Wet dog food is tasty, soft, and hydrating, making it great for picky eaters and dogs needing extra moisture. Dry dog food is crunchy, easy to store, and ideal for dental support and active dogs. The best choice depends on your dog’s age, body requirements, and eating habits.
Being a dog parent, this question must have definitely crossed your mind: “Should I feed my dog wet food or dry food?” It’s like the same trouble of choosing between pizza vs pasta. You know both are delicious, but which one is the true winner?
In this blog, we’ll tackle the epic battle of wet vs dry dog food in a super fun and easy-to-read way. We’ll break down their benefits and give an overview of some wet and dry food options that you can get for your pet. By the end, you’ll be ready to pick the best dog food for your pup!
What is Dry Dog Food?
Dry dog food is also very well known as dry kibble. It is made from meat or meat products mixed with various ingredients, grains, vegetables, minerals, and vitamins into a dough-like consistency. This dry dog food mixture is extruded, cooked, and dried to make bite-sized kibble pieces. Here are some of the benefits of dry dog food.
1. Crunchy Dental Helper
- The crunchy texture of dry dog food helps keep gums in top-notch condition. It’s not a complete substitute for brushing, no doubt. However, it’s definitely a bonus for treating gum issues.
2. Long-Lasting and Convenient
- Dry dog food stays fresh for weeks or even months. So, you can leave the worry about refrigeration or messy clean-ups!
3. Budget-Friendly
- Dry dog food usually does not dig a hole in the pocket. It’s more affordable, especially for larger breeds that eat a good quantity.
4. High-Calorie Density
- Dry dog food packs more calories per cup compared to wet food. This is the best type of dog food for pets needing power and strength all the time.
5. Easier Storage and Portion Control
- Dry kibble comes in handy in resealable bags. So, it is super easy to scoop, measure, and store.
Top Dry Dog Food Picks from Kwik Pets
1. Pedigree Complete Nutrition Tender Bites Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken & Steak 3.5-lb
Best for small dogs who prefer easy-to-chew food!
- This Pedigree dry dog food combines easy chew bites with crunchy kibble, making it easy for small adult dogs to chew and enjoy. The smaller kibble size is ideal for little mouths. It provides 100% complete and balanced nutrition for everyday feeding. Enriched with omega-6 fatty acids and zinc, it helps support healthy skin and a shiny coat. Made in the USA with quality ingredients, it contains no fillers, artificial flavors, or high-fructose corn syrup.
Pedigree Complete Nutrition Tender Bites Small Breed Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken & Steak 3.5-lb
Why do dogs love it?
- Easy-to-chew tender bites • Small-breed friendly kibble • Supports skin & coat health • No artificial flavors
2. Natural Balance Pet Foods Original Ultra Broth Coated Dry Dog Food Chicken & Barley 4-lb
Best for taste and digestive support!
This Natural Balance recipe features kibble coated in dry vegetable broth, giving it an aroma and flavor dogs love. Real chicken is the first ingredient, providing high-quality protein. Multiple fiber sources like pearled barley, peas, and brown rice help support healthy digestion. A nutrient-rich superfood blend supports overall well-being, while balanced omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids promote skin and coat health.
Natural Balance Pet Foods Original Ultra Broth Coated Dry Dog Food Chicken & Barley 4-lb
Why do dogs love it?
- Broth-coated for better taste • Real chicken first • Digestive fiber blend • Superfood-rich recipe
3. Evanger's Grain-Free Chicken with Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food 4.4-lb
Best grain-free option for all life stages!
This nutrient-dense dry dog food uses fresh meat as the first ingredient, delivering quality protein in every meal. It contains no corn, wheat, or soy, making it ideal for dogs with sensitivities. Evangers is considered one of the best dry dog food brands formulated to meet AAFCO nutrition levels for all life stages. Pumpkin and sweet potato provide natural digestive support.
Evanger's Grain-Free Chicken with Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Recipe Dry Dog Food 4.4-lb
Why do dogs love it?
- Grain-free nutrition • Suitable for all life stages • Digestive support with pumpkin • Trusted, journal-approved recipe
4. IAMS Healthy Weight Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken 29.1-lb
Best for healthy weight management
Made with real farm-raised chicken, this IAMS formula offers balanced nutrition with great taste. It’s complete and balanced for adult dogs, so no extra supplements are needed. L-carnitine helps support fat burning and maintain a healthy metabolism. This is a tailored dry dog food for dogs containing prebiotics and beet pulp. The recipe also includes 7 essential nutrients to help nourish heart health.
IAMS Healthy Weight Adult Dry Dog Food Chicken 29.1-lb
Why do dogs love it?
- Supports healthy weight • L-carnitine for fat control • Helps digestion • Heart-health nutrients
5. AvoDerm Natural Original Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food 4.4-lb
Best for skin, coat, and food sensitivities!
This is considered one of the best dry dog food formulas that delivers balanced daily nutrition using high-quality ingredients. It includes omega-rich avocados, known for supporting healthy skin and a glossy coat. Made with no corn, no wheat, and no artificial flavors, it’s suitable for dogs with common food sensitivities. Premium chicken meal in this Avoderm recipe provides reliable protein for muscle maintenance.
AvoDerm Natural Original Chicken Meal & Brown Rice Dry Dog Food 4.4-lb
Why do dogs love it?
- Avocado-powered skin support • No corn or wheat • Immune-supporting nutrients • Natural, wholesome recipe
What is Wet Dog Food?
In the age-old debate of wet vs dry dog food, wet dog food is quite famous. It is commercial dog food that comes in canned, semi-moist, and pouch formats. It contains a higher moisture content compared to dry dog food. Wet dog food is made by blending various ingredients such as meat, grains, vegetables, and vitamins. Here are the top reasons to consider adding the best wet food for dogs to your furry friend’s mealtime:
1. Super Yummy for Picky Pups
- Some dogs start showing tantrums when given dry kibble. But when they see (or smell!) wet food, they just love it. The aromatic smell and softness make them irresistible.
2. Hydration Boost
- Wet food contains around 70-85% moisture. So, what better way to keep your dog hydrated? This is especially handy if your pup drinks very few portions of water the whole day.
3. Easier to Chew
- The best part of wet food is easier to chomp and gulp. It’s soft, gentle on the gums. This is why they don’t require much crunching.
4. Leading in the Market
- The global wet pet food market is projected to grow to USD 31.7 billion by 2028, according to a report by Markets and Markets.
5. Lower in Calories Per Gram
- Wet food tends to have fewer calories per gram than dry kibble. This can be helpful if you’re trying to follow a strict diet for your pal.
6. Variety is the Spice of Life!
- Wet food often comes in a scrumptious variety. It is available in chunks in gravy, pate, and stews. All in all, you can provide a gourmet platter to your dog!
Top Wet Dog Food Picks from Kwik Pets
1. Pedigree Chopped Ground Dinner Adult Wet Dog Food Beef 22-oz
Best everyday wet food for adult dogs!
This Pedigree wet dog food is made with real beef to deliver a rich taste dogs enjoy. It contains no added sugar, no high-fructose corn syrup, and no artificial flavors, making it a wholesome daily option. The soft, chopped texture is easy to eat for dogs of all sizes. It provides balanced nutrition for adult dogs, whether served alone or mixed with dry food. Made in the USA in facilities committed to zero waste to landfill.
Pedigree Chopped Ground Dinner Adult Wet Dog Food Beef 22-oz
Why do dogs love it?
- Real beef flavor • Soft, easy-to-eat texture • No added sugar • Great as a topper or full meal
2. Against the Grain Nothing Else 100% One Ingredient Adult Wet Dog Food Salmon 11-oz
Best limited-ingredient wet food!
This unique wet dog food is made with just one ingredient - 100% salmon, and nothing else. It features a loaf-in-gravy texture without added water, gums, or fillers. The formula is grain-free, gluten-free, and contains no corn, wheat, or soy. Packed in BPA-free cans and made in the USA, it follows a 100% paleo-style recipe. This recipe from ‘Against the Grain’ is one of the best types of dog food for sensitivities or ingredient intolerances.
Against the Grain Nothing Else 100% One Ingredient Adult Wet Dog Food Salmon 11-oz
Why do dogs love it?
Single-ingredient recipe • No grains or gums • High-protein salmon • Clean, simple nutrition
3. Natural Balance Pet Foods Original Ultra Platefulls Wet Dog Food Harvest Chicken & Rice Recipe 9-oz
Best for gentle digestion and balanced nutrition!
This Natural Balance recipe uses chicken as the number one ingredient and the only animal protein source. Hearty bone broth adds flavor while supporting hydration. Ingredients like carrots, rice, peas, and kale provide natural fiber for easy digestion. Thoughtfully crafted with wholesome ingredients to support overall health and well-being. Added essential vitamins and minerals to help maintain healthy muscles, skin, and coat.
Natural Balance Pet Foods Original Ultra Platefulls Wet Dog Food Harvest Chicken & Rice Recipe 9-oz
Why do dogs love it?
- Single animal protein • Bone broth for flavor • Digestive-friendly ingredients • Balanced daily nutrition
4. Cesar Classic Loaf in Sauce Adult Wet Dog Food Turkey 3.5-oz
Best for picky eaters!
This Cesar gourmet dog wet dog food is crafted without grains, using US turkey as the #1 ingredient. The soft loaf-in-sauce texture is designed to tempt even the fussiest eaters. It provides complete and balanced nutrition for adult dogs, meeting AAFCO nutrient profiles. Convenient trays with peel-away freshness seals make serving quick and mess-free.
Cesar Classic Loaf in Sauce Adult Wet Dog Food Turkey 3.5-oz
Why do dogs love it?
- Irresistible taste • Grain-free recipe • Convenient single-serve trays • Great for picky dogs
5. Dave's Pet Food Restricted Bland Diet Wet Dog Food Lamb & Rice 13.2-oz
Best for sensitive stomachs and bland diets!
This Dave’s wet food for dogs is specially formulated for pets that need a bland, easy-to-digest diet. Made with a simple blend of lamb and rice, it helps calm upset or sensitive stomachs. The recipe is gluten-free and wheat-free, making it gentle on digestion. Its soft texture is easy to eat during tummy transitions. Ideal for dogs that do better on limited, soothing ingredients.
Dave's Pet Food Restricted Bland Diet Wet Dog Food Lamb & Rice 13.2-oz
Why do dogs love it?
- Great for sensitive stomachs • Simple lamb & rice recipe • Bland and digestible • Gluten- and wheat-free
Final Thoughts: The Tail-Wagging Verdict
So, what should you choose from a pet store: dog wet food or dry food?
Here’s the truth: no one product is good for all dogs. When it comes to wet vs dry dog food, the right choice depends on your dog’s needs, habits, and health.
Wet food is juicy, tasty, and hydrating. It is perfect for fussy eaters and dogs needing extra water in their diet. Dry food is crunchy and convenient. It is ideal for dental support and active pups who need calorie-dense meals.
The best part? You don’t have to choose just one! Many dog parents find that combining wet and dry food can double the benefits. As you decide what’s best for your dog, don’t forget to keep an eye on the ratings. Look for the top dry and best wet food for dogs that has positive reviews and meets high-quality standards.
And if you’re still not sure? Have a quick chat with your vet. They’re your best partner when in doubt.
