Is your German Shepherd suffering from a sensitive stomach?
Do they have unpleasant vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation?
Are you desperate to find a solution?
I understand your struggles, too!
My loyal German Shepherd experienced frequent tummy troubles that left us both worried and uncomfortable.
But there is hope!
I’ve discovered effective ways to help my German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach, and I want to share them with you.
In this article, you’ll learn:
- The causes of a German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach
- Common triggers for digestive issues in German Shepherds
- Natural remedies for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs
Let’s get going to help your German Shepherd get back to their usual self again.
What causes a sensitive stomach in German Shepherds?
German Shepherds are prone to sensitive stomachs due to various factors such as food intolerance, ingestion of foreign substances, an unbalanced diet, stress, and their tendency to eat too quickly. Poor breeding in the past has also led to genetic issues that contribute to digestive issues. German Shepherd puppies, in particular, may have sensitive stomachs when they consume unsuitable foods, eat things they shouldn’t (such as toys or plants), or are fed high-fat foods. Stomach sensitivity often shows up in German Shepherds as short-term episodes of vomiting, diarrhea, or a combination of both.
While German Shepherds are prone to stomach problems and gut issues, understanding the causes behind their sensitive stomachs is crucial to finding effective ways to alleviate their discomfort and provide them with a happier, healthier life.
Are German Shepherds prone to digestive issues?
Yes, German Shepherds are prone to digestive issues, including diarrhea and vomiting, as well as upset stomachs. Part of the reason for this might be attributed to their genetics, which includes a history of breeding dogs with inherited skin diseases and stomach problems. The German Shepherd has a higher incidence of significant stomach diseases compared to other breeds, and stomach concerns are one of the top reasons for a German Shepherd to visit a veterinarian. Due to their poor digestion, German Shepherds are also prone to dry skin issues, skin itching, and allergies.
Vomiting occurs most frequently in German Shepherds three years of age and older. Between the ages of three and six months, when German Shepherd puppies are younger, diarrhea is more prevalent.
If your German Shepherd is under 5 years of age and has chronic diarrhea, Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI) is worth investigating.
Now, let’s take a look at what you might expect when your dog has a delicate tummy.
Signs and Symptoms of a Sensitive Stomach in German Shepherds
Having experienced the challenges of owning a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach, I know the importance of being cautious and attentive to their digestive health. My German Shepherd struggled with several digestive issues throughout her life.
Whether she was a young and curious puppy or an aging dog, her delicate stomach required extra care and attention. It was essential for me to be mindful of my German Shepherd’s stomach sensitivity because she could easily vomit or have diarrhea. Yuk! ☹
For German Shepherds, digestive problems can pose significant risks, especially in elderly dogs, young puppies, or those with underlying medical issues. These factors can exacerbate their sensitivity and make them more susceptible to gut issues.
Recognizing the symptoms of digestive problems is important to ensure timely intervention and prevent potential complications.
The following are some of the most typical signs and symptoms of a sensitive stomach in German Shepherds:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Vomiting and diarrhea together
- Loss of appetite
- Constipation
Your German Shepherd may also exhibit the following when having digestive issues:
- Changes of behavior, such as sleeping more
- Hypersalivation
- Excessive swallowing (a result of hypersalivation)
- Nausea
- Severe gas
- Mucus in the stool
- Decreased activity after eating questionable substances
Your German Shepherd doesn’t necessarily have to show all of the symptoms to have a sensitive stomach.
However, in German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs, vomiting, diarrhea, or a mix of the two are the most common symptoms.
What the Research Says About German Shepherd Stomach Sensitivities
Even scientific studies can predict the likelihood that your German Shepherd may exhibit the most typical symptoms of gastrointestinal sensitivity.Below is a chart showing how many German Shepherds had sensitive stomach problems in the major study.
Sensitive Stomach Issues in German Shepherds
| Diarrhea | Vomiting and Diarrhea | Vomiting | Loss of Appetite | Constipation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 276 | 132 | 96 | 96 | 5 |
Compared to other breeds, German Shepherds were much more likely to be brought in for treatment for digestive issues and other stomach-related sensitivities. In fact, most German Shepherds brought to the teaching hospital had experienced more than one episode of vomiting or diarrhea in the previous two weeks.
How long does a sensitive stomach last in German Shepherds?
Short-term episodes of stomach sensitivity in German Shepherds often last 24 to 48 hours. For infrequent stomach problems in an otherwise healthy German Shepherd, gentle home care is often recommended.
If the stomach issue doesn’t resolve on its own at home within 48 hours or if more severe symptoms (such as lethargy, bloody vomiting, or blood in the stools) appear, take your German Shepherd dog straight to the vet.
These serious signs could indicate a medical emergency.
Common Causes of a German Shepherd’s Sensitive Stomach
German Shepherds typically only experience brief stomach issues that are mild and intermittent. Several factors can contribute to these short-lived digestive episodes.
The most common reasons why a German Shepherd’s stomach is sensitive are:
- Food intolerance to a specific ingredient
- Eating things they shouldn’t
- A change in their diet
- Eating table scraps or other rich foods
- Ingesting their food too quickly
- Taking antibiotics or medications
- Stress and anxiety
The first step in identifying and treating stomach issues is determining the underlying reason.Let’s take a closer look at the many digestive problems that your German Shepherd may experience, and then we’ll discuss what you can do at home to treat them.
1. A digestive sensitivity to certain foods and ingredients.
When your German Shepherd has a food intolerance, this means they’re not able to correctly digest an ingredient in their food.They might even start refusing to eat because their food is causing them so many issues.
When it comes to food allergies in pets, the impact goes beyond skin irritations and itching. It’s estimated that approximately 20% of food-allergic pets also experience distressing gastrointestinal (GI) signs.
Imagine your German Shepherd suffering from flatulence, bouts of vomiting, relentless diarrhea, unsettling intestinal sounds, or having to relieve themselves more frequently than normal—up to four or five times a day!
The agony doesn’t stop there, though.
German Shepherds with food allergies may exhibit behaviors that tug at your heartstrings. They scratch incessantly at their face, ears, feet, groin, or anal area, desperately seeking relief from the discomfort. Recurrent skin or ear infections become an unfortunate reality for these dogs, further exacerbating their distress.
German Shepherds may frequently have stomach distress after eating the following foods:
- Chicken
- Turkey
- Soy products
- Dairy and egg products
- Certain vegetables
- Dyes, additives, and preservatives
These are some of the common ingredients in dog diets, though they are not the only ones that can irritate your German Shepherd’s stomach.
Want to know more?
There’s even an easy, at-home kit that takes just a few strands of fur from your dog for testing food intolerances right here.
Just like us, German Shepherds can experience stomach upset or become intolerant to a specific ingredient or food. This reaction makes the digestive system work harder and causes episodes of gastric upset, which may lead to uncontrollable itching and scratching in your German Shepherd.
2. Consuming irritants, including things other than food.
German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs frequently experience “dietary indiscretion,” as described by veterinarians.
The German Shepherd is one of the smartest dogs in the world, but despite this, they still consume items that they shouldn’t.
Or, even worse, they might consume non-food items as well!
Some owners are well aware that their dogs search through the trash for food remnants. Dogs love to comb the ground for dropped pieces of anything that captures their eye during their regular walks!
This type of food discretion can also cause constipation in your German Shepherd.
In general, these strange foods are unhealthy. Many contain elements that could be dangerous, such as:
- bacteria
- fats
- high-sugar content
- toxic substances
- many other stomach-upsetting compounds
Even grown dogs may attempt to rip up pillows and blankets, chew on furniture, and chew on rugs. Though this is typically more of an issue with puppies, German Shepherds of any age may eat something they shouldn’t.
In fact, from my experience with my GSD, she regularly loved to chew bits of her toys off and eat the pieces.
Always check your dog’s toys and play areas for anything they might ingest.
3. A quick change in their diet.
Have you recently changed your German Shepherd’s food?
Maybe you decided to try a new treat you just knew they’d love.
You might see a sensitive stomach in your German Shepherd due to a sudden change in their diet. The side of pet food bags generally states that several days are required for the digestion to adapt to changes in the food.
For this reason, you should never abruptly alter your dog’s diet.
Your dog might exhibit these symptoms of a quick diet change:
- Diarrhea
- Soft stools
- Gas
- Vomiting
- Reduced appetite
Because puppies are more susceptible than adult dogs to becoming ill from dietary changes, keep this in mind when feeding your new puppy. Always keeps a sensitive shampoo for your German Shepherd on hand to wash away any stool messes promptly to avoid bacteria spreading in your home!
4. Eating table scraps or other rich foods.
German Shepherd dogs frequently have sensitive stomachs, especially when it comes to certain treats and foods they’re fed. Table scraps may become a problem when they are consumed in large amounts, are excessively rich, or cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
Foods that might irritate your German Shepherd’s stomach include:
- Pieces of unwanted meat that usually include gristle
- Fatty foods, such as french fries
- Foods that are high in sugar or salt, like ice cream or potato chips
To keep your German Shepherd’s digestive tract in peak shape, you should always give her a well-balanced diet.Don’t give in to those gorgeous “give me a taste of that” eyes! Resist!
Stick to feeding your sensitive German Shepherd healthy treats as rewards when they’re feeling well again.
5. Rushing through their meals.
Some digestive issues in German Shepherds are brought on by their “gobbler” personalities, which is when they eat too quickly.
Before being domesticated, dogs regularly went days without eating and probably had no idea when their next meal would arrive.
Because of this erratic evolution, many German Shepherds naturally consume excessive amounts of food at once.
If left to their own devices, German Shepherd puppies are particularly prone to overeating until they become sick. Therefore, it’s critical to keep an eye on their dietary intake and weight increase and stop them from gulping their food too quickly.
German Shepherd puppies are especially known to eat until they’re sick if left to their own devices. That’s why it’s important to monitor their food intake and weight gain and prevent them from gobbling up their meals.
My vet advised me that German Shepherds tend to gain weight more quickly than other breeds and to stay on top of my GSD’s weight check-ins.
6. GI upset caused by antibiotics or medicines.
The risk of eliminating the good bacteria necessary for a German Shepherd’s digestive health grows with the use of antibiotics. As a result, digestion may become slower, and uncomfortable symptoms of a sensitive stomach may manifest.
You can get ready if you are aware that your dog will soon be on antibiotics or another medication that might cause digestive discomfort.
This includes having gentle foods that are easy to digest on hand and giving your pup a proactive course of gut-soothing probiotics.
While sometimes medications are necessary for our German Shepherds to get well again, they may give our dogs other digestive issues to deal with.
7. Stress-induced digestive problems.
German Shepherds are actually quite perceptive of their surroundings, despite the fact that they might occasionally come across as being unduly stoic.
A German Shepherd under excessive stress may:
- appear exhausted
- overreact to everyday events they ordinarily don’t care about
- withdraw from the family in search of a peaceful place to unwind
If you want to lower her stress levels, you must recognize possible stressors and manage them successfully.
Let’s talk about ways to prevent gastric upset in the first place now that you are aware of the most frequent reasons for a German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach.
Preventing and Treating Stomach Sensitivity in German Shepherds
Your German Shepherd can’t tell you how they feel or what they did to upset their bellies.
But there are some steps you can take to prevent digestive distress and help soothe your German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach.
The secret to keeping your German Shepherd happy and healthy?
Prevention.
Here are some natural home remedies and treatments to help a German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach.
Natural Remedies for German Shepherds with Sensitive Stomachs
While there are some gastrointestinal upsets that you shouldn’t treat at home, many minor gut troubles respond well to home treatments.
These are the most common home remedies for a German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach issues:
1. Feed a highly-digestible sensitive stomach dog food.
The carbohydrates, lipids, and fiber that German Shepherds consume can easily aggravate their delicate digestive systems.
As a result, your dog experiences tummy pain, which is frequently followed by vomiting and diarrhea.
These dogs typically require specialized dietary care, and food designed for dogs with sensitivities works best for them.
There are several dog diets available that provide sensitive German Shepherds with a diet with few ingredients.
Choosing the right diet for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach means:
- knowing what to avoid
- knowing what to include
Look for products that specify they are intended for sensitive dogs or that they have a limited ingredient list. These foods are designed to lessen gastrointestinal discomfort and skin sensitivities.
They are easier for delicate stomachs to digest because they are made with carefully chosen components.
To avoid stomach distress, always remember to gradually change your diet over a period of at least 7 days.
Additionally, record the type and quantity of food you are giving them in case, later on, there are any digestive problems and you need to keep track of what might have caused the issue.
The best dog food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs is Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon Adult Large Breed Formula Dog Food. The salmon protein is easy-to-digest and the addition of gut-soothing ingredients may help decrease diarrhea, gas, and other uncomfortable stomach issues.
While food isn’t the only thing you can change to help your German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach, it’s one of the most common choices for many concerned owners.
For a closer look at even sensitive dog food for a German Shepherd and recommended choices, read this post on the best dog food for German Shepherds to soothe a sensitive stomach.
2. Control the areas that your German Shepherd has access to.
You might not always be aware of what your German Shepherd has gotten into when they are sick to their stomach.
Because some of the things your puppy might eat can be dangerous, it is easier to prevent them from doing so than to cope with the consequences of their transgression.
There are many ways to control your German Shepherd puppy and prevent sensitive stomachs, such as:
- Put them in a crate so they can be watched while you’re
- Having a leash tied to them and yourself when not crated and indoors
- Examining your home’s interior for hazardous materials, including chemicals, cables, and other items
- Creating a puppy-safe environment with an exercise pen to keep them contained and safe
German Shepherd puppies will consume things they shouldn’t since they are so curious about the world around them. This could be trashed food that has gone moldy, a chemical they discover within, or even pieces of their toys.
I once caught my German Shepherd eating bird food out of a low-hanging bird feeder! 🐤
German Shepherds are inquisitive and athletic and will investigate areas you might not think about.
Keep an eye out for anything your puppy puts in their mouth because non-foods (such as a foreign body, poison, or irritant) can frequently also cause digestive issues.
It is simpler and safer to keep your dog from getting into mischief than for them to consume a harmful substance or foreign object by accident.
3. Monitor their diet closely, including treats and snacks.
Some dog treats can cause sensitivities in German Shepherds, even though they love to eat them. There are limited-ingredient treats on the market, just like there are limited-ingredient dog foods.
Look for the best treats for giving German Shepherds instead of cheap, low-quality snacks or table scraps that aren’t healthy.
To prevent stomach upset from treats:
- keep the number of treats you give your German Shepherd to a minimum
- make sure your dog eats their meals and doesn’t just fill up on treats
- watch out when introducing them to a new snack that you’ve never given them before
4. Avoid feeding your German Shepherd table scraps and high-fat foods.
Instead of feeding your German Shepherd table scraps or high-fat foods, avoid them altogether. These foods will only cause more stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Let your family know to stop feeding your German Shepherd table scraps so they’re all on board.
Keep an eye out for kids eating, as they often leave behind lots of tempting scraps that you might overlook in your dog’s diet.
I know how tempting it was to give my German Shepherd “just a nibble” of something I was eating.
But resist the temptation of those gorgeous eyes!
You don’t want to deal with the aftermath of their tummy woes, especially if they’re prone to food sensitivities.
To reduce stomach issues, keep your German Shepherd’s diet as free of leftovers and unhealthy foods as you can.
5. Slow down overeating and gulping at mealtimes.
Fast-eating German Shepherds consume an excessive amount of air. This air may raise stomach pressure and result in digestive issues.
To lengthen your dog’s mealtime, use a slow-feeder bowl so your dog must take their time with their food.
By encouraging slower eating, these bowls reduce the amount of air your German Shepherd inhales when they eat too quickly. Your dog should take longer to finish her food, the more grooves there are in the bowl. Even after using the same pattern and style of slow-feeding bowls for years, I noticed my GSD still had to take her time to maneuver her tongue and get the kibble out of the maze-like grooves.
I prefer to use a large puzzle bowl like this because it holds enough food for my GSD’s meal.
I’ve owned slow-feeding bowls for years, and in my experience, my GSD takes at least twice as long to eat her meal.
So, there are fewer digestive issues of her throwing up! 👏
6. Add probiotic supplements to your German Shepherd’s diet.
When you anticipate that your German Shepherd may be administered an antibiotic or any medication that could irritate their stomach, prepare to give them a probiotic.
By out-competing these microbes for food, probiotics help to manage them. Beneficial bacteria proliferate more readily in the intestines when the proliferation of dangerous bacteria is restricted.
Supplements for a German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach
There are several supplements for a German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach, but the best-known supplement to prevent tummy troubles is probiotics. The ideal way to offer your German Shepherd natural probiotics is in the form of a chewable tablet. I like this duck-flavored soft probiotic chew because it’s easy to give, and my GSD gladly eats it.
Other supplements for stomach sensitivity in German Shepherds include:
- digestive enzymes
- prebiotics
- natural herbs
Of course, you know it’s a smart idea to always check with your vet before giving any supplements to your dog.
Supplements won’t cure an underlying health problem in a dog that requires medical treatment.
7. Create a calming and stress-free atmosphere.
These days, it’s easy to forget how stressful all your appointments, meetings, and hurrying around may be for your German Shepherd.
And major events like a house transfer, a change in routine, or the arrival of a new child in the family can truly frighten a German Shepherd.
Always make sure your dog has:
- a peaceful place to relax where she won’t be bothered
- her own bed in a separate area of the room
- a large, German Shepherd size orthopedic dog bed to cradle her joints while she sleeps
And don’t forget to play engaging brain games with your German Shepherd to keep your dog’s mind engaged. This time together can lessen stress, which may help your GSD feel better.
What foods can I feed a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach?
It can be difficult to feed a German Shepherd with gastrointestinal problems, but there are several items that can make the situation more comfortable.
Give your German Shepherd with sensitive digestion a food that is:
- easy to digest
- devoid of common allergens
- abundant in essential nutrients.
Verify that the diet of your dog or puppy is appropriate for their age, size, and level of activity at all times.
Keep an eye on the number of calories in each dish to maintain a healthy weight.
There are a lot of products to feed your GSD on the market—so many that I’ve selected the best dog food for a German Shepherd with stomach sensitivity right here.
I’ll give you a brief overview of your diet options now as well.
The following types of food are generally suitable for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach:
Limited ingredient diet
These diets frequently only contain one protein source and a handful of additional ingredients, reducing the likelihood of an allergic reaction.
You can find some limited-ingredient dog food for a German Shepherd here.
Hypoallergenic diet
Food allergies are less likely to develop in these diets because uncommon protein sources like fish or duck are frequently included. Typically, they are created with well-known, stomach-friendly ingredients.
However, due to their novel protein sources, they tend to be more costly.
Grain-free diet
A grain-free food has no carbohydrates from grain sources. Generally, these diets are also made with easily digestible ingredients. For German Shepherds with delicate stomachs, a grain-free diet may be helpful, as it can help lower the risk of food allergies and improve digestion.
While it’s more likely your dog has issues digesting one of the protein sources, such as chicken or beef, you still may find grain-free choices easier on your dog’s digestion.
There are lots more grain-free dog food options for German Shepherds described for you in this article.
Homemade diet
A homemade diet may be beneficial for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs. Cooking dog food at home allows for greater control over the ingredients and the ability to avoid any known allergens.
Without a veterinarian’s supervision, these diets shouldn’t be used for an extended period of time. But for brief episodes of an upset stomach or a sensitive stomach, they are a great option.
I also find it fun to make homemade food and treats for my GSD because I know exactly what I’ve put into the recipe.
Wet food
German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs may find that wet food is easier to digest because it has more moisture than dry food.
German Shepherds who appear uninterested in eating may find highly scented, moist foods appealing.
Canned food generally has fewer calories and costs more, so you not only need to give your dog a larger portion, but long-term use can really add up.
Given their cost and the size of your dog, it might be worthwhile to create a mixture of both wet food and add dry kibble.
Tips for Managing a German Shepherd’s Sensitive Stomach
One of the biggest concerns I had when my German Shepherd’s stomach was acting up was how to care for and treat her at home.
So, I designed my own care schedule for when she’s feeling under the weather due to her GI upset.
Here’s a daily care schedule with tips to keep on top of your dog’s tummy troubles:
Morning
7:00 a.m.: Wake up and take your German Shepherd out for a potty break. Clean their bedding, if they’ve been sick during the night.
7:30 a.m.: Give your German Shepherd a small serving of their sensitive stomach diet, preferably in a slow-feeding bowl. Wipe out their water dish and refill it with cool, fresh water. Make sure they’re drinking enough fluids.
8:00 a.m.: Take your German Shepherd for a short walk before you leave the house and engage them in a mental game to reduce stress and boredom. Take any notes about your dog’s behavior, bowel movements, or if she has been vomiting or having diarrhea.
Midday
12:00 p.m.: Time for another potty break for your German Shepherd. Have a friend or dog walker stop by when you can’t make it home. Refresh her water so she stays hydrated.
1:00 p.m.: Give your German Shepherd a small serving of their sensitive stomach diet. Note how much they’re eating to monitor their appetite.
2:00 p.m.: Provide interactive playtime or mental stimulation, but keep it low-energy so your dog doesn’t upset their stomach. You could work on a few of these easy GSD basic commands at home if they’re feeling up to it.
Evening
6:00 p.m.: Bring your German Shepherd outside for a generous bathroom break and let them sniff around the yard. Don’t take them to a dog park anytime they’re feeling ill and avoid letting them play with their dog friends if they’re showing signs of sickness.
6:30 p.m.: Give your dog a small meal of their sensitive stomach diet food. Refill and freshen up their water dish. Make sure they’re getting enough fluids to stay hydrated.
7:00 p.m.: Take your dog for another quick stroll to let her stretch her legs or sniff around the yard.
8:00 p.m.: Include notes about your dog’s behavior and how much she has eaten for the day. The notes will help you see if your dog is eating well or not. I always played an enrichment game for my German Shepherd’s mental health in the evenings when she’s not as physically active to avoid boredom. You can choose an easy game from these mental enrichment activities for German Shepherds.
Night
10:00 p.m.: Before going to bed, take your GSD out for one last quick bathroom break.
10:30 p.m.: Make sure your German Shepherd’s sleeping area is comfortable, safe, and free from disturbance and distraction. Ensure the bedding and floor is clean and disinfected if they’re had any accidents or sickness.
11:00 p.m.: Lights out for your German Shepherd for the night. During the night, check on them to make sure they haven’t experienced any illness that requires your cleaning and care.
These tips and care schedules are a general guide. Feel free to adjust it depending on the individual needs of your German Shepherd and your lifestyle.
Remember to write a few notes in a journal or on your phone’s note app, such as:
- how your dog is feeling
- how much they’re eating and drinking
- what symptoms they still have and their behavior
This information will prove valuable to you should you need to take your dog to the vet or if your dog has additional bouts of sickness in the future and you want to know what to expect again. Treating digestive problems in German Shepherds takes time, but having a plan can definitely make the work less stressful for both you and your dog.
Signs That Your German Shepherd’s Stomach Is Recovering
A short-lived stomach issue usually resolves itself at home within 24 to 48 hours with gentle treatment. But, there are also a number of signs you can watch out for to see if your German Shepherd has recovered from a sensitive stomach.
Improvements in digestive symptoms
When your dog has recovered from their sensitive stomach, your German Shepherd’s vomiting and diarrhea should significantly decrease or stop altogether. This is generally the first sign you’ll notice, especially if you’ve been cleaning up after them a lot.
Increased appetite and energy
An increase in appetite and energy is another indication of recovery. As your German Shepherd’s digestive issues get better, you should notice that they are starting to eat normally and seem more active again.
Greater desire to play
Another indication that your pet’s health has improved and they are feeling much better is if you notice that your dog is more eager to play and interact with you. They also have a bright and energetic disposition whereas before they might have preferred to rest to calm their tummy.
When should I take my German Shepherd to the vet for their stomach sensitivity?
For German Shepherds to fully recover from brief episodes of stomach sensitivity, at-home care is typically needed for 24 to 48 hours. The right home treatments will give your dog the comfort they need while they rest and recover. But untreated stomach issues can cause both uncomfortable symptoms and more severe health issues. If your German Shepherd vomits on a regular basis or exhibits other signs of digestive distress, take them to a veterinarian for an exam.
Your dog’s veterinarian can correctly diagnose any digestive system issues by running tests for any underlying conditions.
A call to your veterinarian should be made right away if your German Shepherd exhibits any of the following symptoms:
- persistent vomiting and diarrhea
- bloody stools
- acting listless or unresponsive
These symptoms could be signs of more serious problems.
It’s crucial to keep an eye on your German Shepherd’s recovery at home to prevent serious health issues.
One of the best ways to help your dog’s digestive distress is to keep notes so you can easily reference how serious their condition is. These notes may help you take the proper steps to help your dog recover from their troublesome tummy problems.
In Summary: Treating Digestive Problems and Stomach Sensitivities in German Shepherds
Last but not least, keep in mind that leading a healthy lifestyle can significantly contribute to the health of your German Shepherd’s digestive system.
Caring for a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach requires patience, understanding, and a commitment to their well-being. I’ve experienced firsthand the challenges and rewards of providing the right care.
Let me leave you with a few key tips for managing a German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach that can help you navigate this journey:
- Pay close attention to your German Shepherd’s dietary needs and choose a high-quality, easily digestible food that suits their sensitive stomach. Use notes to keep track of what you feed your dog and how they react.
- Avoid sudden changes in their diet, as it can trigger digestive upsets. Gradual transitions are essential for their digestive system to adapt.
- Monitor their eating habits and discourage rapid eating. Consider using puzzle feeders or slow-feed bowls to promote slower, more mindful eating.
- Ensure a stress-free environment for your German Shepherd, as stress can exacerbate their sensitive stomach. Provide them with a calm, safe space and engage in regular exercise and mental stimulation to promote overall well-being.
- Probiotics and other digestive supplements may help ease digestive distress and soothe stomach issues. Supplements alone won’t cure a medical condition, though.
- Stay vigilant for any signs of discomfort or recurring digestive issues. Consult with a veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen, as they can provide tailored advice and potential treatment options.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.
As a happy owner of a German Shepherd with a sensitive stomach, I can assure you that the effort and dedication you put into their care will make a world of difference.
Embrace the journey, stay informed, and always prioritize their health and happiness.
More importantly, you can create a more comfortable life for your German Shepherd—even if they have a sensitive stomach.
Free PDF Stomach Symptom Tracker and Hop to Health Care Plan for Your German Shepherd
Want to keep your German Shepherd’s sensitive stomach in check?
Easily keep tabs on what upsets your German Shepherd’s stomach with this straightforward PDF stomach symptom tracker.
Need more help?
I’ve got you covered with a stress-less stomach care plan for your GSD, too!
Simply print it off and write down what foods upset or settle your dog’s tummy issues. Then, follow the short steps to bounce your dog into a better belly.
Did I mention it’s free and you don’t even have to sign-up? 😃
Grab your stomach symptom tracker and Hop to Health!
Additional References
Identifying food allergies: The veterinary elimination diet trial. Judy Seltzer, BVetMed, MRCVS, DACVD. November 6, 2019.
O’Neill, D.G., Coulson, N.R., Church, D.B., et al. Demography and disorders of German Shepherd Dogs under primary veterinary care in the UK. Canine Genet Epidemiol 4, 7 (2017). doi:10.1186/s40575-017-0046-4
Rakha GM, Abdl-Haleem MM, Farghali HA, Abdel-Saeed H. Prevalence of common canine digestive problems compared with other health problems in teaching veterinary hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Egypt. Vet World. 2015; 8(3):403-411. doi:10.14202/vetworld.2015.403-411
