What Wet Food Is Good for Dogs? A Simple Guide to Choosing the Best Options

If you’ve ever stared at the dog food aisle wondering which wet food is actually good for your dog, you’re not alone. With dozens of brands, textures, and ingredient lists, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But the truth is, not all wet dog food is created equal-and the right choice can make a big difference in your dog’s energy, digestion, and even coat shine.

Why Wet Food Matters for Dogs

Wet food also tends to be more palatable. If your dog turns up their nose at kibble, a rich-smelling can of wet food might be the key to getting them to eat. And for picky eaters or dogs recovering from illness, that extra flavor and texture can be a lifesaver.

What Makes Wet Food ‘Good’?

• Real meat as the first ingredient-Look for chicken, beef, lamb, or fish listed first. Avoid vague terms like ‘meat by-products’ or ‘animal digest’.
• No artificial additives-Skip colors, flavors, or preservatives like BHA, BHT, or ethoxyquin. These serve no nutritional purpose and can cause long-term issues.
• AAFCO statement-The label must say the food is ‘complete and balanced’ for your dog’s life stage (adult, puppy, senior). This isn’t marketing-it’s a legal standard.
• Low carbohydrate content-Many wet foods use grains or starchy fillers like corn or potato. Dogs don’t need high carbs. Look for options with fewer than 10% carbohydrates on a dry matter basis.
• High protein-Aim for at least 8-12% crude protein in the wet food (on an as-fed basis). That’s typically 30-40% on a dry matter basis.

For example, a good wet food might list ‘chicken’ as the first ingredient, followed by chicken broth, liver, and carrots. No peas, no rice, no soy. That’s a clean, simple formula your dog’s body was built to process.

Best Wet Food Brands for Dogs in 2025

• Royal Canin Veterinary Diet-Formulated for specific health needs like kidney support, sensitive stomachs, or weight management. Often recommended by vets.
• Now Fresh Grain-Free-Uses real meat, no grains, no artificial preservatives. Popular with owners who want a clean, simple option.
• Weruva-Made in the USA with human-grade ingredients. Their ‘B.A.R.F.’ line is especially popular for raw-style nutrition.
• Stella & Chewy’s-Freeze-dried raw patties you rehydrate. Great for dogs who need high protein and low carbs.
• Applaws-A UK-based brand with high meat content and minimal ingredients. Often found in pet stores like Pets at Home.

These brands don’t rely on fillers. They don’t hide behind ‘meat meals’ or ‘poultry by-product’. They use whole ingredients-and that matters.

Wet Food for Puppies and Senior Dogs

Senior dogs often need lower phosphorus and sodium, plus joint support. Hill’s Science Diet Senior and Wellness Core Senior include glucosamine and chondroitin, and are easier to digest. Their softer texture also helps dogs with worn-down teeth.

Don’t assume adult formulas work for seniors. Their metabolism slows, and their kidneys can’t handle the same load. Always match the food to the life stage.

How Much Wet Food Should You Feed?

Check the calorie count per can. Most wet foods range from 250 to 400 kcal per 13-oz can. If your dog is a 50-lb active adult, they need about 900-1,100 kcal per day. That means two to three cans, depending on the brand.

Here’s a simple rule: if your dog is losing weight, increase the amount. If they’re gaining weight, cut back. Always adjust based on their body condition-not the label.

Also, don’t forget to reduce dry food if you’re mixing wet and dry. A half-cup of kibble plus one can of wet food might be too much for a small dog. Balance the total calories.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using wet food only as a topper-If you’re just spooning a tablespoon on top of kibble, you’re not getting the benefits. Wet food should make up at least 50% of their daily intake for maximum hydration and digestibility.
• Choosing based on price alone-The cheapest cans often have the lowest meat content and highest fillers. You get what you pay for.
• Switching brands too often-Dogs’ stomachs are sensitive. If you’re switching every week, you’ll cause diarrhea or vomiting. Change gradually over 5-7 days.
• Ignoring the expiration date-Wet food can spoil. Always check the ‘best before’ date and store opened cans in the fridge for no more than 3 days.

When to Avoid Wet Food

• Your dog has severe dental disease and can’t chew even soft food-then consider a soft kibble or prescription diet.
• You’re on a tight budget and can’t afford higher-quality brands-some dry foods are still nutritionally complete and more cost-effective.
• Your dog is prone to obesity-wet food is often higher in calories per gram. You’ll need to measure carefully.

Also, don’t use wet food as a long-term solution if your dog refuses to eat anything else. That could signal an underlying health issue. If your dog suddenly loses interest in food, see your vet.

How to Store and Serve Wet Food

Warm it slightly before serving. Cold food from the fridge can turn off even the hungriest dog. Run the can under warm water for 30 seconds or microwave it for 10 seconds (stir well first).

Always wash the bowl after each meal. Leftover food sticks and breeds bacteria. A clean bowl is a healthy bowl.

Final Thoughts: What’s the Best Wet Food?

• Has real meat as the first ingredient
• Has no artificial junk
• Matches your dog’s age and health needs
• Your dog loves and eats consistently
• Doesn’t cause loose stools or gas

Start with one of the trusted brands listed above. Try a single can. See how your dog reacts over the next week. If their coat looks shinier, their energy improves, and their poop is firm-you’ve found a winner.

Don’t overthink it. Just focus on quality ingredients, proper nutrition, and your dog’s response. That’s all you really need.