Best Natural Dog Treats for Sensitive Stomachs (2026 Guide)
If your dog regularly suffers from an upset stomach, loose stools, excessive wind, vomiting, itchy skin, bad breath or digestive discomfort, you're not alone. Sensitive stomachs are one of the most common concerns we hear from dog owners.
The good news is that choosing the right food and treats can make a huge difference. Many dogs with digestive sensitivities can still enjoy tasty rewards and chews, provided they're made with the right ingredients and proteins.
In this guide we'll explain which proteins to avoid, which proteins are often better tolerated, and our favourite natural treats for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Check our selection of treats and chews for sensitive tummies
If your dog's appetite changes, if their poops are consistently bad or if you notice them loosing weight, always check with your vet.
What Causes a Sensitive Stomach in Dogs?
A sensitive stomach isn't a condition itself. Instead, it's usually a sign that a dog's digestive system is struggling to process certain ingredients.
Common causes include:
- Food intolerance
- Sudden diet changes
- Rich or fatty treats
- Artificial additives and preservatives
- Poor quality protein sources
- Underlying digestive conditions
Many commercial dog treats contain multiple proteins, fillers, artificial flavourings and ingredients that can be difficult for some dogs to digest.
Choosing simple, natural treats is often the best place to start.
Proteins Dogs With Sensitive Stomachs May Struggle With
Every dog is different, but some proteins are more commonly associated with food sensitivities than others.
Chicken
Chicken is one of the most common proteins found in dog food and treats. While many dogs tolerate it perfectly, it's also one of the most frequently reported food sensitivities.
Bob and Dolly, our dogs, are both intolerant to chicken - it gives them runny poops.
Beef
Beef is another common protein that some dogs struggle to digest, particularly if they've been exposed to it for many years.
Dolly, our pup, struggles with high beef content.
Dairy-Based Treats
Many dogs struggle to digest dairy products due to lactose intolerance, which can lead to digestive upset and loose stools.
Avoid giving your dog dairy, even if they don't get a bad tummy - it just isn't good for them.
High-Fat Meat Treats
Fatty treats can trigger digestive issues in sensitive dogs, especially those prone to pancreatitis or digestive flare-ups.
Proteins Often Better Suited To Sensitive Dogs
Novel proteins are often easier for sensitive dogs because they are less likely to have been exposed to them regularly.
A novel protein is any protein source that your dog has never consumed before. In the context of nutrition, it refers to introducing unique, non-traditional ingredients to bypass immune responses and prevent dietary sensitivities.
This is why you will see dog treats that contain ostrich, kangaroo or venison named 'novel protein', as these meats aren't generally used in dog food and therefore, your dog probably hasn't eaten them before.
Fish
Fish is highly digestible and naturally rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which may help support skin, coat and digestive health.
Benefits include:
- Highly digestible protein
- Naturally rich in Omega-3
- Suitable for many dogs with food sensitivities
- Naturally low in fat
- Packed with goodness
Shop our British made fish treats here
Venison
Venison is considered a novel protein for many dogs and is often well tolerated.
Benefits include:
- Lean protein source
- Naturally lower in fat
- Suitable for elimination diets
Rabbit
Rabbit is another excellent novel protein choice.
Benefits include:
- Easy to digest
- Lean protein
- Less commonly fed
Ostrich
Ostrich is becoming increasingly popular among owners of dogs with food sensitivities.
Benefits include:
- Very lean protein
- Low fat
- Highly palatable
What To Look For In Treats For Sensitive Stomachs
When choosing treats, look for:
- Single-protein ingredients
- Natural ingredients
- Limited ingredient recipes
- No artificial colours
- No artificial preservatives
- Lower fat content where possible
The fewer ingredients, the easier it is to identify potential triggers.
It's easy to shop with Be More Bob, as we ONLY sell 100% natural dog treats and chews.
Our Recommended Natural Treats For Sensitive Stomachs
Fish Skin Treats
Fish skin treats are one of our favourite options for sensitive dogs.
They contain a single protein source, are highly digestible and provide a satisfying chew.
Shop our British made fish treats here
Venison Treats
Venison treats are ideal for dogs that cannot tolerate common proteins such as chicken or beef.
Their lean nature makes them suitable for many dogs with digestive sensitivities.
Rabbit Treats
Rabbit-based treats are a great option when you're looking for a novel protein that's gentle on the digestive system.
Ostrich Treats
Ostrich treats are naturally lean and often well tolerated by dogs that struggle with richer proteins.
Find our single protein treats here
Low Fat Natural Treats
Dogs with particularly sensitive digestion often benefit from lower fat options.
Our low fat treat collection contains carefully selected treats suitable for dogs requiring gentler rewards.
We have a wide range of low fat options here
Tips For Introducing New Treats
Even when choosing sensitive stomach-friendly treats, it's important to introduce them gradually.
We recommend:
- Introduce one new treat at a time.
- Feed small amounts initially.
- Monitor stools and digestion.
- Avoid introducing multiple new proteins together.
- Keep a note of what works best for your dog.
Final Thoughts
Every dog is different, but many dogs with sensitive stomachs thrive when given simple, natural treats made from high-quality ingredients.
Novel proteins such as fish, venison, rabbit and ostrich are often excellent choices, while avoiding overly processed treats, artificial ingredients and rich fatty chews can help reduce digestive upset.
At Be More Bob, we've carefully selected natural treats that dogs love and owners can feel confident feeding. Whether you're looking for fish treats, venison rewards, rabbit chews or low fat options, you'll find plenty of gentle, natural choices suitable for sensitive dogs.
Check our selection of treats and chews for sensitive tummies here