Best Wet Food for Dogs: Top 7 Picks for Your Canine’s Health for 2024

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Whether you have a fussy eater or a canine companion who loves their dinner, choosing the right wet food can be tricky. From teething puppies to senior dogs, many prefer wet food, and it’s not just about texture. The best wet food for dogs supports hydration and can be easier to digest.

There are endless options on the market, but some brands outperform others in terms of nutritional value and quality ingredients.

7 Best Wet Dog Foods

You’ll find a variety of high-quality wet dog food options to suit your canine companion’s needs. From Nature’s Recipe to Honest Kitchen, these top picks offer nutritional benefits customized for different life stages and dietary requirements.

1. Nature’s Recipe Wet Dog Food

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You’ll love Nature’s Recipe Wet Dog Food for its premium nutrition and honest ingredients. This variety pack offers three delicious recipes, each featuring real chicken as the top ingredient. With 24 cups of goodness, you’re getting quality without breaking the bank.

Your furry friend will enjoy a savory broth that’s free from corn, wheat, soy, and artificial additives. Plus, the 2.75 oz. cups are perfect for portion control.

Remember to consult your vet about ideal feeding amounts and always provide fresh water. It’s a tail-wagging choice for your adult dog’s health and happiness!

Best For: Adult dogs seeking premium nutrition without artificial ingredients.

2. Pedigree Choice Cuts Country Stew

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Looking for a tasty meal your furry friend will love? Pedigree Choice Cuts Country Stew might be just the ticket. Made with real beef, this balanced recipe for adult dogs comes in convenient 13.2 oz cans.

You’ll appreciate that it’s free from added sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and artificial flavors. Plus, it’s made in the USA with globally sourced, high-quality ingredients.

Mix it with dry food or use it as a topper – either way, your pup’s tail will be wagging.

Remember to follow the feeding guide and refrigerate after opening for up to 3 days.

Best For: Adult dogs who love a tasty meal.

3. Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food

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If you’re considering a plant-based diet for your furry friend, Natural Balance Vegetarian Dog Food might be the answer. This formula offers complete nutrition without animal products, making it suitable for dogs with specific dietary needs or ethical preferences.

It’s packed with essential nutrients to support your dog’s coat, skin, and digestive system. Plus, it’s free from soy, gluten, and artificial additives.

While some pet parents report improved health in their dogs, others have experienced packaging issues.

Best For: Dogs with dietary sensitivities or those seeking a plant-based diet.

4. Wellness Core Natural Wet Dog Food

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Wellness Core Natural Wet Dog Food’s got your pup’s health covered. It’s packed with premium proteins, fruits, and veggies, giving your furry friend a balanced diet. You’ll love that it’s grain-free and free from artificial additives.

This nutrient-rich formula supports your dog’s immune system, keeps their coat shiny, and maintains healthy digestion. Plus, it’s a hit with even the pickiest eaters!

Whether you’re mixing it with dry food or serving it solo, Wellness Core’s wet food is a tasty way to keep your canine companion thriving. It’s like a gourmet meal for your best friend!

Best For: Dogs seeking a natural, grain-free wet food option with premium protein.

5. Purina Pro Plan Senior Dog Food

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If you’ve got a senior dog, Purina Pro Plan Senior Dog Food might be just what you need. It’s packed with high-quality protein from real chicken, helping your older pup maintain strong muscles.

This ground pate is specially formulated for dogs aged 7 and up, without any artificial flavors or colors. Made in U.S. facilities, it comes in convenient 13 oz cans.

The high protein content supports ideal body condition, while the rice provides easily digestible carbohydrates.

Remember to adjust portions based on your dog’s needs and divide meals for improved digestion.

Best For: Senior dogs aged 7 and up seeking a high-protein diet.

6. Hills Science Diet Puppy Wet Food

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Hill’s Science Diet Puppy Wet Food is a top choice for growing pups. It’s packed with high-quality protein from real chicken, supporting muscle growth and activity. The formula includes DHA from fish oil, essential for brain and eye development. You’ll appreciate that it’s made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients. As the #1 veterinarian-recommended brand, it’s a trusted option for your furry friend. The balanced minerals promote strong bones and teeth, giving your puppy a solid foundation for life. Remember, proper nutrition in these early stages sets the stage for a healthy adult dog.

Best For: Growing puppies in need of balanced nutrition for healthy development.

7. Honest Kitchen Dehydrated Base Mix

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The Honest Kitchen’s Dehydrated Base Mix is a versatile option for your pup’s meals.

You’ll appreciate the human-grade ingredients and the fact that it’s produced in a human food facility.

Simply add your own protein to create a customized, nutritious meal—perfect for dogs with meat sensitivities or if you’re a raw feeder.

The mix expands when you add water, making it an economical choice.

While there may have been quality issues during the pandemic, it remains a popular choice for pet parents who want control over their dog’s diet.

Best For: Dogs with meat sensitivities or raw feeders looking for an easy, customizable meal base.

How We Selected the Best Wet Dog Food

To choose the best wet dog food, you need to focus on quality, clear labeling, and the presence of pulses and exotic proteins. Ensuring high-quality standards means choosing foods with recognizable ingredients and those that meet AAFCO guidelines, while also evaluating the nutrient content and protein sources.

Quality

Wet dog food offers a range of benefits, from preventing dehydration to providing a tasty treat for your furry friend.

However, how do you choose the right one?

Labeling

Selecting the Best Wet Dog Food: Reading the Label

When selecting the highest quality wet dog food, scrutinizing the label is paramount. Here’s a breakdown of what to seek:

Consideration	Details
AAFCO Guidelines	Verify that the food adheres to nutritional standards established by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). This guarantees a well-rounded diet for your canine companion.
Nutritional Content	Examine the ingredient list for premium protein sources, such as meat, fish, or poultry, and avoid ambiguous terms like "meat by-products." Additionally, look for fruits and vegetables to provide supplementary nutrients.
Country of Origin	Prioritize wet dog food brands manufactured in reputable countries with stringent food safety regulations, such as the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or Western Europe.
Environmental Impact	Consider the packaging and opt for options that are recyclable or derived from sustainable materials.
Shelf Life	While wet dog food typically has a longer shelf life than dry food, always check the "best before" date to maintain freshness and nutritional integrity.

Pulses and Exotic Proteins

When selecting the best wet dog food, it’s vital to assess the protein sources, especially if your furry friend has special dietary needs or allergies. Here’s where pulses and exotic proteins come into play:

1. Pulses: Legumes like peas, lentils, and beans offer plant-based protein and fiber, which can be beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing a lower-fat diet.
2. Exotic Proteins: Venison, rabbit, and even insect proteins are considered exotic. These novel proteins are great for dogs with common meat allergies or sensitivities.
3. Allergies and Sensitivities: If your dog has allergies or sensitivities to common protein sources like chicken or beef, look for wet dog foods that feature exotic proteins or pulses as primary ingredients.
4. Senior Dogs and Special Needs: For senior dogs or those with specific health conditions, the right protein source is essential. For example, senior dogs may benefit from wet food with lower protein levels to reduce kidney stress.

How Much Wet Food to Feed a Dog

Regarding feeding your furry companion, it’s important to achieve the ideal diet. Wet dog food provides numerous advantages, including preventing dehydration and stimulating your dog’s appetite. But how much wet food should you provide for your pooch?

As a general rule of thumb, you’ll want to feed your dog around 2-3% of their ideal body weight in wet food per day. So, if your dog should weigh around 50 pounds, you’d aim for 1 to 1.5 pounds of wet food each day.

Keep in mind that wet food has a higher moisture content than dry food, so your dog may need to consume more to obtain the same number of calories and nutrients. For example, 1 cup of dry food may be equivalent to 3/4 cup of wet food in terms of calorie content.

Always monitor your dog’s weight and adjust their feeding amount as needed. And, of course, ensure fresh water is readily available, especially if their diet primarily consists of dry food.

How to Choose the Best Wet Dog Food

Choosing the ideal wet dog food necessitates considering crucial factors to guarantee it meets your canine’s dietary needs. Consult your veterinarian, evaluate your dog’s life stage, comprehend the protein source, and analyze calories, fat, fiber, and nutrient levels in comparison to dry food.

Talk With Your Veterinarian

Choosing the best wet dog food involves more than just picking a flavor your dog likes. It’s important to talk with your veterinarian to make certain your dog’s unique needs are met. Here’s a table to highlight the benefits of consulting a veterinarian:

Veterinarian Consultation	Benefits
Breed-specific diets	Get advice on the best food for your dog’s breed.
Age-appropriate nutrition	Make certain your dog receives the right nutrients for their life stage.
Special needs considerations	Discuss any health issues and find suitable food options.

Your veterinarian can guide you in selecting a wet dog food that aligns with your dog’s specific requirements, ensuring their overall health and well-being.

Life Stage

Dogs have unique dietary needs at different life stages, and choosing the right wet dog food for their specific age is essential. Here’s a breakdown of what to look for:

• Puppies: Support their rapid growth and development with higher-calorie, nutrient-dense puppy food. Look for high-quality meat and avoid artificial additives.
• Senior Dogs: Address joint health, digestion, and weight management with senior dog food. Options with glucosamine, chondroitin, and prebiotics are beneficial.
• Weight Management: Help your dog slim down with controlled-calorie food, high in protein to maintain muscle mass. Avoid added sugars and excessive fat.
• Sensitive Stomachs: Try limited ingredient diets or novel protein sources. Prebiotics and probiotics aid digestion and support gut health.
• Specific Life Stages: Consult your veterinarian about specific nutrition for your dog’s unique life stage requirements.

Protein Source

When selecting a wet dog food, the protein source is a key consideration. Here’s why:

Consideration	Explanation
Protein Allergies	Some dogs may have allergies or sensitivities to certain protein sources, so choosing a food with novel or hypoallergenic proteins can help manage these issues.
Protein Digestion	Opt for easily digestible proteins like chicken or lamb, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Protein Quality	Look for high-quality animal proteins as the primary ingredient, ensuring adequate protein levels for your dog’s life stage and activity level.
Picky Eaters	If your dog is a picky eater, consider novel protein sources like rabbit or venison, which may be more appealing to their palate.

Now, let’s explore the role of calories, fat, and fiber in your dog’s wet food.

Calories, Fat and Fiber

When selecting the best wet dog food, it’s important to give weight to the calorie, fat, and fiber content. Here’s a quick guide:

• Calories: Look for food with moderate calorie content to prevent overfeeding.
• Fat: Opt for foods with healthy fats like omega-3 fatty acids, which are great for your dog’s skin and coat health.
• Fiber: Choose a blend of soluble and insoluble fiber for ideal digestive health. Resistant starches and dietary fiber are great for this.
• Energy Density: Aim for moderate energy density to ensure your dog gets enough nutrients without overindulging.
• Omega-3s: Prioritize foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids to promote a healthy coat and reduce inflammation.
• Fiber Sources: Look for natural fiber sources like vegetables and resistant starches, which aid digestion and prevent constipation.

Nutrient Levels: Wet Versus Dry

Wet food has a higher liquid content, which aids in hydration and is particularly beneficial for dogs with poor appetites. It also tends to be richer in protein and is available in a variety of flavors that dogs often find appealing.

	Wet Food	Dry Food
Hydration	High	Low
Appetite	Assists with low appetite
Palatability	High	Low
Protein	High	Low

However, it’s important to acknowledge that wet food can be more costly than dry kibble. When weighing wet versus dry food, it’s essential to evaluate your dog’s specific requirements and preferences, as well as the unique nutrients provided by each type of food.

How Long Can Wet Dog Food Sit Out?

It’s important to be mindful of how long wet dog food is left out, as it can spoil quickly. Here’s what you need to know about room temperature storage:

1. Stick to the "two-hour rule": Wet dog food shouldn’t be left out at room temperature for more than two hours. This is based on guidelines for human pre-prepared food from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), which recommend discarding food after two hours to prevent bacterial contamination.
2. One-hour limit in warm weather: If the air temperature is above 90° F, the time limit decreases to one hour. This is because bacterial growth accelerates in warmer conditions.
3. Spoilage detection: There’s no reliable way to determine if wet dog food is safe after four hours, even with good ventilation. Trust your nose and eyes; if it looks or smells off, discard it.
4. Refrigeration guidance: To extend the shelf life of leftovers, refrigerate them as soon as possible. Properly stored wet dog food can last up to three to five days in the fridge.

How to Store Wet Dog Food After Opening

Once you’ve opened a can or tub of wet dog food, proper storage is essential to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. It’s best to transfer unused portions to an airtight container and refrigerate, ensuring that your dog’s food remains safe and nutritious.

Pate or Cuts & Gravy?

In regard to selecting between pate and cuts in gravy, it boils down to your dog’s preference. Pate presents a smooth, soft texture that certain dogs find appealing and effortless to consume. Cuts in gravy provide a combination of textures and flavors, with chunks immersed in a delectable sauce. Some dogs relish the assortment and chewing experience offered by cuts in gravy.

Both options possess merits for feeding ease and storage. Pate is frequently simpler to divide and store due to its uniform texture. Gravy-based foods may be more palatable to finicky eaters and better encourage fluid intake.

Cans or Plastic Tubs?

Now, let’s tackle the question of cans versus plastic tubs for storing your dog’s wet food after opening. This is an important consideration, as it can impact your dog’s health and the convenience of feeding time.

Cans:

• Pros: Cans are durable and provide an effective barrier against oxygen and moisture, helping to preserve the food’s freshness and flavor. They’re also convenient for single-serve portions, reducing the need for leftover storage.
• Cons: Cans can be sharp, creating a potential safety hazard for you and your dog. There are also concerns about BPA exposure from the lining of some cans, which may impact your dog’s health.

  Plastic Tubs:

• Pros: Plastic tubs are lightweight, easy to store, and safer to handle and dispose of than cans.
• Cons: Plastic tubs may not be as durable and can be prone to leakage if not sealed properly.

  Here are some key considerations:

• BPA Exposure: Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical in some can linings. While it’s deemed safe in small amounts, there are concerns about its potential health effects.
• Durability: Consider this, especially if your dog is energetic and might knock things over.
• Storage Space: Plastic tubs are often more space-efficient but may not stack as well as cans.

What Portion Size is Ideal for Your Dog?

Determining the appropriate portion size for your dog is essential to guarantee they’re receiving their daily nutrient intake. The suggested amount varies based on factors such as age, breed, activity level, and individual needs. Consult a veterinarian to determine the suitable feeding amount for your dog’s health and energy levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)