Last reviewed: 10 May 2026 · Reviewed by Dr. Lucas Martins
When to contact a vet about your dog's diet
Safety first
Contact a veterinary surgeon if your dog is unwell, has a diagnosed condition, is under 12 months old, is pregnant or lactating, is on prescription food, or shows emergency symptoms. Dog Food Fix is for educational nutrition guidance for healthy adult dogs only. It does not replace veterinary care.
Emergency — contact a vet immediately
These are emergency situations. Do not wait. Contact your nearest emergency veterinary practice or call the RCVS Find a Vet service.
- !Collapse or loss of consciousness
- !Seizures or uncontrolled trembling
- !Suspected poisoning or toxin ingestion
- !Bloated, hard abdomen with retching (possible GDV)
- !Severe bleeding or trauma
- !Difficulty breathing
- !Inability to stand or walk
Situations where a vet should come first
In these situations, Dog Food Fix is not the right starting point. A veterinary consultation should happen before any dietary changes.
When Dog Food Fix can help
Dog Food Fix is designed for healthy adult dogs whose owners want to:
- ✓Understand the quality of their current food based on the label
- ✓Check whether the daily portion is roughly appropriate
- ✓Compare their current food with alternatives in the database
- ✓Plan a safe, gradual transition to a new food
- ✓Learn about ingredients and nutritional principles
Find a vet near you
The Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS) maintains a register of all practising veterinary surgeons in the UK.
RCVS Find a Vet →Important safety notice
This page provides general educational information about dog nutrition. It is not a veterinary consultation, diagnosis, or treatment plan. If your dog is unwell, has a diagnosed condition, is under 12 months old, or is pregnant or lactating, please contact a veterinary surgeon registered with the RCVS.
Frequently asked questions
Can Dog Food Fix diagnose food allergies?
No. Food allergies can only be diagnosed by a veterinarian, typically through a controlled elimination diet. Dog Food Fix may note common allergens on a label, but this is educational information, not a diagnosis.
My dog has soft stools — should I see a vet or use Dog Food Fix?
If soft stools persist for more than 48 hours, contain blood or mucus, or are accompanied by other symptoms (lethargy, vomiting, weight loss), see a vet first. If your dog is otherwise healthy and you suspect diet quality, a food report may help you review the current diet.
Will the report tell me what food to buy for my sick dog?
No. Dog Food Fix does not make recommendations for dogs with diagnosed conditions. If your dog has a health issue, your treating veterinarian is the right person to advise on diet.
What happens if the safety screen flags my dog?
If the intake form identifies a red flag, the system stops the flow before payment and recommends that you consult your local veterinarian. No charge is taken.
About the Founder: Dr. Lucas Martins — Built with transparent criteria, careful label review, and clear educational boundaries.