How long does it take for a dogs body to adjust to new food?

Question

About a month ago we switched our English Mastiffs as well as the other dogs in the household to a dog food without all the junk in it, A higher grade dog food. The eat less and there is less "waste" however they seem to have very loose stools, pardon the disgust of it, but basically diarrhea. This can't be normal can it? Even though they have access to fresh water daily, I am afraid they will become dehydrated. They are both looking great, I still worry about this though. Is this a definite trip to the vet?
-Sarah

Answer 1

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One of the most common causes of soft poops is over feeding.

Is there a chance you're over feeding the new food?

Not only can the over feeding be the entire day's worth of food but also what is eaten in one meal.

That said though - It would be unusual for ALL the dogs to be overfed - I'd suspect the food or perhaps Giardia.

Answer 2

Yeah it's a definite trip to the vet not trying to worry u or anything , but yeah.

Answer 3

I have been on this switching food thing for about 1 week and a half and still soft stool. I have been mixing it in with caned pumpkin (already mushed up) and that is helping alot. Im guessing ill use the pumpkin until he gets totally used to the new food. you should try that and see if it helps.
My other dog which has a less sensitive stomach has already gotten used to it. But from the looks of it, it varies between dogs.

Source(s):

personal experience

Answer 4

I don't know what you are feeding them now, but drop down a step with the higher grade. Still high grade dog food, just not as much protein. It took me a couple of trys before our dogs did well with Blue Buffalo.

Yes, still bring it up with your vet if the change in dog food doesn't work.

Answer 5

I agree with Erika too high protein can cause soft stools

Answer 6

I wish I had a a english mastiff.