Dry food or wet food, which one is better for my dog – is the most pondered question by dog parents. If you are owning a dog for the first time or just simply bothered about your dog’s nutritional requirements, then the best food only depends on your dog’s breed, lifestyle, age, eating preferences and present health conditions. Just like humans, our furry friends too require an overall balanced and nutritious meal in order to stay healthy and energetic throughout.

This blog will take you through the differences as well as pros and cons of wet dog food vs. dry dog food. However, it is always advisable to consult your vet before choosing any type of food for your furry friend.

Basic Difference Between Dry and Wet Food

The basic difference between dry and wet food is the moisture content and texture variations, but despite the differences, both dry and wet food provide the same amount of nutritional value. Wet food comes in gravy form,- which makes it more appetizing and fulfilling for your furry animal, whereas dry food comes in the form of small kibbles, making it more convenient to eat and it provides more energy. The texture differences in both types of foods commonly vary because of the gravy and moisture content.

After knowing the basic difference between both types of food, we can clearly see that the difference lies within the amount of moisture content and not in the ingredients list. Wet food has high moisture content, which lies somewhere between 60-80%, while dry food has a lesser moisture content, ranging between 3-10%.

Each type of food, be it dry or wet, has its own set of advantages as well as disadvantages. Let us dive deep into the details in order to create a better understanding about the same.

Advantages of Dry Dog Food

Let us now rundown quickly on the advantages of dry dog food, which are as follows:

• Improves Dental HealthDry food has a crunchy texture, which helps in cleansing the teeth of your dog and eliminating tartar buildup. It does not get stuck between the teeth like wet food does, and it enhances the overall dental health of your furry friend.
• Aids in Weight Loss Dry food is consumed in lesser quantities, as it is high on energy so it is suitable for your dog if you are looking for a weight loss diet. Through portion control, you can make your dog consume lesser quantities which will keep him full for a longer period of time.
• Cost EffectiveDry food is generally considered a cheaper option compared to wet food. It can be easily purchased in larger quantities and does not get spoiled even when left out all day. Moreover, it is very convenient to store and carry, making it a great option for long holidays and vacations.
• Usage ConvenienceDry food is convenient to use, as - you can easily scoop the amount you desire to feed your dog. It is convenient in pouring, cleaning and dividing into portions due to its dry texture.
• Long Shelf LifeDry food can be stored for weeks. It remains fresh and palatable for weeks because of its longer shelf life.

Advantages of Wet Dog Food

Let us now have a look at the advantages of wet dog food, which are as follows:

• High Moisture ContentWet food has a high level of moisture content, which helps in maintaining the hydration levels of your dog and helps prevent dehydration or any urinary issues.
• SavourinessWet food comes with more fulfilling flavours and aroma which helps in restoring the appetite of sick or senior dogs. It comes with an appealing texture and taste which allows your dog to enjoy a wholesome meal.
• High Satisfaction LevelWith the addition of delicious flavours in gravy, wet food enhances your dog’s taste buds and satisfaction levels. It tempts them towards the wet food with more enthusiasm and happiness.
• Easy to NibbleWet food has soft chunks compared to dry food which makes it easier for your dog to chew. This makes it especially beneficial for puppies and dogs with dental issues.
• Easy Administration of SupplementsSince wet food comes in the form of a gravy, it allows easy administration of any kind of supplements or medicines. You can simply mix the medicines to the gravy of the food without walking any extra mile for the health benefits of your furry friend.

Combination of Dry and Wet Food

Comparing and closely understanding the advantages of both dry and wet food, it is clear that a combination of both would be the ideal option for your furry friend. However, it is crucial to determine the quantities of both food types and avoid overfeeding. If you plan to switch from dry food to wet food or vice-versa, always give a 5-10 days window, so that the change is adapted by your dog and does not upset his stomach. By offering your dog a variety of dry food and wet food, you can ensure your dog gets the taste and nutrition of both.

At the end of the day, the decision of whether to choose dry dog food or wet dog food should depend on the meal preference of your furball.

Bottom Line

The bottom line is, none of the types can be tagged as healthy or unhealthy, so,don’t just get tensed about which type of food to feed your dog as both carry the same nutritional value. As we know, just like human beings every pet is unique and has different nutritional requirements, and so if you choose the right mix of both, your dog will get all the necessary nutrients. Always focus on factors like your dog’s lifestyle, nutritional requirements, digestive capacity, eating preferences, health history etc., and then make an informed decision.