As dog owners, one of the most important decisions we make for them is what to feed them. The debate over wet versus dry dog food has been ongoing for years, and both options have their merits. While dry food (kibble) is convenient and often more affordable, wet dog food offers some unique benefits that can improve your dog’s overall health and well-being. But can you mix wet food with dry food? Let's explore the benefits of wet dog food and how it can fit into your dog’s diet.
What is Wet Dog Food?
Wet dog food comes in cans or pouches and typically has a higher moisture content than dry kibble. It’s made from a combination of meat, vegetables, grains, and broth or water, with varying levels of fat, protein, and nutrients. Wet food is available in a wide range of flavours and textures, providing plenty of options for picky eaters.
Top Benefits of Wet Dog Food
- Increased Hydration
One of the most significant benefits of wet food is its high moisture content, which is typically around 70-80%. This added hydration is especially beneficial for dogs that don’t drink enough water. Proper hydration supports healthy kidney function, digestion, and overall energy levels. For dogs who are prone to urinary tract issues or have difficulty drinking water, wet food can be a great way to keep them hydrated.
- Better Palatability
Wet food is often more aromatic and palatable than dry kibble, making it highly appealing to dogs, especially those with poorer appetites. This makes wet food an excellent option for picky eaters, senior dogs with decreased sense of smell, or dogs recovering from illness or surgery. If your dog isn’t eating enough or has a reduced appetite, offering wet food might encourage them to eat more.
- Easier to Chew and Digest
For puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with dental issues, wet food can be easier to chew and digest than dry food. Its softer texture reduces the need for aggressive chewing, which can be painful for dogs with missing teeth, gum disease, or other oral health issues. Additionally, the high moisture content in wet food helps it break down more easily in the stomach, making it easier for dogs to absorb the nutrients.
- Improved Skin and Coat Health
Many high-quality wet foods are rich in omega fatty acids, which can promote healthy skin and a shiny coat. The added moisture and high-quality proteins found in wet food can also help reduce the chances of dry skin and moulting. If your dog suffers from skin conditions or you’ve noticed their coat becoming dull or brittle, wet food might be a good addition to their diet.
Can Wet and Dry Food Be Mixed Together?
Yes, you can absolutely mix wet and dry food! In fact, many dog owners choose to do so to reap the benefits of both types of food. Mixing wet and dry food allows you to provide your dog with a combination of textures, aromas, and nutritional benefits.
Benefits of Mixing Wet and Dry Food
- Balanced Nutrition: Dry food is often more nutrient-dense and offers a complete diet with a balanced ratio of protein, fats, and carbohydrates. Wet food, on the other hand, provides additional moisture. By mixing the two, you ensure your dog gets the best of both worlds: the hydration from wet food and the balanced nutrition from dry food.
- Enhanced Palatability: Mixing wet and dry food can make meals more enticing. The added aroma and moisture from the wet food can make your dog more excited about mealtime, while the crunch of kibble provides some texture that many dogs enjoy.
- Portion Control: If you’re trying to control your dog’s weight, mixing wet food with dry food can help reduce calorie intake while still providing a satisfying meal. Wet food tends to be lower in calories compared to dry food, so you can use it to “bulk up” your dog’s meals without overfeeding.
- Digestive Health: Mixing wet and dry food can aid in digestion. The moisture in the wet food helps move food through the digestive system, while the crunchiness of dry food can provide further nutrition, especially if it contains extra functional ingredients.
How to Mix Wet and Dry Food
If you’re thinking of combining wet and dry food for your dog, here are a few tips for doing it right:
- Start Slowly: If your dog isn’t used to eating wet food, start by mixing a small amount of it with their usual dry food. Gradually increase the ratio of wet food over several days to avoid upsetting their stomach.
- Monitor Portions: Wet food typically has fewer calories than dry food, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s portion sizes to avoid overfeeding. Adjust the amount of dry food and wet food accordingly to ensure your dog’s daily caloric intake is balanced.
- Consult with Your Vet: If your dog has any special dietary needs or health concerns, it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian before making changes to their diet. They can help you determine the best portion sizes and food combinations for your dog’s specific health needs.
- Fresh Water: Even though wet food is high in moisture, always make sure your dog has access to fresh water at all times. Dogs that eat a lot of wet food still need to stay hydrated, especially if they’re active or in a hot climate.
Autarky Wet Food
Developed for adult working dogs, Autarky Adult wet recipes are Grain Free and enhanced with quality ingredients including 66% freshly prepared meat or fish, nutritious vegetables along with key botanicals and herbs. It is a complete food so can be fed alone or added to Autarky dry recipes.
- Complete: can be fed alone or added to the dry recipes
- Available in 3 varieties:
- Packed with 66% freshly prepared meat
- Nutritious vegetables, key botanicals and herbs
- Prebiotics for digestive health
- With added joint support: Glucosamine & Chondroitin
- Yucca Schidigera: to help reduce stool odour
In Summary
Wet food offers numerous benefits for dogs, from increased hydration and better palatability to improved coat health and easier digestion. It can be a great option for picky eaters, senior dogs, or those with dental issues. Mixing wet food with dry food is not only possible but can offer a balanced, aromatic, and nutritious meal for your dog. Just be sure to monitor portion sizes and consult your vet if you’re unsure about how to adjust your dog’s diet.
Whether you choose to feed your dog wet food, dry food, or a combination of both, the most important thing is ensuring they’re getting a balanced, nutrient-rich diet that supports their health and happiness.