You already know your dog deserves the best. It's why you're here. Real ingredients, real care, real recipes made to give them everything they need - that part's sorted. The only thing left is the switch itself and the good news is, it's simpler than you might think. 

Whether you're feeding a food inhaler who's finished before the bowl hits the floor, or a food inspector who circles their dinner like it owes them money, the golden rule is the same: take it slow and steady. A gradual change gives the good bacteria in your dog's gut time to settle into their new routine — and helps you both avoid any urgent garden outings along the way. 

And if your dog takes a little while to warm up to their new food? Don't fret. That's perfectly normal. 

Option One: Transitioning to fully fresh 

Making the full move over to fresh meals? Take it one bowl at a time. The idea is to gradually replace their existing food over 7–10 days, building up the amount of fresh food day by day until they're fully switched over. 

A rough day-by-day rhythm looks like this: 

• Days 1–2: A small serving of fresh food mixed in with mostly their current diet. 
• Days 3–4: Tip the balance a little more towards fresh. 
• Days 5–6: Fresh food now makes up the majority of the bowl. 
• Day 7 (and beyond, if needed): Fully fresh, fully switched. 

Some dogs breeze through this in a week. Others prefer to take the scenic route over ten days - and that's absolutely fine. Let your dog set the pace, and keep an eye on how they're settling in. 

One note if you're mixing: these quantities are based on Different Dog food. If you're combining it with another brand, check their guidelines too. 

Option Two: Transitioning to partly fresh 

Not ready to go fully fresh just yet? No problem. This is where the wonderfully simple ‘one spoon in, one spoon out’ method comes in. 

Each day, swap one spoon of their existing food for one spoon of Different Dog. That's it. Over time, you gently increase the fresh portion at whatever pace feels right for you and your dog. 

Here's the encouraging part: you don't have to go all-in to see a real difference. 

Dog owners who feed at least 50% fresh tend to see the best results. But even a 20% fresh diet can put more good years on the clock. Every bowl counts - and you both deserve that. 

Option Three: Switching to Different Dog without a transition phase

We understand that it is not always possible to transition to Different Dog gradually. Changing the food you feed your dog can be nerve-wracking – but don’t worry, we’re here for you.  

We suggest starting your dog on a protein they already know, ideally in smaller portions across a few meals. Keep an eye on their stools as you go, and a probiotic can help if their gut needs extra support. 

If we can help in any way, please message us at feedme@differentdog.com 

When dinner gets a lukewarm reception 

Let's be honest, not every mealtime is a standing ovation. If you've got a supper sceptic on your hands, here's how to win them over one step at a time. 

"Barely a sniff…" 

Not every dog dives straight into new food, and that's okay. Try gently warming the meal in a microwavable bowl. A little warmth releases the aroma and makes it far more tempting. For a lot of dogs, this alone does the trick. 

Still playing hard to get? 

Some dogs simply don't love change and consistency is your friend here. Keeping mealtimes to a steady routine helps them settle in and know what to expect. And if today's recipe wasn't a hit, don't take it personally: try a different protein tomorrow. There's plenty to choose from, and taste is personal - even for pups. 

Time to bring out the big guns 

If your dog is still turning their snoot up, it's time to unleash the tasty toppers. A sprinkle of nutritious Bone Broth or Goat's Milk powder over the top can tempt even the most discerning connoisseur. Few dogs can resist. 

Still not convinced? 

Sniff. Pause. Dramatic sigh. If your dog is still acting personally offended by their dinner, don't panic - and definitely don't give up! This is exactly what our team is here for. We'll help you find a feeding method and recipe they'll actually drool over. 

Drop us a line at feedme@differentdog.com or give us a call on 01952 456 850. The good stuff starts here. 

The bottom line

Switching to fresh food is one of the kindest things you can do for your dog and we are here to make sure that doesn't have to be complicated. Go slow, follow your dog's lead, and don't be afraid to warm things up or mix things around until you find their favourite. 

Some dogs take to it in a day; others need a little patience and a topper or two. Either way, you're giving them real food made with real care, and that's a proper fresh start worth making!