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Question:

Vet advised against Costco/Kirkland brand dog food

Help, I'm feeling so confused right now. So, I took my dog, Charlie, to the vet for his regular check-up, and everything was going okay until we started discussing his diet. The vet seemed really concerned when I mentioned that I've been feeding Charlie the Costco/Kirkland brand dog food. She advised against it and said something about it not meeting certain nutritional standards? I've been using it for months because it's affordable and Charlie seemed to like it, so I'm really torn. I'm just trying to do what's best for my furry buddy, but changing brands is a bit overwhelming, and I'm worried about the cost and whether he'll even like something new. Has anyone else gone through this, or does anyone have recommendations for other affordable brands that are better quality?

Answer:

Thanks for reaching out with your question. While many dogs do just fine on Kirkland brand dog food, each pet is unique, and there could be specific reasons your vet advised against it. Often, vets consider factors like ingredient sensitivity, your dog's current health status, age, breed, and nutritional needs when recommending a diet.



Some dogs can have allergies or intolerances to certain ingredients commonly found in store-bought dog food, such as grains, chicken, or beef. It's also important that the food supports their particular life stage, whether they’re a puppy, adult, or senior.



If you're considering a switch, always do it gradually over a week or so to avoid upsetting your dog's stomach. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of their current food. Watch for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or itchy skin, which could indicate an issue with the new food.



If your dog shows any of these signs, or if they have a change in appetite, energy levels, or behavior, it's best to consult your vet promptly as these could be signs of a more serious issue.



For personalized guidance, I suggest scheduling a video consultation with one of our Dial A Vet experts to discuss your dog’s dietary needs and find the best food for them.

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 26, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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