Instructions
Choosing a New Dog Food
Your first decision is whether to feed your dog canned or dry food. If this is an older dog, keep him on the type he has been eating, but if it’s a new puppy, find out a little about your breed of dog. Larger dogs, 30 pounds and more, generally do better on dry foods because they’re more calorie dense—meaning they don’t need to eat as much to get the calories and nutrition they need. Also, determine when you’re going to feed your dog. Most vets recommend feeding a dog at limited times once or twice a day, but if you decide to leave a bowl of food out all the time, dry is the best choice.
The most important consideration in choosing a new dog food is nutrition. All foods should meet or exceed AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards, and the container should be labeled so. Protein, fats and carbohydrates will vary according your dog’s needs, size and activity level, and foods are available for special circumstances such as older dogs, puppies, overweight dogs and more. You may also want to consider an organic food if you are concerned about chemicals and contaminants.
Make sure that your choice of dog food is readily available in your area. You may find the perfect dog food, but if you have to order it or drive a long distance to buy it, then it may not be the most practical choice. If you, or your dog, decides on a food that isn’t available close by, talk to a local pet store owner. Most will be more than happy to order your brand for you.
You may be tempted to buy the least expensive brand, but check the ingredients closely. You won't be saving money if your pet becomes sick or weakened by poor nutrition. Expensive isn't necessarily best though, so don't gauge your choice solely on price.
Introducing the New Food
The most common problem with switching brands of dog food is digestive difficulties including upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea and refusal to eat. There are several things that you can do to minimize the problems, though.
Gradually add in the new food. On the first day, mix one part new food with three parts old food. The next day, mix it half and half. Every few days, add more new food until it is entirely the new food. Watch your dog carefully during the process. If he shows signs of diarrhea, vomiting or any other digestive distress, add the new food more slowly.
If your dog does develop stomach problems from the new food, mix white rice and skinless, boneless chicken breasts in with the food and gradually phase it out depending on your dog’s condition. Dogs can also take small doses of Imodium or Pepto-Bismol. Check with your vet for dosages.
If there is no change in your dog’s condition in a few days, or if she has blood in her vomit or stool, call your vet.
How to Change Brands of Dog Food
Your dog is probably an important part of your family, and you want her to be comfortable and happy. But at some time in your dog’s life, it may be necessary to change the brand or type of dog food. Your decision may be based on availability, a change in your pet’s needs or the manufacturer changing formulas. Despite the reputation that dogs have of being able to eat anything and everything, they have nutritional needs and digestive issues to take into consideration. There are certain steps that will help your dog make a smoother safer transition to the new food.