Dogs may appreciate a mix of wet and dry food to add variety, texture, or extra hydration. Be sure to have their caloric needs assessed by a veterinarian to prevent unintended weight gain.
Pet owners should look for wet dog food that contains natural meat proteins as well as vegetables, fruits, and other vitamins and nutrients that your pup might require. Also pay attention to their flavor and texture preferences!
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Puppies & Small Breeds
If your dog has difficulty transitioning completely from dry food, mixing or topping their kibble with some flavourful wet food may help them! Not only will this add variety, but it may also benefit picky eaters or those suffering from digestive or dental issues.
Wet foods with their higher moisture content may benefit dogs who require additional hydration or those suffering from medical conditions that could benefit from increased satiety (the feeling of fullness). They also soften kibble, making it easier for older pets with dental issues to chew on it.
When selecting wet food to combine with dry food, opt for protein-rich options that are easily digested and absorbed by your dog. Avoid foods made of plant proteins which may lead to digestive issues and sensitivities in some pups. Experiment with different textures until you find what best meets your dog’s preferences – some dogs prefer chunkier while others may prefer smoother textures.
Adult Dogs
Dogs accustomed to eating dry food can easily transition over to wet food as part of their regular meals, as wet food provides balanced protein sources as well as adding moisture for active dogs or those suffering from urinary tract or kidney issues.
Search for wet foods containing high levels of protein from chicken or fish, along with vegetables like carrots, sweet potatoes, green beans and peas. Some adult dog wet food even features fruit such as apples or blueberries to add an extra sweet note to their meals.
Canned dog food features stronger aromas and flavors than dry foods, making it easier for older or pickier eaters to make food decisions. It is important that their caloric needs be assessed by a veterinarian in order to avoid weight gain caused by overfeeding.
Senior Dogs
As your dog enters its senior years, their physical needs may change significantly and appetite may decrease significantly. At this stage, it’s imperative that food that meets those specific requirements be selected.
Wet dog foods usually contain more moisture than their dry counterparts, making them better at providing proper hydration to senior pets and providing more palatable textures to older pups with dental or chewing issues.
There are numerous high-quality wet dog foods designed specifically to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs, such as Evanger’s Heritage Classics Senior & Weight Management wet food that mixes easily with dry kibble and contains low glycemic ingredients to support improved blood sugar levels in older pets.
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Senior Pate wet food is another top option, boasting nutritious ingredients and a balanced diet tailored specifically for senior pets. It contains joint support elements like glucosamine and chondroitin as well as DHA omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil to help promote brain health.
Cats
Wet food provides more protein, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids compared to dry foods; in addition to providing greater moisture. This will keep your dog feeling satisfied longer while also improving overall health.
Choose high-quality meats like chicken and beef to provide essential vitamins and minerals, while vegetables and fruits such as carrots, sweet potatoes, green beans and peas provide fiber, vitamins and minerals that support their wellbeing.
Try providing your dog with wet food that contains probiotics and herbal supplements to address specific health concerns, like digestive health or immune support. Use wet food alone as a meal or mix it with dry food for more of a balanced diet; add an extra boost of flavor with Applaws Taste Toppers; they can serve both purposes!
