How to Switch Your Dog to Wilderness 80 Salmon Food
By MyPetSays | Published: 2026-10-25
Category: How-to Guides
Learn a safe 7-day transition plan to switch your dog to Wilderness 80 Salmon, Haddock & Trout grain free food. Avoid digestive upset with this step-by-step guide.
Quick answer
Transition your dog to Wilderness 80 Salmon, Haddock & Trout over 7 days by gradually mixing increasing amounts of the new food with the old food. This slow switch helps prevent digestive upset and lets your dog adjust to the higher protein content.
Why a gradual switch matters
Dogs have sensitive digestive systems. A sudden change in diet can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat. Wilderness 80 contains 80% animal ingredients and is grain free, which is a significant shift from many standard kibbles. A gradual transition gives your dog's gut bacteria time to adapt to the new protein sources—salmon, herring, haddock, and trout—and the higher meat content.
What to expect during the switch
Some dogs may have looser stools or less appetite in the first few days. This is normal as their system adjusts. If symptoms persist beyond 3-4 days or worsen, slow down the transition by staying on the same ratio for an extra day. Always provide fresh water, especially with a high-protein, grain free food that may increase thirst.
7-Day transition plan
- Days 1-2: 75% old food + 25% new food: Mix 3/4 of your dog's usual portion of old food with 1/4 of Wilderness 80 Salmon, Haddock & Trout. Serve at the same meal times. Watch for any signs of digestive upset. Common mistake: rushing to a higher ratio too soon. If stools are soft, stay at this ratio an extra day.
- Days 3-4: 50% old food + 50% new food: Increase the new food to half the bowl. Your dog is now getting a significant amount of the new protein blend. Continue monitoring stool consistency and energy levels. Checkpoint: your dog should be eating both meals willingly by now. If not, mix in a small amount of warm water to enhance aroma.
- Days 5-6: 25% old food + 75% new food: The new food now makes up most of the meal. Your dog's digestive system should be adapting to the 80% animal ingredient content. Keep portions consistent. Common mistake: adding treats or toppers during transition. Stick to the two foods only to accurately gauge tolerance.
- Day 7 onward: 100% Wilderness 80: Serve only Wilderness 80 Salmon, Haddock & Trout. Your dog should be eating normally with firm stools. If any issues appear, revert to the previous ratio for 2 more days before trying again. Checkpoint: if your dog refuses the new food entirely, try moistening kibble with warm water or offering it at room temperature. Never starve your dog to force acceptance.
About this food
- Wilderness 80 Grain Free Dog Food For All Lifestages - Salmon, Herring, Haddock & Trout: Wilderness 80 All Life Stage Dog Food is a premium grain free recipe with 80% animal ingredients, including freshly prepared Scottish salmon, herring, haddock and trout. The high meat content means a richer protein load than many dogs are used to, making a gradual transition essential for digestion.
Wilderness 80 Grain Free Dog Food For All Lifestages - Salmon, Herring, Haddock & Trout
