Changing Dog Food: What You Need to Know

When a change in diet is needed, along with our top tips for how to go about it.

Why you might need to change your dogs food

Many of us tend to stick to the same dog food for our four-legged friends throughout their lifetime. The decision about which food we choose is often heavily influenced by professionals such as dog breeders, rescue centres and vets. It’s no surprise then, that as a nation of dog lovers we tend to stick to the same food unless advised otherwise. But it’s important to recognise when your dog is displaying symptoms which could mean that their diet could do with a change.

Signs you may need to change your dog food:

Dull coat

It’s important that your dog gets plenty of essential fatty acids from their diet to help keep their skin and coat in great condition. Look for meals which are high in protein and contain good quality meat. Meat derivatives don’t always deliver the nutrition promised.

Lethargy

If your dog is feeling a little lethargic, look for a diet high in anti-oxidants. This will help to boost their immune system and help fight off any illnesses that could be lurking. If your pet seems unusually lethargic though, make sure you get them checked out by a vet just to be on the safe side!

Itchy skin

Allergies are very common in dogs, and food is just one of many possible causes. If your dog suffers from allergies (regardless of what it is), they may benefit from a low-allergen diet. This will reduce the overall number of allergens your four-legged friend is exposed to. We recommend a grain-free diet.

Gaining weight

This is often the most noticeable sign that your dog could do with a diet spruce-up. It doesn’t take much for our canine companions to end up with a little excess weight on their frame. Look for a naturally nutritionally-balanced diet which is low in calories, and delivers the essential nutrients needed.

GI Upset

Excess wind, loose stool, or rumbly stomachs can be the result of food intolerance. Some dogs simply don’t tolerate certain diets or ingredients as well as other ones. GI upset is an inconvenience to owners as well as being uncomfortable for your pet. If this is an ongoing problem for you, ask your vet to diagnose the problem.

What To Look For In Your Dogs Food

"A natural diet is a food that is made up of ingredients found in nature to which nothing artificial has been added and has been subjected to only basic manufacturing processes. Additionally though, it is also important is to ensure a natural diet is labelled ‘complete and balanced’ to ensure it meets all your dog’s nutritional requirements."

Watch our helpful video to find out more on what to look for in your dogs food.

Dr James Greenwood, Media Vet and Forthglade Ambassador

Switching By Day

A Handy Guide

"When transitioning your dog onto a new diet, it is particularly important to do this gradually and to avoid any sudden changes. This allows your dog’s digestive system to adapt with the switch and remain in balance. As a minimum, allow 5 full days to gradually reduce their current diet whilst simultaneously increasing their new food with each meal. For dogs with sensitive tummies, go even slower and transition over 1-2 weeks"

Dr James Greenwood