Switching food can be a concern, which is why we’ve compiled our veterinarian Henna’s tips here for a smooth transition. With these tricks (which are actually quite simple!), you can confidently switch your dogs food.
Patience is key
A sudden change in diet can upset your dog’s stomach. Sampling should be done patiently and the switch to Alvar’s kibble should be made gradually over about a week. For sensitive stomachs, the transition period can even be up to 14 days.
Veterinarian’s tips for problem situations
Switching from one kibble to another doesn’t always go smoothly. Alvar’s veterinarian Henna listed tips for the most common situations where the food doesn’t seem to suit the dog.
Food not appealing?
In addition to the food’s ingredient composition, previous eating habits affect palatability. If the dog previously ate a very different type of food, the kibble might seem strange at first. Especially in the beginning, it’s a good idea to mix in some of the dog’s previous food to ease the transition.
Increased poop amount
The amount of poop is affected by the food’s fiber content. If the dog previously ate low-fiber food (e.g., canned or raw food), it’s completely normal that the amount of poop increases when switching to dry food. The fiber content in Alvar’s products varies by recipe, according to the dog’s needs.
Loose poop
So-called fermentable fibers and prebiotics are especially beneficial for gut health but may initially make the stool a bit softer. This usually stabilizes as the digestive system adjusts to the new food’s composition.
Allergic reaction
If the dog reacts strongly to the new food, it’s best not to continue feeding it, and caution should be taken when trying other new foods. In some cases, the cause might be a sensitivity to a specific ingredient.
Alvar’s veterinarian Henna Söderholm with her dogs.
Remember, you’re not alone with your challenges!
Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you still have questions. We also offer the opportunity to chat with Henna about Alvar’s recipes, switching food, or finding the right fit for your dog. You can book a 15-minute nutrition consultation here!
Happy tasting – thank you for trying Alvar 🐾
