What to Feed a Rescue Dog 

Approximately two million dogs are rescued annually in the U.S. ¹ While it’s unfortunate to see this many dogs in need of a home, rescuing a pet is one of the most rewarding ways to welcome a canine companion into your life. Whether they came from a shelter, were found frightened and alone, or belonged to a loved one who passed, your new dog is beginning a fresh chapter.

Unfortunately, many rescue dogs have faced neglect or malnutrition, which can lead to weight loss, sensitivities and/or behavioral issues. That’s why knowing what to feed a rescue dog and how often to feed them is important. From how to transition your rescue dog to a new diet to a good way to fatten up a rescue dog safely, these early choices can make a big difference.

Understanding your rescue dog’s background

Your dog may not have had the best background, which is why it’s important to consider their history when it comes to dinner. For example, dogs who have experienced food scarcity or deprivation can become protective of food. Constantly hunting or scavenging might have been essential in their previous life, which is why overeating is a common trait for rescue dogs. Sadly, they weren’t used to a friendly face placing highly quality meals in front of them every day, so this behavior is normal. However, it must be managed.

Ask the shelter or foster home for advice

It’s a possibility that your rescue dog spent time in a shelter or foster home, and they usually can provide some essential information. Ask them what your dog has been eating in the shelter, or if they have any allergies or sensitivities. 

It’s perfectly fine if you want to choose a different food, but at the beginning, it’s a good idea to keep it the same. There are so many things for a rescue dog to adjust to in a new environment, and it will be comforting that food isn’t one of them. Feeding a rescue dog will require patience and understanding, as they may have unique dietary needs or preferences. Gradually introduce new foods, monitor their reaction, and consult a vet for personalized feeding recommendations.

Does my rescue dog have food aggression?

Most rescue dogs have been tested for food aggression before being adopted. However, this is still something to be cautious about. Plus, not all rescue dogs come from shelters, so if your dog gets possessive over their dinner, you’ll want to check with your vet or a professional behaviorist.

The first few days with a rescue dog

The first few days in a new home can be overwhelming for a rescue dog. New sights, smells, people, and routines — it’s a lot to take in. Try to create a calm, safe environment where your dog can eat undisturbed. Use the same food they were previously on, place their bowl in a quiet spot, and avoid crowding or hovering during mealtimes. This helps build trust and shows them that mealtime is safe and consistent.

Transitioning to a new diet slowly

It’s best to start with the food your rescue dog has already been eating. A sudden change in diet can lead to an upset stomach and added stress. Your dog is already adjusting to many things, and keeping their food the same can be somewhat comforting. If you plan to transition them to a new diet, take it slow, especially if the new food is quite different. A shift from a low-quality kibble to a fresh or high-protein diet can be a shock to their system and may upset their digestion. In these cases, a gradual transition over at least two weeks is recommended.

For dogs with particularly sensitive stomachs, it can help to introduce “stepping stone” diets. This means moving first to a slightly better food that’s still similar to what they were eating, and once they’ve adjusted to that, you can then work towards the diet you ultimately want to feed. Taking it step by step gives their gut bacteria time to adjust and makes the process much easier on them. Of course, this won’t be necessary for all dogs, but something to keep in mind.

How long does it take a rescue dog to eat after adoption?

Some rescue dogs will eat the moment you set the bowl down. Others might be too anxious to touch their food for a day or two. Don’t panic — this is normal. Keep offering food at regular times and remove it after 15–20 minutes to avoid leaving it out all day. Here are some tips for dogs who are reluctant to eat:

• Try warming their food slightly or adding some warm water
• Add a bit of low-sodium bone broth or toppers such as yoghurt, peanut butter, egg, etc.
• Feed by hand to build trust
• Use a puzzle feeder or scatter feeding methods to make eating fun

If your dog is consistently avoiding food and hasn’t eaten anything in 48 hours, contact your vet.

Nutrition Guidelines for Rescue Dogs

Choosing a high-quality food

Look for dog food that meets AAFCO standards and is made with real meat as the first ingredient. Keep in mind what will work with the initial transition.

Breed-specific dietary considerations

Some breeds are prone to weight gain (like Labradors) or have specific dietary needs (like Bulldogs with allergies). Research your dog’s breed, if known, or ask your vet for guidance.

Watch for allergies or sensitivities

Itching, licking paws, upset stomach, or frequent ear infections may be signs of a food allergy. Common culprits include beef, chicken, dairy, and grains. Your vet may recommend an elimination diet to figure it out. However, these are also symptoms of stress, so you’ll need to wait for your dog to be settled before investigating the effects of the diet.

Helping a rescue dog gain weight safely

Welcoming an underweight dog into your home can be heartbreaking, and you’ll probably want to shower them with food and treats. But, resist the urge to overfeed — slow and steady is key, as this can cause further digestive upset or lead to the opposite problem – overweight! Instead, opt for feeding them 10% more calories than their recommended amount, which could be split into an extra meal. If they are really underweight, it could even be beneficial to feed more than 10% extra, but this should be as advised by a vet.

 Foods and ingredients that can help:

• High-quality fish oil
• Toppers like cooked egg, plain chicken, or dog-safe peanut butter
• Puppy food or All Life Stage Food for extra calories

If your dog is underweight, a vet check is essential. Sudden weight loss, digestive issues, or medical conditions should be ruled out. Your vet can also help you track healthy weight gain. Similarly, if your rescue is overweight, they can help you create a plan to slim them down safely.

Can you give treats to your rescue dog?

Treats can be a brilliant bonding tool. Use them during training, for praise, or to help with socialization. Just be mindful not to overdo it, especially if your dog is already on a weight gain plan.

Healthy treat options for rescue dogs

• Dehydrated meat or fish
• Freeze-dried liver
• Small bits of boiled chicken or turkey
• Dog-safe fruits like blueberries or banana slices

Final tips for feeding your rescue dog

• Be patient — rescue dogs may need time to feel safe
• Stick to a consistent feeding routine
• Observe your dog’s preferences and behavior around food
• Avoid high-pressure feeding — give them space
• Always consult your vet when unsure

Feeding a rescue dog isn’t just about nutrition — it’s about building safety, trust, and love. With the right approach, mealtimes can become a source of comfort, not stress, for your new family member.