Is one better than the other?
With countless dog food products flooding the market, owners have a lot to consider. But the most fundamental question we found ourselves asking is: “Do I choose Wet or Dry food?” Both types can have potential to provide nutritional balanced diets, but each has their own benefits and drawbacks depending on the nutritional needs of your pet.
Dry Food
Aka kibble
Pros:
Dental Care:
Dry food mechanically cleans your dog’s teeth by encouraging them to chew their food.
Benefits dogs who: all dogs, dental care is crucial
Cost/Shelf Life:
Dry food is less expensive and has a longer shelf life. It wont spoil if left out all day, unlike wet food.
Benefits dogs who: Require a lot of food per day / Like to graze rather than finish a meal in one sitting
Nutritional Content:
Dry foods are always produced as “complete feeds”, meaning they contain everything needed for a balanced diet.
Cons:
Water Content:
Dry food increases the risk of dehydration if your dog’s water intake is not properly maintained.
Wet Food
Aka canned food
Pros:
Water Content:
Wet food increases the amount of liquid your pet consumes per day which boosts metabolism and reduces the risk of internal disease.
Benefits dogs who: have a history of urinary or kidney disease
Taste:
Animals instinctively perceive wet foods as more familiar, due to its resemblance to fresh meat and stronger aroma.
Benefits dogs who: have had a drop in appetite and need some convincing
Texture:
Wet food is much easier to chew then dry food.
Benefits dogs who: have dental/oral issues
Satiation:
Wet foods typically keep dogs feeling full for longer.
Benefits dogs who: need to lose weight, or can’t seem to stop eating
Cons:
Cost:
Wet food costs more and has a short shelf life. On top of this, if your dog doesn’t finish the whole bowl, wet food cannot be saved as easily as dry food.
Nutritional Content:
Many types of wet food are complementary rather than “complete feeds”. Owners must be extra careful when purchasing as their pet’s main food sources
Dental Care:
Wet food does not mechanically clean your dog’s teeth like dry food does. This means owners must take extra care maintain oral health and cleanliness.
Whichever method you choose for your fur baby, it is essential to correctly calculate how much food to give your dog to avoid malnutrition or obesity. Always refer to daily feeding guidelines found on the food packaging. When mixing food types, be sure to cut the daily allowance of both in half. Controlling our dog’s food intake is crucial in responsible dog ownership. But don’t fret, you can always consult a veterinarian about your dog’s diet if you are having doubts!