What are the signs my dog has a sensitive tummy?

The short answer!

Common signs include intermittent loose stools, excessive wind, gurgling tummy noises, occasional vomiting, and inconsistent appetite.

A sensitive stomach sits somewhere between 'perfectly fine' and 'something's wrong' - not quite ill, but never fully settled either.

What you'll typically notice

Loose stools that come and go without obvious cause
Gurgling or rumbling sounds after eating
Wind that clears the room
Occasional vomiting, often bile or undigested food
Fussy eating or inconsistent appetite
Grass eating more than usual

The pattern matters

Sensitive stomachs tend to flare predictably - after new treats, during stressful periods, or following any break from routine. The key distinction is that symptoms resolve relatively quickly once the trigger passes, rather than persisting or worsening (1).

What it isn't

Persistent vomiting, bloody stools, significant weight loss, or symptoms lasting more than a few days suggest something beyond general sensitivity. These warrant a vet visit rather than tinkering alone at home at home.

Individual variation

Some dogs have always been this way. Others develop sensitivity after illness, antibiotics, or as they age. Knowing your dog's baseline helps you spot when something's changed versus their normal pattern.

References

Gaschen FP, Merchant SR. Adverse food reactions in dogs and cats. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract. 2011;41(2):361-379. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21486641/

This content is for general information only and does not replace veterinary advice. Supplements and nutritional products are not licensed veterinary medicines. Always speak to your vet before making changes to your dog’s diet, supplements, or care routine.

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