Changing Dog Food – How to Transition
If your dog isn't doing well on the food given, make a change. Maybe stools are loose, the coat lacks luster, the claws are brittle or energy is low. Or maybe ear infections are recurring, itching is persistent, anal gland inflammation is regular, or excess weight is a reality. If so, change the dogs diet! But do so gently and smartly.
Choose better food for your dog
First and foremost, upgrade your choice by opting for better food. Critically examine the ingredients on the food bag and eliminate anything you suspect your dog might react negatively to. Alternatively, add things you believe would benefit your dog. Consider whether fresh raw-food, freeze-dried, or steam-cooked might be better for your dog than canned food or dry kibble. You can also read how dog food affects your dog's well-being.
Make feed changes slow and gentle
Switching food abruptly can stress your dog's stomach, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. This is because both the pH and bacterial balance in the stomach can be affected during a food transition. The stomach needs some time to adjust to the new diet. Below are some guidelines on how to smoothly transition your dog's food.
Step-by-step: Gentle feed transition
The motto is to gradually acclimate your dog to the new food. Let the transition take a few days. Days 1-3: Mix about 20% of the new food with 80% of the previous food. If your dog is feeling good and the stomach is stable—normal stools once or twice a day, no excessive farting or rumbling in the belly—proceed. Days 4-7: Now mix 40% of the new food with 60% of the previous food. Wait until your dog's stomach stabilizes before proceeding with the food transition. Days 8-10: Time to mix 60% of the new food with 40% of the previous food. Day 11: 100% new food. If your dog's stomach remains stable, you can accelerate the food transition.
Be patient with the feed change
Some dogs are eager eaters, while others are more selective. For the latter group, a food change can either increase appetite or take time. That's okay. Go slowly and gently to allow your dog to adjust. If your dog's stomach reacts negatively to the food switch, it's better to slow down the transition pace rather than giving up too easily. As mentioned, some dog stomachs need time to adapt to the new diet. Giving up too soon could mean missing out on the long-term positive effects of the new food.
When you should contact your vet when changing feed
However, if your dog experiences persistent stomach issues, itching, or other symptoms during the food transition, it's advisable to consult your veterinarian for guidance. You can also read more about your dog's stomach problems in the article Dog digestive problems: constipation, diarrhea and vomiting and Dog food allergy - symptoms and solutions.
Written by: Caroline Alupo
Caroline Alupo is Petli's co-founder. She has a master's degree in ethology and is also a trained dog trainer and dog psychologist. She has 19 years of experience as a professional dog trainer. Read more about Caroline here.
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