Transitioning Your Puppy to a Different Brand of Food

Switching your puppy’s food isn’t as simple as pouring a new brand into their bowl. Puppies have sensitive digestive systems, and a sudden change can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or refusal to eat. Whether you’re transitioning to a higher-quality food, a breed-specific formula, or simply switching due to availability, it’s essential to make the change gradually and carefully.

Why a Gradual Food Transition is Important for Your Puppy

Puppies’ digestive systems take time to adjust to new ingredients, protein sources, and nutrient levels. A sudden change in diet can lead to:

Digestive Upset - Diarrhea, vomiting, or bloating.

Loss of Appetite - Puppies may refuse to eat if the taste or texture is too different.

Nutrient Imbalance - A gradual switch helps their gut bacteria adjust to the new food.

A slow transition helps prevent these issues and allows your puppy’s body to adapt to the new food safely.

How to Transition Your Puppy’s Food

The transition process should take about 7 to 10 days, though some puppies may need longer. Follow this schedule:

Day 1 and 2 - 75% Old Food + 25% New Food

Mix a small portion (about 25%) of the new food into their regular food.

Keep an eye on stool consistency and appetite.

Days 3 to 4 - Old Food + 50% New Food

Gradually increase the amount of new food while decreasing the old food.

If your puppy has mild loose stools, pause at this ratio for an extra day before moving forward.

Days 5 to 6 - 25% Old Food + 75% New Food

• Your puppy should now be eating mostly the new food.

 Continue monitoring for any digestive upset or behaviour changes.

Days 7 to 10: 100% New Food

If your puppy is eating normally and has no stomach issues, they’re now fully transitioned!

Tip: If your puppy experiences diarrhea, vomiting, or refusal to eat, slow down the transition by adding more of the old food back in for a few extra days.

Signs the Transition is Going Well

… Firm, regular stools

… Healthy energy levels

… No signs of discomfort (bloating, gas, vomiting)

… Excited to eat at mealtime

Signs Your Puppy is Struggling with the Transition

…Loose stools or diarrhea (mild cases may resolve, but persistent issues need vet attention)

…Vomiting (if frequent, contact your vet)

…Loss of appetite (puppy refuses to eat for more than a meal or two)

…Excessive gas or bloating

…Itchy skin or ear infections (potential food allergy)

If symptoms last more than a couple of days or seem severe, consult your veterinarian.

Extra Tips for a Smooth Transition

Use the same feeding schedule. Keep mealtimes consistent to avoid added stress.

Moisten dry kibble - If switching brands of dry food, adding warm water can make it easier to digest.

Mix in a probiotic - Puppy-safe probiotics (or plain pumpkin / canned pumpkin ) can help with digestion.

Avoid too many treats during the switch. Stick to their regular meals to avoid added stomach upset.

Don’t panic if they eat around the new food. Some puppies pick out the old food at first. Be patient!

When to Switch Puppy Food in the First Place

You may need to transition your puppy to a new food if:

Your vet recommends it due to allergies, digestion issues, or nutrient needs.

Your puppy isn’t thriving (low energy, poor coat health, or frequent stomach issues).

You’re switching to an age-appropriate formula (such as large-breed or small-breed puppy food).

Your breeder suggests a specific brand for better breed-specific health.

Final Thoughts

A slow and steady transition is the key to successfully switching your puppy’s food. By following a 7 to 10 day schedule, monitoring their digestion, and making adjustments as needed, you can help your puppy adjust comfortably to their new diet.

If you’re unsure about what food is best for your puppy, consult your veterinarian or breeder for personalized recommendations.