Dry Dog Food vs. Wet Dog Food: Which Is Better for Your Dog?

As a new dog parent, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing the right food for your furry friend. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to decide between dry dog food (kibble) and wet dog food (canned food). Both have their own advantages and drawbacks, and the best choice depends on your dog's unique needs, lifestyle, and preferences.

This guide will help you understand the key differences between dry and wet dog food, their benefits, and how to choose the best option for your pup.

How Are Dry and Wet Dog Food Made?

Understanding how each type of food is made can help you see why they have different textures, nutritional benefits, and storage requirements.

Dry Dog Food (Kibble)

Dry dog food is made by mixing ingredients like meat, grains, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals into a dough. This dough is then cooked under high pressure and heat before being shaped into small, crunchy pieces (kibble). Finally, manufacturers may coat the kibble with fats and flavor enhancers to make it more appealing to dogs.

🔹 Moisture content: About 10%
🔹 Shelf life: Long-lasting, doesn’t require refrigeration
🔹 Texture: Crunchy, which can help clean teeth

Wet Dog Food (Canned Food)

Wet dog food is made by grinding up meat, organs, and grains and mixing them with water or broth to create a stew-like consistency. The mixture is cooked and sealed in cans to keep it fresh and safe from bacteria.

🔹 Moisture content: Around 75-78%
🔹 Shelf life: Long shelf life when unopened, but needs refrigeration after opening
🔹 Texture: Soft and moist, making it easy to chew

Pros and Cons of Dry Dog Food vs. Wet Dog Food

✅Benefits of Dry Dog Food (Kibble Food)

Convenient and Easy to Store

• Doesn’t require refrigeration
• Can be left in a bowl without spoiling, great for free-feeding dogs

Good for Dental Health

• The crunchy texture helps scrape away plaque and tartar, promoting better oral hygiene
• Some brands offer specialized dental kibble designed to improve oral health

More Affordable

• Dry food is generally cheaper per serving than wet food
• Comes in large bags, making it cost-effective for multi-dog households

Nutritionally Balanced

• Many premium kibble brands are designed to provide complete and balanced nutrition
• Some brands offer grain-free or high-protein options for dogs with special dietary needs

⚠️Downsides of Dry Dog Food

Lower Moisture Content

• Dogs that don’t drink enough water may be at risk for dehydration or urinary tract issues
• Senior dogs or dogs with kidney disease may need more moisture in their diet

Less Appetizing for Some Dogs

• Picky eaters might not find dry kibble as tasty as wet food
• Some lower-quality kibble brands use artificial flavors and preservatives

✅Benefits of Wet Dog Food (Canned Food)

More Flavorful and Appealing

• The strong aroma and meaty texture make it ideal for picky eaters
• Great for dogs who need to gain weight, as it encourages eating

Hydration Boost

• Contains about 75% water, helping dogs stay hydrated
• Especially beneficial for dogs that don’t drink enough water

Easier to Chew and Digest

• Soft texture makes it ideal for puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with dental problems
• Often contains fewer fillers compared to low-quality kibble

⚠️Downsides of Wet Dog Food

More Expensive

• Can be costly, especially for large dogs that require multiple cans per day

Shorter Shelf Life After Opening

• Must be refrigerated after opening and used within 2-3 days

Potential for Dental Issues

• Doesn’t provide the same teeth-cleaning benefits as dry kibble
• If not balanced with proper oral care, wet food can lead to plaque buildup

BONUS: Can You Mix Wet and Dry Dog Food?

Yes! Many dog owners choose to combine wet and dry food to get the best of both worlds.

Benefits of Mixing

• Adds variety and enhances taste for picky eaters
• Provides extra hydration while still benefiting from kibble’s dental benefits
• Makes food more appealing for senior dogs or dogs with chewing difficulties

How to Mix Properly

• Be sure to adjust portions to avoid overfeeding
• Use the same brand or compatible formulas to maintain balanced nutrition
• Always check with your veterinarian before changing your dog’s diet

Which Food is Best for Your Dog?

The best choice depends on your dog’s age, health, and lifestyle.

Choose Dry Food If:

• You need a cost-effective and convenient option
• Your dog has healthy teeth and drinks plenty of water
• You want a longer-lasting food that’s easy to store

Choose Wet Food If:

• Your dog is a picky eater or needs extra hydration
• Your pup has dental issues or difficulty chewing
• You want a high-protein, low-carb diet

Consider Mixing Both If:

• Your dog enjoys variety in their meals
• You want the benefits of both textures and nutrients

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to whether dry or wet food is better—

both can provide complete and balanced nutrition when chosen wisely. The best diet depends on your dog's individual needs, preferences, and any health concerns.

Before making a switch, consult your veterinarian to ensure you’re providing the right balance of nutrients for your furry friend. Whether you choose kibble, wet food, or a mix of both, the most important thing is keeping your pup happy, healthy, and well-fed!

Something Exciting is Coming Soon...

Great nutrition doesn’t stop at kibble or canned food—it’s also about treating your dog right with healthy, delicious snacks! 🎉

That’s why we’re so excited to introduce Joyride Kitchen, where we’re crafting premium dog treats that your pup will drool over! Made with wholesome ingredients and packed with love, our treats are designed to reward your dog the healthy way.

🚀 Launching soon! Be the first to know when our first batch of tail-wagging treats hits the shelves. Sign up for updates, sneak peeks, and exclusive early access!