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The Best Wet Dog Foods

Welsh Corgi for the Best Wet Dog Foods page

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. They are listed in random order.


Editor Choice Logo for Best Wet Dog Food

The Best Wet Dog Foods
March 2024

Here are The Dog Food Advisor’s top 10 best canned dog foods for March 2024:


Nom Nom Pork Fresh Dog Food

Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food

Rating:

Pork Potluck is one of 4 fresh human-grade recipes studied in our review of the Nom Nom cooked-then-frozen product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale
  • Type: Grain-free
  • Texture: Coarsely ground
  • Life Stage: All life stages
  • Best For: Adults + puppies (including large breeds)
  • See all 4 available recipes

Nom Nom Pork Potluck derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh ground pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 28% protein, 20% fat and 44% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.

If you’ve ever wished you could feed your dog a fresh, home-cooked meal… but you didn’t know how to make sure it was nutritionally complete and balanced… then Nom Nom makes a smart choice.

The first time you visit Nom Nom’s website, you’ll answer a few questions about your dog’s age, weight, breed and suspected allergies. Nom Nom will then create a customized, single protein diet designed to keep your dog at optimal weight.

Expertly designed by board-certified veterinary nutritionists, an excellent limited ingredient recipe… and a solid place to start an at-home elimination diet. Enthusiastically recommended.

Actual buyer review… “Nom Nom has been delivering food for our picky Aussie/Border Collie mix for the last six months. He always eats it and he loves it. It is VERY convenient. If someone is watching him while we travel – we just send the correct number of pouches. So easy. We will not be cancelling anytime soon.”

Learn more at NomNomNow.com

Read Our Full Brand Review



The Farmers Dog Fresh Wet Food

The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food

Rating:

This Turkey Recipe is one of 4 human-grade wet formulas included in our review of The Farmer’s Dog product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Turkey, chickpeas, carrot, broccoli, parsnip
  • 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 33% protein, 19% fat and 40% 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.”

Read more buyer reviews at TheFarmersDog

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Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh

Rating:

Pantry Fresh Chicken and White Rice is one of 9 wet recipes contained in our review of the Just Food For Dogs product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Water, chicken, rice, carrots and spinach
  • Type: Wet
  • Profile: Maintenance
  • Best for: Adult dogs only
  • Other recipes: Turkey & Whole Wheat Macaroni, Beef & Russet Potato, Lamb & Brown Rice, Joint & Skin Support, Balanced Remedy, Renal Support Low Protein, Metabolic Support, Hepatic Support

Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Chicken and White Rice recipe acquires the better part of its meat protein from chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 11% fat and 49% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 53%.

This range is vet-recommended and made from human-grade ingredients. It can also be stored safely for up to two years (refrigeration is only required once opened). The Dog Food Advisor highly recommends this food.

Sample buyer review… “I absolutely love this product. It looks like food I would eat for lunch. I mix it with kibble since we still are on a budget, however my dog loves it!! She gets a cup of this food and a cup of kibble per meal, and she destroys the wet food before touching the kibble. It’s also super easy to use in a slow feeder or puzzle feeder! It has helped my dog with her energy levels, and overall she’s more energetic and ready for the day. 11/10 would recommend and would buy again!!!”

Read Our Full Brand Review


A Pup Above Fresh Turkey Recipe

A Pup Above Fresh Dog Food

Rating:

Turkey Pawella is one of 4 fresh recipes contained in our review of the A Pup Above product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Turkey, turkey hearts, turkey livers, turkey gizzards, tomatoes
  • Type: Grain or grain-free (depends on recipe)
  • Profile: Maintenance
  • Best for: Adult dogs only
  • Other recipes: Beef, Pork, Chicken

A Pup Above Turkey Pawella acquires the better part of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 22% fat and 27% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 51%.

The formula also includes zinc amino acid complex and 3 other chelated minerals, costly supplements found in better quality pet foods.

An exceptional limited ingredient diet. And a solid option for dogs with suspected food intolerances. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “Mealtime is so much more fun with A Pup Above! Grizzly can sometimes be a picky eater, but watching him chow down his food when I add this to his meal is just so satisfying. Thanks for making mealtime so easy and delicious for us!”

Read more buyer reviews at APupAbove.com

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Raised Right Fresh Human-Grade Dog Food Review

Raised Right Dog Food

Rating:

Raised Right Beef is one of 11 fresh recipes included in our review of the Raised Right product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries
  • Type: Grain-free (carrots, cranberries)
  • Profile: Maintenance
  • Best for: Adult dogs only

Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.

One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus… especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.

Read Our Full Brand Review



We Feed Raw dog food in bowl

We Feed Raw Turkey Patty

Rating:

The Turkey Patty is one of 6 frozen raw recipes included in our review of the We Feed Raw product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix
  • Type: Grain-free
  • Profile: All Life Stages
  • See all 6 available recipes

The We Feed Raw Turkey Patty derives most of its animal protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.

High quality ingredients. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… ““I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for 3 years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs.””

Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com

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Canidae ALS Wet Dog Food

Canidae All Life Stages Canned Dog Food

Rating:

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.”

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

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Merrick Grain Free Cowboy Cookout Wet Dog Food

Merrick Classic Canned Dog Food

Rating:

Merrick Cowboy Cookout is one of 10 canned recipes included in our review of the Merrick Classic product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Deboned beef, beef broth, chicken broth, beef liver, carrots
  • Texture: Chunks in gravy
  • Type: Grain-free
  • Life stage: Maintenance
  • Best for: Adults only (not for puppies)
  • See all 10 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 44% protein, 17% fat and 31% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.

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.”

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

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Ollie Fresh Dog Food Turkey

Ollie Fresh Dog Food

Rating:

Ollie Turkey is one of 5 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 39% protein, 25% fat and 28% 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.”

Buyer review from MyOllie.com

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Weruva Canned Food

Weruva Wet Dog Food

Rating:

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.”

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Read Our Full Brand Review


Wellness Turkey Stew Canned Dog Food

Wellness Stews Canned Dog Food

Rating:

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, carrots
  • 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, 22% fat and 25% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.

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.”

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

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Instinct Original Wet Dog Food

Instinct Original Wet Dog Food

Rating:

Original with Real Beef is one of 6 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 6 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.”

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

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Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Red Meat Wet Dog Food

Whole Earth Farms Canned Dog Food

Rating:

This Red Meat formula is one of 13 canned recipes included in our review of the Whole Earth Farms canned product line.

  • First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef broth, beef liver, lamb, pork liver
  • Texture: Multiple options (pate or stew)
  • Type: Grain-free
  • Life stage: Maintenance
  • Best for: Adults only
  • See all 13 available recipes

This Whole Earth Farms formula takes the dominant share of its meat protein from fresh beef and lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 23% fat and 33% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.

A superior grain-free adult canned formula ideal for adult dogs. Not suitable for puppies. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer review… “Both Buddy, our 16 year old Chihuahua and Pannuccio our 13 year old Italian Greyhound loved the Whole Earth Red Meat Recipe canned dog food. They loved the change from the Stew type chunky food to the creamy recipe one. Very satisfied with my purchase of this food.”

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Read Our Full Brand Review



Natures Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon Wet Dog Food

Nature’s Recipe Dog Food Trays

Rating:

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!”

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Read Our Full Brand Review


More Top Wet Recommendations


Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes

Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Wet Dog Food

Rating:

Chicken Dinner is one of 12 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-inclusive (brown rice, barley, oatmeal)
  • Life stage: Maintenance
  • Best for: Adults only (not for puppies)
  • See all 12 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!”

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Read Our Full Brand Review



Eukanuba Wet Dog Food

Eukanuba Canned Dog Food

Rating:

Eukanuba Beef and Vegetable Stew is one canned recipe 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 the available recipe

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.”

Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com

Read Our Full Brand Review


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.




How much wet food should I feed my dog?

Determining how much wet food to feed your dog is a processNOT 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.

The following image is an example only. Since can sizes vary and each recipe has its own unique calorie content, be sure to refer to the label on your own product to estimate the initial serving size.

Wet Food Recommended Feeding Amount
Example Label Only

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.

Canned versus Dry Dog Food Compared


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.

Canned Dog Food Unopened with Best By Date


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.

Canned Dog Food Covered and Store in a Refrigerator

A Final Word

The Dog Food Advisor does not accept money, gifts, samples or other incentives in exchange for special consideration in preparing our reviews.

However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.

For more information, please visit our Disclaimer and Disclosure page.

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