Should I feed my dog dry food or wet food?

As a dog owner (or dog owners), you're looking to provide your dog everything they need: a roof over their head, a comfortable place to sleep, and food that gives them the nutrients they need for a healthy life. With so many types of food available for all types of dogs ranging from puppy food for puppies to adult dogs and even picky eaters.

But when you're shopping at the grocery store or pet retailer and need to cross off pup food from your list, should you reach for a batch of dry food or wet food? Both types of dog food can provide the nutrients and support your dog needs, but what are the pros and cons of dry food and wet food? Is there a consensus on which one is better for your pup?

In this blog post, we look into those questions to answer dry food or wet dog food so that you can shop comfortably for your fur baby.

Wet Food

There are several benefits that come with canned dog food and wet food. These dog food options do offer more than enhanced flavor! This mealtime option contains enough moisture to help with dogs with urinary tract problems and dogs that generally don't drink their recommended water intake. This is a strong benefit as hydration aids your dog's digestion by breaking down what's been ingested and then drawing the nutrients and vitamins from that choice of food.

This is why many dog owners opt for canned dog food and wet food pouches with real meat during the summer time; to supplement their hydration.

This type of food makes eating more accessible to puppies, adult dogs with dental health issues, and senior dogs as they are less harsh against your dog's teeth and gums.

What's the downside? Wet dog food makes most fur babies salivate so there's a microchance your doggo will develop a picky taste palate in the process and shun dry dog food afterward. Additionally, if you're more inclined to give your fur baby wet dog food as their default food option, be prepared to clear out more pantry space and closet space. Why? Depending on the size and breed of your dog, their recommended intake of food will have those cans taking up room in your kitchen (including your refrigerator).

Dry Food

Kibble and dry dog food immediately come to mind when you hear the words "dog food". It's got a longer shelf life and the types of dry dog food available on the market is a list that could seemingly go on and on. Contrary to wet food's own benefit that considers your dog's teeth, dry kibble dog food has a texture that encourages your dog to chew thoroughly. When they fully chew before swallowing their food, it improves the functionality of your dog's digestive system. Not only that but the texture can scrape away at plaque and clean your dog's teeth.

Here's the benefit of kibble that every dog owner wants to hear: purchasing dry dog food in bulk or larger quantities is shopping smart and the consumption rate versus that of wet dog food makes this protein source budget-friendly.

What's the verdict & what do I choose?

The trademark of quality pet food is in its nutrition label. The trademark isn't in the moisture of the pet food. After looking into numerous sources, each came to the conclusion that both wet food and dry dog food can offer the same nutrition. Equally as such, they both can offer the same amount of (and contain) excessive amounts of carbohydrates, preservatives, artificial flavors, fat, and more in the formulas.

When in doubt, make an appointment with the vet and discuss with your fur baby's veterinarian the best diet for them.

This is just a sampling of tips and informational posts we offer at Joyride Harness. You can find more content including tips and tricks and how-tos for caring for your dog on our blog in this section.