A guide to changing dog food

When it comes to changing your dog’s food, taking it slow is the secret to success.

We say this for a couple of important reasons. First, a dog’s digestive system can be sensitive to sudden dietary changes. This can lead to an upset stomach, runny poos or extra wind, which isn’t fun for them (or for you!)

First things first, keep some of your dog’s old food on hand to help with the transition. Then, we’ve put together this simple 7 day plan, recommended by our Head Vet, to guide you. It outlines the right mix of old and new food to serve each day.
Got their bowl ready? Let’s get started.

The 7 day transition plan

Here’s a day-by-day guide to help your dog adjust to their tasty new Tails.com food. 

Days 1-2: 

  • Their bowl should have: 75% old food +25% Tails.com food.

Days 3-4: 

  • Their bowl should have: 50% old food + 50% Tails.com food.

Days 5-6: 

  • Their bowl should have: 25% old food + 75% Tails.com food.

Day 7 onwards:

  • You can now serve your dog 100% Tails.com food

Congratulations, you’ve done it! Your dog is now ready to enjoy their new food full-time.

You can now follow the daily portion guide on your dog’s personalised meal plan.

What about wet food?

If you’re feeding Tails.com wet food as well as their tailored kibble, add a little of that with their kibble in your 7 day transition, slowly increasing the amount so they can get used to both at the same time. 

What about sensitive stomachs?

Every dog is an individual. If yours has a particularly sensitive stomach, feel free to take this transition a little slower.

What if my dog is a fussy eater?

Some dogs can be a bit particular about new foods. If your dog isn’t emptying their bowl right away, don’t worry. We have some tried-and-tested tricks to make their new mealtime extra tempting:

  • Warm it up:
    • Pop their food in the microwave for just a few seconds. This simple step releases the delicious aromas and can get even the fussiest nose twitching.
  • Add a little hot water:
    • Pouring a small amount of hot (not boiling) water over the kibble can soften the texture and enhance the smell, making it more appealing.
  • Add some gravy:
    • A tiny splash of low-salt gravy or diluted, yeast-free stock can make the food more interesting.
  • Top it with wet food:
    • A spoonful of Tails.com wet food mixed into the kibble can be a great way to encourage them to dig in.
  • Hold the treats:
    • While you’re transitioning, try to cut back on extra treats. This ensures they’re hungry when mealtime comes around.

Why choose tailored dog food?

One-size-fits-all. Great for socks. Not so great for dogs.

That’s why we create meals 100% tailored to your dog. Packed with high-quality ingredients, selected by our team of vets and nutritionists. Tailored to your dog’s age, breed, health and more. 

The result? 80% of pet parents report a healthier dog. 

Whether they need help with digestion troubles, reaching their ideal weight or achieving that enviable coat shine –  we have them covered.  

We’re here to help

Need a hand? Our dedicated Nutrition Team can provide specialist, one-on-one care to give you extra support. You can visit our Help Centre or chat with them on WhatsApp anytime.

18 thoughts on “A guide to changing dog food”

  1. Hi
    Charlie has just been groomed and his anal glands were blocked again this has happened before, the groomer suggested more fibre, do i need to change his current food?His poos are always soft.

    Reply
    • Yes. Same thing with my dog. He has soft stools and has anal gland issues. I’ve switched to a high fibre diet. Mainly kibble my dog is eating for now as he doesnt just yet like the wet food.

      Fingers crossed for a full switch over!

      Reply
  2. Hi there
    Scoop of Z4 is a even bigger portion for ella ? Is that the whole amount for the 3 meals aday or in one go , I am quite confused ? Have tried the method of introducing her the food , only way to get her to eat it is add a of egg into it , is that ok ?

    Reply
  3. Gertie, a westy, will not just eat dry food. She has half and half. Do l add a bit of marmite water to the dry food and put it in the microwave for 10 seconds? Haven’t tried this yet but am keen to try anything. Other than that she is a health 7.5kg dog.

    Reply
  4. We changed onto Tails because our puppy was going three days without eating her food. (I spoke to the vet about it)
    Now we have our Tails delivery she demolishes it but won’t eat any of her old food. (Which is great that she loves it haha thank you!)

    But how do I gradually change her over the 7 days when she’s like this?

    Reply
    • This is so great to hear, Katrina! We always advise starting off very gradually when introducing a new food, especially if your dog has a sensitive digestion – this should avoid any upset tums! Our Nutrition Team have some more tips on changing food that may help, you can watch these here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8kizqkYGjwY

      Reply

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