Being a first-time dog owner, your concern about your dog’s diet is understandable. Food is the only thing that helps your dog’s stay healthy and active. Dog food can be either dry or wet, as well as semi-moist. Most pet owners might find difficulty in figuring out which one they prefer, dry or wet puppy food. Ultimately, food selection for dogs depends entirely on their individual needs and preferences keeping their size, age, breed, and activity level in mind.
Although dry and canned dog food both have their own pros and cons that are evenly distributed, but the diet not only should match their preferences but also fulfill nutritional needs. So, it can be challenging for both beginner or experienced pet owner to find the right match for your pup.
Taking the vet’s advice and recommendation is always a good idea to get the diet plan that is customized according to your pup needs and preferences. To assist you in choosing what to feed your dog each day, Pet Life Expert has outlined the distinctions between dry vs wet dog food via highlighting basic differences, product comparisons, trusted reviews, and buying suggestions.
Selecting Dry vs Wet Dog Food
Choosing the proper diet for your pet can be tricky due to the abundance of dog food options available. Even the most essential decision of wet vs. dry dog food can be confusing due to the abundance of brands and ingredients. The primary distinctions between dry and wet food for dogs will be discussed in this article, but it is crucial to always ask your veterinarian for more detailed advice that suits your dog’s lifestyle.
What Is Wet Dog Food? How is it Processed?
Many of you may have already guessed wet or canned dog food. The softer stuff comes in meat chunks drenched in jelly or gravy. The wet food for dogs must be consumed as soon as it is opened to maintain its flavor and freshness because it is much wetter than dry dog food—up to 84% moisture.
- Wet food is made by grinding the protein sources or meat ingredients.
- Then, a gravy of vitamins, minerals, and grains is added to the mix.
- After mixing, the food is cooked correctly or sterilized for a canned product.
- Ultimately, a can contains wet food with a higher moisture content than dry food.
- The maximum moisture percentage is shown on the label under the guaranteed analysis section.
What Is Dry Dog Food? | How is it Processed?
The other end of the scale is about dry dog food that contains a limited amount of water. The percentage of moisture content in dry food for dogs is only about 3-12%. You can count “dog biscuits” in UK and “kibble” in dry dog food. This food comes in small brown pellets; the containers are usually larger than wet food.
- Although dry food contains very similar ingredients.
- But instead of canning the product & adding gravy, the meat mixture is pulverized.
- It creates a consistent dough that can be steamed moderately or adequately cooked.
- Once cooked, the dough is extruded through holes specifically shaped to form kibble.
- The kibble is dried and sprayed with fats, oils, vitamins, and minerals.
- The final step is packaging to protect the food from fats and oils.
Wet Food or Dry Food Comparison | Which one is Better
There’s not much difference when we examine the nutritional content during quality food selection. However, there might be specific pros and cons of giving dry dog food vs wet to your pup. The variation between dry food and wet food for dogs can help you make the best decision. Here’s a table showing why wet dogs food can be better for your pets.
Benefits of Canned dog food
BPA-free canned food for dogs sometimes offers such benefits that dry food doesn’t offer. Canned dog food formulas come with these benefits:
It’s Protein-rich
Due to high moisture content, canned dog food contains a rich protein-amount, best for muscle maintenance and activity. These foods are made with lamb, beef, fish, and chicken or other nutrient dense protein fillers.
More Appetizing
Compared to dry kibble, wet canned food is more appetizing due to its richer aroma, taste, and soft texture. It’s a good choice for picky eaters and senior dogs with appetite loss issues and some sort of dental issues.
Easier to Chew
Due to soft texture and high moisture content, it is a good and most accessible choice for adult and senior dogs, who have difficulty chewing due to dental issues. This food makes swallowing easier, ensuring it won’t cause issues with gulping.
Offers Palatability
Canned food offers better palatability than dry kibble. It is more appealing to picky eaters with appetite loss issues. Moisture content in wet food provides the most tempting texture and protein scent, which enhances their appetite.
Higher Moisture Content
If your dogs don’t drink much, they might be dealing with a medical condition. That’s the reason why grain-free wet food for dogs is the best choice, as it contains 60-80% moisture while dry foods contain only 3-12% of it.
Better for Sensitive Stomachs
Compared to dry food, wet food is considered a better choice for dogs with stomach sensitivity issues. With no or fewer fillers and higher moisture content, it is easy for your puppies, adults, and senior dogs to digest food.
Keeps Dogs Fuller for Longer
This food helps your dogs feel fuller for longer compared to dry foods because of its high moisture density. Not only moisture content, but it is also good in fiber and protein. The extra moisture contributes to a feeling of fullness and reduces overeating urge.
Benefits of Dry Dog Food
Sometimes, dry kibble offers certain benefits that even canned food doesn’t provide. Here are some advantages of dry food for dogs.
Easy to Manage
Compared to wet, dry food is less messy and can be easily stored, which makes it easy to manage because it doesn’t require refrigeration. It is the most practical food choice for dog owners that allows dog’s weight and overfeeding.
Longer Lasting
When it comes to dry dog food benefits, they tends to last longer compared to wet. That’s because, when it is unopened, it can last for more than 12-18 months. Also, when opened and stored properly, it stays fresh for 2-4 weeks.
More Economic
Based on per serving and longer shelf life, kibble is the budget-friendly choice for dog owners. It not only reduces the need for frequent purchases and saves you money, but also helps you avoid the potential waste of food.
Better for Weight Loss
Due to full portion control for food size, it is a lot easier to manage weight. It is the most convenient choice to serve the exact amount prescribed by the vet or nutritionist. Aside from portioning ease, it also depends on the individual needs and preferences of the dogs.
Cleaner for Doggy Beards
For dogs with beards, dry food is the clean and safe choice because it won’t create a mess around the mouth. It’s good for pups who are prone to skin issues, prevents stains or fur due to any residue, and avoids a smelly beard.
Which Wet Dog Food do Vets Recommend Most?
When choosing any type of food, from dry dog food vs wet, it is always helpful to have your pet’s requirements in mind. Also, it is advised to learn about the ingredients and not forget to read a pet food label. Lastly, get the vet’s assistance at any point.
Regarding wet food, veterinarians recommend a lot of trusted, best canned dog food brands, including Hill’s Science Diet®, Royal Canin®, IAMS®, and Purina Pro Plan®. From these stores, you can buy wet food for puppies (small dogs), adult dogs, and senior dogs.
Image | Product Name | Specifications | Ideal For | Shop |
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 | Hills Science Adult Wet Canned Dog Food with Premium Nutrition |
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 | Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Wet |
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 | Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food for Adult and Senior Dog |
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 | IAMS Proactive Health Adult Wet Dog Food |
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 | Royal Canin Digestive Care Loaf in Sauce Wet Dog Food |
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 | Purina Beyond Organic Wet Dog Food |
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1- Adult Wet Canned Dog Food with Premium Nutrition By Hills Science
Buy canned food by Hill’s Science, which is formulated for a strong immune system, lean muscle, and healthy skin and coat. This high-protein dog food helps promote muscle development and a healthy body weight. Beef, barley, and chicken are the main ingredients. Also, it is formulated with vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids. This product comes with controlled levels of phosphorus and sodium to support the heart and kidneys. This food comes from a science-backed and vet-trusted brand to meet nutritional standards set by AAFCO and boasts long-term feeding trials.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 1-6, Adult 1-6 Premium Nutrition, Wet Dog Food, Chicken & Barley Loaf, 13 oz Can, Case of 12
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Flavor: Chicken & Barley Loaf
- Age Range (Description): Adult 1-6
- Item Form: Wet Food
- Specific Uses For Product: Adult 1-6 Premium Nutrition
2- Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Wet By Purina Pro Plan
Are you looking for the best wet canned dog food for allergies? Purina Pro Plan’s specially formulated food is ideal for sensitive skin & stomach. This food has a different approach to using salmon as its main protein source. Salmon acts as the best ingredient that won’t trigger allergies and supports your skin via anti-inflammatory properties. It improves the skin cell and coat health, and with prebiotic fiber, it provides excellent digestion and healthy intestinal bacteria balance. Coming from a vet-trusted and science-backed brand, it is a vet-trusted option. Vets recommend it as the best canned dog food for allergies.
Purina Pro Plan Sensitive Skin and Stomach Dog Food Wet Classic Pate Salmon and Rice Entrée – (Pack of 12) 13 oz. Cans
- Brand: Purina Pro Plan
- Flavor: Salmon & Rice
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Item Form: Loaf
- Specific Uses For Product: Allergy; Digestive Health; Maintenance; Sensitive Stomach; Skin & Coat; Appetite Support; Energy & Vitality Support; Eye Health; Hypoallergenic; Immune Support; Stress & Anxiety; Wheat Free,
3- Wet Food for Senior Dogs for Premium Nutrition By Hills Science
Want to achieve premium nutrition for your dog? Hills Science’s healthy formula for adult and senior dogs is the best choice to go for. This high-fiber food greatly helps in weight trimming without affecting taste. This food, with a nutrient-rich profile and fewer calories, maintains muscle mass due to protein and amino acids. Also, it offers omega-6s to retain healthy skin and a shiny coat. This product was reviewed and tested to ensure the loss of 70% of a dog’s weight within 10 weeks, which makes why perfect for weight and diet management. Besides, it is made in the USA, so you can trust the ingredients used.
Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+, Senior Adult 7+ Premium Nutrition, Wet Dog Food, Chicken & Barley Loaf, 13 oz Can, Case of 12
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Flavor: Chicken & Barley Loaf
- Age Range (Description): Senior Adult 7+
- Item Form: Wet Food
- Specific Uses For Product: Adult 7+ Premium Nutrition
4- Proactive Health Adult Wet Food For Dogs By IAMS
It is a complete and balanced recipe that helps your dog with nutritional improvement. It is made with high-quality ingredients containing essential nutrients and antioxidants. IAMS Proactive food contains omega-6 fatty acids for skin health and coat support. One of the best things about this food is that it comes in several flavors like chicken and whole grain rice, lamb and rice, and beef and rice. What makes this food highly palatable and digestible is brown rice, fiber, and oatmeal, because it is good for those with a sensitive stomach. It is a complete and balanced formula according to vets that serves as a healthy diet, and it is the budget-friendly choice for dog owners.
IAMS Proactive Health Adult Wet Dog Food Classic Ground with Chicken and Rice, 13 oz. Cans, Pack of 12
- Brand: IAMS
- Flavor: Chicken & Rice
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Item Form: Chunk
- Specific Uses For Product: Skin and Coat Health
5- Digestive Care Best Wet Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach By Royal Canin
Formulated specifically for dogs and puppies with sensitive stomachs, this is the most gentle and nutritious diet for them. When it’s about canned dog food for stomach sensitivities, Royal Canin’s care loaf formula is the best. It is not only highly digestible but also highly palatable. When your dog doesn’t feel like eating due to an upset stomach, it is useful. Additionally, it supports balanced intestinal flora for optimal stool quality. This canned food option is highly recommended by vets because of its effective stomach issue handling capability. However, prior consultation with vets to discuss any primary concerns is advised before making any diet change.
Royal Canin Digestive Care Loaf in Sauce Wet Dog Food, 13.5 oz., Case of 12
- Brand: Royal Canin
- Flavor: Chicken
- Age Range (Description): All Life Stages
- Item Form: Pate
- Specific Uses For Product: Stomach
6- Organic Wet Canned Dog Food By Purina Beyond
This dog food recipe by Purina Beyond is the premium dog food source that is not only USDA certified due to high quality ingredients like chicken and carrots, but also raised without hormones and antibiotics. This canned food is high in fiber and protein, along with added nutrients, minerals, and vitamins that are the requirements of adult dogs. It doesn’t contain soy, wheat, or corn and comes with certified organic dog food flavors, which is why often sold in a variety pack. It is a complete and balanced nutritional source for a pup. As it is a USDA-certified product with no artificial ingredients, it is the best vet choice.
Purina Beyond Organic Wet Dog Food, Organic Chicken & Carrot Adult Recipe Ground Entrée with Broth – (Pack of 12) 13 oz. Cans
- Brand: Purina Beyond
- Flavor: Chicken & Carrot
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Item Form: Loaf, Ground
- Specific Uses For Product: Maintenance
What Dry Dog Food Do Veterinarians Recommend?
Dry dog food, also known as kibble, can be fed to dogs of any size and age. It is the best and affordable solution to give your dogs the most nutritious food. Although the requirements and preferences of every dog owner can greatly vary from each other, you can give it after a vet’s recommendation.
Most common brands for dry dog diet per vet’s recommendation are Hill’s Science Diet, Purina One, Blue Buffalo, and Purina Pro Plan. For every senior, adult, and puppy, you can have this food for skin and stomach sensitivities and other issues.
Image | Product Name | Specifications | Ideal For | Shop |
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 | Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Dry Dog Food |
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 | Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Dry Dog Food |
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 | Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food |
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 | Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food |
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1- Life Protection Formula Senior Dry Dog Food By Blue Buffalo
Made from deboned chicken, brown rice, and chicken meal as the first ingredient, Blue Buffalo’s Life Protection Formula is the healthiest choice for dogs. It comes with a phosphorus and calcium blend to promote healthy teeth and bones. Also, it’s chicory root aids in digestion, and glucosamine aids in mobility and joint health. For dogs who love crunchy kibble, it is the top recommendation by vets because it is praised by around 400+ dog parent panelists.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Dry Dog Food, Supports Joint Health and Mobility, Made with Natural Ingredients, Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe, 5-lb. Bag
- Brand: Blue Buffalo
- Flavor: Chicken & Brown Rice
- Age Range (Description): Senior
- Item Form: Pellet
- Specific Uses For Product: Coat
2- Sensitive Stomach Dry Food for Dog By Hill’s Science
For dogs with frequent digestive problems, this dry dog food for sensitive stomach and skin is really helpful. Switching to this diet helps with constipation, diarrhea, and foul-smelling flatulence. For this dry food, you can have two recipes, including grain-free chicken and potato, and chicken and barley. Also, you can find it per breed size, i.e, for small to large dogs. Each serving of this food offers digestive support and healthy skin and coat. Approximately 407 panelists approve this top kibble. It is ranked top due to addressing specific health issues by brand.
Hill’s Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin, Adult 1-6, Stomach & Skin Sensitivity Support, Dry Dog Food, Chicken Recipe, 30 lb Bag
- Brand: Hill’s Science Diet
- Flavor: Chicken
- Age Range (Description): Adult 1-6
- Item Form: Dry Food
- Specific Uses For Product: Stomach & Skin Sensitivity Support
3- High Protein Puppy Dog Food By Purina Pro Plan
Puppy food by Purina Pro Plan is the most favorite choice for dog owners, which is made with chicken and rice as the main ingredients and lamb or salmon in their other recipes and flavors. It is the best formula that will provide your dog with fat, calcium. protein, and phosphorus. Also, they are free from artificial colors and flavors, which is a plus point for small dog breeds. It supports your small dogs with brain health, muscle care, immune support, bone health, and dental care. Above 50 dog parents have contributed to the survey and recommended this puppy food from Purina Pro to make a part of their diet.
Purina Pro Plan High Protein Dry Puppy Food, Chicken and Rice Formula – 34 lb. Bag
- Brand: Purina Pro Plan
Flavor: Chicken & Rice
Age Range (Description): Puppy
Item Form: Pellet
Specific Uses For Product: Immune Support, Bone Health, Muscle Care, Brain Health, Dental Care
4- Dry Dog Food Formula By Purina One
Available at a very affordable price, it is the best dry food recipe that comes with all the required nutrients for your dog. Chicken is the first listed ingredient, which is a natural glucosamine source, supporting healthy joints. Fatty acids in this food are great for your pooch’s skin and coat health, and vitamins for better immunity. Also, the whole grains in this food are easily digestible. It is the top choice for its value as it is a budget-friendly choice, but it has a low protein amount, which is why it is not highly beneficial.
Purina ONE Chicken and Rice Formula Dry Dog Food – 31.1 lb. Bag
- Brand: Purina ONE
- Flavor: Chicken & Rice
- Age Range (Description): Adult
- Item Form: Blended, Semi-Moist, Kibble, Crunchy
- Specific Uses For Product: Heart, Stomach, Active, Joints, Coat
Buying Tips from Vet’s Perspective for Wet and Dry Food for Dogs
Here’s the list of some considerable points when it comes to selecting canned or kibble for dogs.
Complete & Balanced
Mixing wet and dry food is the best idea to introduce variety. Ensure your pup gets all the necessary nutrients for dry and vet recommended dog food with their daily diet intake.
Consider Ingredients
Select high quality dog food ingredients like fruits, vegetables, chicken, and fresh meat. Also, choose products with no artificial colors, flavors, and fillers.
Protein & Fat Content
For dogs, protein (18% for adult dogs) is a must for muscle building. Also, the product must contain a healthy amount of fats that are specifically for every dog’s needs.
Gradual Introduction
Proper consultation with a vet regarding your dog’s specific needs is crucial. Make a diet plan after finalizing requirements and preferences with the pet life veterinarian.
Mixing Wet & Dry
When it’s about new food or a shift in diet, it is advised to offer it slowly along with their regular diet to ensure there won’t be a digestive upset in the starting 6-7 days.
Consultation with Vet
A complete and balanced statement is a must to look at in order to understand if the product meets the AAFCO standards. Also, ensure it contains all the essential nutrients.
Decision Is Yours!
Finding a pet food that provides your dog with high quality food to meet their health demands should be your priority. When it comes to choosing between dry vs wet dog food, pet parents must be considerate about various aspects based on their breed, size, and health conditions. Additionally, dogs should enjoy the food they eat. While dry food can promote oral health, wet food is a fantastic method to offer your dog a boost in hydration. Another option to consider is feeding a combination of wet and dry dog food to provide your dog with a well-rounded diet that meets various demands, since wet and dry dog foods have many advantages. Our guide lists the best canned vs kibble foods from trusted and reliable sources. Shop any of them for your dog’s health after a vet’s consultation and guidance.
FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Core Difference Between Dry and Wet Dog Food?
The main distinction is their moisture content. Canned food has a high 70% or 80% moisture level, whereas dry food (kibble) has a very low 10% or less water content, impacting its nutritional characteristics, texture, and shelf life.
What Are the Benefits of Feeding My Dog Dry Food Like Kibble?
Dry food benefits are convenience—it is easy to store, serve, and measure. Additionally, it is a cost-effective and long-term solution for dogs to improve dental health and hygiene.
Are There Any Drawbacks to Feeding Dry Food to Dogs?
Yes! Some potential disadvantage of dry dog food includes lower moisture content, which leads to dehydration in dogs, being less palatable for picky eaters, and being high in carbohydrates.
Are There Any Canned Dog Foods Without Preservatives or Fillers?
Yes! There are multiple kibble options that come without artificial fillers and preservatives that you can purchase from Purina Pro and Hills Science after checking the ingredients.
How Much Wet Food Should I Feed My Dog Daily?
Based on breed, activity level, and weight, 1-1.5% of canned food is okay for a dog per day. For instance, a dog with a 10kg weight can have about 100-150 grams.
What’s The Best Budget Friendly Wet Dog Food?
Purina Beyond, Natural Balance, Hill’s Science, and Purina Pro offer the best inexpensive canned food for dogs that is not only budget-friendly but also a healthy choice.
Can I Feed My Dog Only Wet Food?
Yes! Feeding wet food only is okay for dogs until it is complete, balanced, and made from high quality ingredients. It’ll offer easy digestion and improve hydration.
What Is the Healthiest Wet Dog Food In 2025?
The top-rated wet dog food brands, due to their nutritional content, ingredients, and safety standards, are Blue Buffalo and Hills Science. You can trust this brand for human-grade, customized, and high-quality recipes.
What Is the Best Freeze Dried Dog Food Available Right Now?
The brand that stands out for its freeze-dried raw dog food is Stella and Chewy’s. It offers organic fruits, vegetables, and raw nutrition in its foods, which is highly praised due to sustainably sourced ingredients and high quality.
How Do I Switch My Dog from Dry Food to Wet Food?
Follow a 5-day or weekly schedule for switching diets. Mix 25% new and 75% old food for day 1-2. Proceed with 25% more on a daily basis till reaching 100%. Notice any triggering and allergic reactions.
Can I Mix Dry and Wet Dog Food Together?
Yes! Per vet’s suggestion, mixing wet and dry food together is okay. It increases moisture content, palatability, and provides a more balanced diet. Ensure adjusting the food amount to maintain the quality standard and body weight equally.
What Wet Dog Food Is Best for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs?
For dogs with sensitive stomach, food with higher protein and low carbohydrate is the best choice. The more natural nutrients it has, the more it reduces the potential irritants it contains.
What’s The Best Dry Dog Food for Small Breeds In 2025?
Purina Pro Plan small breed formula, Royal Canin small breed dry dog food, Hill’s Science Diet small paws, and Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula for small breed are the top choices.
Does Dry Dog Food Really Help Clean Teeth?
No! Although it offers some nutritional benefits, they don’t clean teeth or contribute to dental hygiene. You’ll still need oral health maintenance through brushing and cleaning.
Is Wet Food Better for Senior Dogs or Those with Dental Issues?
Yes! Due to its soft texture, hydration, and palatability, it is a good choice for adult and senior dogs. It is not only easy to chew and swallow, but good for dogs with dental discomfort.
Which Type of Dog Food Is More Affordable Long Term?
Comparatively, dry food is affordable and long-term that can be served as a treat for more than a year if stored properly. Aside from its longer shelf life, it goes in the long run.
Is Dry Dog Food Better Than Wet Dog Food?
The scale for the better option has not been decided yet because both wet and dry options come with their own nutritional benefits and drawbacks. Dry one is convenient and affordable, while wet is best for hydration and palatability.
Wet Dog Food Better for My Dog’s Overall Health?
Yes! It is better for your dog’s health and nutritional requirements. It offers digestive ease, palatability, hydration, dental care, and is good for dogs with stomach issues.
