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Digestive issues in dogs can show up as gas, bloating, diarrhea, or a general reluctance to eat. For pups with sensitive stomachs, certain gut-healing ingredients can make a world of difference. These natural ingredients help rebalance digestion, soothe inflammation, and support the good bacteria in your dog’s microbiome. Here are seven of the best gut-healing ingredients to look for when managing your dog’s digestive health.
Pumpkin
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Pumpkin is one of the most effective and gentle remedies for a sensitive doggy stomach. It’s rich in soluble fiber, which helps absorb excess moisture in the digestive tract, firm up stool, and promote regular bowel movements. Plus, pumpkin is loaded with nutrients like beta-carotene and vitamin A. Many dog-specific supplements incorporate pumpkin as a base ingredient, including Pupkin Probiotics and Prebiotics with Pumpkin for Dogs (on Amazon), which is specially formulated for gut health support using this soothing ingredient.
Probiotics
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Probiotics are live microorganisms that offer health benefits when ingested, especially for digestion. They help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your dog’s gut, which is often disrupted by illness, antibiotics, or stress. Adding probiotics to your dog’s diet can reduce gas, support healthy stools, and strengthen the immune system. Pupkin Probiotics and Prebiotics with Pumpkin for Dogs (on Amazon) contains a carefully selected blend of probiotics that promote better digestion and nutrient absorption.
Prebiotics
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Unlike probiotics, prebiotics aren’t live bacteria—they’re the food that fuels beneficial bacteria. Prebiotics are typically plant fibers that help probiotics flourish and colonize your dog’s digestive tract. Without prebiotics, probiotics can struggle to survive and work effectively. Look for supplements that contain both, like Pupkin Probiotics and Prebiotics with Pumpkin for Dogs (on Amazon), which delivers a powerful one-two punch of gut-friendly ingredients.
Slippery Elm
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Slippery elm is a tree bark that has been used for centuries to soothe digestive inflammation in both humans and animals. It forms a mucilage—a slippery, gel-like substance—when mixed with water, coating the stomach and intestinal lining to reduce irritation. This is particularly helpful for dogs with ulcers, IBD, or other forms of gastrointestinal distress. It can be added to food as a powder or used as part of a gut-healing herbal formula under veterinary supervision.
Bone Broth
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Bone broth is rich in gelatin, collagen, and amino acids that support the gut lining and aid in digestion. It’s also gentle on sensitive stomachs and provides hydration, making it perfect for dogs recovering from stomach upset or illness. Homemade or store-bought low-sodium, pet-safe bone broth can be added to meals to increase palatability while delivering gut-healing nutrients. It’s especially beneficial for dogs on bland diets or those with decreased appetite.
Ginger
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Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea remedy that works wonders for both humans and dogs. It helps soothe the stomach lining and improve digestion by stimulating saliva and bile production. Ginger is particularly helpful for dogs prone to motion sickness or occasional nausea. Use fresh ginger in small, grated amounts or look for it as a supplemental ingredient in digestive chews or natural remedies recommended by your vet.
Digestive Enzymes
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Digestive enzymes help break down the food your dog eats into smaller, absorbable nutrients. Dogs with sensitive stomachs may have trouble producing enough of these enzymes naturally, leading to undigested food and tummy trouble. Supplemental enzymes can support the digestion of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, reducing gas and promoting better nutrient absorption. While digestive enzymes can be found as stand-alone supplements, some probiotic blends also include enzyme support for a more complete digestive aid.
Help Your Dog Feel Better From the Inside Out
MidJourney
Sensitive stomachs can make life tough for dogs and their humans, but healing starts with the right ingredients. Whether you’re using pumpkin for fiber, probiotics for balance, or bone broth for nourishment, each of these seven ingredients plays a unique role in supporting your pup’s digestive health. For a convenient, all-in-one option, consider Pupkin Probiotics and Prebiotics with Pumpkin for Dogs (on Amazon), which combines the power of pumpkin, prebiotics, and probiotics into a single scoop. Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, iHeartDogs earns from qualifying purchases.
