The 25 Best Wet Dog Food (Vet Approved Review)
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Author: Vicki Smirnova
Vicki Smirnova is a professional writer and editor who adores animals and helps readers get along well with their pets. She has been working in digital media for more than 5 years and has great experience writing content about lifestyle, including pets. Vicki specializes in dog health and nutrition, cat feeding, dog training. She is an aquarium lover and is passionate to write about fish care at home. Also, Vicki headed several websites and worked as a news editor.
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Veterinary review
by Dr. Linda Simon
Dr. Linda Simon is a veterinary surgeon working with seven years of experience. She is a fellow of the British Veterinary Association and specializing in animal medicine. Also, she has been the Woman magazine resident vet for the past two years and writes a regular column for them, focusing on pets and their health.
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Updated on: 03/23/2022
One of the first decisions we as owners need to make for our dogs is what we will feed them. More so than ever, we are now inundated with TOP-Rated Wet Dog Food.
A dog’s nutritional requirements depend on its age, activity, and breed, among other things. Some diets will suit some dogs more than others. Wet foods are a very common choice and will work well for the vast majority. They are among the most popular methods available to feed dogs worldwide and have been available for about 100 years.
The Best Wet Foods for Dogs Reviews
Below is a list of the hand-selected foods that our vet has found work best for most dogs and provide them with the building blocks needed to live their lives. These options are well-tolerated by sensitive individuals and are nutritional superstars.
Our Vet’s Top Picks
1. Hill’s I/D
It is Increased body fat, an inability to digest certain foods, or a lack of digestive enzymes can affect digestion. It is essential to feed your pet food specifically designed to support a healthy lifestyle and good digestion. Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians have developed clinically correct nutrition to help dogs cope with digestive problems.
Key benefits:
- The formula of the feed promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria.
- This diet contains omega-3 fatty acids to restore the general health of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Supports skin and coat health.
Pros
Cons
- Contains prebiotic fibers.
- This helps to promote functionality within the gastrointestinal tract.
- Contains taurine, which can help bolster the immunity and aids in eye and heart health.
- This product requires a veterinary prescription.
2. Purina Beyond Ocean Whitefish & Salmon
Purina Beyond Ocean Whitefish option does not contain grains, or cereals. This diet contains salmon and sweet potatoes. The recipe includes a flavorful blend of carefully crafted ingredients, rich in nutrients that support muscle health, strengthen the immune system, and ensure well-being.
Key benefits:
- The formula of the feed is enriched with vitamins and minerals.
- Contains no artificial flavors, or preservatives.
- Easy to digest.
Pros
Cons
- Does not contain grains.
- Fish protein as the first ingredient.
- Contain a wealth of essential nutrients.
- Contains a variety of protein sources, including salmon, white fish, turkey, and chicken, which may prove difficult for a sensitive or allergic individual to digest efficiently.
3. Crave Turkey Paté
Crave Turkey is dog food made with real meat as the main ingredient. This product does not contain soy or cereals such as corn or wheat. This product provides a high protein content for a slim, healthy body and offers a reserve of energy for playtime, exercise and lots of games.
Key benefits:
- It does not contain artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
- Formulated with essential nutrients.
- Real meat as the first ingredient.
Pros
Cons
- Natural turkey as the first ingredient.
- Does not contain grains.
- Free of fillers.
- Some owners have claimed that this product caused their pet to have diarrhea.
4. Hill’s Metabolic Vegetable and Beef Stew
Hill’s Metabolic Vegetable and Beef Stew is designed for overweight dogs. Providing a source of healthy nutrition for your pet is the key to ensuring an excellent physical shape and good mood.
Hill’s nutritionists have developed a metabolic clinical nutrition diet to manage weight.
Key benefits:
- Made from easily digestible ingredients.
- Supports skin and coat health.
- The recipes contain essential vitamins and minerals.
Pros
Cons
- The feed contains high-quality protein.
- Made in the USA.
- It ensures optimal health.
- Some customers reported that the odor was very pungent.
5. Royal Canin Starter Mousse Mother & Baby Dog
Royal CANIN option is designed to meet the special needs of small breeds (up to 22 pounds 22 pounds (9.98 kg)) from puppy to adult. Whether fed as a supplement to dry kibble or a full meal, Royal CANIN wet food helps keep a small breed healthy.
Key benefits:
- Promotes the harmonious development of the pet.
- Free of fillers.
- The formula of the feed promotes healthy growth.
Pros
Cons
- 100% natural and balanced nutrition.
- Provides optimal nutrition.
- It is free of grain and gluten.
- Expensive.
Most Affordable
The cost can really add up when feeding our dogs every day, so it’s essential to find a diet that suits your budget. Thankfully, there is a range of diets available, and even the more affordable foods are nutritionally complete and provide your pet with everything they need.
6. Purina One Smart Blend
Purina ONE is a product that meets all the nutritional needs of your pet. Natural food is enriched with vitamins and minerals to maintain the health of dogs of any breed. The Purina ONE specialty line is designed to promote healthy digestion.
Key benefits:
- Provides a complete and balanced nutrition.
- The formula contains vitamins and minerals.
- Meets the vital needs of dogs of all breeds and sizes.
Pros
Cons
- Promotes good health.
- Containing 100% of nutrients.
- Promotes healthy development.
- The rice and oat contained in this wet food may not be appropriate for the select number of dogs who are sensitive to grains.
7. Pedigree Adult Chicken Flavor Canned
Dog food made from pieces of real chicken meat in a flavorful sauce. This formula is perfectly balanced with oils and minerals for the health of the skin and coat. Using this product, you can be sure that your pet gets all the necessary ingredients to keep them in tip-top shape.
Key benefits:
- 100% balanced.
- Food recipe made with the world’s best ingredients.
- Calcium promotes strong, healthy teeth & bones.
Pros
Cons
- Including tail-wagging flavors.
- Made with real chicken.
- Made in the USA.
- Some customers report a change in the recipe which did not agree with their dogs.
8. Purina Bella with Beef and Smoked Bacon
Purina Bella dog food will allow your small breed to enjoy beef with smoked bacon. This ready-made product is made from chicken, beef and smoked bacon with added sauces. The product is enriched with nutrients to meet the needs of the body and build muscle and maintain a robust immune system. Fully balanced and healthy food for adult dogs of small breeds.
Key benefits:
- Enriched with antioxidants.
- The formula provides 100% complete and balanced nutrition.
- It contains great ingredients for your pet.
Pros
Cons
- The formula contains more nutrients for small breeds.
- Enriched with vitamins and minerals.
- Made in the USA.
- The main ingredient here is meat by-products, so the quality of meat may be inferior to other options
9. Pedigree Chopped Meaty Ground Dinner
Flavorful dog food made from real minced beef. This formula is well-balanced with minerals and oils for a shiny coat and healthy skin of your pet. It is easy to eat and digest and is particularly useful for those with missing teeth or dental disease.
Key benefits:
- Soft texture and excellent taste.
- It contains world’s finest ingredients.
- Made in the USA.
Pros
Cons
- Contains real beef.
- 100% balanced.
- Dogs find the taste and texture of this product irresistible.
- Some customers say that cans were damaged when they received them.
10. James Wellbeloved Turkey in Gravy Pouches
Natural hypoallergenic food designed to meet the energy and protein needs of adult dogs. James Wellbeloved formula is suitable for dogs with sensitive digestive tracts.
Key benefits:
- Full of natural goodness.
- No unhealthy additives.
- It contains organic turkey.
- A reduced allergen food with limited ingredients.
Pros
Cons
- Hypoallergenic.
- Formulated with rice and vegetables.
- For healthy digestion.
- Some consumers found that the smell of the food was very strong.
Our Grain-Free Picks
Many owners like the option of feeding their dog on grain-free foods as they notice an improvement in their digestive systems and skin over time. While some dogs will have a grain intolerance, the majority will not. Owners should also be aware that research is looking into a potential link between cardiac disease and a grain-free diet in larger breeds.
11. Hill’s Z/D
If your pet is suffering from an adverse reaction to food, it is even more important to feed them properly. Hill’s nutritionists and veterinarians have developed the Z/D Clinical Nutrition prescription diet, designed to support the skin and digestive system. This formula helps to avoid adverse reactions to food.
Key benefits:
- An easily digestible source of protein.
- Uses a balanced set of minerals.
- Ingredients to help promote healthy development.
Pros
Cons
- #1 Veterinarian recommended.
- Blend of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
- It supports immune health.
- A few reviewers complained that their dogs disliked food.
12. Blue Buffalo Beef
Homestyle’s feed formulas are very diverse. The composition of this food contains many useful ingredients and trace elements. It is developed with a wonderful taste that your pet will love. This product is made from natural meat and organic vegetables.
Key benefits:
- 100% nutritionally balanced, meaning no need for any mixers or complementary feed stuffs.
- Contains healthy vegetables.
- Made without wheat.
- Contains plenty of essential amino acids.
Pros
Cons
- Includes natural beef.
- Smothered in thick, savory gravy.
- Made without colors or artificial flavors.
- Some owners have reported that their pet developed gas and/or diarrhea when switching diets, though this may be due to an improper or rushed transition.
13. Royal Canin Hydrolyzed Protein Adult HP
Royal Canin Adult HP formula is specially designed to reduce the risk of a negative immune reaction in dogs with hypersensitivity to food. The formula helps reduce skin and gastrointestinal reactions while strengthening the skin barrier against sensitivity and irritation.
Key benefits:
- Designed to support those dogs with proven food allergies and sensitive GI tracts.
- Made with all the necessary essential nutrients to maintain optimal health.
- The formula supports healthy skin.
Pros
Cons
- Aids in the treatment of certain digestive disorders.
- The formula supports healthy digestion.
- Reinforces the skin barrier.
- Royal Canin experienced food recalls in 2006 and 2007.
14. Hill’s Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach Grain-Free
This is a canned food made with salmon and vegetables. The formula contains no grains and provides a precisely balanced diet for adult dogs with sensitive digestive systems. This product is made from easily digestible natural ingredients and healthy vegetables, supplemented with omega-fatty acids and vitamin E to improve skin and coat health.
Key benefits:
- The protein helps build and maintain lean muscle.
- The formula does not contain artificial flavors or preservatives.
- Natural plant fibers promote healthy digestion.
Pros
Cons
- Made from natural ingredients.
- Vitamins C and E.
- Grain-free.
- Recommended only for adult dogs.
15. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Bits Salmon Dog Treat
BLUE Life Protection Formula is designed to maintain the health and well-being of your pet. This feed contains the natural ingredients, enriched with vitamins and minerals.
Key benefits:
- Balanced and complete nutrition.
- DHA-to help support a puppy’s cognitive development.
- Supports easy digestion.
- Contains natural ingredients.
Pros
Cons
- Made from real meat.
- No wheat or soy.
- Grain-free.
- The FDA are currently looking in to a potential link between grain-free foods and heart disease in large breeds, so they may not be the great choice for every dog.
Natural Foods
As is true in the world of humans, the trend for feeding natural is certainly on the rise in the pet world as we begin to appreciate the real link between diet and health. Feeding natural helps us to avoid ‘nasty additives’ such as fillers, preservatives and artificial colors. Many of these unnecessary additives have been linked to diseases such as cancer and a topic skin disease so are best avoided if at all possible.
16. Rachael Ray Nutrish Stews
Rachael Ray Nutrish is a balanced beef stew recipe. This product contains real pieces of beef and organic vegetables, such as peas, carrots and potatoes, with the addition of a delicious beef sauce.
Key benefits:
- The formula contains vitamins and minerals.
- Made with real beef and vegetable.
- Formula doesn’t contain artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Pros
Cons
- Does not contain gluten.
- Does not contain grain.
- Complete and balanced nutrition.
- Some reviews mentioned that dogs refused the food, though this may simply be down to personal preference.
17. AvoDerm Turkey Recipe
AvoDerm premium dog recipes contain high-quality meat proteins, healthy vegetables, as well as antioxidants, vitamins and minerals for your pet’s health. This formula supports the well-being of your pet’s skin and fur.
Key benefits:
- Formulated to ensure healthy development.
- Balanced levels of protein.
- The antioxidants contained in the feed support the health of the immune system.
Pros
Cons
- Contains only high-quality ingredients.
- The formula supports the pet’s overall health.
- It contains an abundance of Omega 3 and Omega 6 oils.
- Relatively expensive.
18. Halo Chicken Recipe for Senior Dogs
Halo Holistic food is made from natural whole meat protein. This product includes chicken and chicken liver, as well as non-GMO organic vegetables. The formula is specially designed to be low in fat and high in fiber for less active dogs. Vitamins, minerals and trace elements, including DHA, support the health.
Key benefits:
- Includes real chicken.
- The formula includes carrots and peas, fiber and vitamins.
- The formula supports healthy skin and coat.
Pros
Cons
- Non-GMO.
- Balanced levels of protein.
- Formulated without corn, wheat or soy.
- Most pet owners say that their picky eaters don’t love this product.
19. Instinct Original
This food is made from raw meat, fruits, vegetables and other healthy ingredients. The formula is enriched with nutrients, antioxidants, amino acids, vitamins and minerals.
Key benefits:
- Contains useful phosphorus.
- Formulated to ensure healthy development.
- Balanced levels of protein.
Pros
Cons
- Protein supports muscle health.
- The feed does not contain grains.
- The formula contains vitamins and minerals.
- This is not a hypoallergenic diet and contains several ‘high allergen’ foods, including peas and egg, which some dogs may react to.
20.Rachael Ray Nutrish Chicken Paw Pie
This balanced formula consists of natural, farm-raised chicken as the number one ingredient. It does not contain grains, artificial flavors, or meat by-products.
Key benefits:
- The highest quality ingredients were used to prepare this diet.
- No grains, fillers, or artificial flavors.
- Formula supports healthy skin and coats.
Pros
Cons
- Made in the USA.
- Easy to break into small pieces.
- Zero gluten.
- Suitable only for adult dogs.
Organic Foods
While feeding organic may be a little pricier, it means we know we are providing nutritious and healthy meals every day. Organic foods often contain more antioxidants and fewer chemicals and pesticides. While the jury is out on how important this may be, it may well be worth the investment long-term if it is affordable.
21. Almo Nature Chicken Stew with Beef
This diet contains only completely natural ingredients. A complete and balanced food, in which the first ingredients are chicken, beef and carrots, as well as vitamins and minerals.
Key benefits:
- 100% free of additives and GMOs.
- It supports overall wellness.
- Made with the world’s greatest ingredients.
Pros
Cons
- Contains natural meat.
- Contains real ingredients, no grains or gluten.
- Made without corn and soy.
- Suitable only for adult dogs.
22. Castor & Pollux
The # 1 organic dog food manufacturer in America, Castor & Pollux is proud to present a dog food made from responsibly selected ingredients. Only natural meat is included in the feed. All recipes are grain-free, without corn, soy, wheat or gluten. It contains no artificial preservatives, flavorings or coloring.
Key benefits:
- The feed does not contain corn, soy, wheat or gluten.
- The formula does not contain artificial preservatives, flavors or colors.
- Formulated to provide healthy development.
Pros
Cons
- Suitable for all breeds.
- Balanced levels of protein.
- Made without wheat or gluten.
- Some dogs have developed gas and/or diarrhea when switching but it is hard to know if this was due to the food itself or an improper switching regimen on the owner’s behalf.
23. Lily’s Kitchen Organic Chicken Supper
This delicious recipe is made from fresh chicken, turkey and pork along with carrots and peas. This product does not contain artificial ingredients or preservatives, wheat, corn or soy. The food also contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals that your pet needs for a healthy diet.
Key benefits:
- Contains organic chicken 30% organic pork 10% and organic turkey 10%.
- It supports a healthy immune system.
- Contains all the necessary vitamins and minerals.
Pros
Cons
- Does not contain any preservatives or colorants.
- Contains healthy vegetables.
- It supports overall wellness.
- Some buyers said that there is an unpleasant odor from the canned meat.
24. Castor & Pollux Organix Chicken and Vegetable Recipe
A recipe for adult dogs, Castor & Pollux Organix, does not contain grains and provides a balanced meal for your pet. This feed uses 95% certified organic grain-free ingredients, such as organic chicken and potatoes.
Key benefits:
- Contains fruits and vegetables, which are a source of antioxidants and vitamins.
- Great for dogs recovering from illness or injury.
- Contains flaxseed for the maintenance of healthy skin and fur.
Pros
Cons
- Made without grain.
- Organic.
- No corn, no wheat, no soy, no GMO.
- Relatively expensive.
25. Newman’s Own Organics Chicken Dinner
This product is a unique blend of proteins, vitamins, and minerals that maximizes flavor, digestibility, and nutrient absorption. All diets contain at least 70% certified organic products. It is prepared according to the standards set by the state authorities to ensure the safety of the pet’s health.
Key benefits:
- Does not contain preservatives.
- The formula is suitable for all stages of the dog’s life.
- Suitable for dogs with sensitive digestion.
Pros
Cons
- Grain-free formula.
- This formulation is very well absorbed in the gut.
- All the ingredients are organic.
- Carrageenan added in ingredient list, which may be carcinogenic.
Buying Guide
Every pet owner who pays enough attention to their pet’s health should first take care of their nutrition. [1]
Wet food must be selected individually for the breed and age of your pet. There are several criteria for choosing the right one:
- Balance of vitamins and minerals. As a rule, some of the most essential vitamins for dogs are vitamins A, E, and D, as well as Biotin, which is responsible for the exchange of fats and carbohydrates and affects the condition of the animal’s coat.
- Quantity of meat. The more meat in the composition, the better for the animal (up to a certain point). When choosing, it is essential to pay attention to the percentage of meat and the ratio of its share to the proportion of fat. In a well-balanced product, the amount of fat should always be less than meat.
- Quality and composition. Do not skimp on the meat/ animal products, since this is the main source of protein and essential amino acids, vital for good health.
- Manufacturer. Well-known brands usually have a relatively wide range of products, in which you can choose canned food, based on the individual needs of the pet. The manufacturer’s reliability plays a big role since more significant and more well-known manufacturers are usually able to use high-quality raw materials.
- Price. Each owner chooses products for their pet based on their budget, but you do not need to buy the most expensive or the cheapest canned food.
READ MORE: When to Wean Puppies?
FAQ (Answers from the Vet Dr. Linda Simon)
Is Wet Food the right choice?
For most, the answer to this question will be a resounding, yes!
It is a wonderful option for fussy eaters who refuse kibble, which tends to be the case for many smaller breed s with small appetites. However, owners must remember that eating wet food alone can predispose these dogs to periodontal disease later in life, [2] so it should always be fed alongside a good dental routine (i.e., daily tooth brushing).
As wet type is mostly moisture, it is not as nutritionally dense as dry food, meaning many owners of larger breeds will opt for dry type as it often works out more cost-effective and can be easier to store within the home.
It is also uniquely beneficial to those pets prone to kidney or bladder issues as the high moisture content allows for the urine to remain dilute, preventing the occurrence of infections and urinary crystals. [3]
Wet food may not be a good option in those breeds with long facial fur, especially for individuals who are not keen on having their ‘beards’ and ‘mustaches’ cleaned and groomed several times a day. For these hairy dogs, dry kibble may be best.
When it comes to weaning a pup, while not essential, wet food can be easier for these guys to munch on and can speed up the weaning process for some. There are products available which both mum and pup can eat, making the whole ordeal a lot easier on the owner.
Is Wet better than Dry Food?
While neither food is ‘better’ than the other, each has its own benefits and drawbacks, and one will usually suit a dog more so than the other. Some owners will find that their preference may change as they get older.
Wet food is certainly better for those who have been diagnosed with health conditions such as chronic urinary tract infections or urinary stones and may also be a sensible choice for those senior animals who may be prone to kidney disease.
If you were to ask the pet themselves, most would probably tell you that they much prefer wet food, as it tends to be far more palatable! While this may seem like a trivial point, feeding our loved ones a meal that they enjoy can hugely improve their quality of life and is worth taking into consideration.
In the medical world, the more palatable wet foods are an especially right choice for those dogs who may be unwell and need ‘building back up’ with extra calories, for those who are dehydrated and thus require more moisture in their diet and for those who have a reduced appetite due to issues such as nausea or pain.
How much Wet Food to feed a Dog?
Every wet food will have a different calorie content and should always have a feeding guide on the back of the pack. If not on the packet, companies will usually have this information on their website.
The calorie requirements will change throughout their life and are particularly high in puppies and in very active dogs (such as working and top energy breeds like Border Collies and Spaniels). Lapdogs such as Shih Tzus and Pomeranians will generally need less food as they burn fewer calories during their day.
Most owners will tend to overfeed their dogs because they feed according to the guidelines and give other sources of calories such as dental sticks, chews, treats, and tit bits. It is essential to understand that the feeding guidelines assume the pet has NO other food source at all. This may be one of the many reasons so many of our pets are over-weight!
Another point to consider is that we should be feeding our dogs for their goal weight rather than their current weight. So, if a pet weighs 22lbs but is 10% over weight, we should give them enough food for a 19,8 lbs dog.
As every pet is an individual and will have their own metabolic rate which will change with time, it is advisable to keep an eye on their Body Condition Score [4] and ensure it is remaining normal. As a rule of thumb, this should be checked monthly. If a dog is becoming too fat or too thin, we may need to alter the amount they are fed, regardless of what the guidelines state.
Can I mix Wet and Dry Food?
Mixing wet and dry types is commonly done and is a right way of getting ‘the best of both worlds’. For example, feeding wet food in the morning and dry kibble in the evening may reduce the incidence of dental disease in some dogs. Equally, mixing the two in the same bowl can have some positive effects on dental health.
Many owners find that their dog will only consume dry food if a little wet food has been mixed in. There is nothing wrong with this, as long as the dog is not picking out the wet, meaning we are simply wasting money on the dry food!
Are there any Side Effects of Wet Foods?
When starting any new food, it is important to wean a dog onto the diet gradually in case of a reaction. This usually means giving it in bigger and bigger portions over 7-10 days and monitoring carefully for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, or itchy skin.
Some dogs will tolerate certain foods better than others, but it is impossible to predict how they will react to a new food, so we simply need to exercise caution.
Several owners mistakenly believe that wet food can lead to diarrhea, but this is incorrect, and, when fed properly, the consistency of stool should not be affected by going on to a wet diet.
Okay, but which Food should I opt for?
We are incredibly lucky nowadays as there is such a wide variety of options available, and we can choose the one that best suits our four-legged friend (as well as our budget!).
READ MORE: Can My Dog Recover from Kidney Failure?
Article Sources:
- “Your Dog’s Nutritional Needs. A Science-Based Guide For Pet Owners.” National Academies Press, 2006, https://www.nap.edu/resource/10668/dog_nutrition_final_fix.pdf
- Harvey, Colin E. “Periodontal Disease in Dogs: Etiopathogenesis, Prevalence, and Significance.” Science Direct, sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0195561698501052.
- Brown, Scott. “Renal Dysfunction in Small Animals — Urinary System — Merck Veterinary Manual.” Merck Veterinary Manual, 1 Oct. 2013, merckvetmanual.com/urinary-system/noninfectious-diseases-of-the-urinary-system-in-small-animals/renal-dysfunction-in-small-animals.
- “Body and Muscle Condition Score.” American Animal Hospital Association, aaha.org/aaha-guidelines/life-stage-canine-2019/nutritional-assessment/body-and-muscle-condition-score/.
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