Wet vs. Dry Food: What’s Best for Your Dog? 🐾

Choosing between wet and dry food is one of the most important decisions pet owners can make. Both can be nutritionally complete, but their differences go beyond texture—affecting everything from hydration and appetite to convenience and cost.

In this article, we’ll explore how wet and dry foods are made, their unique benefits, and how to choose what’s best for your dog.

🔬 How Wet and Dry Pet Food Is Made

🥣 Wet Food: Moisture-Rich and Gently Cooked

Wet pet food begins with high-quality proteins that are ground and blended with a gravy of vitamins, minerals, and grains. This mixture is then cooked and sterilised before being sealed in cans or pouches.

• Moisture content: Usually around 60-80%

• Helps maintain hydration and is especially beneficial for pets with kidney or urinary issues

🍗 Dry Food: Convenient and Long-Lasting

Dry food is made by mixing similar ingredients into a dough. This dough is cooked, dried, and shaped into kibble, then coated with oils, vitamins, and sometimes probiotics before packaging.

• Moisture content: Typically around 10%

• Easy to store and serve; ideal for food puzzles and slow feeders

Hydration & Digestion

Wet food’s high moisture content supports hydration, digestion, and urinary health—especially important for dogs with kidney or urinary conditions. In contrast, dry food may cause dogs to drink more water to compensate for its low moisture levels

Dental & Oral Health

A 2022 study comparing dogs on wet vs. dry diets found that those fed dry food had lower plaque coverage, reduced breath odour, and a more beneficial oral microbiota profile.
Similarly, a study of Yorkshire terriers showed wet-fed dogs had bacterial profiles associated with periodontal disease, while dry-fed dogs had healthier oral bacteria with mixed diets falling in between.

Kibble’s texture and diameter can physically scrub teeth; diets designed specifically for dental benefit are even more effective.

Weight & Appetite Control

A Tufts University study found overweight dogs fed canned food lost on average 11% of body weight over 2 months—versus 5% weight loss for dogs fed dry food. Higher protein and moisture in wet food likely supported satiety and fat loss.

Wet food is often more aromatic and flavorful, making it appealing to picky eaters or dogs with reduced appetite.

Cost, Convenience & Enrichment

Dry food is generally more affordable, has a longer shelf life, and is easier to portion—ideal for free feeders or households with multiple pets. It’s also compatible with slow-feeders and puzzle toys.
Wet food, though more hydrating and palatable, is typically more expensive per serving and must be refrigerated after opening.

👩‍⚕️ What Do Vets Recommend?

Veterinarians generally support both types of food—as long as they meet AAFCO standards and are appropriate for the pet’s age, breed, and health status. A combination feeding strategy (mixing wet and dry) can provide the best of both worlds.

Vet-Recommended Brands:

• Hill’s Science Diet® – Great for therapeutic and general health

• Royal Canin® – Tailored nutrition for breed-specific and medical needs

• Purina Pro Plan® – Vet-approved options with real meat and added probiotics

🧠 Final Thoughts

Each type of food offers unique benefits: wet food improves hydration and palatability, while dry food supports oral health and convenience. A mixed feeding strategy often delivers the best of both worlds, especially when tailored to your dog’s age, health needs, and preferences.

When choosing food, look for high-quality brands and check AAFCO-compliant labels. For guidance based on your dog’s specific needs, consult your veterinarian.