- Wet dog food is a tick mark for puppies as the moisture content in this food option is higher.
- Brands like Canidae, EarthBorn Holistics, and IAMS lead in puppy-specific wet food choices.
- Feeding tips that every puppy parent must know.
Do you love seeing your puppy bark with excitement the moment you fill their food bowl? We know you do! But mealtime isn’t just about fun-filled moments. It’s also about nourishment along with the fun. One of the most important decisions you’ll make as a dog owner? Their food.
Knowing what to feed them and finding the right wet dog food brands becomes a delicious mission.
If your pup turns up their nose at kibble or struggles with chewing, wet dog food might just be the answer. Join us as we dive into the best wet dog food brands for puppies that tick marks all the boxes of your good dog food checklist!
Why Wet Dog Food is Great for Puppies
Why do many pet parents choose wet dog food over dry kibble for their puppies? Let’s take a look at the reasons:
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Easier to chew and digest – If you have teething puppies, then this option is surely the one you were always looking for.
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Higher moisture content – Helps maintain your pup’s water balance in the body.
- More palatable – Works amazingly if your dog shows tantrums with food.
- Gentle on sensitive teeth and gums – A bonus for small or senior puppies.
Nutritional Needs of Growing Puppies
Growing puppies need more than just scrumptious bowls of food. They need proper nutrition as this is the most crucial stage of their life.
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Calories: Puppies burn more energy than adults. So, a high amount of calories is a must.
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Protein: This is crucial for muscle development.
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Fat: Gives a boost and supports glowing skin and coat.
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DHA: Supports brain and vision development.
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Calcium & Phosphorus: For strong bones and teeth.
Tip: Always choose food labeled as “Complete and Balanced Nutrition for Puppies”. Also, the product must essentially be AAFCO-approved.
Never think of feeding adult dog food to a growing pup. It lacks essential puppy nutrients.
Best Wet Dog Food Brands for Puppies in 2025
Let’s look at the best dog food brands that are safe, nutritious, and offers top-notch benefits:
1. Earthborn Holistic Lilly's Gourmet Buffet in Sauce – Grain‑Free Wet Dog Food
A holistic brand focused on natural ingredients. Give your hungry pooch all the benefits of a safe diet with this food option.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Lamb broth, lamb, dried egg product, pea protein, tapioca, chickpeas, pumpkin, apples, spinach |
| Target Breed | Dogs with grain/gluten sensitivities, picky eaters, and those needing high-moisture diets |
| Pros | Grain-free, no artificial colors, supports immunity |
| Cons | Slightly pricier |
2. Canidae All Life Stages Wet Food
Loved by a lot of pet parents for all breeds and life stages. Also, it is ideal for multi-dog homes.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Key Ingredients | Chicken, lamb, brown rice, peas |
| Target Breed | Small to large breeds |
| Pros | Limited ingredients, vet-formulated |
| Cons | May not suit dogs with grain sensitivities |
3. Earthborn Holistic Duke’s Din‑Din Stew – Duck/Turkey (8 oz)
One of the best brands that is sure to please any hungry dog.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | Earthborn Holistic |
| Protein Source | Duck and turkey |
| Diet Type | Grain-free, stew-style |
| Form | Chunky stew in gravy |
| Life Stage | All life stages |
| Best For | Sensitive pups, novel protein seekers, added moisture |
4. IAMS Proactive Health Puppy – Chicken & Rice Classic Ground
Give your furball a balanced diet with this food option. They will definitely lick the bowl clean while thriving happily and healthily.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | IAMS |
| Protein Source | Chicken with rice |
| Diet Type | Balanced, classic wet food |
| Form | Canned |
| Life Stage | Puppy |
| Best For | High-protein but affordable meals, general use |
How to Choose the Best Wet Dog Food Brand for Puppies
Here’s what you should keep an eye on when choosing wet dog food for your growing pup:
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Breed size – Large breed puppies need foods with controlled calcium levels.
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Ingredients – Skip by-products, fillers, and fake preservatives.
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Label check – The label at the back of the product must say “for puppies” or “all life stages.”
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Vet recommendations – Your vet knows what’s best for your puppy’s health. So, it's better if you fix an appointment with him.
Grain-Free vs. Grain-Inclusive Wet Food
Confused about grains? The below pointers might help:
| Type | When to Choose |
|---|---|
| Grain-Free | If your puppy has grain allergies or sensitivities |
| Grain-Inclusive | Ideal for most puppies – whole grains offer nutrients |
Myth Buster: Grains are not inherently bad. Just keep in mind that you need to skip refined grains, not whole ones.
Feeding Schedule for Puppies Using Wet Food
Consistency is important, no matter what! Here's how often to feed your growing pup:
| Puppy Age | Meals per Day | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 6–12 weeks | 4 meals | Frequent meals support growth |
| 3–6 months | 3 meals | Start adjusting portion sizes |
| 6–12 months | 2 meals | Move to twice-daily feedings |
Intentions do not work when it comes to feeding your puppy. Always use the feeding information mentioned on the back of the product.
Bonus Tips for Pet Parents: Wet Food, Happy Pup!
If you think that a puppy’s nutrition is only your key responsibility, then you are highly mistaken. It is only a part of the picture. However, we have compiled 10 extra tips every pet parent should follow:
1. Use Puzzle Feeders with Wet Food
Now, mealtime can be converted into brain time with a few toys! For this, you must spread wet food into puzzle toys or slow feeders. This will mentally stimulate your pup and prevent gulping.
2. Balance Wet Food with Dental Chews
We all know that wet food doesn’t clean teeth like kibble. So, you can go for vet-approved dental chews to keep their teeth shining.
3. Clean Food Bowls After Every Meal
Wet food can get sticky and attract bacteria. Wash your puppy's food and other utensils without fail. Don’t try to skip this step as it can affect your furball’s gut health.
4. Refrigerate Leftovers Immediately
Keep the unused portions of wet food properly. Don’t leave it sitting out. Yes, bacteria grow fast!
5. Stick to a Feeding Schedule
Puppies love to follow a routine. Give your pup food at the same time every day. You will see the magic yourself
6. Use a Digital Scale for Accuracy
Portion control is a mandatory thing! Use a kitchen scale for better results
7. Monitor Weight & Growth Regularly
Weigh your puppy weekly and track growth. Wet food can be rich. So, adjust portions if your pup is becoming bulky.
8. Avoid Mixing With Adult Dog Food
If you have older dogs, keep food separate. Adult formulas are very different and do not benefit puppies much.
9. Try Mixed Feeding for Variety
Many pet parents feed both wet and dry food. It offers texture variety and a list of other benefits. Just take some quick advice from your vet for the right ratio.
10. Pair Mealtime with Playtime
Give your pup the best teething toys for puppies after they have completed their meal. It helps gut health a lot.
Final Thoughts on Wet Dog Food Brands for Puppies
Getting a puppy is not a big deal, but taking care of it like a family member is. Once you understand how to do it, you’ll find joy in every moment of the process. One of the most important tasks? Grabbing the right wet dog food brand. Puppies' nutritional needs are not the same as adult dogs. The food you choose now lays the foundation for their future.
Be mindful. Be informed. And remember – a happy belly is what makes your puppy the happiest!
