Dry vs Wet Dog Food | Which One Is Better for Your Pup?

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 mix up.
• 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.

Comparison of Dry and Canned Dog Food
Features & Specifications	Wet Dog Food	Dry Dog Food
Higher In Meat Proteins
Higher in Natural Fats
Lower in Carbohydrates
Fewer in Chemical Additives
More Meat Choices
More Apetizing
More Filling
No Refrigeration
Extended In-Bowl Feeding Time
Longer Shelf Life
Overall Convenience
Easier to Chew
Lower Costs

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Product

Details

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Purina ONE High Protein Wet Dog Food True Instinct Tender Cuts in Dog Food Gravy with Real Beef and Wild-Caught Salmon

• Brand: Purina ONE
• Flavor: Beef & Wild-Caught Salmon
• Age Range: Adult
• Item Form: Gravy
• Specific Uses For Product: Digestive Health; Immune Support; High-Protein

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 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 eater 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, having difficulty in chewing due to dental issues. This food makes swallowing easier, ensuring it won’t make issues in 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 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 the 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 long compared to dry foods because of high moisture density. Not only moisture content, but it is also good in fiber and protein. The extra moisture contributes to feeling of fullness and reduce 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 that can be easily stored which is why it is 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 control.

Longer Lasting

When it comes to dry dog food benefits, they tend 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 purchase and saving 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 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 furs due to any residue and avoids 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 don’t 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.

1- Hills Science Adult Wet Canned Dog Food with Premium Nutrition

Buy canned food by Hill’s Science which is formulated for 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 vitamin E and omega-6 fatty acids. This product comes with controlled levels of phosphorus and sodium to support heart and kidney.

Review

This food comes from a science-backed and vet-trusted brand to meet nutritional standards set by AAFCO and boasts long-term feeding trials.

Pros

• High-protein formula
• Research-based nutrition
• Contains omega-6 fatty acids and vitamin E
• Good for dogs with allergies
• Multiple protein sources available
• Meets AAFCO nutritional standards

Cons

• It contains ingredients like beef by-products and chicken liver flavor.

2- Purina Pro Plan Best Wet Canned Dog Food for Allergies

Purina Pro Plan’s this specially formulated food is ideal for sensitive skin & stomach. This food has a different approach of 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.

Review

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.

Pros

• Specially formulated for sensitive stomach and skin
• Comes with prebiotic fiber
• Rich in omega fatty acids
• Fish-based protein source
• Contains DHA for brain development
• Meets AAFCO nutritional standards

Cons

• Your dog might still react to certain proteins/additives in the food.

3- Hills Science Wet Food for Senior Dogs for Healthy Weight

Want to achieve the healthy weight of your dog? Hills Science’s healthy weight formula is the best choice to go for. This high-fiber food greatly helps in weight trimming without affecting taste. This food with nutrient-rich profile and less-calories maintains the muscle mass due to protein and amino acid presence.

Review

This product was reviewed and tested to ensure the loss of 70% of dog’s weight within 10 weeks which is why perfect for weight and diet management.

Pros

• Low-calorie and high-fiber formula
• High in protein for lean muscle mass development
• Contains L-carnitine for weight management
• Meets AAFCO nutritional standards & guidelines

Cons

• It can be costly compared to other food options.
• Diet transition could result into vomiting, diarrhea, or flatulence.

4- IAMS Proactive Health Adult Wet Food For Dogs

It is a complete and balanced recipe that helps your dog with nutrition 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 thing 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 sensitive stomach.

Review

It is a complete and balanced formula according to vets that serves as the healthy diet, and it is the budget-friendly choice for dog owners.

Pros

• It supports skin and health coat
• Get Premium nutrition at affordable rates
• Contains high-quality, easily digestible ingredients
• Meets AAFCO nutritional standards and guidelines

Cons

• It might contain by-products and fillers
• It can be really expensive for some buyers.

5- Royal Canin Best Wet Dog Food for Sensitive Stomach

Formulated specifically dogs and puppies with sensitive stomach, 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 upset stomach, it is useful. Additionally, it supports balanced intestinal flora for optimal stool quality.

Review

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 to make any diet change.

Pros

• Made with high quality ingredients
• Offer better digestion support
• Supports balanced intestinal flora
• Meets AAFCO nutritional standards

Cons

• Not every dog will like it’s taste and texture.
• It can be costly for some pet owners.

6- Purina Beyond Organic Wet Canned Dog Food

This dog food recipe by Purina Beyond is the premium dog food source that is not only USDA certified due to high quality ingredients but also raised without hormones and antibiotics. This canned food is high in fiber and protein along with added nutrients, minerals, and vitamins that is the requirement of adult dogs. It doesn’t contain soy, wheat, and corn and comes with certified organic dog food flavors, which is why often sold a variety pack. It is a complete and balanced nutrition source for a pup.

Review

As it is USDA certified product with no artificial ingredients, it is the best vet choice. Also, it is the lead protein and fiber source.

Pros

• Made with USDA-certified organic ingredients
• Non-GMO Project Verified ingredients
• High in proteins and fibers
• No artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors
• Free-range chicken raised without antibiotics
• Growth hormones are lead source of protein

Cons

• The only certified organic protein source is Chicken.
• Only available in a 13-ounce can.

What Dry Dog Food Do Veterinarians Recommend?

Dry dog food also known as kibble can be fed to dog of any size and age. It is the best and affordable solution to give your dogs the most nutritionist food. Although, the requirements and preferences of every dog owner can greatly vary from each other, you can give it to after vet’s recommendation.

Most common brands for dry dog diet per vet’s recommendation is 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.

1- Blue Buffalo Protection Formula Dry Food

Made from deboned chicken, brown rice, and chicken meal as the first ingredient, this Blue Buffalo’s life protection formula is the most health choice for dogs. It comes with phosphorus and calcium blend to promote healthy teeth and bones. Also, it’s chicory root aids in digestion and glucosamine in mobility and joint health.

Review

For dogs who love crunchy kibble, it is the top recommendation by vets because it is praised by around 400+ dog parent panelists.

Pros

• First, main ingredients are deboned Chicken, beef, and lamb.
• Formulated for pup/small, adult, senior/large, and standard breeds.
• Whole grains, fruit, and vegetables are the ingredients.
• Never made with poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, or soy.
• Packed with healthy carbs, minerals, and vitamins for better immunity.

Cons

• Some flavors and recipes are hard to find.
• Food easily crumbles.

2- Hill’s Science Sensitive Stomach Dry Food for Dog

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 cna 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 health skin and coat.

Review

This top kibble is approved by approximately 407 panelists. It is ranked top due to addressing specific health issues by brand.

Pros

• The first and main ingredient is chicken.
• It is available without a prescription
• You can have it’s canned versions.
• It contains prebiotics fiber from beet pulp.
• Supports digestive health and balances gut microbiome.
• Contains Omega-6 fatty acids, nutrients, and vitamin E.

Cons

• It is available in only one flavor besides chicken.

3- Purina Pro Plan High Protein Puppy Dog Food

Puppy food by Purina Pro Plan is the most favorite choice for dog owners that is made with chicken and rice as the main 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 the plus point for small dog breeds. It supports your small dogs with brain health, muscle care, immune support, bone health, and dental care.

Review

Above 50 dog parents have contributed to the survey and recommended this puppy food from Purina Pro to make a part of their diet.

Pros

• Specially formulated for puppies
• First listed ingredient is chicken and other is rice
• Includes rich omega fatty acids, and fish oil
• Packed with antioxidants, phosphorus, and calcium
• Comes with essential, live probiotics
• Available without artificial flavors and colors.

Cons

• Might contain pea protein, gluten, or protein by-products
• Can cause gas and diarrhea

4- Purina One Dry Dog Food Formula

Available at a very affordable price, it is the best dry food recipe that comes with all required nutrients for your dog. Chicken is the first listed ingredient, which is a natural glucosamine source, supporting healthy joints. Fatty acid in this food is great for your pooch’s skin and coat health and vitamins for better immunity. Also, the whole grains in this food are easily digestible.

Review

It is the top choice for its value as it is the budget-friendly choice, but it has low protein amount which is why it not highly beneficial.

Pros

• It is comparatively inexpensive.
• First and main ingredient is chicken.
• Natural glucoseamine source.
• Comes with essential omega-6 fatty acids.
• Has antioxidant blend of vitamins A and E.

Cons

• It has comparatively low-protein content.
• Contains corn gluten and rice flour as top three ingredients.

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

Fo dogs, protein (18% for adult dogs) is a must for muscle building. Also, the product must contain a health 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 pet life veterinarian.

Mixing Wet & Dry

When it’s about new food or shift of 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

Complete and balanced statement is a must to look 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 damp 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 vet’s consultation and guidance.

FAQs | Frequently Asked Questions