3 Best Wet Food for Dogs | Nutritious & Vet-Approved Choices
When you have a dog that has been adopted or rescued, nothing feels better than watching that tail wagging with excitement when it’s feeding time. And while it’s important to choose a wet food that your dog enjoys eating, it’s essential to pick a wet food that provides the proper nutritional needs to keep your dog healthy. With all of the selections available in stores and online, this can feel like a bit overwhelming! Have no fear, we are here to help!
Table of Contents
Why Choose Wet Food for Dogs?
This thorough guide will provide you with useful knowledge about wet dog food – helpful information about the benefits, different brands to look for, and even a few easy and delicious homemade wet dog food recipes.
So, buckle your pup in and let’s get started on making mealtime your pet’s favorite time of the day!
Nutritional Benefits of Wet Food
Wet dog food has a variety of benefits, especially for pets that have specific diets or preferences
High Water Content: Wet food gives your pet extra hydration which is very helpful for dogs that do not drink enough fresh water.
Higher Protein Content: Many canned and wet foods also contain more protein, meaning some dogs will consume that extra protein vs. dry kibble, which supports muscle mass and energy.
Palatability: The palatability of canned or wet foods is richer than straight kibble. If your dog is choosy, wet food might be a more palatable option.
Common Beliefs About Wet Food
Misconception:
Does Wet Food Make Dental Health Worse?True Fact: Wet food may be less abrasive than kibble, but regular veterinary and dental care (including toothbrushes or dental chews) will be preventative of plaque formation.
Misconception:
Does Wet Food have no Nutritional Value?
True Fact: High-quality wet food is often IC rate dense and is well-balanced. Always check your labels, looking for key ingredients! What to Consider in Your Wet Dog Food PurchasesChoosing the right wet food takes some thought.
Below are some items for consideration.Ingredients to Include.Real Meat: Meat or fish should list as the first ingredient, chicken, beef, salmon, and turkey are great choices.
Limited Filler: Avoid food with an excessive amount of fillers (corn, soy, wheat)!Beneficial Additives: Ingredients like omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine and vitamins will help support overall health.
Ingredients to AvoidArtificial Preservatives: Natural preservatives: tocopherols (Vitamin E), are preferred.
High Levels of Sodium: Salt is often not necessarily good for you, avoid at all costs–over time health issues will arise from eating wet dog food with salt.
By-Products: Avoid generic terms such as meat by-products which does not give a source.
Best Wet Food People Recommend for Dogs
After in-depth research and speaking with vets, here are some of the best, most recommended brands to choose from:
1. Hill’s Science Diet Why It’s Good: It is formulated for unique dietary needs such as weight management or sensitive stomachs.
Special Features: It is formulated with natural ingredients and contains vitamins and minerals added in. Flavors: Offers flavors like chicken and barley stew, chicken stew, etc.
2. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Why It’s Good: It is packed with real meat and is free from artificial flavors and preservatives.
Special Features: Lots of wholesome grains and vegetables that are antioxidant-rich. Flavors: Chicken, beef, and lamb recipes available.
3. Royal Canin Why It’s Good: It is veterinary recommended and trusted, and they have breed specific and age-specific formula recipes.
Special Features: It is made with high-quality ingredients based on unique needs the dog may have.
Flavors: They have varieties for puppies, adults, and senior dogs.
Comparison Table of Top Brands
| Brand | Protein Source | Special Features |
| Hill’s Science Diet | Chicken, Turkey | Tailored dietary solutions |
| Blue Buffalo | Chicken, Beef | No artificial additives |
| Royal Canin | Varies by formula | Breed and age-specific options |
Recipes for Homemade Wet Dog Food
Getting a home cooked meal ready for your dog can be a satisfying experience. Here’s how to put together a nutritious meal. Homemade Meals:
Knowledge of Ingredients: You know exactly what you are putting into your dog’s bowl.
Economical: This can be very cost-effective, especially for larger breeds.
Customizable: Preparation can be tailored to allergies or dietary requirements.
Recipe Ideas
Chicken and Rice Delight
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Benefit |
| Chicken breast | 1 lb | High-quality protein |
| Brown rice | 1 cup (cooked) | Digestible carbohydrate |
| Carrots (diced) | 1/2 cup | Rich in beta-carotene |
| Spinach (chopped) | 1/4 cup | Source of iron and vitamins |
Instructions: Boil the chicken until fully cooked. Combine with cooked rice, carrots, and spinach. Let cool before serving.
Beef and Veggie Medley
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Benefit |
| Ground beef | 1 lb | Protein and amino acids |
| Sweet potato | 1 cup (mashed) | Rich in fiber and vitamins |
| Green beans | 1/2 cup (chopped) | Low-calorie nutrient source |
Directions:
Be sure to cook the beef thoroughly and drain off excess fat when finished cooking. Once cooked, combine the beef with the mashed sweet potato and green beans. Serve warm.
More tips for transitioning your dog to wet food! When switching to wet food, it can be a big switch for your dog.
Follow these steps to support a more seamless transition:
Gradual Start: Place a small amount of wet food into your dog’s current diet or routine, gradually increasing the ratio to the point of having only wet food. Depending on your dog’s success, expect this step to take a week, but allow for at least 7-10 days.
Monitor your Dog’s Response: Keep an eye on how your dog responds to wet food? Look out for digestive upset or a potential allergy.
Adjust Portions (sometimes food at feeding is more): Since wet food is a denser food source than dry kibble, you may need to adjust the suggested portions on the feeding label.
Does wet food cause obesity in dogs?
Wet food alone does not contribute to dogs being overweight. Overfeeding wet food and not exercising your dog is to blame for obesity. Always adhere to guidelines for portion sizes.
Can I mix wet food with dry kibble?
Yes! Wet food can be combined with dry food for taste and a balanced texture, which separates it from plain dry kibble. This will entice a picky eater.
How should I store wet food for dogs?
Unopened cans typically last for at least three years!
Opened cans should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 2 – 3 days.Conclusion Finding the right wet food for your dog does not have to be a chore.
Finding a product with quality ingredients, from a reputable brand, and caters your dogs unique needs, means your dog will be getting a quality meal. Whether you use a store bought premium product or make your own wet food, a dog’s health and happiness always comes first!
Want to make a change? Contact your veterinarian to find out which wet food is the best for your furry friend, and make meal times the best time of the day!
