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Best Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

Angela Vuckovic
by Angela Vuckovic
Published:  October 5th, 2021

Dog food for sensitive stomachs is specially formulated to prevent symptoms of gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or flatulence. Made with carefully selected ingredients, this type of food is optimized for canines whose tummies easily get upset.

If your dog occasionally vomits, has loose stool, or becomes gassy when you switch them to a new food, chances are that they have a sensitive stomach that is reacting to some ingredients in the formula. Dry and wet dog food can often be made with ingredients that are not good for our pet’s wellbeing, and in some cases, even common ingredients such as chicken or beef can be the cause of your dog’s digestive problems. Dog food for sensitive stomachs is specially formulated to suit the gentle digestive systems of dogs who have food sensitivities. These foods use a variety of different, easily digestible protein sources, limited high-quality ingredients, and are not saturated in fats. More often than not, dog food for sensitive stomachs is enriched with ingredients that soothe upset tummies, such as pumpkin puree or fortified with probiotics and prebiotics that maintain a healthy digestive system. To help you find the perfect match for your sensitive pup’s needs, we’ve rounded up the 10 best dog foods for sensitive stomachs so you can find a tailored fit in no time.

1. Editor’s Choice: Lucy Pet Formulas for Life – Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food

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Unfortunately, sensitive stomachs often go hand in hand with sensitive skin. Eating the wrong kind of food can set off the digestive upset and make your pet’s skin itchy, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Lucy Pet Formulas for Life – Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food is engineered to prevent those issues, as its formula is optimized for gut health and promoting healthier skin and coats. To encourage better digestion, this kibble is fortified with prebiotic-balanced fiber and antioxidants, and it is also grain-free. The main protein source is salmon which is a great choice for sensitive stomachs but it’s also loaded with essential fatty acids which in turn help skin and coat go back to their former glory. As an additional bonus, this kibble formula includes pumpkin to soothe upset tummies.

2. Runner up: ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

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A good choice for picky pets, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is somewhat different from your typical kibble. Not only that it boasts limited ingredient formula, but this dry food for dogs is made from the highest quality ingredients that have been air-dried to preserve nutrients and tastiness, so it is chewier than standard crunchy kibble. Made from up to 96% meat and superfoods, this formula includes ethically sourced free-range, grass-fed lamb, green mussels, and organic kelp. There are no grains, potatoes or peas, or anything else that could cause a flare-up and irritate your pet’s stomach. If you have a picky eater on your hands, they’ll love the unusual texture and unparalleled lamb taste this dry food offers!

3. Customer’s Choice: Purina Pro Plan with Probiotics

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We all know how probiotics are essential for gut health- and it’s no different for dogs. Enriched with live probiotics, this dry dog food is formulated to support your dog’s immune system and promote healthy digestion in dogs with sensitive stomachs. In addition to live probiotic cultures, Purina Pro Plan with Probiotics combines real chicken and brown rice to create a recipe that is gentle on the stomach but packed with important nutrients. The formula is also unique because of its texture, as it combines both classic kibble pieces and tender shredded chicken bites, to make the food more tantalizing to picky eaters with sensitive tummies. And guess what- it usually does the trick!

4. Best Wet: Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach and Skin

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Some dogs simply prefer wet food to dry- and sometimes, you want to treat your pooch to his favorite meal without having to worry if they’ll have diarrhea, vomit, or get gassy after. Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food is created precisely for dogs that have frequent digestive issues after eating wet food for dogs. It has easily digestible protein in the formula, contains no grains, and it’s made with natural ingredients to ensure nutritional quality. This wet food is also available in a few different protein source options so you can find a perfect match for your pet’s preference and dietary needs: chicken and vegetable entree, salmon and vegetable entree, or tender turkey and rice stew.

5. Best for Small Dogs: Solid Gold – Mighty Mini with Sensitive Stomach

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Petite pooches can have big problems with digestion. Solid Gold – Mighty Mini with Sensitive Stomach is engineered both to meet the dietary requirements of toy and small dog breeds and to promote better gut health in the process. Made with natural ingredients, this grain-free and gluten-free formula includes easy-to-digest real turkey, vitamin-rich vegetables, and lentils as a healthy source of carbs and proteins. Low in fat but rich in protein, this dry dog food is also enriched with fiber-rich prebiotics which are live and viable until consumption, to make sure that your tiny pet’s gut flora is thriving. To boot, the kibble pieces are tailored to the needs of small dogs- these are one of the smallest kibble pieces on the market!

6. Best for Large Dogs: Eukanuba Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken – Large Breed

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To support the overall health of your big dog and make sure that they don’t get gassy or have an upset stomach after meals, opt for a formula that is optimized to nurture their digestive health in addition to everything else. Eukanuba Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken offers complete and balanced nutrition for dogs over 15 months and 55 pounds, with special emphasis put on known issues of big breeds such as joint health. In addition to being packed with protein, chondroitin, and glucosamine, this dry food formula also has a “sneaky” secret- a natural probiotic and fiber blend that is tailored to the needs of active dogs and promotes easier digestion. This way, you can rest assured that your pet’s dietary needs are met- without worrying about upset tummies anymore.

7. Best for Puppies: CANIDAE PURE Puppy Recipe

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Puppies are just as prone to upset tummies as adult dogs- if not more. After all, transitioning from milk to kibble can be a trial and error process that comes with loose stool and occasional vomiting. To avoid going through this process, it’s best to start off with balanced, high-quality puppy food right away. CANIDAE PURE Puppy Recipe uses only premium, clean protein sources and has a formula with limited ingredients- so there are fewer possible culprits for your pet’s upset digestion. The formula for puppies is made with real chicken and whole egg, contains no artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors, and it is also grain-free so no corn, soy, or wheat anywhere on the list. Enriched with vitamins, antioxidants, and probiotics, this dry dog food has everything your puppy needs to thrive without experiencing gastrointestinal upset!

8. Best for Seniors: Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food

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When our pets reach their golden years, many problems can arise, and sudden stomach sensitivity is one of them. Your pooch might not have had issues with eating any type of kibble when they were younger, but once they are a bit older, it can change and quickly at that. For seniors that have issues with digestion, it’s best to switch to a formula that is rich in protein, lower in fat, and contains ingredients that are beneficial for their digestion. Wellness CORE Natural Grain Free Dry Dog Food is optimized for the needs of senior dogs, as it supports joint and hip health, and is fortified with vitamins and minerals to give their immune system a bit of a boost. What makes it great for their sensitive stomach is that it uses real turkey as the main protein source and that it includes prebiotics and probiotics to ensure that the gut flora is at an optimal level.

9. Best for Allergies: Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat Real Salmon and Potato Recipe

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Dogs who are allergic to certain foods often experience both digestive issues and problems with their skin and coat. Diamond Naturals Skin & Coat Real Salmon and Potato Recipe aims to help eliminate the main cause of the two- wrong choice of food or protein source- and is enriched with ingredients that could make a real difference in digestive and skin health, to boot. Made with wild-caught salmon, it is full of essential fatty acids that promote healthier skin and shinier coats, as well as easy to digest while getting some much-needed protein in the mix. The blend of probiotics and prebiotics with species-specific live cultures will improve your pet’s digestion and help prevent gastrointestinal upset.

10. Best with Grain: Blackwood Dog Food Sensitive Skin and Stomach Formula

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Grain-free kibble isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, and sometimes, there’s no need to skip grains if your pet is actually sensitive to other ingredients in the formula. Blackwood Dog Food Sensitive Skin and Stomach Formula is a great example of how healthier grains can be included in the formula and still suit those pooches that have sensitive tummies. Slow cooked and handcrafted in the USA, this dry food for dogs combines salmon with brown rice, carrots, celery, and spinach to deliver a potent nutrient punch without causing digestive issues in the process. To further cater to dogs with sensitive stomachs, this kibble is enriched with a blend of probiotics and prebiotics that nurture a healthy digestive system.

Symptoms of a Sensitive Stomach in Dogs

If your pet has issues such as gassiness, occasional vomiting, or diarrhea, chances are that their tummy is upset by something they ate. These are considered mild symptoms, only if they are infrequent and there are no additional symptoms such as bloating, dehydration, abdomen painful to touch, or neurological symptoms. In case you notice any of these, or your pet experiences severe or prolonged vomiting and diarrhea, you must take them to the vet’s office for an examination.

What to Look for in Dog Food for Sensitive Stomachs

Not all dogs react the same to different ingredients. Even dogs with sensitive stomachs can be irritated by different things, but there are some common triggers for upset tummies in canines. The first “suspect” is often the protein source in the food. Some dogs simply don’t digest certain proteins well, and it could mean that simply switching from, for example, chicken to beef, lamb, fish, or exotic protein can make your dog’s tummy troubles go away. Another common reason why your pet’s kibble is making them experience digestive issues is that it has a high-fat content. If you notice that fat is listed in the top 5 ingredients on the label, chances are that the fat content is too much for your pooch and you’ll have to swap it for low-fat kibble instead.

Cheap fillers can also cause gastrointestinal upset. Dry dog foods that have meal and byproducts as a protein source instead of real meat, or are laden with corn, soy, or wheat, can often irritate a sensitive stomach- not to mention they do not provide adequate nutrients for your pet’s overall health needs.

The best types of dog food for sensitive stomachs address these issues by using easily digestible protein sources, using formulas with limited ingredients and without artificial ingredients, often low in fat and either grain-free, or opting for healthier carb sources such as quinoa or brown rice. Dog food for sensitive stomachs should also be rich in fibers, which support healthy digestion, and, if possible, enriched by probiotics and prebiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that maintain thriving gut flora.

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Angela Vuckovic
Angela Vuckovic

A proud mama to seven dogs and ten cats, Angela spends her days writing for her fellow pet parents and pampering her furballs, all of whom are rescues. When she's not gushing over her adorable cats or playing with her dogs, she can be found curled up with a good fantasy book.

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When you first bring home a new cat, it’s an exciting time – especially if you’re a first-time cat parent. However, amidst the excitement, there are many questions that may be holding you back from fully embracing the joy. Are you prepared to meet all your cat’s needs? Are there “must-have” items you have overlooked? The struggle is real! We have good news… Many of the items that are deemed “necessary” are actually optional. One such item is the traditional cat tree or cat scratcher. Do they offer benefits? Yes! Can they help to improve your cat’s mental and physical health? Yes! But is a cat tree necessary for your cat? No, it’s not. There are other ways you can meet your cat’s needs if your budget or space doesn’t allow for a large piece of cat furniture. Let’s dig into the truth about cat trees and your cat. What is the Point of Cat Trees? If you’re currently standing in your local pet store, looking over the wide assortment of cat furniture available, you may wonder – what exactly is the purpose of cat furniture? Is it just a fancy bed solution for your cat, or are there other considerations when these products are developed? It’s an honest question I often hear from first-time cat parents. After all, these large, elaborate structures often come with a hefty price tag. If they do nothing more than provide a place to sleep, wouldn’t a simple cat bed suffice? Cat furniture is designed to meet many of your cat’s instincts, including their need to scratch, hide, climb, and oversee their surroundings. Each type of cat furniture has its benefits to consider.

Golden Retriever Nurses African Painted Dog Pups Rejected by Their Mom

The Potawatomi Zoo in South Bend, Indiana, recently welcomed a litter of eight endangered African painted dog puppies. After a rough start, only three puppies survived thanks to an unlikely surrogate mother - a golden retriever named Kassy.The Potawatomi Zoo announced that the pair of their African painted dogs, Bleu and Maurice, had a litter of eight puppies born in late September. However, it was soon clear to the care team at the zoo that the pack would not be able to raise the puppies successfully.“Bleu, an inexperienced mother, was not caring for her pups the way she should have, and Maurice was following her lead,” said the zoo. In their natural habitat, African painted dogs live in large packs with unique vocalizations and social dynamics. All adult dogs in the pack work together to help feed and raise the pups. The success of the birth and raising of the pups can be endangered if the pack doesn’t work together as they should. “We knew within 24 hours that we had to separate them,” the zoo’s executive director, Josh Sisk, told the South Bend Tribune. The zoo’s animal care staff consulted with the African Painted Dog Species Survival Plan (SSP), a group of zoo professionals who form the breeding plans for this endangered species in accredited zoos across the United States. The staff at zoos usually try to remain uninvolved, letting the packs raise the puppies as they would in the wild. This approach is often successful and helps the pups learn the complex social structure of their species. However, in this case, the decision was made to intervene and hand-raise the litter. Instead of bottle-feeding the puppies, the SSP recommended finding a surrogate dog to nurse the puppies. Within a few hours, the Indiana Council for Animal Welfare connected the zoo with a golden retriever named Kassy, who recently had a litter of puppies and had milk to spare. Kassy and her litter arrived at the zoo a day after the painted dog pups were born and immediately accepted them. The zoo’s staff watched as Kessy nursed and cared for the pups as if they were her own.“It was a crazy first month,” Sisk said. “Our team was there for four weeks, 24/7. We had a mattress next to the dogs.”The zoo’s veterinarian and care team worked around the clock to ensure that all of the puppies, including Kassy’s litter, were getting enough food and time with Kassy. However, despite everyone’s efforts, not all of the African painted dog pups survived. Four weeks after the litter was born, only three puppies remained. The surviving pups were named Blue, Red, and Orange for the colors staff used to track them since they were born. Originally, the zoo planned to reintegrate the pups with Bleu, Maurice, and Colby. However, the adult dogs didn’t show a positive interest in the pups, so the plan was changed. The zoo decided to build a home for the pups next to adult dogs, so they could still learn how to behave like painted dogs. Once the puppies get older they can either be integrated with Bleu, Maurice, and Colby or moved to another zoo.“Blue, Red, and Orange have had an unusual and challenging start to life, but the zoo hopes they will have a bright and successful future,” the zoo shared in a release. “These three healthy, active pups are just the start of this story and the zoo hopes to share more positive updates of their milestones in the future.”Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Dog-Killing Flatworm Discovered in California

Fleas and ticks aren’t the only parasites that dog owners have to fear in southern California this summer. Scientists from the University of California, Riverside, are warning dog owners to keep their pooches out of the water this summer after they have discovered a potentially deadly parasite.A deadly flatworm species that has previously only existed in Texas and other Golf Coast states, has made its way to the west coast and is now present in the portion of the Colorado River that runs through California. The worm, Heterobilharzia americana, is a flatworm commonly known as the liver fluke. The parasite can cause canine schistosomiasis, an illness that affects the liver and intestine of dogs. Although treatment options are available once the dog becomes infected, they aren’t always effective leaving vets no other option than to euthanize the dog. “Dogs can die from this infection, so we are hoping to raise public awareness that it’s there,” said Adler Dillman, a nematology professor at the University of California, Riverside. “If you’re swimming in the Colorado River with them, your pets are in peril.” After learning about several cases of infection in local dogs, professor Dillman and his research team headed to Blythe, a border town in Riverside County. All of the sick dogs have spent time there, swimming in the river.Since snails are responsible for transmitting the infection, researchers collected more than 2,000 along the banks of the Colorado River. The team used DNA testing to identify the snails and the flatworm.The team was astonished to find not one, but two species of snail that can carry the parasite!“We actually found two species of snail that can support H. americana in the river in Blythe and we found both snails actively shedding this worm,” said Dillman, according to UC Riverside News. “Not only was it a surprise to find H. americana, we also didn’t know that the snails were present here.”The flatworm first makes its way into the snail's body, traveling through its system. Once transformed, it moves out to find a mammal host to infect. Without a host, the parasite can’t survive more than 24 hours on its own. Dogs and raccoons are particularly susceptible to becoming infected after coming into contact with water, whether from drinking or swimming in it. The worm gets inside the veins of the intestinal lining, where it develops into an adult and mates. The presence of adults in the veins isn’t as problematic as the eggs that get into the lungs, spleen, liver, and heart. The dog’s immune system reacts by forming clusters of cells, called granulomas. In time, the organ tissues stop functioning.It may take several months for a dog to show any signs of the infection. Symptoms start slowly and include loss of appetite, and progress to vomiting, diarrhea, profound weight loss, and signs of liver disease. “If your dog has these symptoms after swimming in the Colorado River, it’s a good precaution to ask your veterinarian for a simple fecal test,” said Emily Beeler, a veterinarian with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. “Treatment typically involves use of multiple medications and close monitoring of the dog by a veterinarian.”Although potentially deadly for our canine companions, this parasite can’t cause the same issues in humans. “ It can cause swimmers itch, a red rash where it penetrates human skin. But it’s not able to cause an infection,” Dillman explained.Steer clear of bodies of water that could contain infected snails to prevent your pooch from catching flatworms. If your pooch can’t resist taking a dip, monitor them for symptoms of flatworm infection in the weeks afterward. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Scientists Found a New Type of Training that Makes Dogs Better Behaved

Training a dog can seem intimidating, and doesn’t always yield the expected results. Luckily for all dog owners out there, a new study has found another way to train your four-legged companion. Scientists at Aberystwyth University, located in Wales, United Kingdom, have discovered that scent training could improve pet dogs' behavior. The study shows that pet dogs trained to detect scents have a better mental ability and capacity to carry out certain tasks.Previous research only compared highly trained working dogs, like assistance dogs or search and rescue dogs, with untrained pet dogs. Now, for the first time, the researchers have tested the effects of scent training on two groups of untrained dogs. A research team from Aberystwyth University led the study in collaboration with Emma Stoker, owner of Puppy Plus, a dog training company based in Newton, Wales.The study involved 40 dogs of varying degrees of training, whose owners were asked to fill out a questionnaire with basic information about their pet. Researchers gave the dogs two tasks, both requiring impulse control. In the first test, called the “detour task”, the dogs needed to navigate a transparent barrier to get food. The second “A not B task”, tested the dogs’ ability to switch their choice from one pot to another, depending on where food was placed. Researchers separated the dogs into two groups to see whether their ability to detect scents would improve their cognitive ability. The dogs in the first group were given the “detour task” and had to navigate around a transparent barrier to get a treat. In the second group, the researchers said “Look” to the dog to get its attention and then showed it a treat before hiding it under a pot. Dogs in the second group underwent scent training, separated into three phases - familiarization, training, and test phase. In the first phase, only one pot was used. In the training phase, two pots were used, and in the final, test phase, three pots were used.Pate scent was rubbed on all pots to make it harder for the dogs to sniff out where the treat was hidden. If the dog didn’t respond within 20 seconds of being released to find the treat, or if it picked the wrong pot, the dog was shown the treat but wasn’t rewarded. Researchers discovered that dogs who received scent training performed the tasks more efficiently than those who weren’t trained. The study also showed that scent training improved dogs’ inhibitory control and helped them focus on completing a specific task. What’s important for dog owners to know is that poor impulse control is believed to be the main cause of a lot of unwanted behaviors in dogs, such as house soiling and destructive behavior. This new study suggests that scent training could help owners improve their dogs’ behavior. Dr. Sarah Dalesman, the co-author of the study, said: “This research shows that dogs that train primarily in scent work have stronger inhibitory control, suggesting that this training can have a positive effect on their behavior.”“Scent training is offered by a lot of dog trainers, and easy to practice at home. It might offer a great way for owners to improve their pets’ behavior, and we’re aiming to test this theory in future studies.”If scent training isn’t compatible with the way your pup learns, you can try agility or puzzle training. Puzzle training provides mental and physical stimulation and can come in handy when a dog needs to stay home alone or confined. Agility training is another option. Agility is a sport in which you direct your dog through a pre-set obstacle course allowing them to gain problem-solving skills. Try different training activities with your dog to find out what you and your pooch enjoy doing together the most.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Are Dog Bars the New Dog Park?

Socializing with other pet parents over a cold one, just got easier!

Canine Nose Prints Help Reunite Lost Pets with Owners

Faster and more effective than microchips? Time will tell.

Animal Shelter Receives Donations in Memory of Jon Stewart’s Dog

Comedian Jon Stewart returned to “The Daily Show” on Comedy Central in February, and viewers have been tuning in to watch him talk about current events. Stewart hosts every Monday night, serving up news in a hilarious way. But on February 26, he closed the show on a somber note, spending a few minutes talking about his dog, Dipper.Jon Stewart Remembers His Extraordinary DogStewart shared a touching story of how he met and came to adopt Dipper. He explained that, 12 or 13 years ago, his young children wanted to raise money for Animal Haven, a no-kill shelter for dogs and cats in New York City. To fundraise, his family baked cupcakes and set up an area outside of the shelter to sell them.  He went on to say that the shelter brought out a pit bull who was about 1 year old. At this point, Stewart started to break down, clearly getting emotional as he explained that the dog had been hit by a car in Brooklyn and had lost one of his legs as a result.Through tears, Stewart said his family left the shelter after raising some much-needed funds for a wonderful organization that does great work. But they also left with the very special pit bull who had stolen their hearts and who was, as Stewart described him, the best boy. Dipper even used to go to the studio with Stewart, so he met the famous people who were guests on the show.Then, Stewart shared the devastating news that Dipper had passed away just the day before. He ended with a wish for everyone to find an amazing dog they could love. And then, for the show’s “Moment of Zen,” they played an adorable video of Dipper playing in the snow.You can watch the segment here:

Newfoundland Dogs Deliver Your Tree at This US Christmas Tree Farm

“It’s a great way to expose people to the joy of Christmas but also teach people about Newfoundland dogs,” explained Lindsay Eshelman when asked about her family farm. “They’re big, and sometimes people are scared of big dogs, and we want to show that they’re gentle giants.”The Esheman family’s love of the breed is evident, with four Newfoundland dogs currently among their ranks. But they didn’t want to stop there. By inviting Newfies from far and wide to come together, they have rightfully earned the title “The Newfoundland Farm.” The event has become a big part of what they do, a tradition they excitedly look forward to year after year.“We are a destination for these dogs,” Eshelman said. “We actually have had people drive all the way from Vermont, Maine, Ohio – those are ten-plus hour-long drives.”Are you interested in joining the festivities next year, but your dog doesn’t quite fit the breed? Don’t worry! Their Facebook states that all dogs are welcome, not just Newfies. If your dog isn’t keen on public spaces, that’s okay too! Dog lovers are welcome to join in with or without a dog. There will be plenty of adorable pups eager to enjoy your attention.So, start planning your trip to Pennsylvania next year to participate in Newfoundland Day and make some unique holiday memories.Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Half of Americans Believe Pets Steal the Spotlight During Holidays

A survey revealed that nearly half of Americans (43%) think their loved ones are more excited to see their pets on the holidays than they are to see them. This survey involved 2,000 cat and dog owners and was conducted by One Poll on behalf of Nulo. According to results, 32% of surveyed owners admit they are more delighted to see a friend’s or family member’s pet than they are to see them. Surprisingly, 20% of dog owners think their pets love the holiday season more than they do.What’s not so surprising, is that almost half of respondents (48%) do something special for their pet during the happiest time of year. This includes buying custom ornaments or decorations (64%), dressing their pets in holiday clothing or pajamas (60%), getting their pet their own Christmas tree (49%), and stocking (47%).Half of pet owners like to give their four-legged companions extra treats during the holiday season, and 45% admit they dole out more treats to their pets at Christmas than during any other time of the year. In addition to extra treats, more than two-thirds of pets are likely to be treated with a special holiday meal. This survey also found that the majority of pet parents believe that their pets enjoy the hustle and bustle of holidays and are looking forward to the influx of visitors during the holiday season. Begging for attention, welcoming guests, and playing with a new holiday toy are some of the ways owners know that their pets are in the festive mood.Nearly half of responders give their pets gifts for Christmas. Those owners, on average, spend more than $100 on three gifts for their pets.Most owners decide to gift their pet toys (61%), clothes (59%), and treats (56%).Interestingly, this survey also looked at which family members are the most likely to spoil the pet. The results showed that the owner’s brother is the most likely to buy a present for the pet, followed by the owner’s parents. Surprisingly, 36% of grandfathers buy gifts for their four-legged grandchildren, compared to 34% of grandmothers. “Healthy treats and special occasion meals are a great way to involve your dog or cat in fun holiday moments - and can add a nutritional boost as a bonus,” said Heather Mendoza, Nulo’s Director of Research & Development, according to New York Post. It’s great to see that pet owners are offering their pets special meals that mimic their own holiday feasts. The holiday season provides the opportunity for quality time and special experiences with our families, including finding more ways to show love and affection to our furballs, she added.In addition to gifts, more cuddles, and treats, pets are also spoiled more during the holiday season by having their special person at home with them. Nearly half of respondents admit to going on more walks and adventures with their pets during the holidays. Interestingly, 40% of owners report that their pets also get to sleep more.Considering that almost all American pet owners consider their pets a part of the family, it’s no surprise that pets partake in holiday traditions. The majority of owners bring their pets to celebrations at other people’s homes. Pets are also involved in “opening the presents” and even go to meet the Santa. “Results showed that 40% of respondents believe Christmas is their pet’s favorite holiday - far ahead of the second favorite (New Year’s Day) at 19%,” said Mendoza. And if you still haven’t found a perfect gift for your pet, don’t despair! Check out our detailed holiday gift guide for cats and dogs to find the best holiday present for your four-legged companion. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

According to ASPCA, These Are The Top 10 Pet Toxins of 2023

No matter how careful you are, accidents happen – this is particularly true when it comes to pet  poisoning cases. Not only that cats and dogs have some uncanny ability to get into stuff that they’re not supposed to get into, but you also can’t always know what things could be a potential toxin to them. And believe us when we say, there are a lot of potential pet toxins in an average household!The annual report by the  ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC)  only goes to prove this. Each year, they examine all the compiled data to determine which are the most commonly encountered pet toxins each year. It helps keep owners aware of the threats, and to keep vets always one step ahead. In 2023, the APCC was extra busy, having received hundreds of thousands of calls about items and substances that pets were exposed to. Incredibly, these substances totaled over 351,000!Even though they were contacted about such an imposing number of potentially hazardous substances, they managed to narrow down the most common culprits and compile the list of top 10 pet toxins in 2023, which will serve as a great reminder of what to look out for.Over-the-counter medications, including cold and flu medicines, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and vitamins and supplements. With 16.8% exposure, these medications are the number one threat in 2023. Almost every home has some sort of medications stored, and they aren’t always expertly hidden. Accidentally, pets can discover them and suffer many dire consequences if they ingest them. Human food and drink are almost equally as dangerous, with 16.2% reported calls. A lot of what we consume daily is toxic to pets. This can range from common items such as raisins, onions, garlic, grapes, or sweets, to more rare items such as protein drinks and bars, xylitol gums, and energy drinks. If your pet gets their paws on any of these, it can end up in an emergency vet visit. Prescription medications for humans are very dangerous to pets, and many reports were made in regard to inhalers, ADHD medications, heart medications, and similar. Prescription medications are often strong drugs and definitely not meant for pets.Chocolate is the number 4 threat for 2023. A staggering 13% of calls were related to this sweet. Dogs are mostly found consuming it as cats do not have sweet taste buds or the appetite of dogs. Still, chocolate is not meant for pets and can cause many side effects.Veterinary products are at number 5 with 8.3% reported exposures. Callers reported ingestion of chewable tablets or soft chews, many of them used for calming pets. Owners are urged to keep medicines locked away, as pets can like their sweet taste and go after them when you are not looking. Plants and fungi accounted for 8.1% of exposures. Dogs are inquisitive and can find these plants on their outdoor adventures. But many plants can cause a threat to dogs, so make sure to acquaint yourself with a list of toxic plants to look out for.Household products are also on this list, with 7.1% of exposures reported. Pets consumed various dangerous items, such as deoxidizer packets, batteries, and various miscellanea lying around the house. Be aware of what’s lying around that’s easy to reach.Rodenticides are a major threat to pets. People can use poisons to get rid of pests, but our pets don’t know that. If they ingest them, it can be extremely dangerous, leading to kidney failure, bleeding, and even death. When you are out on walks, always be careful what is lying around. Insecticides are almost the same. People use bug sprays, ant baits, and poisonous powders all over the place. Always make sure that the area you are in is free from anything that can be a threat to your pet. Recreational drugs are last but not least. With substances such as marijuana becoming increasingly legal, pets can come in contact with them as well. But there are also hallucinogenic substances such as mushrooms, especially psilocybin, and muscarine, which can be very harmful to pets. 

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