Canine Gut Health 101:

Improve Your Dog’s Digestion, Naturally!

A happy gut means a happy pup. Just like in humans, your dog’s digestive system plays a vital role in overall health—impacting everything from nutrient absorption to energy levels, immune function, and even mood.

When we first brought Orson home, we had to do a bit of experimenting to see what he liked and what he could tolerate. It was important to start off with a puppy-formulated food to ensure proper nutrition and vitamins for his growing body. It was just as important to feed him real, healthy food we could trust to give him the best start possible. We cycled through a couple options until we found the right match.

Baby Orson, 12 weeks old

As he grew older, and his growing slowed, we could turn to a more consistent adult option with the flexibility for some fine tuning. Once we had a fixed starting point with consistent food, it would be easier to troubleshoot any future issues by focusing on the variables.

If your pup struggles with tummy troubles such as bloating, irregular stools, or frequent digestive upset, it may be time to give their gut a little extra love. Here are natural ways to support your dog’s digestion and keep their tail wagging, and the ones we follow for Orson.

Little Orson, now at 160 weeks old

🐾 1. Choose High-Quality, Natural Dog Food

A healthy gut starts with what’s in the bowl. Avoid foods with fillers, artificial additives, and by-products. Instead, look for organic, whole-ingredient diets made with lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber.

👉 Check out the best way to make your own dog food at home: Follow me!

🐾 2. Add Probiotics for Balanced Canine Gut Health

Probiotics are the “good bacteria” that support digestion, strengthen the immune system, and reduce inflammation. You can find dog-specific probiotic supplements or foods enriched with natural probiotics like plain, unsweetened yogurt (in moderation).

👉 Explore natural, tasty, and easy to add supplements here: Yum yum!

🐾 3. Include Fiber-Rich Foods

Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and keeps digestion smooth. Add small amounts of dog-safe fruits and veggies such as pumpkin, sweet potato, or green beans to your dog’s meals.

🐾 4. Keep Mealtime Consistent

Feeding your dog at the same time every day helps regulate their digestive system. Avoid sudden food switches, which can upset the stomach—transition new diets slowly over 7–10 days.

🐾 5. Hydration is Key

Adequate water intake is crucial for digestion. Make sure your pup always has access to fresh, clean water, especially if they eat mostly dry kibble.

🐾 6. Exercise for Gut Motility

Movement supports healthy digestion. Daily walks, play sessions, and light activity after meals can reduce bloating and encourage better nutrient absorption.

🐾 7. Avoid Table Scraps & Unsafe Treats

Human foods like fatty meats, fried snacks, or sweets can wreak havoc on your dog’s stomach and may even be toxic. Stick to safe, natural dog treats or crunchy veggies instead. Orson loves diced carrots from the freezer on hot days - just be sure to monitor sugar and carb levels in fruits and veggies when using as treats, carrots can be especially high in natural sugars.

🐾 8. Monitor Stool Quality

Your dog’s poop is a window into their canine gut health. Consistently firm, brown stools are a sign of a healthy digestive system. If you notice ongoing diarrhea, constipation, or mucus in stools, consult your vet.

And yes, we know it's not the most glamorous part of being a pet parent, but(T) it's important all the same!

Final Thoughts

Caring for your dog’s gut health doesn’t have to be complicated. By choosing high-quality food, adding probiotics, and sticking to healthy routines, you’ll not only improve digestion but also boost your pup’s overall vitality.

For an easy first step, consider switching to an organic, minimally processed diet that prioritizes gut health from the start. For something a little more specific, try food prep for your pup!

👉 Start here with our top pick for easy, homemade food with the freshest and transparent ingredient list: Homemade dog food that saves time and money!

Don't forget to follow us on IG @k9_curator and leave us a comment and like if you found this post helpful! You can also follow our little bear on his page too! @orson_theschnauz