Compared to kibble… the best wet dog foods contain more protein, fewer carbs and no cancer-causing preservatives. Plus they’re easier to chew.
Which makes canned foods a smart choice for puppies, smaller dogs and seniors.
On this page… we’ll share The Dog Food Advisor’s best wet dog foods… and we’ll answer your most frequently asked questions about feeding a wet diet.
Our editors selected these items because we believe you and your dog will benefit from them. If you make a purchase through our links, we may earn a referral fee… which helps cover the cost of operation of our blog. Thanks for your support.
The Best Wet Dog Foods
May 2021
Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s top 10 best canned dog foods for May 2021:
Canidae All Life Stages Canned Dog Food
All Life Stages Chicken and Rice is one of 4 canned recipes included in our review of the Canidae product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, dried egg product, brown rice
- Texture: Finely-chopped pate
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, barley)
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
- See all 4 available recipes
This recipe derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 41% protein, 30% fat and 22% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 72%.
A superior, all life stages, wet formula. Free of corn, wheat or soy. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “All 4 of my dogs love it. I love the ingredients. It’s nice and soft, easy to mix into dry food. And my old man teddy who doesn’t have bottom teeth likes how soft it is too.”
Merrick Classic Canned Dog Food
Merrick Cowboy Cookout is one of 11 canned recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned beef, beef broth, chicken broth, beef liver, peas
- Texture: Chunks in gravy
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
- See all 11 available recipes
Cowboy Cookout takes the lion’s share of its animal protein from fresh beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 47% protein, 16% fat and 29% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 33%.
A healthy, grain-free food for adults or puppies. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “My retriever loves it. She is a difficult dog to feed as she either doesn’t like it or it upsets her stomach. This is a winner, she loves it, and it settles well with her digestive track.”
Ollie Fresh Dog Food
Ollie Turkey is one of 4 human-grade recipes covered in our review of the Ollie fresh dog food product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Turkey thigh, pumpkin, turkey liver, turkey heart, carrot
- Texture: Coarsely ground
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
- See all 4 available recipes
Ollie Turkey derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh turkey and organ meat. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 28% fat and 20% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
The company designs each custom feeding plan based on your dog’s weight, age, breed type, activity level and allergies… and then recommends a precise portion size, according to the number of calories needed to keep your dog at ideal weight.
The food is delivered to you on a flexible schedule. Once in your home, store the food in your freezer… and thaw them (as needed) in your refrigerator.
An exceptional, grain-free option… ideal for those who want to feed a scientifically balanced diet that’s as close to homemade as you can get… but without all the hard work. Not cheap. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “Jolene has been with Ollie from the beginning. She never has digestive issues or allergies. Her coat is shiny, she has energy, and I’m thankful I can get fresh food for her delivered at my door.”
Halo Wet Dog Food
Halo Lamb is one of 6 canned recipes included in our review of the Halo canned product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Lamb, chicken broth, beef liver, carrots, barley
- Texture: Multiple options (pate or stew)
- Type: Grain-inclusive (barley, rolled oats)
- Life stage: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not for puppies)
- See all 6 available recipes
Halo Lamb Recipe derives the majority of its animal protein from lamb and beef liver. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 50% protein, 28% fat and 14% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%.
An exceptional, grain-inclusive option for adult dogs.
Sample buyer review… “Although the label says “Lamb Stew,” this is a dense paté which I prefer, because stews have more water in them. This goes a longer way and both of my dogs love it. My 21 mo. old English Bulldog had anal-gland issues and if you’ve ever had a dog with this, you know what a hassle it is! The only thing that worked was giving her a glob of pumpkin 2 x/day (sweet potatoes didn’t do the trick). After switching her to Halo, I noticed improvement and started weaning her off the pumpkin. I’m amazed. It’s been several weeks now and she’s doing great – not one mishap! Thanks, Halo! ”
Weruva Wet Dog Food
Bed and Breakfast is one of 14 canned recipes included in our review of the Weruva product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, water, egg, pumpkin, sweet potato
- Texture: Chunks in gravy
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
- See all 14 available recipes
This Weruva recipe gets the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 57% protein, 10% fat and 25% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 18%.
An exceptional, grain-free formula. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “My finicky eater loves this food. In addition to being picky, she also has a very sensitive tummy and allergies to A LOT of ingredients found in most pet foods. This food is perfect for her – it doesn’t cause any issues at all and she gobbles it up! I highly recommend it.”
Wellness Stews Canned Dog Food
Wellness Turkey Stew is one of 6 canned recipes included in our review of the Wellness Stews product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Turkey, turkey broth, water sufficient for processing, turkey liver, barley
- Texture: Chunks in gravy
- Type: Grain-inclusive (barley)
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + small or medium breed puppies
- See all 6 available recipes
Wellness Turkey Stew derives most of its animal protein from fresh turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 17% fat and 31% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
A super-healthy, wet formula with an exceptional fat-to-protein balance. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “Not only is my Boy crazy about this Food, its low in Calories which is Perfect. It has the right balance of Protein, fat & moisture – or so I think! The Turkey has not bothered his stomach so its been a win win & a keeper for us.”
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food
This Turkey Recipe is one of 3 human-grade wet formulas included in our review of The Farmer’s Dog product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Turkey, parsnips, chickpeas, carrot, broccoli
- Texture: Coarsely ground
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
- Recipes: Pork, Beef, Turkey (ratings vary)
The Farmer’s Dog Turkey Recipe derives most of its animal protein from fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 32% protein, 18% fat and 42% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%. Other flavor options.
The entire product line is designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist… and each recipe is made with human-grade ingredients.
All Farmer’s Dog formulas are 100% complete and balanced and meet AAFCO nutrient standards for all life stages… which makes each recipe suitable for puppies, adults or seniors.
A healthy feeding option for those able to afford the premium price. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “BEST dog food our dog has ever had! Our Coton De Tulear is the pickiest dog ever. We have searched forever to get a food that he will consistently eat and this is the ONLY food he will consistently eat. I love the fact that not only is it human grade food but it is formulated especially for him. His coat is thicker and softer than ever. If you love your dog feed him food from The Farmers Dog. Your dog will love it and you will love knowing it is healthy and safe.”
Instinct Original Wet Dog Food
Original with Real Beef is one of 8 canned recipes included in our review of the Instinct Original product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef liver, beef broth, tricalcium phosphate, ground flaxseed
- Texture: Fine-chopped pate
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + small or medium breed puppies
- See all 8 available recipes
This Instinct recipe derives the largest share of its meat protein from fresh beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 52% protein, 34% fat and 6% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.
A nutritionally balanced wet dog food. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “I started putting this on my miniature pincher’s dry food and he loves it. He is diabetic and it does not effect his blood sugar. This is a real blessing.”
Whole Earth Farms Canned Dog Food
This Chicken and Turkey formula is one of 15 canned recipes included in our review of the Whole Earth Farms canned product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, turkey, chicken liver, peas
- Texture: Multiple options (pate or stew)
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
- See all 15 available recipes
This Whole Earth Farms formula takes the dominant share of its meat protein from fresh chicken and turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 27% fat and 22% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A superior all life stages canned formula ideal for both adults and puppies.
Sample buyer review… “I started feeding my dogs Whole Earth Farms Grain-Free Canned Dog Food years ago and they have always loved it. What I love is that it is good for them with very healthy ingredients (and no Carrageenan, which is added to a lot of canned dog food and is suspected to cause cancer and other problems). I put it on top of their healthy dry food at breakfast and dinner. I think Benjamin would give me a really dirty look if I served him a meal without it!”
Nature’s Recipe Dog Food Trays
Nature’s Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon is one of 3 canned recipes included in our review of the Nature’s Recipe product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, pumpkin, salmon, brown rice
- Texture: Chunks in gravy
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice)
- Life stage: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not for puppies)
- See all 3 available recipes
Nature’s Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 65% protein, 12% fat and 16% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 18%.
An exceptional wet option. Highly recommended.
Sample buyer review… “She loves seafood and the chicken mix, never any leftover. Other foods would always be a hit or miss on if she would eat it but with the Nature’s Recipe any flavor is Always a Hit and she cleans her plate!”
More Top Wet Recommendations
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Wet Dog Food
Chicken Dinner is one of 14 canned recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, carrots, peas
- Texture: Fine-chopped pate
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not for puppies)
- See all 14 available recipes
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Chicken Dinner derives most of its animal protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 39% protein, 27% fat and 26% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.
A nutritionally complete canned formula ideal for all adult dogs.
Sample buyer review… “Was giving my dog a different brand in small single servings because I only give her a small amount of wet food at dinner. But I decided to try this because she is getting older and I want to give her better food. She loves it and I have noticed that her stools are better formed. Win for me and her!”
Eukanuba Canned Dog Food
Eukanuba Beef and Vegetable Stew is one of 7 canned recipes included in our review of the Eukanuba product line.
- First 5 ingredients: Water, chicken, beef, beef liver, pork plasma
- Texture: Chunks in gravy
- Type: Grain-inclusive (wheat)
- Life stage: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not for puppies)
- See all 7 available recipes
Eukanuba Adult Beef and Vegetable Stew derives most of its animal protein from chicken and beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 22% fat and 25% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A superior formula for adults.
Sample buyer review… “I’ve used Eukanuba since 1994 for every dog and cat I’ve had. Our current rescued Pitbull wasn’t drinking enough water, so I started mixing this wet food with the dry. He completely went crazy for it, even licking the bowl clean. It smells pleasing to me and visibly shows meat and veggies. And this brand has always produced good, solid bowels. So I know he’s healthy, and is getting a shiny coat.”
How to Switch to a New Food without Making Your Dog Sick
Here’s a simple feeding tip from Dr. Gary Richter to help lower your dog’s risk of digestive upset… when you switch to a new food.
More Top Picks
Frequently Asked Questions
About Wet Dog Food
How much wet food should I feed my dog?
Determining how much wet food to feed your dog is a process… NOT a one-and-done decision.
Since the size and activity level of every dog is unique…
And because every wet food contains a different number of calories per can…
It’s best to start with the recommended feeding amount printed on the label. Then, adjust that amount up or down… to keep your dog at her ideal weight.
Here’s an example:
Wet food or dry… which is better for your dog?
In many ways, canned food can be superior to kibble. In fact, wet foods typically contain more meat protein than dry recipes.
What’s more, wet foods add natural moisture to a dog’s diet. And because they’re pasteurized and sold in a sealed can, they contain no preservatives.
They’re easier to chew… a welcome advantage for older pets.
And wet dog foods taste better, too.
Unfortunately, there’s a downside. Wet dog foods can be more expensive than dry kibbles… which can make them less affordable when feeding larger dogs.
Here’s a feature-by-feature comparison between wet and dry foods.
Is it OK to mix wet and dry dog foods?
In a word… yes.
One way to enhance your dog’s appetite is to add a tasty wet food topper to her dry food.
Mixing a few tablespoons of one of the flavorful wet foods on this page with your dog’s kibble can make a big difference.
Just be sure both foods meet your dog’s nutritional needs… and are suitable for the same stage of life.
In other words… you don’t want to mix a puppy food with an adult formula… as this can upset the delicate nutrient balance of the complete meal.
How long does wet dog food last if it’s not opened?
Depending on the brand, wet dog food can have a shelf life of up to 3 years. However, it’s good practice to note the manufacturer’s “Best By” date.
The “Best By” or “Best Before” date printed on the bottom of the can indicate the point in time when the product no longer contains the specified nutrients.
How long can wet food remain in the bowl?
Once open, a wet food can quickly become contaminated with disease-causing bacteria.
So, empty your dog’s bowl of all wet food not eaten within 4 hours… especially at room temperatures over 50°F.
How long does canned food last once it’s open?
Open cans of dog food should be covered and stored in the refrigerator… for a maximum of 5 days.
Any wet dog food remaining after that should be discarded.
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Important FDA Alert
The FDA is investigating a potential link between diet and heart disease in dogs. Click here for details.