World Of Pets

Can Dogs Get Sick From New Dog Food ?

Dogs can get sick from switching to new food and have some vomiting or diarrhea. It's generally best to switch gradually over 1-2 weeks. It doesn't matter whether it's a new brand, or a new formula of the same brand (e.g. TOTW Pacific Stream to TOTW Wetlands); it can still happen. It also doesn't matter that it was 12 hours later; if he vomits or has diarrhea anytime within a few days of switching food then the food must be considered a potential cause. 

But there are other reasons for vomiting, and it could just be coincidence that you switched his diet. If he continues to vomit or starts acting sick or painful, call your vet. 

I don't have any problems with Innova. When choosing a new pet food, look for the small-print "AAFCO statement" on the bag. Here is a typical one: "Taste of the Wild Pacific Stream Canine Formula is formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) Dog Food Nutrient Profiles for all life stages." Some of the really high-quality diets (like Hill's, Purina, and Innova) will actually say "feeding trials substantiate" in their AAFCO statement. This is an even more rigorous standard. 

As far as his skin allergies go, you should consult with your vet about the best treatment plan, including diet. Skin problems are not always due to allergies, but when they are, ANY element of the diet can be a problem. The most common food allergens are the protein source (usually beef, dairy products, lamb, chicken, and fish) and carb source (usually wheat & corn), but even potato (which is one of the two carb sources in TOTW, along with yucca) has been implicated. 

If you are truly choosing a diet to manage skin allergies, I recommend consulting with your vet to choose a diet specifically formulated with limited ingredient. Hill's and Royal Canin make some good ones. Just because a diet says "grain-free" doesn't mean it's good for allergies - more likely it just thinks it's a good marketing tool. 

A couple more points about feeding trials for skin allergies: they are worthless if there are any other grain/protein sources in the dogs' diet. This includes treats, flavored sauces, table scraps, and many flavored heartworm tablets (consult with your vet about options - there are topical products available you could possibly use). If your dog has had any of these, the "grain-free" diet is doing him no good. You also need to stick with the diet at least 2 months to show effect, without switching foods around or adding the items I listed above.