Known for its palatability and moisture content, wet food can be an excellent choice for many dogs, especially those with specific dietary needs or preferences. However, before making the switch, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of wet food versus dry food, as well as understand how to incorporate it into your dog’s daily meals. In this blog, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about wet dog food, from its benefits and potential drawbacks to tips on choosing the right brand for your dog.
Is Wet Food Better Than Dry Food?
When choosing the right food for your dog, it often comes down to a decision between wet food or dry food. Both types of dog food have their own benefits and drawbacks, and the best option depends on your dog’s specific needs.
Disadvantages of Wet Dog Food
While wet food has many benefits, it also comes with some drawbacks:
- Higher Cost: Canned food is typically more expensive than dry food, especially if feeding a large dog.
- Shorter Shelf Life: Once opened, wet food spoils quickly and must be stored properly to prevent contamination.
- More Mess: Canned food can be messier to serve and more challenging to store.
- Dental Health: Since wet food doesn’t provide the same crunch as dry food, it may not be as effective at cleaning your dog’s teeth.
Benefits of Wet Dog Food
Despite the disadvantages, wet food has several key benefits:
- Increased Moisture: Wet food helps dogs stay hydrated, especially those that don’t drink enough water on their own.
- Better Palatability: Many dogs find canned food more appetizing, which can be helpful if your dog is a picky eater.
- Easier to Digest: Wet food can be easier to digest for older dogs or dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Mixing Wet and Dry Dog Food
Mixing wet and dry food can be a great way to combine the benefits of both. It can improve your dog’s hydration while providing the convenience of dry food. Additionally, the mixture can help entice picky eaters and add variety to their meals. When mixing, be sure to adjust portion sizes to maintain a balanced diet and avoid overfeeding.
To learn how to help your dog adjust to new food or a completely new diet, read here.
How Much Wet Food Should I Feed My Dog?
The amount of wet food to feed your dog depends on their size, age and activity level. Generally, you should follow the guidelines on the food packaging, but it’s important to adjust portions based on your dog’s specific needs. If you are mixing wet and dry food, you may need to decrease the amount of one type to ensure your dog gets the right balance.
How to Transition to Wet Dog Food
Transitioning your dog to wet food requires a gradual approach to avoid digestive upset. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help make the switch smoother:
- Start Slowly: Begin by mixing 25% of the new wet food with 75% of your dog’s current food. This helps their digestive system adjust without causing discomfort.
- Increase Gradually: Over the next few days, slowly increase the proportion of the new food while decreasing the old food. You can aim for a 50/50 mix by the third day, then work toward a mix of 25% old food and 75% new food by the fifth day.
- Monitor for Reactions: Watch for signs of upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea or changes in appetite. If your dog has trouble adjusting, slow the transition or consult your vet for further guidance.
- Consult Your Vet: Always talk to your vet before changing your dog’s diet, especially if the new food is for health reasons like managing food sensitivities or weight issues.
By following this gradual transition method, you help ensure a smoother shift to wet food while minimizing the risk of stomach issues.
Wet Food for Sensitive Stomachs
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, it’s essential to choose canned food that’s easy to digest. Look for formulas with limited ingredients and natural, high-quality proteins. Some brands, like Hill’s Science Diet, offer special diets for dogs with digestive issues, which can help reduce discomfort and inflammation.
Best Wet Food for Older Dogs
Older dogs often need food that’s easy to chew and digest. Wet food can be ideal for senior dogs, as it’s softer and more hydrating. Look for wet food designed for seniors, such as those with fewer calories and added joint support. Dog foods like Blue Buffalo’s Homestyle Recipe offer options for senior dogs that are lower in fat and designed to promote healthy aging.
Best Wet Dog Food for Puppies
Puppies require food that supports their rapid growth and development. Look for wet food that’s rich in protein and fat to give them the energy they need. Many brands offer formulas specifically for puppies, like Wellness CORE Puppy or Hill’s Science Diet Puppy, which provide essential nutrients for a growing dog.
Healthiest Wet Dog Food
The healthiest canned dog food options are those with high-quality, natural ingredients. Look for foods with real meat as the first ingredient, along with vegetables and whole grains. Avoid foods with artificial additives, colors or preservatives. Brands like Wellness CORE and Orijen provide high-quality, nutrient-rich options for dogs of all ages.
Grain-Free Wet Food
Grain-free wet food is a great option for dogs with allergies or sensitivities to grains like wheat or corn. Many grain-free foods use alternative carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes or peas. Popular grain-free options include Natural Balance L.I.D. and Merrick Grain-Free Wet Dog Food.
Limited-Ingredient Wet Dog Food
Limited-ingredient diets are designed to help dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. These diets contain fewer ingredients, making it easier to pinpoint any potential food allergens. Canned foods for dogs like Natural Balance Limited-Ingredient Dog Wet Food and Hill’s Prescription Diet Limited-Ingredient Wet Dog Food offer limited ingredient options for dogs with special dietary needs.
High-Protein Wet Dog Food
High-protein wet dog food is ideal for active or working dogs that need extra energy. It’s also beneficial for dogs who are underweight or recovering from illness. Look for foods that feature real meat as the primary ingredient, like Merrick Backcountry High Protein Wet Dog Food or Taste of the Wild, which offer high-protein formulas for dogs.
How Long Can Wet Dog Food Sit Out?
Wet dog food should not be left out for more than 2 to 4 hours. Bacteria can quickly grow on wet food once it’s exposed to air, leading to spoilage and potential illness. If your dog hasn’t eaten all of their meal, refrigerate any leftover food and discard it if it’s been left out for too long.
Is Wet Cat Food Bad for Dogs?
While dogs can occasionally eat cat food in an emergency or as a treat, it’s not recommended as a regular part of their diet. Cat food is formulated for the specific nutritional needs of cats, which are different from those of dogs. For example, cats require higher levels of protein and fat than dogs, and eating cat food regularly can lead to health issues like pancreatitis, liver damage and obesity in dogs. It’s always best to stick with dog food formulated for your pet’s needs.
Best Wet Food for Dogs
While wet food can offer many benefits for your dog, it’s important to choose the right type of food based on their specific health needs. Whether you’re feeding wet food alone or mixing it with dry food, make sure it supports your dog’s overall health and wellbeing. Always consult with your veterinarian if you’re unsure about what’s best for your dog’s diet.
