Hesitation in the first few days is common, especially in dogs used to a stronger-smelling food. A few small changes usually get them eating.

Slow the changeover down. If you jumped to half and half, go back to a quarter new food mixed well through the old, so they can't pick around it.

Mix it properly. Dogs are good at eating everything except the new bit. Stir it through rather than putting it on top.

Warm it slightly. A splash of warm water brings the smell out. Let it sit a minute or two.

Take the bowl up after 15 minutes. Leaving food down all day teaches a dog that something better turns up if they wait. Offer it at set meal times and lift it in between.

Check you're not overfeeding. A dog that's had chews and treats all afternoon isn't hungry at dinner. Cut the extras during a changeover.

Give it a few days. A dog that eats a bit less for two or three days while adjusting is normal.

Don't pile on toppers, gravy or leftovers to get it down. If you're switching to work out what your dog reacts to, that undoes the whole exercise. It also teaches the dog to hold out for the topper.

A dog that eats nothing at all for 24 hours, or that's off food and also lethargic, vomiting or losing weight, needs a vet rather than a feeding tactic. Fussiness that arrives suddenly in a dog who normally eats well is worth a check.

Email [email protected]. Our 30-day Sensitivity Promise covers a dog who won't eat it, not just one whose stomach disagrees.