The fundamental principle when changing any diet is to do it slowly. Introduce the new complete food in small quantities at first and gradually increase the amounts fed (around 20% per day) whilst gradually decreasing the amount of old dry food or old tinned food. Ideally the change should be spread over a 5 – 7 day period. If the swap is done too quickly the gut wall will become irritated and this can cause diarrhoea. It is also common that with the new food, which is correctly balanced, the stools may become loose for a few days and change colour. This is normal as the dogs system is getting rid of the old food and accepting the new food. This will soon pass and you will find they will become firmer, less frequent and easier to clear away.
One important point worth mentioning is that your dog will drink more water. Tinned products contain up to 80% water, dry, complete diets typically contain 6-12% moisture. Therefore clean, fresh water is a must, as the dog’s water intake will now come from a bowl of water rather than from the tinned food. This is better as the water is pure, with tins the water is in sludge form. Some dogs prefer their complete food soaked in water but you will still find that the water bowl goes down faster than before. We recommend that our complete diets are fed dry as this causes the dog to crunch the food and in the process cleans its teeth helping to prevent bad breath and tooth decay, but soaking the food with a small amount of water is not a problem.
If your dog doesn’t seem to be taking to the new food (which is unusual, but can happen) it may be worth trying a few things. Add a 2-3 teaspoons of the old diet and make sure all the familiar cues and objects associated with feeding are the same as they were with the old diet. Remember we have over 19 different complete diets so we will have one to suit your dog’s diet and taste. Adding a small amount of warm water can also help.
Many owners like to add leftovers and scraps to their dog’s food with the view of adding more variety. However dogs do benefit from a consistent diet and repeated changes in diet can create a fussy eater. All Trophy foods offer the correct balance of proteins, fibre, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. They will keep your dog fit and healthy and could reduce your food bill by up to 50%.
All the meats we use in our products are derived from animals fit for human consumption, our Super Premium Range contains GM free ingredients, and you will find up to 40% Chicken / Lamb Meat in most of our products. This chicken or lamb comes from British farms and our lamb meat is free range. Whilst on paper the food looks expensive, in the long run it will save you money, ask you Trophy Nutritional Advisor to explain. We are also very proud to be one of only 7 pet food companies to be approved under the BUAV’s non animal testing pet food standard.
