The fastest way to a bad week is to dump a new food into the bowl and walk away. A dog's gut runs on a steady population of bacteria, and a sudden change throws the whole system off. The fix is patience, and a little math.
Go slow, over a week
Start with about a quarter new food to three quarters old, and shift the ratio a little each day. By day seven you are fully on the new food, and your dog's digestion has had time to adjust. If anything looks off, hold at the current ratio for an extra day or two before moving on.
Watch the other end
Stool is the honest report card. Firm and regular means you are moving at the right pace. Loose means slow down. A day of softness is normal during a switch; several days is a sign to back up a step.
When to ask for help
Most transitions are uneventful. If your dog stops eating, seems uncomfortable, or the upset lasts beyond a few days, that is worth a call to your vet. And if you want the math done for you, our meal finder builds a day-by-day transition plan around your dog's new food.
