Canned vs. Dry Dog Food: Which is the Superior Option?

Many pet owners ponder over the choice between canned dog food and kibble. Personally, my answer came during a vacation and an alarming call from the kennel attendant.

“Bailey hasn’t touched his food for two days,” she reported. “What do you suggest we do?”

During our holiday getaway, we had to entrust our furry companion to the care of a veterinarian, and now we were anxious.

Dog Foods: A Finicky Eater’s Savior

Bailey’s recent favorite – a chicken and rice kibble – had accompanied him to the kennel. However, his disinterest in it became evident.

Upon seeking advice from the aide, she promptly offered a solution, stating, “Why don’t you let me try something. It almost always works, especially with our finicky dogs who refuse to eat.”

After a few hours, I received a follow-up call and was pleased to hear that Bailey had devoured every bit of the food and even licked the bowl clean.

Curious to know the secret behind Bailey’s newfound appetite?

An Underrated Choice for Your Dog’s Diet

When it came to mealtime, Bailey had a clear preference: canned dog food over kibble. His enthusiasm for the wet food sparked my curiosity about its benefits and drawbacks.

While conventional wisdom often points to kibble as the superior option for dogs, Bailey’s unwavering love for canned dog food prompted me to investigate further to ensure it was a safe choice for his diet.

Advantages of Canned Dog Food over Kibble

When comparing canned dog food to kibble, the former is often considered superior. This is because canned options typically have higher meat protein content and lower carbohydrate levels.

Furthermore, canned dog foods do not contain synthetic preservatives due to their air-tight packaging, ensuring that fats and oils remain fresh and free from rancidity.

In addition, canned dog foods are free from artificial flavorings and colorings, making them a more natural and wholesome option for your pet.

Given that meat ingredients in canned dog foods are closer to their natural state, pets find them more palatable and appetizing compared to dry kibble.

Support for Canines with Dietary Concerns

Is your dog struggling with weight management issues?

The high moisture content in canned products allows the same level of essential nutrients (based on a dry matter basis) to take up more space, helping your overweight pup feel satiated quicker.

But what about aging dogs?

Elderly dogs often face ongoing dental issues, making chewing dry kibble challenging and uncomfortable. Canned food may offer a gentle alternative for senior dogs.

The Reality Behind Dog Food and Dental Health

Some may argue that kibble is superior to canned food in promoting dental health for dogs, but such claims are hard to support based on my expertise.

To uncover the truth for yourself, explore the article titled “Dry Dog Food and the Myth of Cleaner Teeth” and discover the unexpected reality.

Advantages of Dry Dog Food

When it comes to convenience, nothing surpasses kibble. Additionally, if you are on a budget, opting for a high-quality dry dog food is usually a more economical choice.

However, there is an important caution to consider…

Do not leave any canned food in your dog’s bowl for an extended period, as unlike dry food, wet food can quickly become contaminated with bacteria when exposed to the environment.

It is essential to refrigerate any opened cans and dispose of any unused dog food within two to three days.

Benefits of Incorporating Both Canned Food and Kibble

It is important to note that I am not advocating for canned food over kibble or vice versa.

There are occasions where opting for either canned food or kibble may be more suitable for your dog. Nevertheless, there are also instances where combining both through a method called topping can provide a delicious alternative.