See the difference in your dog with 5 Hounds' fresh, wholefood diet! From increased mealtime excitement to improved coat health and digestion, discover the incredible transformations and when to expect them.

When Will I See a Difference in My Dog After Starting 5 Hounds?

Switching your dog to a fresh, wholefood diet like 5 Hounds is one of the best decisions you can make for their health and longevity. One of the most common questions I get asked is: “When will I  start seeing changes?” 

The good news? Some changes happen almost immediately—like their newfound excitement at mealtime—while others, such as improved coat health and digestion, gradually become more noticeable over weeks and months. Let me walk you through the incredible transformations you can expect when transitioning your dog to 5 Hounds meals. 

1. Immediate Changes: The Mealtime Excitement 

One of the first signs you'll notice is your dog’s sheer excitement when it’s time to eat. Many pet parents tell me they see their dogs doing “the doggy dance”—spinning in circles, barking with anticipation, or bringing their bowl to remind them it’s mealtime. 

This immediate enthusiasm is driven by the palatability of real, lightly cooked food. Unlike processed kibble, which often contains artificial flavours and preservatives, fresh whole foods smell and taste irresistible to dogs. In fact, studies have shown that dogs have up to 300 million olfactory receptors compared to our 6 million, making them naturally drawn to the aroma of fresh, nutrient-rich ingredients. At 5 Hounds, our sous vide method further enhances this appeal by locking in the natural aromas and juices, making it a favourite even for the fussiest eaters. 

2. Week 1-2: Digestive Improvements 

As your dog’s digestive system adjusts to real, high-quality food, you’ll start noticing changes in their stool consistency. Fresh food provides bioavailable nutrients that are more easily absorbed, leading to: 

• Smaller, firmer stools: With highly digestible ingredients, their body utilises more of the food, leaving behind less residue. A study published in the Journal of Animal Science found that dogs on fresh diets produce up to 66% less faecal output compared to kibble-fed dogs. 

• Improved digestion: Fresh foods contain natural enzymes and fibre that promote a healthy gut microbiome, which is key to digestive efficiency. The prebiotics and fibre in ingredients like vegetables help feed beneficial gut bacteria, leading to a more balanced digestive system. 

3. Week 2-4: Increased Energy and Vitality

By the second to fourth week, your dog’s energy levels and zest for life will start to soar. Many pet parents report that their dogs show sustained energy throughout the day, without the highs and crashes often seen with kibble-fed diets. 

Fresh whole food diets provide: 

• Slow-release energy: Unlike kibble, which often contains fast-burning carbohydrates, 5  Hounds meals are rich in quality proteins and healthy fats—key sources of sustained energy. 

• Improved stamina: With better fuel comes better endurance, allowing your dog to stay active and engaged for longer periods. 

4. Month 1-2: Enhanced Coat and Skin Health 

Around the one-month mark, you’ll start noticing a shinier, softer coat and healthier skin. Fresh food diets are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants that nourish your dog’s coat from the inside out. 

• Reduction in itching and allergies: Many common food-related skin irritations diminish once artificial additives and fillers are removed from their diet.

• A glossy, softer coat: Omega-rich ingredients such as fish and flaxseed oil help red inflammation and promote a lustrous coat.

5. Month 2-3: Improved Mobility and Joint Health 

Older dogs, or those prone to joint stiffness, will start experiencing better mobility as the natural anti-inflammatory properties of fresh food take effect. Ingredients rich in omega-3s, glucosamine and chondroitin (naturally found in fresh meats and vegetables) help: 

• Reduce inflammation in the joints, making movement easier.

• Promote healthy cartilage and joint lubrication, allowing for increased flexibility and comfort. 

6. Month 3 and Beyond: Stronger Teeth and Dental Health 

One of the most noticeable long-term benefits is dental health improvement. Many pet parent observe their dogs' teeth becoming cleaner and tartar buildup reducing over time. This is due to: 

• Increased chewing action: Fresh food encourages more natural chewing patterns, which helps break down plaque.

• Elimination of starchy fillers: Many kibbles contain carbohydrates that stick to teeth leading to decay. By removing these and replacing them with fresh, nutrient-dense foods, dental health naturally improves. 

Final Thoughts: A Long-Term Transformation 

Switching to 5 Hounds meals is a journey toward long-term health and happiness for your dog.  While some changes, like excitement at mealtime and digestion, are noticeable almost immediately,  other benefits—like improved skin, mobility and dental health—gradually build over time.

Every dog is unique and the timeline for noticeable changes may vary, but one thing is certain: a  real, wholefood diet supports their overall well-being in ways processed food simply cannot. 

Haven’t made the switch to 5 Hounds yet? Create a personalised meal plan for your dog today! Click here.