Looking for grain-free dog foods for mastiffs with sensitive stomachs? Mastiffs are gentle giants, known for their loyalty and protective nature. However, their size and unique genetic makeup often make them prone to sensitive stomachs.
Finding the right food for these magnificent dogs can be challenging, especially when looking for grain-free foods for mastiffs with sensitive stomachs. Here’s a carefully curated list of the top 10 grain-free foods for a Mastiff, perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
What’s in This Guide?
1. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Grain-Free, Natural Adult Dry Dog Food for Mastiffs
Specifications:
- Flavor: Chicken
- Protein Content: 34%
- Weight: 24 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, peas
Pros:
- High in protein, suitable for maintaining lean muscle in large breeds.
- Contains LifeSource Bits, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
- Free from artificial preservatives and flavors.
Cons:
- Some dogs may find the kibble too hard, leading to potential digestive issues.
- It’s pricey compared to other brands.
Why and Why Not:
Blue Buffalo’s commitment to natural ingredients makes it an excellent choice for health-conscious dog owners seeking grain-free foods for a Mastiff.
However, the hard kibble might not suit all Mastiffs, especially those with existing dental issues. While it’s packed with protein, it might be too rich for dogs with extremely sensitive stomachs.
2. Taste of the Wild Grain-Free Recipe with Roasted Bison & Roasted Venison
Specifications:
- Flavor: Roasted Bison & Venison
- Protein Content: 32%
- Weight: 28 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Buffalo, lamb meal, sweet potatoes
Pros:
- Contains novel proteins like bison and venison, which are less likely to cause allergies.
- Rich in omega fatty acids for skin and coat health.
- Probiotics for digestive support.
Cons:
- Some dogs may not like the taste of bison and venison.
- Can be rich for dogs transitioning from grain-inclusive diets.
Why and Why Not:
This formula is ideal for Mastiffs with sensitive stomachs who also need a boost in skin and coat health. The novel proteins are a bonus for dogs with allergies to more common meats.
However, it’s important to transition slowly, as the richness might overwhelm their digestive systems.
3. Wellness CORE RawRev High-Protein, Grain-Free Dog Food for mastiffs
Specifications:
- Flavor: Original Turkey & Chicken
- Protein Content: 38%
- Weight: 20 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Deboned turkey, turkey meal, chicken meal
Pros:
- Contains freeze-dried raw bites for enhanced nutrition.
- High protein content supports muscle maintenance.
- No fillers, artificial preservatives, or flavors.
Cons:
- Freeze-dried pieces may be too hard for some dogs.
- High protein may be too much for less active Mastiffs.
Why and Why Not:
The raw bites offer a unique twist on traditional kibble, making it a great choice for owners looking to add raw food benefits without the mess.
However, the high protein content may not be necessary for all Mastiffs, particularly those who are less active. This is one of the grain-free foods for a Mastiff that offers diversity but may not suit every dog.
4. CANIDAE PURE Grain-Free Premium Dry Dog Food for Mastiffs
Specifications:
- Flavor: Salmon & Sweet Potato
- Protein Content: 32%
- Weight: 24 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Salmon, salmon meal, sweet potatoes
Pros:
- Limited ingredients reduce the risk of food sensitivities.
- Salmon provides a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Suitable for dogs with allergies or sensitive digestion.
Cons:
- Some dogs may find the taste unappealing.
- Limited availability in certain regions.
Why and Why Not:
This food for Mastiffs with sensitive stomachs is perfect for dogs with specific dietary needs or known allergies. The simplicity of the formula helps in avoiding potential triggers, but the lack of variety might not satisfy all dogs. If your Mastiff loves fish, though, this could be the ideal choice.
5. Merrick Grain-Free Texas Beef & Sweet Potato Recipe
Specifications:
- Flavor: Texas Beef & Sweet Potato
- Protein Content: 34%
- Weight: 22 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Deboned beef, lamb meal, sweet potatoes
Pros:
- Made with real, deboned beef as the first ingredient.
- High levels of glucosamine and chondroitin support joint health.
- A grain-free formula with no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
Cons:
- Some dogs might have trouble digesting beef.
- Slightly more expensive than similar products.
Why and Why Not:
For Mastiffs that enjoy the hearty taste of beef, this is an excellent choice. The added glucosamine and chondroitin are perfect for supporting joint health in large breeds.
However, beef can be difficult to digest for some dogs, making it less ideal for Mastiffs with sensitive stomachs who need a gentler formula.
6. NUTRO Limited Ingredient Diet Adult Grain-Free Lamb & Sweet Potato Dog Food
Specifications:
- Flavor: Lamb & Sweet Potato
- Protein Content: 20%
- Weight: 22 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Deboned lamb, lamb meal, sweet potatoes
Pros:
- A limited-ingredient diet reduces the risk of allergic reactions.
- Lamb is a novel protein, less likely to cause sensitivities.
- Non-GMO ingredients.
Cons:
- Lower protein content may not be suitable for very active dogs.
- Some dogs may develop gas with this formula.
Why and Why Not:
NUTRO’s Limited Ingredient formula is a safe bet for Mastiffs with known allergies or food sensitivities. The lower protein content makes it suitable for less active dogs, but may not provide enough energy for more active Mastiffs.
This food for Mastiffs with sensitive stomachs is mild yet nutritious, making it an excellent choice for a balanced diet.
7. ACANA® Free Run Poultry Recipe, Grain-free Dry Dog Food for Mastiffs
Specifications:
- Flavor: Chicken Meal
- Protein Content: 36%
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Chicken meal, millet, chicken fat
Pros:
- Made with whole foods and natural ingredients.
- Contains probiotics and enzymes for digestive health.
- No synthetic vitamins or minerals.
Cons:
- Higher price point.
- Chicken meal may not be ideal for all sensitive dogs.
Why and Why Not:
Nature’s Logic is a premium option, using only natural ingredients and whole foods. It’s a great choice for Mastiffs with a discerning palate or owners looking for an all-natural diet.
However, the cost might be prohibitive, and a chicken meal isn’t suitable for every sensitive stomach. Among the grain-free foods for a Mastiff, this stands out for its quality, though it may not be suitable for every budget.
8. Acana Singles + Wholesome Grains Limited Ingredient Diet, Lamb & Pumpkin Recipe
Specifications:
- Flavor: Lamb & Pumpkin
- Protein Content: 31%
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Lamb, pumpkin, oats
Pros:
- Limited ingredients focus on lamb as a single animal protein.
- Pumpkin aids digestion.
- Rich in fiber for a healthy gut.
Cons:
- The inclusion of grains may not be suitable for strict grain-free diets.
- Some dogs may not like the texture of the kibble.
Why and Why Not:
Acana’s combination of lamb and pumpkin is gentle on the stomach, making it a good choice for Mastiffs with digestive issues. However, the inclusion of wholesome grains like oats might not align with strict grain-free diets, though it does add fiber, which benefits digestion.
If you’re looking for food for Mastiffs with sensitive stomachs that also require gentle digestion, this could be an excellent pick.
9. ORIJEN Original Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Specifications:
- Flavor: Original
- Protein Content: 38%
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Chicken, turkey, flounder
Pros:
- High protein content supports muscle mass.
- Contains a mix of fresh and raw animal ingredients.
- No grains, potatoes, or tapioca.
Cons:
- This very rich formula may cause digestive upset in some dogs.
- High price point.
Why and Why Not:
ORIJEN is known for its biologically appropriate diets, which are rich in animal ingredients. This makes it an excellent option for highly active Mastiffs.
However, the richness of the formula may be too much for some sensitive stomachs, making it better suited for dogs with strong digestive systems. This food for Mastiffs with sensitive stomachs is perfect for active dogs but may be too rich for others.
10. Zignature Grain-Free Limited Ingredient Formula Dog Food
Specifications:
- Flavor: Turkey
- Protein Content: 32%
- Weight: 25 lbs
- Main Ingredients: Turkey, turkey meal, chickpeas
Pros:
- Limited ingredient formula minimizes potential allergens.
- Rich in protein from a single animal source.
- No corn, soy, wheat, or potatoes.
Cons:
- Some dogs may not digest chickpeas well.
- The taste might not appeal to all dogs.
Why and Why Not:
Zignature’s formula is designed for dogs with specific dietary needs, offering turkey as the sole animal protein to minimize the risk of allergies. This makes it an excellent grain-free food for a Mastiff with a sensitive stomach, especially if your dog has had issues with more common proteins like chicken or beef.
The limited ingredient list helps in managing sensitivities effectively. However, some Mastiffs may struggle with digesting chickpeas, which can lead to gas or bloating. Additionally, the flavor might not be as appealing to all dogs, making it a less popular choice for picky eaters.
