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My puppy has diarrhea after food switch. Is it normal? How long?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Samoyed | Male | unneutered | 9 months and 1 day old | 6 lbs

Oli is 9 months now. He's been eating Royal Canin puppy food all his life. I switched him to Pedigree puppy 2 days ago (it's cheaper). But yesterday i noticed bile in his crate, and today he has diarrhea. Is it normal to have this when switching foods? And if so, how long would it last? Thanks

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Answered By Jessica Desrosiers

Veterinary Technician

Published on September 2nd, 2019

Switching foods too quickly can cause digestive upset such as vomiting and diarrhea. It would be best to return to Oli's original food until his stomach settles and then start a gradual change to the new food over a period of 7-9 days, slowly adding in more of the new food over time. This can help minimize stomach upset from the new food as he adjusts.

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Related Answers from Veterinarians

Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS
Veterinarian
Published on April 13th, 2017
Yes, it certainly is possible that AJ and Kovu has diarrhea from the change in food. I can give you a home remedy to see if that helps. Withhold food for 12-24 hours, then feed a bland diet of boiled white meat chicken (no bones) and white rice in small amounts several times a day for a couple of days. Then slowly add back in their normal diet. If the diarrhea continues on the bland diet, they starts vomiting food, stops drinking water, starts vomiting water, or becomes very lethargic, they will need to see a vet right away.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful
Answered By Dr. Elizabeth
Veterinarian
Published on January 24th, 2019
Poor Koby! You can switch his diet to the new food and transition directly from the bland diet. Make the transition over 5 to 7 days. If Koby continues to have loose stool after a couple days on the diet, I recommend to have him seen by the veterinarian. Sometimes stress can allow bacterial overgrowth and the bacteria will cause a continued diarrhea. I hope this helps and please feel free to post any additional questions!
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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