9 Best Wet Dog Foods in 2024, Recommended by Veterinarians
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All products in this article have been reviewed by our trusted vets and experts. PetMD is owned by Chewy.
Your veterinarian may recommend wet dog food for a variety of reasons: to help make eating easier for dogs with dental disease, to help encourage a dog’s appetite by mixing it in with dry food, to provide extra calories for senior dogs, and more.
The best wet dog food should be both nutritious and appealing to your pet. Aside from providing a complete and balanced diet, it should also meet the specific needs of your pet based on their age, breed, and any health concerns.
There are a ton of wet dog food choices out there, and a few considerations to keep in mind when selecting the best food for your pup.
Our team of veterinary experts sifted through the top wet dog food brand options and narrowed it down to a list of their top nine recommendations. Here’s what they had to say.
What To Look For When Buying Wet Dog Food
When shopping for the best wet food for dogs, our vets recommend products that meet the standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), a private, nonprofit organization that establishes standard ingredient definitions and nutritional requirements for pet food.
A complete and balanced diet will include the following:
- Protein: Protein is the foundation of vital bodily functions. It’s essential for muscle maintenance and growth, including the production of enzymes and hormones.
- Fats: Fats provide a concentrated energy source and are critical for absorption of vitamins. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are particularly important for maintaining a healthy skin and coat.
- Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates supply the energy needed for an active life and can support gastrointestinal health and brain function.
- Vitamins: Vitamins are vital for immune system support. There are different types of vitamins with each playing a specific role, such as maintaining bone health or fighting off infections.
- Minerals: Minerals are important for bone and nerve function and cellular processes as they help minerals regulate body fluid balance. Look for wet dog food containing the following minerals, as identified by AAFCO: calcium, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, chloride, magnesium, iron, copper, manganese, zinc, iodine, and selenium.
- Water: Water is an essential part of life. In wet dog food, it helps digestion, regulates temperature, and facilitates nutrient absorption. Before switching to any new food, consult with your veterinarian first, as they are in the best position to make a recommendation for your pet.
How We Selected the Best Wet Dog Foods
This list of the best wet dog foods was curated by a panel of veterinary experts employed by Chewy, the publisher of PetMD. They were asked to choose the best wet dog foods, in their opinion, across multiple categories (as listed above) based on the following:
- Their knowledge and practical experience
- Review of information published by the pet food manufacturers
- Dog food attributes such as high-quality ingredients, nutrient and vitamin content, and overall palatability
Opinions and product recommendations in this article belong solely to the review panel of veterinarians and animal health experts.
Manufacturers and vendors cannot buy placement in Vet Verified content or exert influence on our panelists as they evaluate products.
Our sole goal with this program is to provide pet parents with the information they need to make the best decision for their pets.
