Best Food for French Bulldogs with Sensitive Stomachs

Understanding the French Bulldog's Sensitive Digestion

French bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds, loved for their fun-loving personalities packed into a small, muscular body. However, Frenchies are also known for having sensitive digestion and stomach issues. This is often due to a condition called short bowel syndrome, resulting from their compact body size.

Common Causes of French Bulldogs' Stomach Sensitivity

There are several reasons why French bulldogs tend to have sensitive stomachs:

• Genetic predisposition - Frenchies lack genetic diversity, increasing risk of inherited diseases
• Stenotic nares - Pinched nostrils common in the breed can make eating difficult, leading to gulping air and gas
• Allergies or intolerances - Common allergens for Frenchies include chicken, beef, dairy, and wheat
• Overeating - Their appetite often exceeds their stomach capacity

Signs of French Bulldog Stomach Trouble

Watch for these common signs of gastrointestinal issues in French bulldogs:

• Chronic soft stools or diarrhea
• Excessive gas or flatulence
• Frequent vomiting or regurgitation
• Visible discomfort after eating
• Increased licking around anus or genitals

If your Frenchie displays persistent tummy troubles, be sure to consult your veterinarian, as they can suggest tests like elimination diets or endoscopic biopsies to diagnose any underlying condition.

Best Diet Tips for French Bulldogs with Sensitive Stomachs

When caring for a Frenchie with a sensitive stomach, choosing the right diet is crucial. Here are some top tips:

Pick Limited Ingredient Food Formulas

Limited ingredient dog foods contain fewer components, making it is easier to identify triggers for your French bulldog's stomach troubles. Prioritize single protein, grain-free recipes without unnecessary fillers.

Select Softer Kibbles or Wet Food

The unique head shape of French bulldogs can make it hard to properly chew dry kibble. Softer foods are gentler on sensitive tummies. Alternatively, add water to kibble to soften it.

Incorporate Probiotic Supplements

Probiotics support healthy digestion and may ease stomach woes in Frenchies. Look for dog probiotic powders or pastes containing strains like Enterococcus faecium that withstand stomach acid. Follow dosage guidelines.

Avoid Common Allergen Ingredients

As noted earlier, French bulldogs often have allergic reactions to ingredients like chicken, beef, dairy, soy, wheat, and corn. Read labels carefully and avoid foods with common Frenchie allergy triggers.

Prevent Overeating or Gulping Air

To minimize gas, bloating, and vomiting, feed your French bulldog small, frequent meals instead of free choice feeding. Use slow feed bowls and supervise mealtimes to prevent fast eating and swallowed air.

Reviews: Best Dog Foods for French Bulldogs with Sensitive Stomachs

Royal Canin French Bulldog Breed-Specific Dry Dog Food

Tailored to the French bulldog's unique nutritional needs with easily digested proteins and prebiotics for healthy digestion. Many Frenchie owners find it gentler on sensitive stomachs. Comes in small kibble clips sized appropriately for the breed.

Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food

Clinically-tested formula with prebiotic fiber to promote gentle digestion in dogs prone to food sensitivities and stomach issues. Made with lamb meal as a less common protein source and includes omega-6s for skin health. Vets often recommend it for sensitive Frenchies.

Natural Balance Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato & Venison Formula

Grain-free LID recipe with novel protein source ideal for dogs with allergies causing stomach woes. Made with highly digestible potatoes and B-vitamins to support the GI tract. Many French bulldog owners switching from chicken-based foods find success with this venison and sweet potato recipe.

Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin & Stomach Salmon & Rice Formula

Nutrient-dense kibble proven to reduce stomach sensitivity in French bulldogs and other predisposed breeds. Formulated with easy-to-digest salmon as the sole animal protein alongside prebiotic fiber. The smaller kibble pieces make it one of the best Purina foods for gassy Frenchies.

Iams ProActive Health Sensitive Digestion Salmon Recipe

Budget-friendly salmon and rice formula suitable for mini Frenchies under 20 pounds. Made to improve stomach and immune health with omega-3s, vitamin E and easily absorbed carbohydrates. Many owners switching off grain-inclusive chicken recipes have success with this sensitive Iams option.

Other Tips for Caring for a Frenchie with a Sensitive Stomach

In addition to diet changes, here are some other tips for helping your French bulldog with stomach troubles:

• Give digestive enzyme supplements to improve food breakdown
• Try probiotic pastes or fortified foods for gut health
• Rule out parasites or infections with fecal tests
• Use raised, narrow feeding bowls to prevent air swallowing
• Discourage speed eating and vigorous exercise right after meals

Working closely with your veterinarian can ensure you find the right combination of lifestyle changes and diet adaptations to keep your sensitive Frenchie feeling their best. Stay patient - it may take some trial and error to pinpoint what works for your unique bulldog.

FAQs

Why do French bulldogs have sensitive stomachs?

French bulldogs often have sensitive digestion due to genetic predisposition, structural issues like stenotic nares, food allergies/intolerances, overeating, and other factors. Their compact body size also predisposes them to gastrointestinal troubles.

What dog food ingredients should I avoid for my gassy Frenchie?

Avoid common French bulldog allergy triggers like chicken, beef, dairy products, soy, wheat, and corn. Stick to limited ingredient dog foods with proteins like salmon, venison, duck or lamb paired with potatoes or rice.

How much should I feed my French bulldog puppy?

Feed your Frenchie puppy 4 small meals a day up to 6 months old, then switch to 2 meal portions daily for adults. Follow portion guidelines on your chosen food and use slow feed bowls to prevent overeating. Puppies have sensitive stomachs and need monitored feeding.

Can I give my French bulldog probiotics?

Yes, probiotic supplements can benefit French bulldog stomach health. Look for dog-specific brands with strains like Enterococcus faecium able to withstand digestion. Follow dosage guidelines based on your Frenchie’s weight.

What should I do if my French bulldog keeps throwing up?

Persistent vomiting warrants a vet visit to diagnose the cause. It could signal food allergies, intestinal blockages, inflammatory bowel disease, parasites and other issues requiring treatment. Keep your vet informed of any stomach symptoms in your Frenchie.