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A note from one dog parent to another

Having a hard time with the switch?

That’s okay. Take your time.

Some dogs take to fresh food right away. Others need a little longer to adjust. There’s no perfect timeline, and no need to rush. This guide will help you slow things down, find a pace that works for your dog, and adjust your next delivery if you need more time.

Why this happens

Fresh food is a big change.
Their gut may just need more time.

Moving from a highly processed diet to fresh food can be an adjustment. Mild changes during the transition can happen, and for some dogs, slowing down is all they need.

Their body may still be adjusting

Every dog is different. Some settle into a new diet quickly, while others do better with smaller changes over a longer period.

You may just need to slow things down

If your dog was doing well at an earlier ratio, go back to it. Stay there until things feel normal again, then increase DASH gradually.

This is general information, not medical advice. Mild gas or softer stools during a food transition are commonly reported and are usually temporary. Every dog is different, and this guidance can’t account for your dog’s individual health history. If you’re concerned about your dog’s symptoms, or if anything seems severe, persistent, or unusual, please consult your veterinarian.

Follow their lead

There’s no deadline to fully transition.

Stay at each stage for as long as your dog needs. Once they’re consistently doing well, move to the next ratio. If things change, simply step back.

  1. Start here

    A little DASH

    ~25% DASH + 75% current food

    Start small. If your dog needs an even smaller amount of DASH, that’s completely fine.

  2. When they’re doing well

    Move to half & half

    ~50% DASH + 50% current food

    Stay here as long as you need. Look for your dog’s cues rather than counting days.

  3. When they’re ready for more

    Mostly DASH

    ~75% DASH + 25% current food

    Keep progressing only when your dog is comfortable at the current stage.

  4. When it feels right

    Fully DASH

    100% DASH

    Some dogs get here quickly. Others take a few weeks. Both are okay.

This dog-led pace is a general guideline for dogs who need extra time, not a substitute for your vet’s advice if you have ongoing concerns.

A few things that can help

Before you give up, try this.

N°01 Warm it up

Take the chill off DASH with a little warm water or let it sit out briefly before serving. The extra aroma can make the meal more enticing.

N°02 Mix it really well

Instead of putting the foods side-by-side, thoroughly mix DASH into their current food so the new food feels more familiar.

N°03 Start even smaller

25% isn't a rule. If your dog needs to start with just a spoonful of DASH mixed into their usual meal, start there.

N°04 Keep mealtimes consistent

Try serving meals around the same time each day and avoid constantly changing the routine while they're adjusting.

N°05 Try a familiar topper

If there's something your dog already loves and tolerates well, a small amount can help make the new meal feel more familiar.

N°06 Give it time

Some dogs are naturally more cautious with new foods. A slower transition doesn't mean the transition isn't working.

Need more time?

Your next box can wait.

Still working through your first box? No problem. You don’t have to rush your dog’s transition just because another delivery is coming. Use your Member Portal to move your next delivery date so you have time to transition at your dog’s pace.

  1. Log in to your Member Portal
  2. Find your upcoming delivery
  3. Pick a later date for your next box
Move my next delivery →

You can adjust your delivery schedule whenever you need to.

You’re in control

Need more time? Adjust your plan anytime.

Your dog’s schedule doesn’t always match the calendar. Your Member Portal makes it easy to adjust DASH around what works for you.

  • Move your next delivery date
  • Adjust your delivery frequency
  • Update your subscription or billing information
  • View and customize your order add-ons
  • View personalized feeding recommendations
  • Review previous orders and invoices
Go to my Member Portal →
FAQ

Questions, answered.

How long should my dog’s transition take?

There isn’t one perfect timeline. Some dogs adjust quickly; others need several weeks. Let your dog’s response determine when you move to the next stage.

What if my dog was doing well and suddenly isn’t?

Go back to the last DASH-to-current-food ratio that was working and stay there longer before increasing again.

What if 25% DASH is still too much?

Start smaller. Even a spoonful mixed into their existing food can be a perfectly reasonable starting point.

My next box is coming but we’re not ready. What should I do?

Move your next delivery date in your Member Portal. There’s no need to rush the transition just to finish your first box.

Can I mix DASH with my dog’s current food long-term?

Yes. Many pet parents mix DASH with their dog’s current food, either as part of a gradual transition or alongside their usual meals long-term. Your plan includes portion guidance based on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level.

When should I talk to my vet?

If symptoms are severe, persistent, unusual, or you’re concerned about your dog’s health, contact your veterinarian.