Feeding routines
What do I do about feeding when my work hours change
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Shift feeding times gradually, by about 15 to 30 minutes every couple of days, rather than jumping straight to the new schedule overnight. Most dogs adjust to a new routine within a week or two if the change happens in small steps.
Why a gradual shift works better
Moving a meal time abruptly by several hours can leave a dog hungry and unsettled during the transition, while small daily adjustments give the body time to reset its expectation of when food is coming without any real disruption.
Planning the shift
Work out the total difference between the old and new time, then split it into steps of 15 to 30 minutes spread across several days, moving both meals in the same direction to keep the overall daily rhythm consistent.
What to expect during the change
A little extra whining around the old meal time in the first few days is normal and usually fades once the new time becomes the established pattern, typically within one to two weeks.
Key takeaways
- Shift meal times by 15 to 30 minutes every couple of days.
- Avoid jumping straight to a new schedule overnight.
- Move both meals in the same direction together.
- Most dogs fully adjust within one to two weeks.