The 13 Best Wet Dog Foods in 2023

This updated guide lists all of the best wet dog foods available this year.

When choosing dog food for my dogs, all things being equal, their preference matters… Wet food can often be pricer than their kibble counterparts, but they usually pack more proteins for your pup.

Wet foods are usually low in fat, high in fiber, and contain just the right amount of carbs. Dogs find the smell of wet food irresistible and are eager to get to their bowls.

After hours of research, ingredient analysis, product comparison, and more (here is my full 40-point inspection list)  – I have reviewed the top-rated foods for your pup.

Let’s dive in…

The Best Wet Dog Foods

How to Switch Dog Food Without Getting Your Pup Sick

Top Wet Dog Food Reviews

1. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Turkey Canned Dog Food

Main Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Turkey, 3. Chicken Liver, 4. Chicken Broth, 5. Chicken Meal

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,260 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 12% | Fat (min.) 8% | Fiber (max.) 0.5% | Moisture (max.) 78%
• Form: Wet Food

We all want our dogs to love us for the choices we make for them, and poultry-based foods are a favorite of many canine’s tummies. 

And whether your dog likes chicken or turkey best, this offering by Wellness has them covered. Wellness CORE is mainly comprised of turkey meat enhanced with a blend of turkey and chicken livers.

It is a high protein formula that has around 50% more protein than most canned dog foods on the market. Even other products from Wellness don’t have that much protein. It contains delicious turkey and chicken liver, and uses chicken broth as the key source of moisture. One of the best wet dog food available right now!

2. Chicken Soup for the Soul Puppy Chicken Recipe Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Liver, 3. Turkey, 4. Chicken Broth, 5. Turkey Broth

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Puppy
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,286 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 9% | Fat (min.) 6% | Fiber (max.) 1% | Moisture (max.) 78%
• Form: Wet Food

Surprise your growing pup with the protein-rich and delicious Chicken Soup for the Soul Puppy Canned Dog Food. The food is loaded with premium-quality meat and organs that help build muscle blocks and fuel your pup’s growing body. Whole brown rice is added to support their developing digestive system, and carrots, peas, and potatoes are included to deliver essential micronutrients.

Dogs are also most active during puppyhood, which is why the formula contains 474 calories in a single can. It’s an excellent choice for all breeds, especially for sensitive or allergic puppies, as the recipe is free from corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives.

3. Iams ProActive Health Senior Chicken & Rice Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Meat By-Products, 2. Chicken, 3. Chicken By-Products, 4. Brewers Rice, 5. Wheat Flour

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Senior
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 711 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 7% | Fat (min.) 3% | Fiber (max.) 1% | Moisture (max.) 84%
• Form: Wet Food

There are many reasons why senior dogs become picky eaters.  They may not be able to digest as well as they used to, and their teeth and sense of smell aren’t top-notch anymore.  This formula by IAMs proactive health keeps all those factors and mind and gives your dog a palatable meat that can also fulfill their dietary requirements. 

It promotes good muscular and bone health in seniors while keeping their coat shiny and healthy. All the amazing ingredients are slow-cooked to avoid loss of flavor and nutrients.

4. Nutro Hearty Stew Meaty Lamb in Gravy Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Lamb, 2. Pork Broth, 3. Chicken Broth, 4. Beef Liver, 5. Green Beans

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,084 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 10% | Fat (min.) 4.5% | Fiber (max.) 1% | Moisture (max.) 82%
• Form: Wet Food

Serve your dog a premium meal with Nutro meaty lamb, green bean, and carrot stew! Your pooch with fall in love with you…all over again, meal after meal. The protein levels in this recipe are higher than most wet dog food formulas. Aside from lamb, there is pork and poultry in the mix as well.

Then you have enough fiber, vitamins, and minerals to balance out the equation. Overall, the formula is created with larger breeds in mind but it can also work as an occasional protein boost for medium and smaller dogs.

5. Purina Beneful IncrediBites Variety Pack Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Beef Broth, 2. Beef, 3. Wheat Gluten, 4. Liver, 5. Tomatoes

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,011 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 11% | Fat (min.) 2.5% | Fiber (max.) 1.5% | Moisture (max.) 76%
• Form: Wet Food

Crafted for the tiny mouths and finicky appetites of small breeds, Purina Beneful IncrediBites is our top pick for owners of miniature dogs. The variety pack comes with three distinct flavors; chicken, beef, and salmon, all of which are fully balanced and contain fresh veggies like carrots and tomatoes. Each flavor also contains a decent amount of meat to build/repair muscle and a delicious broth to pique their interest.

Purina has also made the food easier to eat for miniature and toy breeds by using smaller-sized veggies and meat chunks. The recipes are full of essential minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that enhance immunity and general wellness. None of them contains artificial preservatives or flavors, making the food an ideal pick for dogs with allergies or sensitive stomachs.

6. Weruva Paw Lickin’ Chicken in Gravy Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Water Sufficient for Processing, 3. Potato Starch, 4. Sunflower Seed Oil, 5. Tricalcium Phosphate

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per can): 268 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 10% | Fat (min.) 1.4% | Fiber (max.) 0.5% | Moisture (max.) 85%
• Form: Wet Food

Weruva is a premium dog food brand that manufactures all its products in a human-grade facility. There Paw Lickin’ Chicken with Chicken Breast recipe will really make your pooch lick its paws off.

You get lean chicken proteins plus a good amount of fiber and protein to aid digestion. It is low in carbs and does not contain any common allergens including corn gluten. So, if you want to pamper your pet friend with a gourmet meal, this is a wonderful option.

7. Pedigree Choice Cuts in Gravy Steak & Vegetable Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Sufficient Water For Processing, 2. Chicken, 3. Meat By-Products, 4. Wheat Flour, 5. Beef

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 884 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 8.5% | Fat (min.) 3% | Fiber (max.) 1% | Moisture (max.) 82%
• Form: Wet Food

Pedigree Choice Cuts in Gravy – Steak and Vegetable Flavor is a healthy wet dog food that can tempt the pickiest of eaters. Aside from lean proteins, it gives your dog all the essentials it needs to maintain a healthy weight and a shiny coat.

What’s more: your pooch gets enough fiber to absorb all those goodies out of those chunks in a delicious gravy. It is one of the best formulas for dogs that actually enjoy grain in their meal.

8. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Beef & Chicken Grill Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Beef, 2. Chicken, 3. Chicken Broth, 4. Chicken Liver, 5. Potatoes

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,477 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 10% | Fat (min.) 9% | Fiber (max.) 1.5% | Moisture (max.) 78%
• Form: Wet Food

Kickstart your dog’s appetite and muscle mass with the high-protein Blue Buffalo Wilderness Canned Food. The food offers a ton of amino acids to maximize muscle growth from real beef and chicken meat. It also has a hefty 523 calories per can, which effectively puts your dog in a caloric surplus and helps the body build muscle blocks.

Being high in calories, the formula also serves as an excellent choice for active and working breeds. Your dog will also receive a full range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, for better immunity and vitality. Blue Buffalo has also reduced the risk of stomach upsets and allergies by eliminating grains, gluten, artificial preservatives, and all kinds of fillers from the Wilderness Canned Food.

9. Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight Hearty Vegetable Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken Broth, 2. Pork Liver, 3. Carrots, 4. Green Peas, 5. Powdered Cellulose

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per can): 247 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 4% | Fat (min.) 1.5% | Fiber (max.) 4% | Moisture (max.) 84%
• Form: Wet Food

Losing weight can be a difficult journey for your dog, especially if they have a sensitive stomach. That’s why we recommend Hill’s Science Diet Perfect Weight for every dog out there. It’s guaranteed to bring a noticeable weight difference within ten weeks and promotes gut health with prebiotic fibers.

It’s a balanced formula with essential micronutrients and contains chicken meat and pork liver for muscle maintenance. Veggies like green peas, carrots, and spinach are also added to provide minerals and taste to the food. Sensitive dogs will also enjoy the food without any reactions as it’s free from preservatives and artificial colors.

10. Holistic Select Chicken Recipe Grain-Free Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Chicken Broth, 3. Chicken Liver, 4. Whitefish, 5. Ground Dried Peas

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,240 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 12% | Fat (min.) 6% | Fiber (max.) 1% | Moisture (max.) 78%
• Form: Wet Food

What I love about Holistic Dog Food is that it has a different formula for different needs. The grain-free formula is ideal for dogs with grain allergies, sensitivities, or digestive issues. Other than quality proteins, this can is full of premium probiotics for healthy digestion and metabolism. 

A blend of beneficial fruits such as papaya and pumpkin add a balanced amount of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. What’s more: There are omega 3 fatty acids to promote a healthy coat.

11. Go! Solutions SENSITIVITIES LID Grain-Free Shredded Turkey Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Turkey, 2. Turkey Broth, 3. Tapioca, 4. Pork Plasma, 5. Cranberries

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Giant Breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 923 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 8.5% | Fat (min.) 5.5% | Fiber (max.) 1% | Moisture (max.) 82%
• Form: Wet Food

Go! Solutions Sensitivities LID Formula not only does an exceptional job at preventing allergies, but is also one of the tastiest foods you can find on the market. It’s made from shredded turkey meat that promotes muscle repair. The food content is dipped in a delicious broth, which gives the food a lip-smacking aroma that even the pickiest dogs will find difficult to resist.

Additionally, the recipe features pumpkins to soothe your dog’s stomach with fiber and cranberries to toughen their immunity. Taurine is also a crucial component of the formula that supports heart and vision health. Besides that, any ingredient that has the slightest possibility of triggering allergies like red meat, grains, gluten, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial additives are never added to the recipe.

13. Purina ONE SmartBlend Tender Cuts in Gravy Entree Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken and Turkey Broth, 2. Chicken, 3. Liver, 4. Wheat Gluten, 5. Brown Rice

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 925 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 10% | Fat (min.) 3% | Fiber (max.) 1.5% | Moisture (max.) 80%
• Form: Wet Food

Most dogs love this delicious blend of meat, grains, and vegetables. Purina One Smart Blend Chicken and Brown Rice is a powerful boost of nutrients. It has quality proteins for your pooch along with essential vitamins A and E. 

Rice adds a savory texture and enhances the taste of the gravy. You get plenty of antioxidants to keep the immune system running. You also get all the essential minerals such as Zinc and selenium for your pooch.

14. Purina Pro Plan Savor Adult Classic Chicken Entrée Canned Dog Food

Top 5 Ingredients: 1. Chicken, 2. Water, 3. Liver, 4. Meat By-Products, 5. Rice

Ratings:

• Life Stage: Adult
• Suitable for: Small, medium, large breeds
• Caloric content (per kg): 1,203 kcal
• Analysis: Protein (min.) 9% | Fat (min.) 6% | Fiber (max.) 1.5% | Moisture (max.) 78%
• Form: Wet Food

There is a reason this one is a classic favorite of thousands of dog owners out there. This recipe was formulated to provide your four-legged friend with a perfectly balanced diet while keeping it safe and healthy. It has a powerful punch of proteins from quality sources, plus you get beneficial ingredients such as carrageenan, a known immune system enhancer.

You get the right amount of carbs, fiber, and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids with this one. Purina Pro Plan is great for dogs that fall sick often or lack the energy to stay active. It can also be great for dogs that are recovering from illness and is even appropriate for senior dogs.

Related:

• The Main Dog Food Guide
• The Dry Dog Foods Guide
• The dog food for weight loss Guide
• The Sensitive stomach dog food guide

FAQs

Now that you have seen the top five picks, you may have some questions. So let’s tackle those before we move on to the next foods. Hopefully, we’ve got you covered with the following questions:

Is wet dog food better than dry dog food?

Wet dog food differs from dry dog food in ways other than the texture and consistency. It usually has more high-quality meat proteins and less fat and carb. Plus, it has more moisture to keep your dog hydrated. The ingredients in a can are closer to their natural form as compared to kibble.

Why do dogs prefer wet dog food?

Since wet dog food is closer to the natural form of the ingredients, especially meat, most dogs devour it with more interest. It is juicier and easier to chew than kibbles. Dogs also love the aroma of wet food as it is stronger than that of dry food.

What form of wet dog food is the best?

It depends largely on your dog’s preference and needs. if your dog is a big water drinker, or is prone to kidney and urinary tract issues, stew or gravy forms can be more beneficial.

Can I mix wet dog food and dry dog food?

As long as both the products are of high quality, there is nothing wrong with mixing dry and wet dog food. Many dogs prefer it that way.

How much wet food dog does a dog need?

It varies according to your dog’s weight, age, breed, and activity level. While a rough estimate is 3 oz per 3 pounds a day, divided into 2 or 3 meals, it is better to focus on your dog’s caloric requirements. Always consult the label for the recommended amount, if in doubt, consult your veterinarian.

Is wet dog food easier to digest?

With more moisture content,  wet dog food is generally easier to digest. It can prevent bloating and other tummy issues even for the sensitive ones.

Is wet dog food bad for dog’s teeth?

While wet dog food isn’t exactly bad for your dog’s oral health, it may not be as good as dry kibble. You will need to include teeth cleaning treats and following a brushing regimen to keep a balance.

What are the side effects of wet dog food?

Wet dog food has more benefits than dry dog food. The side effects are usually associated with lower quality canned food that is over-processed and contains unsafe ingredients.

Is wet food good for puppies?

Wet food is good for puppies who are weaning. It is easier for them to chew and digest. It also fulfills their higher moisture requirements.

Is a wet-food-only diet good for dogs?

Yes, wet food only diet is absolutely great for dogs. It will keep them hydrated and keep renal and intestinal issues at bay. Cost is usually the only reason most people do not follow a wet only diet for their dogs.

Is wet dog food good for weight loss?

Yes, wet dog food contains less fat and fewer carbs. It is perfect for dogs on a weight watch. It can also help dogs gain more lean mass due to a higher amount of quality proteins.

Does wet dog food have lower protein than dry dog foods?

No, wet food has more protein than most dry dog food. The amount of crude protein on the label seems lower because of high moisture content. Dry matter analysis can reveal that the actual percentage of protein, which is around 40% to 60% for most products.

How often should a dog eat wet food?

Wet dog food is completely safe and even healthier than dry dog food. Your dog can eat it as often as it likes. You can even keep your dog on a wet food only diet.

How long does wet dog food last once opened?

Once opened, you can keep a can or tray of wet dog food in a refrigerator for around three days. Do keep an eye on signs of spoil such as bad smell or worms. Throw it away if it seems too different from how it was at the time of opening.

Can you warm up wet dog food?

Yes, most wet dog foods are microwaveable. Most brands recommend heating the refrigerated food before serving it to your dog. Dogs prefer warm meals.

Wet Dog Foods Buyer’s Guide

As I said earlier, there are tons of canned dog foods out there and they can all seem like a great option. Keeping in mind that it’s easier to get your dog to eat what they prefer,  go for something your buddy really seems to enjoy. Something that will have a positive impact on your dog’s physical health, energy levels, and overall well being.

These are just a few of the indicators that show the product is working for your pooch.

However:

When you are out there with the intention of finding something better or the best, you need to put your thinking cap on and read between the labels to make the best decision.

First, we need to settle whether your dog needs wet food of not.

Wet Dog Food vs. Dry Dog Food

I know there is a lot of high-quality kibble out there but wet food does have some advantages. They are easy to digest and contain ingredients closer to their natural form. Processing is often minimal and that is how they retain a higher amount of proteins and other nutrients. Additionally, it contains more moisture than dry food, helping to keep your dog hydrated.

It is a very good option for picky eaters.

One downside, however, is that it may not be as good for teeth and gums as kibble. Also, since dogs are naturally used to the crunchiness of bones, they enjoy a similar texture in kibbles. You can mix dry and wet dog food to give them a bit of both.

Textures of Wet Dog Food

Wet dog food is available in different forms or texture. It can be a good idea to give your dog a mixture of different textures to keep meals interesting for it. Common textures include:

• Pate
• Minced
• Ground
• Stew
• Bits or chunks

Bit and chunks are usually in a gravy, jelly, or broth, and tend to have the highest moisture content as compared to minced or pate.

What to Look for in the best wet dog food?

When buying wet dog food, look for the following factors:

• Meat as the First Ingredient – When the meat is the first ingredient, you know your dog will get the highest quality proteins from its meal. A dog can enjoy all kinds of meat from poultry to beef and from fish to rare exotic meat.
• Grain-Free or Whole Grains – If your dog isn’t sensitive to grains, you can skip grain-free and choose food with quality whole grains such as barley and brown rice. These grains pack a healthy dose of carbs essential to an active dog.
• Nutritious Vegetables – Good vegetables like carrot and potatoes are common thickeners in many wet foods and they have nutritional benefits as well. However, I wouldn’t recommend products that list a vegetable in the first three ingredients.
• No Fillers – Wet dog food is less likely to contain fillers than dry dog food. But it is best to keep an eye for ingredients such as corn or soy.
• Additives – Make sure the food you buy is free from additives such as preservatives, colorings, and flavors.

How to choose the best wet dog food

Every dog has different needs, so it’s crucial to consider each wet food from their perspective. Here are some of the important factors you need to look after:

1. Breed size and life stage

Before buying a dog food, keep your dog’s breed size in mind and check whether the formula is appropriate for their age. This will ensure they get the right quantity and type of nutrients.

2. Health issues

Consider your dog’s health status and any diseases they suffer from before purchasing wet food. For example, grain-free and limited ingredient diets are better for dogs with allergies and sensitivities, while veterinarian diets are more suited to dogs with more serious health issues.

3. Affordability

You must also take your budget into account before purchasing any wet dog food. Make sure you can afford your chosen wet food in the long term.

Reference and resources:

• Puppy Feeding Fundamentals
• Wet food Wikipedia

Now that you know what the top ones are, good luck finding the best wet dog food for your best friend. Cheers!