5 Signs Your Pet’s Diet Might Need a Change

Feeding your dog or cat seems simple on the surface: pick a bag of food, scoop it into a bowl, and let them happily eat. Just as people do, pets have nutritional needs that can change over time. Their age, activity level, stress, allergies, and even the quality of the food they’re eating can shape how they look, feel, and act every day.

At Tail Blazers Legacy, many pet parents in South East Calgary walk through the doors thinking their pet’s diet is “fine,” but after a closer look, it becomes clear the food isn’t truly supporting their pet’s overall health. The good news? Pets usually tell us when something isn’t working for them, just not in words.

This guide breaks down five clear signs your pet’s diet may need a change, backed by common nutritional research and real-world experiences from pet owners who switch to healthier raw food, high-quality kibble, or supportive supplements.

This is not medical advice, but an educational look at how better nutrition can help pets thrive.

1. Changes in Skin, Coat, or Itching

Skin and coat issues are often the first clues that something in your pet’s diet isn’t right.

Common signs include:

• Excessive scratching

• Red or inflamed skin

• Dull or brittle fur

• Flaky or dry patches

• Hot spots

• Shedding more than usual

These concerns often arise when a diet is too low in essential fatty acids, contains poor-quality protein, or contains ingredients your pet doesn’t tolerate well (such as certain grains or fillers).

Why Does Diet Affect Skin Health

Researchers have long studied the link between nutrition and skin. For example, studies published in the Journal of Nutritional Science highlight that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids play a structural role in skin barrier health and coat shine. Pets lacking these nutrients may show irritation or dull fur because their body aren’t getting the building blocks they need.

How A Diet Change Can Help

Pet parents in South East Calgary often report improvements when switching to higher-quality diets, such as raw food or high-protein/low-carb kibble, or adding targeted supplements like salmon oil, probiotics, or digestive enzymes.

Foods rich in:

• High-quality animal protein

• Omega-3 fatty acids (e.g., herring, salmon, sardines)

• Vitamins A, E, and biotin

…can support healthier skin and coat from the inside out.

If your pet is constantly scratching or shedding, it may be time to take a closer look at the bowl.

2. Digestive Upset or Irregular Bathroom Habits

Digestive problems are among the most common reasons owners reconsider their pet’s food. Signs to watch for include:

• Soft or inconsistent stools

• Chronic diarrhea or constipation

• Frequent gas

• Vomiting undigested food

• “Rumbling” stomach sounds

• Scooting

Digestive issues rarely resolve on their own; they often indicate a diet that’s not being correctly processed.

Why This Happens

Many store-brand kibbles rely heavily on fillers, low-grade by-products, artificial ingredients, or ingredients that pets struggle to digest. Research from the National Research Council (NRC) notes that digestibility matters more than quantity, meaning a pet can eat a whole bowl but still not absorb the nutrients they need.

Common triggers include:

• Too many carbohydrates

• Low-quality protein sources

• Sensitive stomachs reacting to additives

• A sudden switch in food

• Not enough moisture in the diet

Why Raw Or Higher-Quality Food May Help

Raw diets naturally contain:

• Fewer fillers

• Higher moisture (supports digestion and hydration)

• Easily digestible proteins

• Simple ingredient lists

Some pets also benefit from grain-free kibble or limited-ingredient diets.

Supplements like:

• Pumpkin

• Digestive enzymes

• Prebiotics and probiotics

…may support gut balance. Many customers at Tail Blazers Legacy have seen regular, firm bowel movements return after adjusting their pet’s diet.

3. Low Energy or Noticeable Weight Changes

If your pet seems more tired than usual or, on the other hand, unusually restless, it may be related to what they’re eating.

Signs include:

• Slowing down on walks

• Sleeping more than normal

• Struggling to keep on weight

• Unexpected weight gain

• Seeming “wired,” anxious, or unfocused

Why Does Diet Impact Energy

A study in the Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition found that protein quality and carbohydrate load influence metabolism, muscle tone, and energy levels in dogs. Low-quality, carb-heavy food may give quick bursts of energy, followed by crashes similar to how people feel after eating too much sugar.

When pets eat a high-protein, low-carb diet that more closely matches their natural needs, their energy and body composition tend to stabilize.

Common Dietary Causes Of Low Energy

• Too much starch in kibble

• Not enough amino acids for muscle support

• Low moisture content (leading to mild dehydration)

• Missing micronutrients (zinc, B vitamins, taurine, etc.)

Raw diets and premium kibble often contain more bioavailable nutrients, meaning the body can actually use them.

4. Frequent Ear Infections or Allergic Symptoms

If your dog or cat can’t seem to shake recurring ear issues, your vet may rule out infection, but diet can still be part of the bigger picture.

Diet-related allergic symptoms often include:

• Ear scratching

• Frequent head shaking

• Brown or yeasty ear buildup

• Red or irritated ears

• A strong “yeasty” smell

What The Science Says

Research has shown that food sensitivities commonly manifest as ear problems, particularly in dogs. A study in Veterinary Dermatology found that many dogs with chronic otitis (ear inflammation) had underlying dietary triggers often tied to specific proteins or high-carb diets that feed natural yeast on the skin.

How Nutrition Plays A Part

Switching to a single-protein raw diet, a limited-ingredient diet, or a novel protein (such as duck, rabbit, or venison) can help pet parents identify what works best for their pet.

While Tail Blazers Legacy cannot diagnose allergies, many customers notice fewer flare-ups after moving to a more balanced, minimally processed diet.

5. Behavioral Changes: Restlessness, Anxiety, or Irritability

Behavior changes can seem unrelated to food, but nutrition affects:

• Hormone regulation

• Inflammation

• Gut–brain axis function

• Sleep quality

Signs of dietary impact on behavior may include:

• Pacing or restlessness

• Difficulty settling at night

• Sudden irritability

• Hyperactivity

• Over-attachment

• Excessive panting

The Gut And Brain Connection

Modern research in animal nutrition shows a strong relationship between the gut microbiome and emotional regulation. A study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that gut imbalance can influence cortisol levels, stress responses, and mood, meaning an unhealthy digestive system can contribute to anxiety-like behaviors.

Possible Nutritional Links

• Inconsistent blood sugar from carb-heavy diets

• Poor digestion causes physical discomfort

• Omega-3 deficiency affects cognitive function

• Inflammation triggered by certain ingredients

Pet parents often see improvements when switching to:

• High-protein diets

• Raw or gently cooked meals

• Probiotic or gut-support supplements

• Species-appropriate treats without fillers

When to Consider Raw Food or Premium Kibble

Healthy diets don’t look the same for every dog or cat. Some thrive on raw food, while others do well on high-quality kibble. The key is choosing food with real, recognizable ingredients and avoiding unnecessary fillers.

Tail Blazers Legacy offers a wide variety, including:

• High-protein raw food

• Freeze-dried and gently cooked options

• Healthy, low-carb kibble

• Limited-ingredient formulas

• Natural supplements to support digestion and immunity

• The largest raw freezer selection in South East Calgary

No matter which direction pet parents choose, the goal is simple: food that supports long-term health instead of just filling the bowl.

How Supplements Can Help Support a Healthy Diet

Supplements are not replacements for a balanced diet, but they can support key areas:

1. Digestive Support

Probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes help pets absorb nutrients and maintain a healthy gut microbiome.

2. Joint and Mobility Support

Glucosamine, MSM, green-lipped mussel, and omega-3s can help maintain joint comfort, especially for adult and senior pets.

3. Skin and Coat Support

Salmon oil, sardine oil, and algae-based omega oils provide essential fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat.

4. Immune Support

Medicinal mushrooms, colostrum, vitamin blends, or natural antioxidants help keep the immune system balanced.

5. Stress and Mood Support

Certain supplements, such as L-theanine, chamomile blends, or calming chews, can support relaxation and mental clarity.

These are general categories, not veterinary instructions, but many pet parents find they help maintain overall well-being when paired with quality food.

What a Diet Change Might Look Like

A diet adjustment doesn’t need to be overwhelming. Most changes fall into one of these categories:

Switching To A Raw Diet

Great for pets needing high protein, natural enzymes, and balanced fats.

Upgrading Kibble Quality

Look for foods with named proteins, low-carb content, and no artificial preservatives.

Adding Moisture

Raw toppers, broth, or canned foods can help digestion and hydration.

Introducing Supplements

Focus on categories that match your pet’s needs, such as gut, mobility, skin, or immunity.

 Adjusting Portion Sizes

Sometimes the issue isn’t the food, it’s how much.

Tail Blazers Legacy helps South East Calgary pet owners explore options without pressure or judgment. The goal is to make informed, sustainable choices.

Before Changing Your Pet’s Diet: A Quick Note

While nutrition can make a meaningful difference, it is always important to speak with a veterinarian if your pet shows symptoms of illness, sudden changes in behavior, or severe digestive issues. Tail Blazers Legacy provides education and recommendations, not diagnoses or medical treatment.

Give Your Pet the Healthy, Happy Life They Deserve

Your pet can’t tell you when something feels off, but their body gives plenty of clues. If you’ve noticed changes in their coat, digestion, energy, or behavior, their diet might need a closer look.

A healthier, more species-appropriate diet, whether raw food, high-protein kibble, or a simple supplement, can support better digestion, shinier coats, steadier moods, and more vibrant daily energy.

If you're in South East Calgary, Tail Blazers Legacy is here to help you make informed choices about raw food, healthy kibble, supplements, and treats.

Visit www.tailblazerslegacy.com to explore the largest selection of raw food freezers in the area and discover options that help your pet feel their best.