Dog has loose stools & throws up after fast food change. Is it normal?

Question

Recently changed Oliver’s food from a lamb based food to a salmon based food and I have a feeling that I transitioned to the new food too fast (about 3 days). He’s not lethargic, but has occasional loose stools and will throw up a little water if he gets too excited after drinking water. Are these symptoms to be expected from a not-so-gradual change in food? Pet's info: Dog | Boston Terrier | Male | neutered | 5 months and 3 days old | 6.4 lbs

Robin Burdine, DVM · Accepted Answer

Hi and welcome to Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I am glad that Oliver is enjoying his new food. Certainly switching his food quickly can cause loose stools. Three days can be enough time; however, every animal is different and he may need a longer period of time to transition. I typically recommend a transition time of 5-7 days as that seems to fit most animals. You can try adding some rice to his current food to help bulk stool over the next 4-5 days. If his stools continue to be loose he should be evaluated by your local veterinarian as there are other causes of loose stool, such as intestinal parasites, bacterial, or even metabolic causes. The vomiting may be related to the change in food as well; however please have Oliver evaluated if this continues as this is not a normal finding with dogs for a longer period of time. Please let me know if I can be of more service to you.

Dog has loose stools & throws up after fast food change. Is it normal?

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