive issues, consider exploring fresh feeding options and gut-supporting supplements. Every dog is unique, and finding the right approach can make all the difference in their health and happiness.
Top 5 Tips for Supporting a Sensitive Stomach
Choose a Balanced, Fresh Diet
Ultra-processed foods can be hard to digest. A balanced, fresh diet—like Big Dog Pet Foods—supports gut health and reduces inflammation.
Introduce New Foods Slowly
Sensitive stomachs need time to adjust. Start with 25% new food and transition over 1–2 weeks to avoid digestive upset.
Feed Smaller, More Frequent Meals
Dogs with sensitive stomachs don’t cope well with fasting. Feeding 2–3 small meals a day—rather than one big meal—helps maintain stable digestion.
Support Gut Health with a Complete Formula
Probiotics alone aren’t always enough. A combination of probiotics, prebiotics, and soothing herbs—like Big Dog Probiotics—helps repair the gut lining, reduces inflammation, and supports long-term digestive health.
Keep It Simple & Track What Works
Single-protein diets with minimal ingredients—like Big Dog’s single-protein options—can help identify triggers. Keeping a food diary makes it easier to spot what works best for your dog.
About the Author - Dr. Nicole Rous
Dr. Nicole Rous completed her degree with Honours from the University of Sydney in 2008. She initially worked in the UK before returning to small animal practice in Melbourne, Australia. Dr. Nicole has a keen interest in animal reproduction and has been granted Membership with the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in this specialty. She is also passionate about complementary therapies such as massage and enjoys discussing ways to enhance pets' overall well-being and quality of life.
In August 2021, Dr. Nicole joined the Mont Albert Veterinary Surgery team as a director and continues to provide exceptional care to her patients. She is dedicated to utilising her knowledge and experience to assist pets in living longer, healthier, and happier lives.
Dr. Nicole's commitment to providing natural and holistic health practices for pets inspired her to establish Shy Tiger, a company that offers natural pet products made from premium ingredients sourced primarily from Australian farms and producers. Her expertise in natural health practices and dedication to providing excellent care to her patients make her a reliable partner for pet owners in Melbourne and beyond.
References
Gui, M., T. Peeters, I. Depoortere, G. Vantrappen, and L. Bufino. 1989. "Stress-Induced Changes in Gastric Emptying, Postprandial Motility, and Plasma Gut Hormone Levels in Dogs." Gastroenterology 97:1101–7.
He, Shuyu, Hongjun Li, Zhixuan Yu, Fang Zhang, Shaoyan Liang, Hongjian Liu, Hong Chen, and Min Lü. 2021. "The Gut Microbiome and Sex Hormone-Related Diseases." Frontiers in Microbiology 12: 711137. https://doi.org/10.3389/fmicb.2021.711137.
Pilla, R., and J. S. Suchodolski. 2020. "The Role of the Canine Gut Microbiome and Metabolome in Health and Gastrointestinal Disease." Frontiers in Veterinary Science 6:498. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2019.00498.
