Feeding your dog - introducing a new food

If you want to change your dog’s food, diet changes should always be made slowly to reduce the risk of digestive upsets. If possible, try to get a small bag or just a few tins of your new food. This way, you can check if your pet likes it, as well as it suits their stomach.

Here we’ll take a closer look at how to introduce your dog to a new diet. And remember that the approach may need to be different, depending on the dog.

Another way to take care of your dog’s needs is with peace-of-mind dog insurance.

Why is introducing a new food properly so important?

Transitioning a dog to a new diet should be done carefully, and requires a bit of planning. Not taking good care could result in them getting digestive issues.

Just like with humans, your dog’s nutrition is incredibly important. It should never be merely an afterthought.

This is reflected by the Animal Welfare Act 2006, which Agria supports. This law states that those who own animals have a “positive duty of care, and [the act] outlaws neglecting to provide for their animals' basic needs, such as access to adequate nutrition and veterinary care”.

To find out more, check out our complete guide to choosing the right food for your dog.

How to introduce a new dog food

After you’ve chosen a new dog food, this is what you should consider when introducing it.

Change your dog’s food gradually

If your dog will eat anything in their bowl, then try swapping approximately 10% of the old food for the new one on day 1, followed by 20% on day 2 and so on.

A side order of something new

If your dog’s likely to go off their meal if they find something new in it, you can try the following. Your dog may prefer having a 'side order' of new food in a bowl next to their main meal, or being given the new food as treats. Once they're eating it, you can start to incorporate it into their meal as above.

Monitor your dog’s response

Keep an eye on how well your dog is adjusting. It’s a good sign if they’re pooing normally, have healthy energy levels and still have a good appetite.

On the other hand, signs such as diarrhoea, vomiting, excessive gas or lethargy could indicate that the food doesn’t agree with them, or it’s been introduced too quickly.

New foods can cause an upset stomach

If your dog gets an upset stomach at any stage, go back to their normal diet, or a very bland diet until it resolves. If it wasn't too serious, you can try to introduce the new food again more slowly.

Other handy tips

• Be consistent. Stick to normal feeding times. And don’t overcompensate by giving them too many treats.
• Try probiotics. You could try using probiotic supplements, which can support gut health during the change.
• Keep them hydrated. Make sure your dog is drinking plenty of water. This is especially important if they’re changing to a dry or high-protein diet.

Here’s what to do if your dog becomes dehydrated.

Want to know more?

• How to choose your dog's food - including what types of dog food are available
• Our guide on how to make eco-conscious choices for your dog’s diet will help you decide whether to opt for dry, wet or raw food
• Top tips on how to feed your pet on a budget

We’d like to thank veterinary behaviourist Sophie White for providing this advice.

As an Agria Pet Insurance customer, you can speak to a vet completely free whenever you have a question or concern about your pet’s health. Simply download the Agria app for free 24/7 video calls; giving you expert advice to help keep your pet happy and healthy.

Find out more about the Agria app.