How to Transition Your Dog to a New Food Safely
By DogFoodCheck Team
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dog food transitiondigestive healthfeeding guidedog care tips
How to Transition Your Dog to a New Food Safely
Switching your dog’s food too quickly can result in digestive distress—diarrhea, vomiting, or refusal to eat. Here’s how to do it the right way.
Why Transition Slowly?
A dog’s digestive system adapts to food slowly. A sudden change can disrupt gut flora and irritate the stomach lining.
The 7-Day Transition Plan
| Day | Old Food | New Food |
|---|---|---|
| 1–2 | 75% | 25% |
| 3–4 | 50% | 50% |
| 5–6 | 25% | 75% |
| 7+ | 0% | 100% |
Watch for Signs of Trouble
- Loose stool or diarrhea
- Excessive gas
- Vomiting
- Lethargy or loss of appetite
If symptoms persist, revert to the old food and consult your vet.
Pro Tips
- Feed at regular times
- Keep portion sizes consistent
- Mix with a bit of warm water or low-sodium broth to encourage appetite