Get

In Your Inbox

Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

11 Best Dog Foods for IBD in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

a dachshund dog looks sick lying on its owner

a dachshund dog looks sick lying on its owner As pet parents, we hate it when our pets are in pain or sick. If your dog is suffering from an upset stomach and digestive issues, it could be suffering from IBD or inflammatory bowel disease. If your pup has been diagnosed with IBD, then your vet has told you that there are special dog foods you can give your dog to help it with the symptoms.

However, there are so many choices for dog food brands for IBD on the market today that it’s hard to know which one is the best choice for your furry friend.

Luckily, we’ll help you determine what the best dog foods for IBD are in this guide. We have reviews and our top picks in the guide below, followed by a buyer’s guide.

Dogster divider_v3_NEW_MAY_24_

A Glance at Our Winners in 2026

Rating Image Product Details
Best Overall
Winner
Ollie Fresh Lamb Dog Food Subscription Ollie Fresh Lamb Dog Food Subscription
  • Does not contain common food irritants such as chicken, beef, or dairy
  • Easy to digest
  • Made with minimally processed, human-grade ingredients
  • Budget Buy
    Second place
    Blackwood Everyday Diet Adult Dry Dog Food Blackwood Everyday Diet Adult Dry Dog Food
  • Affordable
  • Contains pre and probiotics
  • No artificial ingredients
  • Third place
    Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canned Dog Food Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canned Dog Food
  • Hypoallergenic
  • High-quality dog food
  • Most dogs love the flavor
  • Canine Caviar Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food Canine Caviar Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food
  • Hypoallergenic
  • Holistic
  • No additives, preservatives, or allergens
  • Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Gastroenteric Dog Food Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Gastroenteric Dog Food
  • Specially formulated for digestive problems
  • Nutritionally balanced
  • Supports intestinal health
  • The 11 Best Dog Foods for IBD

    1. Ollie Fresh Lamb Dog Food Subscription – Best Overall

    Ollie Lamb Dish With Cranberries

    Main ingredients: Lamb, butternut squash, lamb liver, chickpeas, kale, rice, cranberries, green beans
    Protein content: 10%
    Fat content: 7%
    Calories: 1804 kcal/kg

    Dairy, chicken, wheat, and beef are generally best avoided if your dog has IBD, as these common ingredients can make the condition worse. But that’s where Ollie Fresh Lamb Dog Food comes in! This yummy recipe is made with 100% human-grade ingredients, such as lamb, butternut squash, lamb liver, chickpeas, kale, and cranberries. With a guaranteed analysis of 10% protein, 7% fat, and 2% fiber, this option meets the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO Nutrient Profiles for all stages of a dog’s life.

    The ingredients are cooked slowly in small batches to prevent the loss of essential nutrients. It does not contain preservatives, fillers, corn, wheat, or soy, things that can sometimes trigger inflammation and allergies in dogs. For these reasons, we believe that Ollie’s lamb recipe is the best overall dog food for IBD.

    That said, it is more expensive than regular dog food. Also, the pouches must thaw before you can serve them to your pet, which can be time-consuming for some dog owners.

    Pros
    • Does not contain common food irritants such as chicken, beef, or dairy
    • Easy to digest
    • Made with minimally processed, human-grade ingredients
    • No artificial flavors, soy, corn, or wheat
    • Most dogs love this food
    Cons
    • More expensive than commercial dog food
    • Requires time to thaw before feeding

    2. Blackwood Everyday Diet Adult Dry Dog Food – Budget Buy

    Blackwood Everyday Diet Adult Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Chicken meal, Brown rice, Millet, Oat groats
    Protein content: 24.5 %
    Fat content: 14%
    Calories: 441 kcal per cup

    Our favorite option for the best dog food for IBD for the money is Blackwood Everyday Diet Adult Dry Dog Food. It’s an affordable blend, and it works for almost any budget. It contains no artificial ingredients such as fillers, coloring, or preservatives. It also has prebiotics and probiotics, which promotes healthy digestion.

    This is a high-quality dog food with a chicken meal and brown rice as the first ingredients. It also has 24.5% protein, which is good for your dog’s IBD symptoms and overall health. Some pet parents reported that their dogs wouldn’t eat Blackwood, and minor IBD symptoms have also been reported.

    Pros
    • Affordable
    • Contains pre and probiotics
    • No artificial ingredients
    • Digestive improvements shown
    • A high-quality dog food
    Cons
    • Minor IBD symptoms
    • Some dogs wouldn’t eat it

    3. Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canned Dog Food

    Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canned Dog Food

    Main ingredients:
    Pea starch, Hydrolyzed chicken liver, Hydrolyzed soy protein, Vegetable oil
    Protein content: 5%
    Fat content: 2.50%
    Calories: 396 kcal per can

    Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Adult Canned Dog Food is a high-quality dog food that is an excellent source of balanced nutrition and is easy for dogs with IBD to digest.

    Royal Canin is designed to address the IBD digestive issues of your canine friend. Most dogs love the flavor, as we found few reports of pups not eating the food. However, you can expect to pay quite a bit more for this wet dog food when compared to others on our list. In our opinion, it’s worth the price to give your pet the relief from IBD it deserves.

    Pros
    • Hypoallergenic
    • High-quality dog food
    • Most dogs love the flavor
    • A source of balanced nutrition
    • Easy to digest
    Cons
    • Quite expensive

    4. Canine Caviar Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food

    Canine Caviar Limited Ingredient Diet Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Dehydrated lamb, Pearl millet, Lamb fat, Coconut
    Protein content: 25%
    Fat content: 15%
    Calories: 541 kcal per cup

    At number four on our list is Canine Caviar Limited Ingredient Diet Dry Dog Food. This is another of the hypoallergenic dry foods, and it’s listed as holistic as well. There are no additives, preservatives, or allergens in to irritate your dog’s IBD, and it has a high rate of success when it comes to reducing the symptoms associated with IBS.

    With dehydrated lamb as its first ingredient and 25% protein, this is a balanced source of nutrition that many dogs enjoy. However, the food is expensive, and many pet parents reported that their dogs refused to eat the dry food blend.

    Pros
    • Hypoallergenic
    • Holistic
    • No additives, preservatives, or allergens
    • Balanced nutrition
    Cons
    • Quite expensive
    • Some dogs refused to eat this blend

    5. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Gastroenteric Dry Dog Food

    Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Gastroenteric Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Brewer’s rice, Chicken meal, Natural flavor, Cassava root flour
    Protein content: 24%
    Fat content: 9.50%
    Calories: 370 kcal per cup

    Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets EN Gastroenteric Natural’s Dry Dog Food is another good option. The dry kibble is specially formulated for your pet’s digestive problems, and with 24% protein and the main ingredient of brewer’s rice, it’s nutritionally balanced also.

    The kibble supports intestinal health and is a taste that pet parents report their dogs gobbling up with very few problems. Likewise, the formula promotes intestinal health and is perfect for IBD sufferers.

    The only drawback we found is that the food could contain preservatives, allergens, and additives, which could irritate your furry friend’s digestive system and cause IBD symptoms in some canines. It is also moderately expensive, but not as expensive as some on our list.

    Pros
    • Specially formulated for digestive problems
    • Nutritionally balanced
    • Supports intestinal health
    • Most dogs like the taste
    Cons
    • It could contain preservatives, allergens, and additives
    • A bit expensive

    6. Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

     

    Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Chicken meal, Potatoes, Canola meal, Peas
    Protein content: 27%
    Fat content: 14%
    Calories: 377 kcal per cup

    Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is available in several flavors that even the pickiest dog will enjoy. It has a high protein content, at 27%. In addition, the food contains ingredients that work to soothe your dog’s IBD systems.

    Chicken meal and turkey meal are two of the main ingredients, and it contains plenty of amino acids for a strong body. Including omega acids promotes healthy fur and skin, reducing itchy skin in your pet. The kibble also helps with stool formation, which will work to soothe your dog’s IBD symptoms even more.

    The only drawbacks we found to this blend are that it has no supplements to promote joint support, and some pet parents stated they wished it was a grain-inclusive formula.

    Pros
    • Even picky eaters enjoy
    • Available in several flavors
    • High protein content
    • Helps with stool formation
    • Reduces itchy skin
    Cons
    • Doesn’t have a grain-inclusive formula
    • No supplements for joint support

    7. Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Dog Food

    Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets Hydrolyzed Dog Food

    Main ingredients:
    Corn starch, Hydrolyzed soy protein isolate, Coconut oil, Partially hydronated canola oil
    Protein content: 18%
    Fat content: 8%
    Calories: 314 kcal per cup

    Purina Pro Plan Veterinary Diets HA Hydrolyzed Dry Dog Food is said to have had a high rate of success when it comes to helping with IBD issues in your pet. It’s a nutritionally balanced food, and we found no reports of dogs refusing to eat the blend. Most dogs seemed to love the flavor.

    The food is expensive when compared to other foods on our list, and with only 18% protein, we feel it could do with a bit of a higher percentage. However, if you’re searching for food your picky pet will eat while still helping with his IBD issues, this is a good choice.

    Pros
    • High rate of success
    • Nutritionally balanced
    • Dogs like the flavor
    Cons
    • Quite expensive
    • Lower protein content

    8. Wellness Core Grain-Free Lamb Dry Dog Food

    Wellness Core Grain-Free Lamb Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Lamb, Lamb meal, Pea protein, Peas
    Protein content: 33%
    Fat content: 10%
    Calories: 402 kcal per cup

    Wellness Core Grain-Free Lamb Dry Dog Food is an all-natural option for dogs with IBD issues. The kibble has a protein content of 33%, which is a rich amount, and one of the highest protein contents on our list. Also, the kibble has no artificial flavors or additives to irritate your pet’s digestive system. Lamb and lamb meal are listed as the first ingredients in the nutritionally well-balanced kibble.

    The food is grain-free, but that goes in neither the pros nor cons, as the FDA is researching grains since the absence of grains in dog food could lead to health issues.

    This blend is a bit on the pricey side and has been known not to work for dogs with severe IBD. It’s best to talk to your vet about this dry dog food option to determine if it’s indeed the right choice for your pet.

    Pros
    • All-natural
    • Rich in protein
    • No artificial flavors, additives
    Cons
    • A bit pricey
    • Not recommended for dogs with severe IBD

    9. Holistic Select Adult Health Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    Holistic Select Adult Health Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Deboned turkey, Turkey meal, Peas, Lentils
    Protein content: 32%
    Fat content: 13%
    Calories: 376 kcal per cup

    Holistic Select Adult Health Grain-Free Dry Dog food is another kibble with high protein levels at 32%. The food has a high rate of success in treating the symptoms of IBD, and dogs seem to love the taste. It also has no fillers, artificial colors, or artificial flavors, meaning it’s nutritionally balanced and has a turkey flavor your dog should enjoy.

    The first ingredient in this kibble is deboned turkey, which is an excellent source of protein. The food is more expensive than similar products on the market today but well worth the price if it makes your dog feel better.

    Pros
    • High protein levels
    • No fillers, artificial colors, or flavors
    • High rate of success
    • Dogs love the taste
    Cons
    • More expensive than similar products

    10. Halo Holistic Chicken & Chicken Liver Adult Dog Food

    Halo Holistic Chicken & Chicken Liver Adult Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Chicken, Chicken liver, Dried egg products, Oatmeal
    Protein content: 25%
    Fat content: 15%
    Calories: 403 kcal per cup

    At number ten on our list is Halo Holistic Chicken & Chicken Liver Adult Dry Dog Food. Dogs enjoy the flavor of this chicken blend, and the recipe’s label lists chicken and chicken livers as its primary ingredients and boasts a 25% protein percentage.

    It is designed to boost digestion and promote healthy skin and fur. However, Halo contains soy protein isolate, and some owners have reported a formula change. The food doesn’t look the way it did, and their dogs stopped eating it. It is also one of the pricier on our list.

    Pros
    • Dogs enjoy the flavor
    • Promotes healthy skin and fur
    • Boosts digestion
    Cons
    • Quite expensive
    • Contains soy protein isolate
    • Some owners reported a formula change

    11. Pure Vita Grain-Free Dog Food

    Pure Vita Grain-Free Dog Food

    Main ingredients: Duck, Duck meal, Garbanzo beans, Red lentils
    Protein content: 26%
    Fat content: 15%
    Calories: N/A

    Pure Vita Grain-Free Duck Dog Food is full of the balanced nutrition your pet needs to be healthy and happy. It contains plenty of fatty acids and is an excellent source of protein, containing 26%, with duck as the first ingredient listed.

    It is a bit on the expensive side and has been reported as causing stomach upset in some dogs. Also, it contains artificial flavors and preservatives. Still, it’s made it on our list because it’s a good source of protein and nutritionally balanced.

    Pros
    • Balanced nutrition
    • Contains fatty acids
    • Good source of protein
    Cons
    • A bit expensive
    • Has caused stomach upset
    • May contain allergens
    • Includes artificial flavors and preservatives

    Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

    Buyer’s Guide: How to Pick the Best Dog Food for IBD

    Diet plays a strong role in how your dog feels and responds to having IBD. Below, we’ll give you a few tips on what to look for in your dog’s diet.

    Beagle Eating Dog Feeding
    Image Credit: Iryna Imago, Shutterstock

    Hypoallergenic Food

    In many cases, the underlying cause of a dog’s IBD is a sensitivity to certain proteins. We have a few hypoallergenic dog foods on our list for this very reason. There are also hydrolyzed dog foods on the list that will break up the protein into smaller pieces, so it’s easier to digest for your furry friend.

    Low Residue Diet

    A low-residue diet is a diet that is very easy to digest. Fiber is usually restricted in these types of diets, focusing on nutrition instead. Not only this, but the low residue diet also focuses on reducing the volume of the dog’s feces. This is helpful if your poor pup is having more than one bowel movement a day.

    Taste

    Since your dog is going to be on this diet for a long time to come, it’s essential to make sure it’s a food it likes the taste of and will be willing to eat daily. IBD is not a curable condition, and your pet will need a special formula for the rest of its life.

    Following these tips should help you find the right dog food for your dog’s IBD issues. Choose one from the list above, and soon your pup will be feeling fine.

    dog eating in a food bowl
    Image Credit: dmytro Zinkevych, Shutterstock

    Our Selection Process For Dog Foods for IBD

    To create this buyer’s guide, our writing team and editorial staff checked customer reviews, brand reputation, and veterinary approval ratings to present the dog foods we think should be highlighted for our readers. In some cases, we conducted hands-on testing along with seeing how much our dogs liked the dog foods. All these factors were considered when selecting these listed dog foods to help you make the best purchase for your furry friends.

    Why Trust Dogster?

    Since 2004, Dogster has been a trusted brand for dog owners online, which means we have a lot of experience with dog foods. We take pride in promoting the well-being of all dogs—from toy breeds to giant canines. Our in-house veterinarians, writers, and editors examine each product on our lists, ensuring its quality and reputation. As pet owners ourselves, we only want the best for our furry companions. At Dogster, we are transparent about the products we promote. The nutritional information, overall brand reputation, and customer reviews are all considered for these lists. We inform you how we want to be informed.

    Dogster divider_v2_NEW_MAY_24_

    In Conclusion

    Our best overall pick goes to Ollie Fresh Dog Food Lamb Recipe for its balanced nutrition, and as our best budget pick, we chose Blackwood Everyday Diet Adult Dry Dog Food for its affordability and high protein percentages.

    We hope this guide helps you find the right IBD dog food for your furry friend to keep them healthy and happy for many years.


    Featured Image Credit: Leka Sergeeva, Shutterstock

    Want content like this delivered to you?

    Sign Up For Our Newsletter

    News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

    * By submitting, you agree to our Terms & Conditions and Privacy & Cookies Policy.


    How useful was this post?

    Click on a star to rate (you can leave written feedback after clicking submit)

    Help us improve Dogster for pet parents!

    Your feedback really matters.

    What did you like about this post? Also how can we improve it?

    Join the conversation

    Leave a Reply

    You’re very welcome to leave a comment or question. Please know that all comments must meet our community guidelines, and your email address will NOT be published. Let’s have a positive and constructive conversation.


    Talk With A Vet Online

    Peace of mind,
    anywhere, anytime

    Affordable vet advice

    What Is the Rainbow Bridge? The Incredible Story Behind the Poem

    Rainbow Bridge is a poem that has brought comfort to grieving pet parents all over the world. In it, pets who die don’t...

    Rhodesian Ridgeback Beagle Mix: Info, Pictures, Temperament & Traits

    If you’re in search of a loyal, intelligent, and strikingly beautiful companion, look no further than the Rhodesian Ridgeback Beagle. This unique hybrid...

    American Shepherd vs Australian Shepherd: The Differences (With Pictures)

    While these breeds are very similar, there are distinct differences between them, and it’s not just their size. The American Shepherd is a...

    9 Best High-Fiber Dog Foods in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

    While dogs are often thought of as being mostly meat eaters, fiber also plays an important role in maintaining the good health of...

    More related

    My Dog’s Not Peeing, What Should I Do? (Vet Answer)

    Has it been a while since you noticed your dog urinating very much or even at all? If this is the case, there...

    How to Get Rid of Fleas on Newborn Puppies & What to Do Before

    Fleas are a terrible nuisance, and when puppies get them, it can be even worse. Fleas bite and irritate the skin, causing puppies...

    Pettable ESA Letter Review 2026: A Legitimate Way To Keep Fido Living With You

    Our animals are incredibly special to us— beloved family members and our most trusted companions. Some pets even act as emotional support, helping...

    Corman Shepherd (German Shepherd & Corgi Mix): Info, Pictures, Care & More

    The Corman Shepherd is a designer breed with German Shepherd and Pembroke Welsh Corgi parents. Physically, they usually resemble their German Shepherd parent...

    Keep reading

    9 Best Salmon Dog Foods in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

    Many dog owners are choosing to feed their dogs food that contains salmon as the main ingredient because of the benefits this fish has to offer their dogs in terms of nutrition. Salmon is a common ingredient in high-quality dog...

    dog eating wet food

    Rachael Ray Nutrish Puppy Food Review 2026: Recalls, Pros & Cons

    Review Summary Rachael Ray Nutrish is a dog food brand founded by celebrity chef Rachael Ray in 2008. The first recipes were developed for her own dogs as she wanted to feed them nutritious, clean meals. Today, you can find...

    Dogster_Rachael Ray Nutrish Puppy Food Review

    Can Dogs Eat Pigs’ Feet? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

    Dogs are glad to try any meaty snack you wave in their faces, but it can be tricky to tell what exactly they can and can’t eat. For instance, can dogs eat pigs’ feet? Yes, dogs can eat pigs’ feet,...

    Can Dogs Eat Pigs’ Feet

    12 Best Dog Foods for Hunting Dogs in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

    Various dog breeds make excellent hunting dogs. Labrador Retrievers, Mountain Curs, Vizslas, and even Beagles are just a few examples of perfect hunting companions. Although these dogs look completely different in color, size, and structure, they share the same instinctual...

    owner feeding two hungry dogs

    10 Best Dog Foods for Medium Dogs in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

    There are so many options for dog food on the market nowadays that it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the choices. The good news about the many varieties of food is that dogs that suffer from allergies can find...

    beagle dog eating from bowl

    What to Feed a Pregnant Dog: First, Second & Third Trimesters (Vet-Approved Guide)

    Good news! Your dog is expecting puppies! This is an exciting time in any pet parent’s life. But it can also be overwhelming if this is your dog’s first litter. You want to make sure you are giving your dog...

    Sausage dog pregnant laydown at the bed Dauchand

    10 Best Dog Foods for Morkies in 2026 – Reviews & Top Picks

    Morkies are tiny, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have an appetite! These little dogs are surprisingly high-energy. That set of traits comes with its own challenges when you need to pick a food. Finding a food that will pack...

    Morkie lying in bed_SarahChai_Pexels

    Can Dogs Eat Sour Cream? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

    There are several tasty dishes that we enjoy by themselves, but the moment that you add a dollop of sour cream, the dish is transformed into something magical! It’s only natural that you want to share your food with your...

    Can Dogs Eat Sour Cream