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How much time have you spent scanning endless aisles stocked with dog foods in a pet store? How difficult was it to reach for what you thought of as the perfect one?

More about this in a minute.

This is one of the main dilemmas dog owners have to face.

How can we be sure we opted for the best nutrition formula? Which form, dry or wet,  should we go for? Let alone all the tastes which are there for us to choose.

There seems to be no definite answer to this question. The right choice of the type of food depends on several factors. These include your dog’s age, breed, activity or special needs. You can base your choice on some positive reviews or feedback from other canine owners.

Wet or dry – it’s not so easy to tell. Many will agree that there are some pros and cons of both types. There are several types of top quality canned formulas will certainly cater to your furry buddy’s needs.

7 Top Ranking Wet Food For Dogs Compared

IMAGEPRODUCTINGREDIENTS 
Our Top Pick

Small Product image of Blue Buffalo Homestyle
Blue Buffalo Homestyle
Our Top Pick
Chicken
Chicken Broth
Chicken Liver
Carrots
Peas
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Budget Choice

Small Product image of Taste of the Wild Grain Free Diet
Taste of the Wild Grain
Budget Choice
Beef
Lamb Broth
Vegetable Broth
Lamb Liver
Dried Egg Product
Check Price
Best In Flavor

Small Product image of Instinct by Nature s Variety Original
Instinct by Nature's Variety
Best In Flavor
Chicken
Turkey
Chicken Broth
Chicken Liver
Ground Flaxseed
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Senior Dogs

Small Product image of Nature s Recipe
Nature's Recipe
Everyday
Chicken
Chicken Broth
Sweet Potatoes
Pumpkin
Canola Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols)
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Protein Rich

Small Product image of Whole Earth Farms Hearty Beef Stew
Whole Earth Farms
Protein Rich
Beef
Beef Broth
Turkey Broth
Beef Liver
Peas
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Everyday

Small Product image of Wellness CORE Grain Free Formula
Wellness CORE
Everyday
Chicken
Turkey
Chicken Liver
Chicken Broth
Chicken Meal
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Natural Recipe

Small Product image of Merrick Classic Brauts-n-tots
Merrick Classic
Natural Recipe
Deboned Beef
Beef Broth
Beef Liver
Chicken Broth
Peas
Check Price

Blue Buffalo Homestyle - Our Top Pick

First Five Ingredients:

  • Chicken
  • Chicken Broth
  • Chicken Liver
  • Carrots
  • Peas

Blue Buffalo Homestyle is everything you have always sought for in your pup’s diet. This rich formula makes an absolute favorite of an endless number of owners and their pet dogs.

The perfect balance of finest ingredients balances your canine’s diet perfectly. Its high contents of protein come from the savory chicken. Brown rice is in charge of providing sufficient levels of carbohydrates. Addition of antioxidant-rich blueberries and cranberries make this blend very powerful. It will efficiently strengthen your dog’s immune system.

Essential amino acids bolster proper development of your pup. Owing it to Biotin, the skin and coat will obtain a silky and healthy look. The energy needed by your active furry friend comes from whole grain carbs. Tasty garden veggies and fruits supply a plethora of additional nutrients.

With this magnificent canned formula, the occurrence of allergies is minimal.

Blue Buffalo Homestyle guarantees well-balanced nutrition and general wellbeing of your little buddy.

Taste of the Wild Grain- Free - Great Value for Money

First Five Ingredients:

  • Beef
  • Lamb Broth
  • Vegetable Broth
  • Lamb Liver
  • Dried Egg Product

As its name suggests, this formula is powerful and wild. Its combination of beef, bison, roasted lamb and venison makes a perfect blend of an unforgettable taste. You will enjoy watching your pup eat it in big gulps.

It was created to supply all the energy your pup needs to stay active and jolly throughout the day. A long list of beneficial nutrients will keep you carefree about your furry friend’s general health.

Real beef along with other ingredients rich in protein result in a strong, muscular body of your pup. Real fruit and vegetables with their antioxidant features clean the body from harmful toxins. Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids will be responsible for the healthy, silky coat and skin.

Pooches suffering from allergies or gentle tummy issues will find a perfect source of nutrition. This formula lacks in all common allergens or food intolerance triggers.

It will not take long before this mighty blend becomes your buddy’s favorite craving.

Instinct by Nature's Variety - Best In Flavor

First Five Ingredients:

  • Chicken
  • Turkey
  • Chicken Broth
  • Chicken Liver
  • Ground Flaxseed

One of the best rated wet foods, Instinct by Nature’s Variety, is the result of thoughtful selection of pure and tasty ingredients. It is abundant in protein, which will help your puppy thrive.

Other components only add to the list of extremely beneficial nutrients. This formula will sustain well-rounded, complete nutrition in its finest form.

Real poultry of the best quality guarantees plenty of protein. It makes the core of your buddy’s proper and healthy diet, with 95% of total contents.

Lack of grain lists this canned food among the hypoallergenic ones. Additionally, it rules out any corn, soy, wheat, artificial preservatives o fillers. Choosing this formula minimizes the possible occurrence of allergies or intolerances.

High levels of fatty acids will give your furry friend’s coat softness and silkiness. This outstanding blend features the finest variety of top quality ingredients from around the globe.

Nature's Recipe - Fit For Senior Dogs

First Five Ingredients:

  • Chicken
  • Chicken Broth
  • Sweet Potatoes
  • Pumpkin
  • Canola Oil (Preserved with Mixed Tocopherols)

The creators of this delicious blend put real chicken at its center. They set themselves a  goal to maintain your adult dog in good shape and supply all the necessary nutrients. Its high levels of protein support the muscular system and boost the agility of your canine.

Sweet potato and pumpkin puree make a fabulous addition to this savory mixture. These provide an excellent supply of carbs and fibers. They will fully meet your pup’s daily needs. Its smooth texture makes it extremely appetizing. It is at the same time easy to chew and digest. It will not result in an upset stomach nor cause a food allergy in your pet.

This formula is packed with vitamins and minerals to ensure proper metabolism and bolster the immune system.

Attentive selection of top-quality components will keep your adult and senior furry companions nurtured and content.

Whole Earth Farms - Best Protein Rich

First Five Ingredients:

  • Beef
  • Beef Broth
  • Turkey Broth
  • Beef Liver
  • Peas

For all pet parents eager to maintain the link with nature, Whole Earth Farms offer a range of clean, natural wet food products. The overall wellbeing of your canine is what the makers of this blend focus on. To keep the proper balance of nutrients, they shortlisted the group ingredients that will tickle your pup’s taste buds.

These canned foods make a great topping for their kibble counterpart. Rich in protein obtained from real beef, it ensures appropriate daily nutrition. With the special touch of herbs and spices like thyme, sage, and rosemary it features a memorable taste.

Blueberries included in this blend release antioxidants in your pooch’s body. It eliminates toxic substances more efficiently, strengthening the immunity overall.

This formula eliminates any potential common allergens and artificial preservatives. It is unique, pure and evokes the spirit of nature in promoting your pup ’s wellbeing.

Wellness CORE - Ideal For Everyday Feeding

First Five Ingredients:

  • Chicken
  • Turkey
  • Chicken Liver
  • Chicken Broth
  • Chicken Meal

Wellness CORE follows the core principles of providing a well balanced and indulging diet. It is not a secret why puppies crave this appetizing mixture. Turkey in combination with chicken will make your furry buddy lap it up in a split of a second.

Wellness CORE contributes to your pet’s general health on several levels.

This rich formula is abundant in animal protein – up to 50% more in comparison with similar products.  With added veggies and fruits, it will keep your pup energized and agile. It helps the metabolism run smoothly, due to high levels of minerals.

Your canine’s skin and coat will reflect his overall healthy state. It lowers the level of risk for puppies with digestion issues or allergy-prone ones. The absence of grains and fillers make it safe and easily digestible.

Do not hesitate to pamper your furry friend with this high quality, palatable can of nutrients.

Merrick Classic - Best Natural Recipe

First Five Ingredients:

  • Deboned Beef
  • Beef Broth
  • Beef Liver
  • Chicken Broth
  • Peas

You can easily bring the search for the right type of dog food to an end. With  Merrick Classic Brauts-n-Tots canned formula you can sigh a breath of relief.

This fantastic mixture of a range of top-class ingredients is a wise choice for your canine’s diet. You can serve Merrick Classic c either as a topper or make it a complete meal. Protein obtained from quality beef makes the basis for the properly managed diet.

A long list of beneficial ingredients supplies necessary vitamins, minerals, carbs, and fatty acids. These include fresh-cut sweet potatoes, carrots, potatoes, and green beans. Delicious fruits such as blueberries and apples are not left out either.

A grain-free recipe is not likely to lead to common allergic reactions. Savory beef broth will keep your canine hydrated and lively.

It addresses every aspect of your furry friend’s wellbeing. Each meal can turn into a special treat with this outstanding blend.

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Amazing Benefits of Wet / Canned Food

Palatable

One of the greatest advantages of this type of food lies in the fact that it is so palatable.

Its quality ingredients and smooth texture make it easy to for your pooch to chew. Soft and juicy, it will bring great relief to pets with dental problems. These include inflamed or injured gums or particularly small mouth.

Your pup will lap it up eagerly. That is why owners see this feature as a huge benefit.

Digestible

Wet foods belong to the group of easily digestible ones. Ingredients in these formulas are close to their natural form. They are usually more appetizing, due to a more intense flavor and scent.

Lack of artificial preservatives, colors and flavors make them hypoallergenic. Sensitive tummies of your canine friends are not likely to get upset if they feed on these sorts of blends.

More Protein Content

Protein in canned food comes from real meat ingredients. A wide range of flavors is available, even for the most finicky eaters. Generally, they contain considerably higher levels of these nutrients compared to dry formulas.

In combination with water, the same amount of nutrients takes up a greater volume compared with dry food options. This makes your pet feel full more quickly. In addition to higher amounts of protein, they are considerably lower on carbs. Fats in canned food usually come from natural sources, too.

Fewer Preservatives

Wet foods are generally sold in cans. These air-tight containers make it resistant to influences of the environment. They also extend their shelf life greatly.

For this reason, it is not necessary to add artificial preservatives. Oils and fats used in these formulas are not likely to go off rapidly. Lack of preservatives is a significant factor when dogs prone to allergies are concerned.

Promote Weight Loss

Some puppies tend to have weight issues. Wet mixtures can be rather beneficial in these cases. This is the result of their low level of carbohydrates and high protein value.

Canned formulas are more filling than dry kibble. Their moisture adds to their volume. This means your canine eats a smaller amount of food when compared with the amount of kibble in a single meal. You can include them in a weight-loss nutrition plan. It is also advisable to increase the amount of your pup’s exercise.

Healthier Ingredients

Selection of ingredients for wet dog food focuses on pure, natural, often organic products. They closely resemble real ingredients in their natural form.

Very rich in protein obtained from real meat, it sustains well-balanced nutrition. A lower number of calories adds to their list of positive qualities. These blends do not require chemicals to preserve them. They are also free from artificial additives which intensify both color and taste.

All these factors make it healthy and safe for your furry friend.

Who Should Buy Canned Dog Food?

Good-quality canned food can be a great pick for any canine. It is packed with natural nutrients and easily digestible. Its savory taste and lack of artificial additives will make it your pup’s favorite in no time. In some cases, it is advisable to use it to deal with certain feeding issues.

These formulas contain a high amount of water. It is essential for keeping your furry friend hydrated. It is particularly beneficial for dogs which are reluctant to drink water. Although not a substitute for fresh water, it can have a positive result when the weather is hot and dry.

Dogs that suffered the loss of teeth or similar dental issues won’t have difficulties chewing these smooth and soft mixtures. Senior dogs with a weakened sense of smell find these more appetizing, due to their stronger flavor.

Image of two dogs lying on a blanket

How to Store Wet Dog Food

Storage of wet canine food calls for careful attention. The only healthy and safe wet formulas are the ones that you store and handle adequately. When buying a can for your pet in a store, you should always check the „best before“ to make sure it is safe. This date is always printed at the bottom of a container.

Once you open it, such food gets contaminated easily.

In contact with oxygen, it makes good grounds for the development of bacteria. Hence you need to refrigerate it for the maximum of 5-7 days at 40-45°F. After that time, you should throw away any leftovers. Refrigeration in a closed can will prevent the loss of moisture, contact with air and mixing of scents.

Wet formulas should not be left in your pup’s bowl for more than a couple of hours. This is especially the case when the temperatures are higher. Clean the feeding bowl thoroughly after each meal. If you freeze cans, their contents are likely to lose its taste and texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long can it stay out of the freezer?

It is not safe to leave wet leftovers out of the fridge for more than 3 to 4 hours. This time shortens considerably if the temperature of the environment is higher. In these cases, it should not stay in a bowl longer than 1 to 2 hours.

This is due to the lack of artificial preservatives. Owners should pay close attention to this in order to avoid food poisoning or similar digestive issues in their pet dogs.

Can dry and wet food be mixed?

Mixing of dry and wet canine blends can be a good idea, as they both have their benefits. It is necessary to monitor the excessive calories, though.

You can mix these two types in a single meal. Also, they can be served as two separate meals within a single day. You can usually offer dry formula in the morning, while you can offer the wet one later during the day.

Finally, because pups find them delicious,  you can give cans as special treats. They can make a good reward for favorable behavior.

Is it safe for puppies with a sensitive stomach?

Owners of pets with gentle stomachs take particular care of the most suitable type of nutrition for their furry buddies. They often find a solution by offering canned formulas. These rule out any possible allergens or chemical ingredients. Artificial colors and taste intensifies are not included as well.

This qualifies them as the type of mixtures unlikely to trigger intolerances and most common allergies.

What is the most affordable brand?

One of the downsides of canned dog formulas is certainly their price. They tend to cost several times more than their quality dry counterparts. For dog owners on a budget, this can be the key factor in choosing between the two.

When it comes to reviewed quality canned foods, Blue Buffalo Homestyle is the most affordable brand.

Is it safe for dogs with skin allergies?

To avoid these issues, owners should study carefully the list of ingredients which a formula includes. High-quality wet formulas contain no allergens. It eliminates allergens such as grains, soy, wheat, gluten dairy, and corn. Preservatives and artificial additives which trigger skin allergies are not used either.

All this makes it an excellent choice for the diet of allergy-prone pet dogs.

Conclusion

Wet foods provide the necessary nutrients and boost your pup’s healthy development. Appetizing and smooth, they have proved to be handy in dealing with certain feeding issues.

You should store wet food for dogs with great attention.

Although pricey, its long list of advantages outnumbers possible downsides. Owners who opt for these types of formulas can be sure that they will provide their puppies with great nutrition and a lot of pleasure, too.

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