Wet food or dry food? It’s a long-standing debate that’s divided dog owners for years. Some dog parents love the ease and crunch of dry kibble, while others swear by the rich, meaty goodness of wet food. So, which is actually better for your furry friend? One veterinarian has stepped in to offer a professional take on the debate and his answer might surprise you.
In a video shared on social media, a vet from Pooch and Mutt, a pet wellness brand that sells food, supplements, and more shared his expert opinion. In a TikTok video he said: “Today we’re tackling a question as old as dog ownership itself.”
According to him, both dry and wet dog foods have benefits and drawbacks.
Dry food, however, remains the popular choice among dog owners and continues to dominate the market, accounting for 59.2% of total sales in the UK 2024, according to Grand View Research. Its convenience, affordability, and growing variety of specialised formulations like grain-free or high-protein options make it a top choice for many dog owners.
The vet from Pooch and Mutt said: “It is incredibly convenient, easy to store, and has a long shelf life, and you can leave it out for your dog to graze on all day without worrying about it spoiling.”
It’s also generally more affordable than wet food, making it a practical choice for many households. An added bonus is that the crunchy texture of kibble helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup on dogs’ teeth, promoting better oral health over time, the expert said.
However, dry food contains significantly less moisture than wet food. According to PetMD, typically only has about 10% maximum of moisture, compared to up to 78% maximum when it comes to wet food.
That’s a big deal, especially during warmer months, since many dogs don’t drink enough water on their own. Some dogs also find dry food less appealing, especially if they’re fussy eaters or have dental issues.
The vet said: “The meaty texture make it highly palatable even for picky eaters. Wet food is also easier to chew than kibble, making it a great option for dogs with dental issues.”
According to Waggel Pet Insurance, wet food can also be beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues, as it’s generally easier to digest and it can offer more variety in your dog’s diet.
It’s not without its downsides, however. Wet food is more expensive, needs to be refrigerated once opened, and must be eaten within a few hours. It also doesn’t offer the same dental benefits as kibble, which means brushing your dog’s teeth becomes even more important.
So, which is better? According to the vet from Pooch and Mutt, there’s no universal answer: “The answer isn’t black and white. It depends on your dog’s needs, preferences and lifestyle.” He insisted that “you don’t have to choose” and that perhaps the best option is to feed your dog a mixture to get “the best of both worlds.”