Dog Transition Tips
If you are having some difficulties with getting your dog transitioned to Viva, here are a few tips to help:
For picky pups, a slower, gradual transition often works best when introducing a new food. Start by offering a very small amount of Viva, around 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, mixed thoroughly with their current food. Over the next 2-3 weeks, slowly increase the amount of Viva while monitoring their adjustment.
Raw food straight from the fridge can be too cold and unappealing for some dogs. Warming it up enhances its aroma and texture, making it more enticing and encouraging your dog to eat. One way to do this is to let the food sit at room temperature for a few minutes before serving.
Alternatively, you can place the food in a sealed container or bag and submerge it in warm water, stirring every 30 seconds to gradually bring it to a more appetizing temperature.
Add tasty toppings to your pup's food, like a low-sodium bone broth (without onions or garlic), canned sardines (no added salt), or a small amount of yogurt. Some pet parents have gone as far as sprinkling some parmesan cheese to encourage testing out the new food.
Turning mealtime into an interactive experience can make eating more fun and engaging for your dog, especially when introducing new food!
Try using puzzles and slow feeders to encourage your dog to work for their food, or experiment with DIY games like hiding food or stuffing and freezing it in toys. Changing up the presentation, like using different bowls or freezing food into fun shapes, can also add variety and excitement to mealtime!
Every time your dog tries a bit of the new food, offer a positive reinforcement like a gentle pet or a favorite activity. Associating the new food with positive experiences can help your pup become more willing to try it.