Gradual change of food?

Dr. Marie replied:

Thanks for your question! I'm not sure if I've had a question all the way from South Korea before. :)

I can understand why you would be confused about how rapidly to switch foods. We usually tell people to do a gradual switch of foods over a period of 5-7 days. However, I will make exceptions to this when I am putting a dog on a hypoallergenic food.

The reason why we do a gradual switch (with non-hypoallergenic foods) is because there could be some intestinal upset if the dog was at all sensitive to the food. However, with a hypoallergenic food it's extremely unlikely that the dog would be sensitive. Also, if we are switching a dog to hypoallergenic food then we believe that there is an allergy to the current food. Therefore, getting him off of the current food as quickly as possible is the best thing.

I have occasionally had a dog have some sensitivities even to the hypoallergenic foods, but usually I don't have a problem with switching as your vet has suggested.

Food trials can be frustrating! The best extra advice I can give is to be patient. Often the changes can take several weeks to see. Also, if you give any other food (i.e. treats or a different brand), even a small amount can induce allergies.

I hope things are improving soon!

Dr. Marie.


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Dr. Marie replied:

The idea is still the same. If we are switching to a new food that should be easier on the intestines then we really don't need to do it gradually. There is probably no harm in doing a gradual switch. However, if you've already started the new food then I wouldn't go back to the old one now.

Another option is for you to give your vet's office a call. If the doctor had a specific idea in mind for how to switch the food then it's best to stick to her recommendations.