Changing your dog’s food
There are many reasons why you may want to change your dog’s food. It could be that he is now in a different life stage (from puppy to adult or to senior), or that you just want to try something new.
Stages
When our dogs are still puppies, they need different kinds of nutrition than when they are getting older. As they are still puppies, their bodies require more protein. Also, some kibble are smaller in size and therefore easier eaten by baby teeth and small jaws. And therefore, it is very important to ensure that they are fed food formulated for puppies.
Speak to your vet or to the breeder where you got your puppy from to find out when you should change your dog’s food from puppy to adult food. This could be between 12 and 18 months – depending on your dog’s breed and size.
Food for adults is generally formulated and nutritionally balanced in such a way that adult dogs get the ultimate nutrition they need. Dogs are normally considered as senior dogs from around seven or eight years for extra-large breed dogs, 10 years for medium breeds, and 11 or 12 years for small breed dogs.
Active dogs might need a different diet to dogs who love watching Netflix with you on the couch.
And when they get to the senior stage of their lives, their body needs food that contains ingredients ideal for them. Otherwise, they may become overweight, as they tend to be less active than what they were as adult dogs.
Formulated food
Another reason why you may want to change your dog’s food is for health reasons. Your dog might suffer from allergies, may have arthritis, or is simply overweight and therefore need food that will support their specific needs. We will gladly help you to consider the options and find a solution for your dog.
Budget
As life changes, so does our income. It might be that you have to start counting your pennies, or that your income is at a much better place now. As dog food is an investment in your dog’s health, you want to get the best for him. Always buy the best food that you can afford.
Speak to us at Imperial Pets to discuss the options and help you to choose the best food that your money can buy.
Period of changing food
Whatever your reason for changing your dog’s food, always keep the following in mind. If you move from one type of food to another at the next meal, your dog may suffer from digestive problems. As your dog’s tummy is not used to the new formulation, he might struggle with diarrhoea, vomiting or constipation.
As you don’t want your dog to suffer, it is best to change his food over a period of seven days. According to the Kennel Union of South Africa and experts at the South African Veterinary Association, and various other experts, the best way to change your dog’s food is:
Day 1 and 2 – give him 25% of the new diet, mixed with 75% of the old diet.
Day 3 and 4 – give him 50% of the new diet, mixed with 50% of the old diet.
Day 5 and 6 – give him 75% of the new diet, mixed with 25% of the old diet.
Day 7 – now you can give him 100% of the new diet.
Throughout the course of the seven days, watch him closely for any signs of discomfort. You need to check his poop to see if it stays consistent and firm. If the consistency, frequency or colour changes, you’ll know that his tummy isn’t happy. Always consult with your vet to find out if this is natural for your dog, or not.
Other long-term signs to watch out for include the condition of his coat – is it shinier, is he shedding less? Is he gaining weight, or does he seem hungry after a meal? And the most important factor of them all – does your dog like the new food?
Guidelines
The packaging of dog food normally has some guidelines as to how much you should feed your dog. Remember that these are just guidelines and as every dog is different, you might want to speak to your vet for the ideal portions and daily kilojoule intake.
Jazz it up
If you buy dry dog food, you can always jazz it up with a gravy or sauce, or mix a little bit of wet food with his kibble. Speak to us at Imperial Pets to show you the wide range of add-ons we have to give your dog’s food a little something special.