Top 5 Signs Your Dog May Need a Different Food

When it comes to our dogs, we want nothing but the best — the best toys, the best healthcare, and most importantly, the best dog food. But not all food suits every dog, and knowing when it’s time for a change can be the key to a healthier, happier life for your furry friend.

Whether you’re a first-time dog owner or a seasoned pet parent, it’s essential to understand how your dog’s body responds to their current diet. A dog can’t exactly tell you what’s wrong, but their body sure can — if you know the signs to look for.

In this article, we’ll explore the top 5 signs your dog may need different food, why they happen, and how to choose the right replacement.

1. Chronic Itching or Skin Issues

What to Watch For:

• Constant scratching or licking
• Dry, flaky skin
• Redness or hot spots
• Hair loss or dull coat

Why It Happens:

Itching and skin problems are often the first red flags that your dog’s food isn’t working for them. Low-quality ingredients, fillers, or food allergies can cause inflammation in the skin.

Common culprits include:

• Wheat or corn fillers
• Artificial additives
• Low-quality meat by-products

Dogs with food sensitivities may react with skin inflammation rather than gastrointestinal distress. If you’ve ruled out fleas and environmental causes, food is the next likely suspect.

What to Do:

Switch to a limited ingredient dog food with a novel protein like duck, venison, or salmon. Look for recipes with omega-3 fatty acids from flaxseed or fish oil, which help soothe the skin.

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2. Digestive Upset: Vomiting, Diarrhea, or Gas

What to Watch For:

• Frequent vomiting
• Loose or irregular stools
• Excessive gas
• Signs of discomfort after meals

Why It Happens:

Dogs have sensitive digestive systems. A poor-quality diet or an intolerance to certain ingredients can easily lead to chronic stomach issues.

Food-related causes include:

• Low digestibility of protein
• Lack of fiber
• Dairy or gluten sensitivities

While occasional upset is normal, ongoing issues can indicate a serious problem with your dog’s diet.

What to Do:

Try a highly digestible formula with natural ingredients and no artificial additives. Opt for dog food with prebiotics and probiotics to support gut health.

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3. Low Energy or Lethargy

What to Watch For:

• Unusual tiredness
• Reluctance to play or exercise
• Sleeping more than usual

Why It Happens:

Dogs, like humans, draw energy from the nutrients in their food. A lack of proper nutrients, too many fillers, or a mismatch in calorie needs can leave your dog feeling drained.

Energy problems may also indicate your dog isn’t getting enough high-quality protein, fats, or complex carbohydrates.

Puppies, active breeds, and seniors all have different energy requirements. Feeding the wrong life-stage formula can cause imbalances.

What to Do:

Select a life-stage appropriate high-protein dog food tailored to your dog’s activity level and breed size. Avoid products with corn, soy, or animal by-products.

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4. Weight Changes: Sudden Gain or Loss

What to Watch For:

• Noticeable weight gain or obesity
• Unintended weight loss
• Visible ribs or spine
• Struggling to maintain healthy weight

Why It Happens:

Weight issues often stem from imbalanced nutrition or inappropriate portion sizes.

Overweight dogs may be eating too many calories with too little nutritional value. On the other hand, dogs losing weight may not be absorbing nutrients properly or may need more calories than they’re currently receiving.

Underlying medical conditions should also be considered and discussed with your vet.

What to Do:

Look for weight management dog food that offers balanced calories, lean protein, and L-carnitine to support healthy metabolism. For underweight dogs, consider a calorie-dense formula with healthy fats.

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5. Behavioral Changes or Mood Swings

What to Watch For:

• Increased irritability
• Sudden aggression or withdrawal
• Anxiety or restlessness
• Loss of interest in toys or affection

Why It Happens:

Behavioral changes can sometimes be traced back to nutritional deficiencies. For example:

• Lack of B vitamins can affect mood
• Imbalanced omega fatty acids impact brain function
• Low tryptophan can influence serotonin production

Inconsistent blood sugar levels from poor-quality carbs can also contribute to mood swings or hyperactivity.

What to Do:

Choose a dog food rich in brain-supporting nutrients like DHA, B-complex vitamins, and balanced amino acids.

Support your dog’s mental well-being with the right food ➜

Bonus Tip: Check the Ingredient List

Always read the ingredient label. The first ingredient should be a named protein source (like "chicken" or "salmon," not "meat meal"). Avoid artificial colors, preservatives, and vague terms like "animal by-products."

Look for:

• Real meat as the first ingredient
• Whole grains or grain-free options
• No artificial preservatives (like BHA/BHT)
• Added vitamins and minerals

When to See a Vet

If your dog displays any of the above signs for more than a few days, consult your veterinarian. They can help rule out medical conditions and recommend dietary changes tailored to your dog’s specific needs.

A diet change should be done gradually over 7–10 days to avoid further digestive upset.

Final Thoughts

Our dogs rely on us to make the best choices for their well-being. The food they eat plays a crucial role in their physical health, emotional balance, and overall happiness.

If you notice signs like itching, stomach trouble, weight fluctuations, or mood changes, don’t ignore them. Your dog might be telling you that it’s time for a new food.

At Pets Gone Wild, we offer a wide selection of premium, vet-recommended dog foods for all breeds and dietary needs. Whether your dog needs a limited-ingredient formula, a weight control recipe, or a boost in energy, we’re here to help you find the perfect match.

Pets Gone Wild offers premium, human-grade pet food and wellness products designed to support your pet's health from the inside out. We specialize in natural ingredients with no fillers, chemicals, or artificial additives.