How do you successfully switch your dog's food?

The process for switching a dog’s food follows the same pattern for both wet and dry food:

To start, replace about one-third of the daily ration with the new food. It is best to keep dry and wet food meals separate, as they are metabolised at different rates. Otherwise, digestive issues could arise—even if the new food is otherwise well-tolerated.

If the dog tolerates the new food well, gradually increase the proportion over a period of one to two weeks until the new food has completely replaced the old.
With dry dog ​​food, it is a good idea to feed the new variety as a treat for a day or two beforehand.

Is your dog experiencing severe gas, diarrhoea, or even vomiting, despite you having switched their food gradually? If this persists for more than a few days, you should stop the transition. A visit to the vet may also be advisable, especially in cases of severe vomiting or diarrhea, as both cause significant fluid loss and can lead to circulatory problems. In some instances, Moro carrot soup can help alleviate your dog’s diarrhoea.

Note: Be especially vigilant with puppies, senior dogs, or those with pre-existing health conditions. They are particularly sensitive to diarrhoea and vomiting, and life-threatening situations can develop quickly. Therefore, always take puppies with diarrhoea to the vet immediately.

If other side effects—such as skin or dental issues—appear a few weeks after the diet change, this may also indicate that the new food is not ideal. In such cases, feel free to consult your veterinarian about how to optimize your dog’s diet.

Dogs diagnosed with a metabolic disorder, for example, or those requiring a different diet due to age, should also be gradually accustomed to the new food.

Your pet might not be particularly enthusiastic about the new contents of their bowl at first. Introducing it gradually—spoonful by spoonful—can help. Wet food can also be served slightly warmed, which often makes it more appealing. Some sick dogs may want you to “hold their hand”: place the bowl down and sit beside them while they eat.

If your dog is suffering from an acute bout of diarrhoea, fasting for 24 hours can be beneficial. Afterward, start with an easily digestible, bland diet—such as boiled chicken and rice.

The same rule applies here: puppies, senior dogs, and dogs with pre-existing medical conditions should not fast for that long. Please be sure to take these dogs to a veterinarian if they have diarrhoea.