Switching Dog Food: How to Make the Change Successfully
Are you considering switching your dog's food? In this article, you'll learn everything you need to know about changing your dog's food. We'll also give you tips on how to prepare your dog for the new food to make the transition as smooth as possible. The decision to switch your dog's food can have various reasons, whether for health reasons, due to ageing, or simply to provide better nutritional quality. However, a food switch should always be done carefully and gradually to avoid digestive problems.
Key Takeaways:
- When is a food switch necessary?: A switch makes sense for health problems, intolerances, life stage changes, or to improve nutritional quality.
- Methods of switching food: Direct (immediate change) or gradual (over 6-9 days), with pros and cons to both methods.
- Symptoms and tips: Digestive issues like diarrhoea are normal; a gradual switch reduces discomfort. Monitor your dog's behaviour and well-being.
- Specific food changes: Different types of food require adapted methods, such as switching from dry to wet food or to a raw diet.
We humans change our diet:
- when we enter a new phase of life
- or for health reasons. It's no different for our beloved four-legged friends.
Example: A young dog has become an adult. They switch from puppy food to adult food. This way, they get the nutrients in the right proportions for a continued healthy and fit life in their new stage.
How can you best manage the transition?
When Is a Food Switch Necessary?
Depending on their age, your dog needs different amounts of nutrients. An adult dog needs less protein than a puppy. The requirements also change in their senior years.
This also applies to certain health conditions:
- Such as gastrointestinal problems
- Diabetes, leishmaniasis
- Allergies In these cases, a needs-based diet and therefore a food switch is absolutely necessary. Some nutritionists recommend that with commercial food, one or two food changes per year to a different brand or variety is beneficial.
When Will Improvement Come After a Food Switch?
A food switch for your dog can become necessary for various reasons, whether due to food intolerances, health problems, or simply the desire to improve the quality of your dog's diet. But when can you expect to see improvement after a food switch?
In the first few days after the switch, digestive problems such as diarrhoea or constipation can occur. This is normal, as your dog's digestive tract needs to adjust to the new food. However, these symptoms should be mild and subside within a few days.
When Improvement Occurs
- For digestive problems: Improvement should occur within 3 to 5 days, provided the food switch is done slowly and gradually.
- For skin and coat problems: If the food switch is due to skin and coat issues, it can take several weeks to months before a noticeable improvement occurs. The skin needs to regenerate and the coat needs to grow back.
- For allergies and intolerances: If the switch is due to an allergy or intolerance, the time until improvement depends on how quickly the allergy-triggering substances leave your dog's body. Normally, improvement should occur within 4 to 6 weeks. Depending on the reason for the food switch and your dog's individual response, it can take varying amounts of time for them to feel better. It is important to be patient and closely monitor your dog's condition.
2 Types of Food Switching
There are two recommended approaches for an optimal transition:
- the direct food switch and
- the step-by-step food switch.
The names already tell you what these two methods are about. With the direct food switch, the food is completely changed from one day to the next. With the second method, the food switch happens step by step. Both methods have their pros and cons, which we'll now discuss:
Direct Food Switch
With the direct food switch, the change happens from one day to the next. It involves completely and immediately replacing the food with a new one. This is of course the simplest method.
However, unwanted symptoms can occur with a direct food switch. A clear advantage is the simple handling. A disadvantage is the more frequent occurrence of symptoms. We'll discuss the possible symptoms of a food switch later.
Step-by-Step Food Switch
The name says it all. This type of food switch happens gradually. The old food is progressively removed and replaced by the new one. This method is particularly popular among dog owners.
Duration of the step-by-step food switch: After approximately 6-9 days, your pet should be fully switched to the new food. This timeframe can vary depending on the dog's sensitivity and the vet's instructions.
A gradual transition helps the dog's digestive system adapt to the new food. This type of food switch is suitable for all dogs.
The Optimal Food Switch
The direct food switch is easier to manage. However, we believe that the step-by-step food switch is the ideal and better solution.
Here is our guide:
Step 1 Mix the old and new dog food. The ratio should be 1/4 new food and 3/4 old food. You can maintain this ratio for 2-3 days as needed. This helps your dog adjust more easily to the change.
Step 2 In the next step, the food is mixed in equal parts. This means you mix half of the old food with half of the new food. This mixture can also be fed for 2-3 days.
Step 3 Now you prepare a food bowl with 1/4 of the old food and 3/4 of the new food. Use this mixture again for approximately 2-3 days.
Step 4 After 2-3 days, you can switch completely to the new food.
Tips for a Successful Food Switch
- Go slowly: For sensitive dogs or when signs of digestive problems appear, it may be wise to extend the transition phase.
- Constant observation: Watch for changes in stool, behaviour, or your dog's general well-being.
- Access to water: Make sure your dog always has access to fresh water, especially during a food switch.
- Consult your vet: If in doubt or if health problems arise, always consult a vet.
Symptoms of a Food Switch
The gradual switch causes the fewest symptoms in dogs. Regardless of the method, however, side effects and discomfort can occur with any food switch. So you know exactly what to expect, we'll discuss possible symptoms here.
Possible symptoms of a food switch can include:
- Loss of appetite
- Changed stool consistency
- Constipation
- Soft stool or diarrhoea
Is your dog suffering from these symptoms? Then with the step-by-step method, you should keep the portion of new food smaller at first. You can extend the transition to up to 6 weeks. Are the symptoms still not disappearing? Then try a different food. It may be that your dog cannot tolerate an ingredient in the new food.
Diarrhoea During a Food Switch -- What to Do?
A food switch in dogs can sometimes lead to digestive problems, including diarrhoea. This is often the body's reaction to the change, as the digestive system needs to adjust to the new food.
It is not unusual for dogs to have soft stool or even mild diarrhoea in the first few days after a food switch. However, this should only be short-lived. As a rule, your dog's stool should stabilise within 3 to 5 days of starting the food switch. The transition should happen slowly over a period of 7 to 10 days. Start with a small amount of the new food mixed with the old food and gradually increase the proportion of new food. Pay attention to stool consistency and your dog's general well-being during the transition.
Make sure your dog drinks enough water to avoid dehydration. Diarrhoea removes water from the body. Therefore, we recommend placing several water bowls around the home. This way, your dog always has immediate access to fluids. For persistent diarrhoea, a temporary bland diet such as boiled chicken with rice can help calm the gastrointestinal tract.
If the diarrhoea lasts longer than 48 hours, blood is visible in the stool, or other concerning symptoms such as lethargy or vomiting occur, you should see a vet immediately.
Switching Between Different Food Types
There are different types of dog food: dry food, wet food, raw food, or home-prepared food. Each type of food requires a specific approach when switching to ensure the health and well-being of your dog.
From Dry to Wet Food (or Vice Versa)
Digesting dry food takes longer than wet food. Nevertheless, you should always switch the food gradually over several days. Otherwise, the risk of diarrhoea and constipation is too great. Follow the procedure described above for the optimal food switch.
An Example of a Food Switch
Day 1 to 2: 25% new food, 75% old food
Day 3 to 4: 50% new food, 50% old food Day 5 to 7: 75% new food, 25% old food From Day 8: 100% new food Are the first three days going well? Great, then you can start with 75% to 25% from day 4 and switch to 100% new food from day 5.
Is your dog only eating the dry food and not the wet food during the switch, or vice versa? You can prevent this by soaking the dry food in lukewarm water beforehand and mixing it thoroughly with the wet food. There is another alternative for switching from dry to wet food. Leave out the dry food entirely and dilute the wet food in the first few days with cooked rice or potatoes, especially if the wet food has a high meat content. You can also use flakes instead of cooked potatoes or rice.
Here's an example:
Day 1 to 2: 25% wet food, 75% cooked potatoes or rice
Day 3 to 4: 50% wet food, 50% cooked potatoes or rice Day 5 to 7: 75% wet food, 25% cooked potatoes or rice From Day 8: 100% wet food
Make sure your dog drinks enough water when switching from wet to dry food, as dry food contains less moisture.
Switching to a Raw Diet
Switching your dog's diet to a raw food diet (Biologically Appropriate Raw Food, or BARF) is a decision that many dog owners make to provide a more natural and species-appropriate diet. A raw diet is based on fresh, raw meat, bones, organs, fruit, and vegetables to ensure a balanced nutrition.
Before you start the transition, you should thoroughly research the raw food diet. Expert advice from a vet or nutritionist specialising in raw feeding is recommended. Plan your dog's raw diet carefully to ensure it contains all the necessary nutrients. This includes a balanced ratio of meat, bones, organs, and plant-based components. The exact composition can vary depending on your dog's age, weight, activity level, and health condition.
An abrupt switch to raw feeding can lead to digestive problems. Therefore, start slowly. Begin with easily digestible meat such as chicken or turkey. This should make up about 10-20% of the daily ration, with the rest supplemented by the usual food. Slowly increase the proportion of raw food and reduce the previous food. Gradually add different types of meat, bones, and organs to increase variety. The entire transition phase can take 2-4 weeks depending on the dog. Pay attention to your dog's reaction and adjust the process if necessary.
Observe your dog closely during the transition. Signs of digestive problems such as diarrhoea or vomiting may require adjusting the food. A slower transition or introducing certain foods at a later stage can be helpful. Even after a successful switch to raw feeding, it is important to regularly review and adjust your dog's diet. Your dog's weight, health condition, and activity level can change, and the diet should be adjusted accordingly.
From Puppy to Adult Food
A food switch is not only relevant for adult dogs but also for puppies. Especially during the growth phase, it is important to ensure a balanced diet that provides all the nutrients for healthy development.
The reasons for a food switch can be varied: from the need to switch to age-appropriate food to health recommendations from the vet. Regardless of the reason, the transition should be done gently to avoid overwhelming the puppy's sensitive stomach. The switch from puppy to adult food is an important step in your dog's development. Puppy food is specially designed for the needs of a rapidly growing dog and contains more protein, calories, and essential nutrients. However, once your dog is fully grown, they need a diet that matches their new life stage.
The switch should happen when your dog has reached physical maturity. This varies by breed. Also follow the recommendations on the puppy food packaging or ask your vet if you're unsure. The puppy food should gradually be mixed with the adult food. A good starting ratio is 25% adult food to 75% puppy food.
When Should You NOT Switch Food?
The decision to switch your dog's food should be well considered. There are situations in which a food switch is not recommended or should even be avoided to protect your dog's health and well-being.
During an Acute Illness
If your dog is acutely ill or recovering from an illness, this may not be the right time for a food switch. Your dog's body is already busy with recovery, and a food change could mean additional stress. Wait until your dog has fully recovered and discuss the switch with your vet.
During Stress or Major Changes
Times of major changes or stress for your dog -- such as a move, the arrival of a new family member, or intense training periods -- are not ideal for a food switch. Wait for a more stable phase before changing your dog's diet.
Before or After Surgery
Before and after surgical procedures, your dog's diet should remain stable. A change in eating habits can affect digestion and disrupt the healing process. Discuss the best timing for a food switch with your vet.
For Intolerances or Allergies Without Consulting a Vet
If your dog has food intolerances or allergies, you should not switch the food without first consulting a vet. An ill-considered switch can trigger allergic reactions or worsen existing problems.
If Your Dog Is Very Picky
For particularly picky dogs, a food switch can be difficult and should be carefully planned. In such cases, it is advisable to work with a vet or nutritionist to develop a strategy that helps your dog accept the new food. In some situations, it is better to forgo or postpone a food switch to spare your dog unnecessary stress or health problems. If in doubt or if you have specific health concerns, it is always advisable to seek the advice of a vet.
Why Should I Switch My Dog's Food?
There are many good reasons to change dog food. Perhaps your dog has diarrhoea or you want to offer them more variety in their bowl. Sometimes a food switch is also necessary due to allergies or intolerances.
Should I Switch from Wet to Dry Food?
We would advise against it, as wet food supports hydration through its higher moisture content, especially for dogs that don't drink much. It is also often more palatable, which is beneficial for picky eaters or older dogs. A switch should only be done slowly to avoid digestive problems.
Bloating and Itching -- What to Do?
Bloating and itching can occur during a food switch as the body adjusts to the new food. Bloating is often a sign of digestive issues caused by switching too quickly. In this case, it helps to slow down the transition and introduce the new food more gradually. Itching can indicate a food allergy or intolerance. If the symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to change the food and consult a vet.
Conclusion
As a general rule, you should avoid always buying the cheapest food. But expensive doesn't always mean the best either. However, we believe:
Cheaper food usually contains a high proportion of sugar, grains, and other ingredients like colourings and flavourings. These have no place in dog food. With high-quality organic food, you would definitely be on the safe side. We've shown you a guide for the optimal food switch. Now you'll be able to easily transition your dog to new food and new feeding habits.
