Whether you are moving to a better-quality food, following your vet’s advice or simply trying a new formula, the way you switch your dog’s food matters. A sudden change is one of the most common causes of an upset stomach in dogs. Here is how to transition safely.
Why sudden changes cause problems
A dog’s digestive system, including the bacteria that live in the gut, adapts to the food it eats regularly. When the diet changes overnight, the gut does not have time to adjust. The result can be vomiting, loose stools, gas or a dog who refuses to eat.
A simple 7 to 10 day transition plan
Most dogs do well with a gradual switch over about a week to ten days:
- Days 1 to 2: 75 percent old food, 25 percent new food
- Days 3 to 4: 50 percent old food, 50 percent new food
- Days 5 to 6: 25 percent old food, 75 percent new food
- Day 7 onward: 100 percent new food
Keep the total amount roughly the same, and use the feeding guide on the new food’s label as your reference, since calorie content can differ a lot between brands.
Dogs who need a slower switch
Some dogs benefit from stretching the transition to two weeks or longer, moving to the next step only when stools stay normal. These include:
- Dogs with sensitive stomachs or a history of digestive problems
- Puppies and senior dogs
- Dogs switching between very different types of food, such as from dry kibble to a fresh or wet diet
What to watch for
A little softer stool can be normal during a transition. If it happens, go back to the previous ratio for a few days before moving forward again.
Call your vet if your dog has:
- Vomiting more than once
- Diarrhea that lasts more than a day or two, or any blood in the stool
- Loss of appetite, lethargy or signs of belly pain
- Itching, ear problems or skin changes that start after a new food, which may point to a food sensitivity
When a quick switch is necessary
Sometimes there is no time for a gradual change, for example after a food recall or when your usual food is unavailable. In that case, feed smaller meals more often for a few days and watch your dog closely. If your vet prescribes a therapeutic diet, follow their specific instructions, since some are meant to be started right away.
Tips for picky eaters
- Stick to set mealtimes and remove the bowl after about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Avoid adding lots of toppers or table food to tempt your dog, which can create a fussier eater.
- Warming wet food slightly can make it more appealing.
- If a healthy dog skips a meal or two while adjusting, that is usually not a concern. A dog who refuses food for more than a day, or a puppy or small dog who skips meals, should be checked by a vet.
Choosing the new food
Before switching, check that the new food is labeled complete and balanced for your dog’s life stage. Our guide on how to read a dog food label explains what to look for.
This article is for general information only. If your dog has a medical condition, ask your veterinarian before changing diets.