Wet vs. Dry: 5 Best Reasons Why Wet Dog Food Outshines Kibble in Health and Nutrition

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5 Benefits of Wet Dog Food

Wet dog food or canned food is often overlooked as a quality food source for your dog because of the convenience and cost of Kibble.

But how does, wet dog food compare in nutritional value to Kibble, which is the most commonly fed dog food?

This article discusses the benefits of wet dog food and compares it to the nutritional value of kibble.

Benefits of Wet Dog Food

1. Moisture Content
2. Palatability
3. Nutritional Value
4. Digestibility
5. Variety

Wet Dog Food – Overview

What is wet dog food?

Wet dog food, also known as canned dog food, is a type of dog food that is typically made with higher levels of moisture than kibble.

It comes in a can or pouch and can be served alone or mixed with kibble.

Wet dog food is usually made with high-quality proteins, vegetables, and grains, and can be a good option for dogs with dental issues or picky eaters.

What is Kibble?

Kibble, also known as dry dog food, is a type of dog food that is made by extruding a mixture of ingredients into small, bite-sized pieces.

Kibble is typically made with lower levels of moisture than wet dog food and can be a convenient option for pet owners, as it can be left out for the dog to eat throughout the day.

For more information on Kibble, read our article 7 Kibble Pros and Cons: Best Authoritative Guide for Determining If It’s the Best Choice for Your Boxer Dog

Moisture

Ingredients used to add moisture:

Wet dog food typically contains a high amount of water, which can range from 60% to 90% depending on the brand and formulation.

Additionally, some wet dog food may contain additional moisture-enhancing ingredients such as broth, gravy, or gelatin.

Typical moisture content

The exact moisture content of wet dog food can vary depending on the specific product, but it generally falls within the range of 60-90%.

For example, a can of wet dog food may have a moisture content of around 75%, while a pouch of wet dog food may have a moisture content of around 80%.

We use and recommend Iams ProActive Health Classic Ground with Chicken & Whole Grain Rice Adult Wet Dog Food from Chewy.com

Benefits of higher moisture content

Wet dog food with a higher moisture content can provide several benefits for dogs, including:

1. Hydration:
   • Dogs need to consume adequate amounts of water to maintain optimal health.
   • Wet dog food can be a good source of hydration, especially for dogs that don’t drink enough water on their own.
2. Urinary tract health:
   • Higher moisture content in dog food can help prevent urinary tract infections and other urinary tract issues by flushing out the urinary system.
3. Digestibility:
   • Wet dog food can be easier for dogs to digest due to its softer texture and higher moisture content.
   • This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with digestive issues or those that are prone to constipation.
4. Flavor and texture:
   • Many dogs find wet dog food more palatable than dry kibble due to its texture and smell, making it a good option for picky eaters.
   • Additionally, the added moisture can enhance the flavor and aroma of the food, which can encourage dogs to eat more.

Overall, the higher moisture content in wet dog food can provide numerous benefits for dogs, making it a popular choice for pet owners looking to provide their dogs with a well-balanced diet.

The table below compares the typical moisture content among the 5 major types of dog food, Wet dog food, kibble, fresh dog food, homemade dog food, and Raw.

Moisture Content Among Dog Food Types

Type of Dog Food	Moisture Content
Wet Dog Food	75-85%
Kibble	6-10%
Fresh Dog Food	70-75%
Homemade	70-75%
Raw Food	60-70%

Note: Moisture content may vary based on the specific brand, recipe, or method of preparation.

We recommend Wellness CORE 95% Natural Wet Grain Free Turkey & Spinach Canned Dog Food from PetCareRx because it provides lots of protein and minerals to support immune health, provides energy, and aid in digestive health.

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Palatability

To better understand the differences between wet dog food and kibble in terms of palatability, let’s take a look at a comparison table:

Palatability Comparison Table

Factor	Wet Dog Food	Kibble (Dry Dog Food)
Texture	Soft, meaty	Hard, crunchy
Moisture Content	High moisture	Low moisture
Aroma	Strong aroma	Less aromatic
Chewability	Easy to chew	May be harder to chew
Ingredients	Real meat, vegetables	Meat, grains, vegetables
Palatability	Highly palatable	May be less palatable
Dental Health	Dogs with dental issues may prefer wet food vs kibble	May not help with dental health

In conclusion, both wet food and kibble have their advantages and disadvantages.

Wet dog food is generally considered to be more palatable to dogs due to its

• soft texture
• high moisture content
• strong aroma
• use of real meat and vegetables

However, it’s important to remember that palatability can vary depending on individual preferences and the dietary needs of each dog.

It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian and consider your dog’s specific needs and preferences when choosing the right type of dog food for your dog.

For fresh, palatable dog food, we recommend Ollie Fresh Dog Food

For additional information on the palatability of dog food, read our article 5 Proven Fresh Dog Food Ingredients Essential for Boxers

Nutritional Value

When it comes to the nutritional value of dog food, wet food offers several benefits.

1. Wet food is typically made with a higher moisture content, which can help keep dogs hydrated and support their overall urinary tract health.
2. Wet food often contains real meat and vegetables, providing a good source of high-quality protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals.
3. Wet food can also be a good option for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities, as it often has limited ingredients and can be easily customized to meet specific dietary needs.

To better understand the nutritional value of wet food compared to kibble, let’s take a look at a comparison table:

Nutritional Value Comparing Wet Dog Fodd vs. Kibble

Nutrient	Wet Dog Food	Kibble (Dry Dog Food)
Moisture Content	High moisture content (typically around 70-80%)	Low moisture content (typically around 10-12%)
Protein	High-quality protein from real meat sources	Protein from meat, grains, and vegetables
Fat	Healthy fats from meat and vegetable sources	Fat from meat, grains, and added oils
Vitamins and Minerals	Essential vitamins and minerals from real meat and vegetable sources	Vitamins and minerals from meat, grains, and added supplements
Digestibility	Easy to digest due to high moisture content and quality ingredients	Digestibility can vary depending on the quality of ingredients and processing methods
Allergen Potential	Can be customized for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities	May contain allergens such as grains, gluten, or artificial additives

Wet food offers

• high moisture content
• quality protein
• healthy fats
• essential vitamins and minerals

making it a nutritious option for dogs.

It can be particularly beneficial for dogs with specific dietary needs or sensitivities.

However, it’s important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the best type of dog food for your individual dog’s needs, as each dog is unique and may require a customized diet plan.

For a high nutritional value wet dog food we recommend Only Natural Pet Powerstew Grain-free Turkey & Duck Feast Wet Dog Food from Only Natural Pet.

Digestibility

Digestibility is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing the right type of dog food for your Boxer.

It determines how easily and efficiently your dog’s digestive system can break down and absorb the nutrients from its food.

Wet dog food, is often praised for its high digestibility.

The high moisture content in wet food can help promote healthy digestion and prevent issues such as

• constipation
• dehydration

Additionally, it is typically made with real meat and vegetables, which are generally easier for dogs to digest compared to grains or fillers found in some kibble.

To better understand the digestibility of wet dog food compared to kibble, let’s take a look at a comparison table:

Factor	Wet Dog Food	Kibble (Dry Dog Food)
Moisture Content	High moisture content (typically around 70-80%) can help promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation	Low moisture content (typically around 10-12%) may require dogs to drink more water to stay hydrated
Texture	Soft texture is easier for dogs to chew and digest, beneficial for dogs with dental issues or senior dogs	Hard texture may be more challenging to chew, especially for dogs with dental problems
Ingredient Quality	Made with real meat and vegetables, which are generally easier for dogs to digest	May contain grains, fillers, or artificial additives that can be harder for dogs to digest
Stomach Upset Risk	Less likely to cause stomach upset due to high moisture content and quality ingredients	May have a higher risk of causing stomach upset or digestive issues due to lower moisture content and lower-quality ingredients
Customization	Can be customized to meet specific dietary needs or allergies, reducing the risk of digestive discomfort	May not be as easily customizable, and may require additional supplements or modifications for dogs with dietary sensitivities

In conclusion, wet food is often considered to be more easily digestible compared to kibble due to its

• high moisture content
• soft texture
• quality ingredients

However, it’s important to consider your dog’s specific

• dietary needs
• age
• overall health

when choosing the right type of dog food.

Consulting with your veterinarian can help you make an informed decision and ensure that your Boxer gets the nutrition they need without experiencing digestive discomfort.

For an easily digestible wet food we recommend NomNom Fresh/Frozen Dog Food

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To learn more about digestibility, read our article 5 Best Tips for Feeding a Boxer Dog with a Sensitive Stomach.

Variety

Wet food, offers a wide range of options to suit

• different tastes
• preferences
• dietary needs

Wet food comes in a variety of

• flavors
• textures
• formulations

providing pet owners with an array of choices to cater to their dog’s preferences and nutritional requirements.

Many wet food brands offer different protein sources such as

• Chicken
• Beef
• Lamb
• Fish
• Duck
• Liver

allowing pet owners to rotate flavors and provide a diverse diet for their Boxers.

Additionally, wet food often comes in different textures, such as

• Pate
• Chunks in Gravy
• Stew

providing dogs with a variety of options to satisfy their palate.

To better understand the variety in wet dog food compared to kibble, let’s take a look at a comparison table:

Variety Comparison – Wet Dog Food vs Kibble

Factor	Wet Dog Food	Kibble (Dry Dog Food)
Flavors	Wide range of flavors including chicken, beef, lamb, fish, and more	Limited flavor options, typically based on primary protein source
Textures	Limited flavor options, typically based on the primary protein source	Generally, only one texture option, usually dry and crunchy
Customization	Can be easily mixed with other ingredients to create custom meals or toppers for added variety	Limited flavor options, typically based on the primary protein source
Dietary Needs	Many wet dog food brands offer specialized formulations for specific dietary needs such as weight management, allergies, or senior dogs	Limited specialized formulations compared to wet dog food
Palatability	Wet dog food is often considered more palatable by dogs due to its moist and flavorful nature	Palatability can vary depending on the brand and formulation, but may not be as appealing to picky eaters
Feeding Flexibility	Can be used as a standalone meal or mixed with dry kibble to add moisture and enhance palatability	Typically fed as a standalone meal, may require additional moisture or toppers for added palatability

In summary, wet food offers a wide variety of flavors, textures, and formulations, providing pet owners with options to cater to their dog’s taste preferences and dietary needs.

The flexibility and customization options of wet food can make it an appealing choice for dogs who may have specific dietary requirements or are picky eaters.

However, it’s important to consider your dog’s individual needs and consult with your veterinarian to determine the best type of dog food for your Boxer.

For a variety of flavors, textures and formulations we recommend Just Food for Dogs Fresh Dog Food options from Just Food for Dogs

Wet Dog Food Vs Kibble Comparison

Nutritional Value Comparison

When it comes to nutritional value, both wet dog food and kibble can provide a balanced and complete diet for your dog.

However, there are some differences in the nutritional content between the two types of dog food.

• Protein
  • Wet dog food is often higher in protein than kibble, as it tends to contain more meat-based ingredients.
  • This can be beneficial for dogs that require a higher protein intake, such as active or working dogs.
• Fat
  • Wet dog food also tends to be higher in fat than kibble, which can be beneficial for dogs that need more calories or have trouble maintaining their weight.
  • However, it’s important to keep in mind that too much fat can lead to obesity, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust its diet accordingly.

To learn more about the different types of dog food diets, read our article Boxer Dog Feeding Guide: Top 4 Diets compared for Nutrition

• Carbohydrates
• Kibble tends to be higher in carbohydrates than wet dog food, as it often contains more grains and fillers.
• This can be beneficial for dogs that need a lower protein or fat intake, such as senior dogs or dogs with kidney issues.
• Moisture:
  • Wet dog food contains higher levels of moisture than kibble, which can be beneficial for dogs that require more hydration.
  • This can be particularly important for dogs that don’t drink enough water on their own or live in hot, dry climates.

Table: Nutritional Comparison of Wet Dog Food vs. Kibble

Nutritional Comparison – Wet Food vs Kibble

Nutrient	Wet Dog Food	Kibble
Protein	High	Low
Fat	High	Low
Carbohydrates	Low	High
Moisture	High	Low

Other Factors to Consider

In addition to nutritional value, there are other factors to consider when choosing between wet dog food and kibble.

• Dental Health
  • Wet dog food can be beneficial for dogs with dental issues, as the high moisture content can help to soften the food and make it easier to chew.
  • However, some experts believe that kibble can be better for dental health, as the chewing action can help to clean teeth and remove plaque.
• Convenience
  • Kibble is generally more convenient than wet dog food, as it can be left out for the dog to eat throughout the day and doesn’t require refrigeration.
  • However, wet dog food can be a good option for dogs that require more hydration or have trouble chewing hard kibble.
• Cost
  • Wet dog food can be more expensive than kibble, particularly if you’re purchasing high-quality brands.

Here’s a table comparing wet dog food and kibble based on their nutritional values:

Nutritional values of Macronutrients Comparison, Wet Food vs Kibble

Nutrient	Type of Food	Proteins	% Protein	Fats	% Fats	Carbohydrates	% Carbohydrates	Vitamins and Minerals
Protein	Wet	Meat-based sources	High	Meat and Plant-based sources	Low	Meat and Plant-based sources	High	Comparable
Fat	Wet	Meat and Plant-based sources	High	Meat and Plant-based sources	Low	Meat and Plant-based sources	High	Comparable
Carbohydrates	Kibble	Grains and Fillers	High	Grains and Fillers	Low	Grains and Fillers	High	Comparable
Moisture	Wet	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A

Note: The % values are generalizations and can vary depending on the brand and specific product.

Additionally, the vitamin and mineral content can also vary depending on the brand and specific product.

It’s important to note that both wet dog food and kibble can provide a balanced and complete diet for your dog, but each type of food has its own advantages and disadvantages.

It’s important to consider your dog’s individual needs, preferences, and health issues when choosing a type of food.

For a Pate style wet dog food try Fromm Pate Grain Free Turkey and Pumpkin Canned Dog Food available from Cherrybrook

Summary

Wet dog food offers a range of benefits that make it a favorable option for pet owners looking to provide their Boxers with a nutritious and satisfying meal.

The higher moisture content in wet dog food helps to keep dogs hydrated, which is especially important for those who may not drink enough water throughout the day.

This can be especially beneficial for senior dogs, as well as those with medical conditions that require increased hydration.

Palatability is another advantage of wet dog food.

The soft texture and rich aroma of wet food can entice even picky eaters, making mealtime a more enjoyable experience for dogs.

This can be especially beneficial for dogs with dental issues or smaller breeds that may have difficulty chewing dry kibble.

In terms of digestibility, wet dog food tends to be easier on a dog’s digestive system due to its higher moisture content and softer texture.

This can be beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to digestive issues.

Nutritional value is also a significant benefit of wet dog food.

High-quality wet dog food is formulated to provide a well-balanced and complete diet that meets the nutritional needs of dogs.

It often contains a higher proportion of animal-based protein, which is essential for a dog’s overall health and well-being.

Lastly, variety is a notable advantage of wet dog food.

Wet dog food comes in a wide range of flavors, textures, and ingredients, providing dogs with a diverse and interesting diet.

This can help prevent dogs from getting bored with their food and encourage them to eat a more balanced diet by incorporating different protein sources and nutrients.

When compared to kibble, wet dog food has several advantages. Kibble, which is dry and lacks the moisture content of wet food, may not provide as much hydration, palatability, or digestibility.

While kibble can be convenient and economical, wet dog food offers distinct benefits in terms of moisture content, palatability, digestibility, nutritional value, and variety.

In conclusion, incorporating wet dog food into your pet’s diet can provide numerous benefits.

It is important to choose high-quality wet dog food that meets the nutritional requirements of your dog and consult with your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations.

By considering the unique needs of your dog, you can provide them with a well-rounded and nutritious diet that keeps them happy, healthy, and satisfied.

Discoverboxerdogs.com are Mary and Chris Kustanbauter.  We reside in Red Lion, PA with our two Boxers, Duke and Katie, who are both rescue dogs.  We have been working with Adopt A Boxer Rescue for the past 17 years and have adopted 5 Boxers from this fine organization. To learn more visit our Home, Boxer Dog Family, and Blogs Pages  Visit us on social media on Facebook – Discoverboxerdogs.com, Instagram, and Pinterest.