Nutrition

How to Switch Your Dog's Food Without Problems

⏱️ 4 min readBy Christian Hackl25.12.2025
How to Switch Your Dog's Food Without Problems

A guide by NANDOO Premium Hundefutter GmbH

Why switching food may be necessary

There are many reasons why switching your dog's food can be sensible or necessary. Perhaps your four-legged friend has health problems, has developed an allergy, or you simply want to switch to higher-quality dog food. Life stages such as reaching adulthood or growing older also often require an adjustment to the food.

Regardless of the reason, a gentle and well-considered transition is essential to avoid digestive problems, food refusal or intolerances.

The most important steps for a successful food transition

1. Take it slowly, step by step

The transition should happen slowly and in small steps, ideally over 7 to 10 days. This gives your dog's digestive system enough time to get used to the new food.

  • Day 1 to 3: 75% old food, 25% new food
  • Day 4 to 6: 50% old food, 50% new food
  • Day 7 to 9: 25% old food, 75% new food
  • From day 10: 100% new food

2. Watch your dog closely

During the transition, you should keep a close eye on your dog's behaviour, stools and appetite. Slight changes are normal; severe diarrhoea, vomiting or refusal to eat are signs that you should slow down or consult a vet.

3. Keep fixed feeding times

Even during a food transition, you should keep to fixed feeding times. This helps your dog feel safe and comfortable, and supports stable digestion.

4. No additional stimuli

During the transition phase, you should avoid new snacks, treats or chews. This reduces the strain on the gastrointestinal tract and makes it easier for you to judge how your dog is reacting to the new food.

NANDOO Premium Dog Food: ideal for a gentle transition

NANDOO Premium Hundefutter GmbH offers a wide range of high-quality, balanced dog food, tailored to every life stage and need. Whether puppy, adult dog or senior: at NANDOO you will find exactly the right product for a healthy, gentle diet.

Particularly beneficial for the transition: NANDOO's recipes are grain-free, easily digestible and contain only high-quality raw materials without artificial additives. This makes it easier for your dog to adjust and minimises the risk of intolerances.

When should you consider switching your dog's food?

  • Your dog suddenly has skin or coat problems
  • Flatulence, diarrhoea or constipation occur frequently
  • You want to switch to a premium dog food such as NANDOO
  • Your dog's nutritional needs are changing (for example due to age, activity level or illness)
  • You want to switch to a more responsible, animal-friendly diet

Conclusion: patience and quality lead to a successful food transition

A food transition for dogs is not rocket science, but it does require patience, a good eye and high-quality food. With a gradual transition, fixed routines and the high-quality products from NANDOO Premium Hundefutter, the switch will go smoothly. Your dog will thank you with more energy, better wellbeing and healthy digestion.

FAQ, frequently asked questions about switching a dog's food

How long does a food transition take for dogs?

Usually 7 to 10 days. The more sensitive the dog, the more time you should allow.

Can I switch my dog completely to new food straight away?

This is not advisable, as it can overwhelm the gastrointestinal tract. Always proceed gradually.

What should I do if my dog refuses the new food?

Give them time. Mix it in with the old food, or try a different NANDOO flavour if the refusal continues.

How can I tell if my dog tolerates the new food well?

Signs include normal stools, a shiny coat, active behaviour and good eating habits.

Can I also switch sensitive dogs to NANDOO?

Yes. NANDOO dog food is particularly well tolerated, free from grain and artificial additives, ideal for sensitive dogs.

Matching products at kauliebe

For a gentle transition, our dry food and wet food in matching single-protein varieties are a great choice.

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This guide provides general information only and does not replace veterinary diagnosis or advice. If your dog's symptoms persist, please consult a vet.
Christian Hackl

Author & dog nutrition advisor

Christian Hackl

Founder of NANDOO and a qualified canine nutrition advisor. As an animal psychologist (specialising in dogs) and an active dog trainer since 1999, he combines sound knowledge of canine anatomy and physiology with almost 30 years of practical experience, and helps develop NANDOO's recipes.

More about Christian & his qualifications →