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My new dog has diarrhea after a diet change. Should I wait or switch?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Dachshund | Male | neutered | 10 years old | 11 lbs

Hello! I adopted Russell a week ago and on his paperwork it said that he was allergic to potatoes and that the food he use to eat was Blue Buffalo. Since it didn't have a lot of info I got him the same food I was giving my other dogs just changed it to (Natual Balance Low ingridient Lamb meal and brown rice). For the last couple of days he has had diarrhea. He is still eating and active so I'm not sure if I should change his food again or wait for a couple of days to see if he gets use to it.

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2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Emily, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on June 8th, 2017

A sudden diet change can cause diarrhea. Also just being in a new environment could cause a little bit of loose stool as well. As long as Russell is eating, drinking and acting normally I would give it a few more days before changing his diet again.

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    Answered By Lindsey Edwards MVB, BSc, IVCA

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    As long as he is otherwise well I would continue the food for 10-14 days and add a probiotic fiber supplement such as fortiflora to promote healthy gut balance. Any vomiting, discomfort or lethargy would require a more sudden change back to familiar food or a specialist intestinal diet

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