How to Freeze Dry Food at Home
Authored by Tractor Supply Company
Disclaimer: Consult your veterinarian before making major dietary changes, especially if your dog has persistent gastrointestinal symptoms.
Meet the Expert
Stephanie Liff, DVM, is the Medical Director and Owner of Pure Paws Veterinary Care in NYC. With years of experience in treating sensitive stomachs in dogs, Dr. Liff shares practical, research-backed advice for choosing food that supports their unique health needs.
Sensitive Stomachs in Dogs
When your dog has a sensitive stomach, mealtime can quickly become a stressful experience for both of you. Whether it is due to food intolerances, digestive issues, or just a fussy gut, choosing the right dog food is crucial for keeping your pup happy, healthy, and comfortable.
To help you confidently choose the right food for your dog, this selection process went beyond reading product labels. Each recommendation is based on verified customer reviews, ingredient quality, and veterinary insight.
Recommended Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
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Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food 30 lb. Bag
• Breed Size: All Breed Sizes (Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large)
• Flavors: Sweet Potato, Salmon
• Health Features: Sensitive stomach, digestive support
Why We Chose It:
This grain-free dry dog food combines high-quality salmon and sweet potato, providing a gentle and digestible formula for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The fish-based protein is easy on the digestive system, while the sweet potatoes provide a healthy source of fiber.
Key Features:
• Grain-free recipe, ideal for sensitive stomachs and food sensitivities
• Salmon as the primary protein, which is gentle on digestion
• Sweet potatoes for a healthy source of fiber and carbohydrates
• High in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for skin and coat health
• Free from artificial preservatives and colors
Pros:
☑ Easy-to-digest formula for sensitive stomachs
☑ Supports skin health with omega fatty acids
☑ Suitable for dogs with grain allergies
Things to Consider:
⌕ May not be suitable for dogs with fish allergies
⌕ Some dogs may prefer a different protein source
⌕ A premium option that may be pricier than other foods
Expert Insight:
“Moderate fat content diets and higher fiber diets tend to be better for dogs with sensitive stomachs.”
Dr. Stephanie Liff
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Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach All Life Stages Salmon and Lamb Recipe Wet Dog Food Variety pk. 13 oz. Pack of 12
• Breed Size: All Breed Sizes (Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large)
• Flavors: Salmon, Lamb
• Health Features: Sensitive Skin, Sensitive Stomach, Immune System Support, Digestive Support
Why We Chose It:
Purina Pro Plan's wet food is a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs, offering a blend of easy-to-digest protein sources and formulated to be gentle on the stomach. The combination of salmon and lamb provides balanced nutrition and digestive support.
Key Features:
• Salmon and lamb as easily digestible protein sources
• Fortified with live probiotics for gut health
• No soy, wheat, or corn, reducing common digestive irritants
• Designed for sensitive skin and stomachs
• Suitable for all life stages
Pros:
☑ Highly digestible proteins for dogs with sensitive stomachs
☑ Probiotics support digestive and immune health
☑ Convenient wet food format for picky eaters
Things to Consider:
⌕ Wet food may not suit all dogs, particularly those who prefer dry kibble
⌕ Can be more expensive than dry food
⌕ Higher moisture content may require more frequent feeding
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Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin Chicken and Vegetable Entree Recipe Wet Dog Food 12.8 oz.
• Breed Size: All Breed Sizes (Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large)
• Flavor: Chicken and vegetable
• Health Features: Sensitive Skin, Sensitive Stomach, Digestive Support
Why We Chose It:
Hill’s Science Diet is well-known for its veterinarian-recommended formulas, and this one specifically targets dogs with sensitive stomachs. It contains easily digestible chicken and a mix of vegetables, offering a balanced and gentle meal for dogs in need.
Key Features:
• Chicken as the first ingredient for high-quality protein
• Contains prebiotic fiber to support digestive health
• Free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
• Designed to improve both skin and stomach health
• High digestibility for sensitive stomachs
Pros:
☑ Highly digestible and gentle on the stomach
☑ Supports skin health with balanced nutrients
☑ Veterinarian-recommended
Things to Consider:
⌕ Wet food may be too rich for some dogs
⌕ Requires proper storage and handling to maintain freshness
⌕ More expensive than basic kibble
Expert Insight:
“If a food allergy is the reason your dog has a sensitive stomach, limited ingredient diets may be best.”
Dr. Stephanie Liff
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Hill's Science Diet Large Breed Adult Sensitive Stomach and Skin Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food 30 lb. Bag
• Breed Size: Large, Extra Large
• Flavor: Chicken
• Health Features: Sensitive Skin, Sensitive Stomach, Weight Management, Digestive Support
Why We Chose It:
This dry dog food is formulated specifically for large breeds, providing a balanced diet to support sensitive stomachs. The chicken recipe is easy to digest, and the formula is enriched with prebiotic fiber to promote healthy digestion.
Key Features:
• Designed for large breeds with sensitive stomachs
• Prebiotic fiber supports a healthy gut microbiome
• High-quality chicken as the primary protein source
• Supports skin health with balanced omega-6 fatty acids
• Free from artificial ingredients and fillers
Pros:
☑ Tailored for large dogs with digestive issues
☑ Supports digestive and skin health
☑ Nutrient-dense for large breed needs
Things to Consider:
⌕ May not be suitable for small or medium-sized dogs
⌕ Higher price point compared to basic kibbles
⌕ Dry food may not be the preferred texture for all dogs
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Sportmix CanineX All Life Stages Performance Grain-Free Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food 40 lb. Bag
• Breed Size: All Breed Sizes (Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large)
• Flavor: Chicken
• Health Features: Overall Digestion Support, General Wellness
Why We Chose It:
Sportmix CanineX offers a performance-driven formula that’s still gentle on the stomach. It’s a great option for dogs with active lifestyles or those with sensitive stomachs who need higher protein levels for muscle repair.
Key Features:
• Grain-free formula with chicken as the primary protein
• High protein content for active dogs or those needing muscle repair
• No artificial additives, colors, or flavors
• Formulated to support overall health and vitality
• Suitable for all life stages
Pros:
☑ Ideal for active dogs with sensitive stomachs
☑ High-quality chicken protein for muscle support
☑ No grains, corn, or soy
Things to Consider:
⌕ High-protein formula may not be suitable for all dogs
⌕ May be too rich for less active dogs
⌕ Bulk packaging may not suit all pet owners
Expert Insight:
“The signs of a sensitive stomach usually include poor appetite, vomiting or diarrhea and sometimes can also manifest as constipation.”
Dr. Stephanie Liff
Disclaimer: Grain-free diets for dogs may be linked to an increased risk of cardiac disease. Please consult your veterinarian before feeding your dog a grain-free diet to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their individual health needs.
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Diamond Naturals Grain-Free All Life Stages Pasture-Raised Beef and Sweet Potato Formula Dry Dog Food
Disclaimer: Grain-free diets for dogs may be linked to an increased risk of cardiac disease. Please consult your veterinarian before feeding your dog a grain-free diet to ensure it is safe and appropriate for their individual health needs.
• Breed Size: All Breed Sizes (Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large)
• Flavor: Sweet Potato, Beef
• Health Features: General Wellness
Why We Chose It:
Diamond Naturals’ pasture-raised beef and sweet potato formula is a nutrient-dense option that’s easy on the stomach and suitable for all life stages. The beef is a great protein choice for dogs with food sensitivities, and sweet potatoes provide digestible carbs.
Key Features:
• Grain-free with pasture-raised beef as the primary protein
• Rich in antioxidants and omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
• Includes probiotics to support digestive health
• Sweet potatoes and peas for easily digestible fiber
• Suitable for all life stages
Pros:
☑ Supports overall health with high-quality ingredients
☑ Rich in omega fatty acids for skin and coat health
☑ Probiotics help with digestion
Things to Consider:
⌕ Some dogs may not prefer the taste of beef
⌕ Grain-free formula may not suit all dogs
⌕ Larger bag sizes may be less convenient for smaller households
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Victor Select All Life Stages Grain-Free Yukon River Canine Fish Recipe Dry Dog Food 30 lb. Bag
• Breed Size: All Breed Sizes (Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large)
• Flavor: Fish
• Health Features: General Wellness, Metabolic Support, Immune System Support, Skin & Coat Health, Digestive Support
Why We Chose It:
This high-quality, grain-free dog food is made with fish as the primary source of protein, providing an excellent choice for dogs with food sensitivities. It’s formulated for all life stages, making it suitable for puppies, adults, and seniors alike.
Key Features:
• Grain-free formula
• High-quality fish meal as the primary protein
• Packed with omega fatty acids
• Includes vitamins and minerals
• No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
Pros:
☑ Ideal for dogs with grain sensitivities
☑ Suitable for dogs of all ages, from puppies to seniors
☑ No artificial additives, ensuring a natural, healthy diet
Things to Consider:
⌕ May not be suitable for dogs with fish allergies
⌕ More expensive compared to regular kibble
⌕ Some dogs may prefer a different protein source
Helpful Things to Know About Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
Signs of a Sensitive Stomach
- Vomiting or diarrhea after meals
- Flatulence or bloating
- Refusal to eat or loss of appetite
- Excessive licking of lips or unusual eating habits
What to Look for in Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
- High-quality protein sources like chicken, turkey, or fish
- Easily digestible carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes or peas
- Prebiotics or probiotics for gut health
- Limited ingredients to reduce food allergens
If your dog exhibits any of these symptoms consistently, it's advisable to consult your veterinarian to rule out underlying health issues and discuss dietary adjustments.
How We Found & Ranked the Top Rated Dog Foods for Sensitive Stomachs
We selected these dog foods based on a combination of:
- Customer reviews and average star ratings on TractorSupply.com
- Nutritional analysis and ingredient transparency
- Veterinary insight and common recommendations
- Brand reputation and consistency
We know pet parents want trustworthy, transparent recommendations—especially when their dog’s health is on the line. That’s why we didn’t just skim product descriptions. Our selection process for this list involved a multi-step evaluation to ensure every food we recommend meets high standards of quality, performance, and customer satisfaction.
Here's what went into our process:
- Nutritional Standards: We evaluated over 600 different dog foods for sensitive stomachs, narrowing the field based on digestibility, ingredient quality, and alignment with AAFCO nutritional standards.
- Customer Insight: Our team analyzed over 200,000 verified customer reviews from TractorSupply.com, along with insights from pet forums and a semantic scrape of Reddit conversations to identify patterns in owner-reported outcomes and ingredient-related sensitivities.
- Customer Ratings: Each product’s average star rating was taken into account along with the volume and how often sensitive stomachs were specifically mentioned, with emphasis placed on consistency across different breeds and life stages.
- Expert Evaluation: Our veterinary expert, Dr. Stephanie Liff, personally contributed to this article, ensuring each product meets professional standards for efficacy and safety.
These inputs were then combined into a weighted scoring model, prioritizing ingredient integrity, consumer confidence, veterinary endorsement, and proven digestive benefits.
Expert Answers: FAQs on Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs
We asked Dr. Stephanie Liff to answer the most common questions dog owners have about sensitive stomachs.
Freeze drying removes moisture from food after it has been frozen. At home, this is usually done with a countertop freeze dryer that freezes the food, creates a vacuum, and gently warms it until the moisture turns into vapor.
You can freeze dry fruits, vegetables, cooked meats, dairy products, herbs, leftovers, and complete meals. Foods with lower moisture may finish sooner, while juicy foods usually take longer.
Wash and trim fresh foods, then cut everything into evenly sized pieces. Spread the food in a single layer on the trays, leaving a little space between pieces so the process can work evenly.
Cook the meal first, let it cool, and spread it across the freeze-dryer trays. Break up thick or dense portions, choose the appropriate cycle, and check the finished food for any remaining soft or damp spots before packaging it.
Place fully dry food in airtight containers or moisture-resistant bags. Add an oxygen absorber when appropriate, label each package with the food and date, and store it in a cool, dark, dry spot.