As pet owners, we are relied upon to make the decision on what to feed our dog. Regardless of what the flavour is, dog food generally comes down to two options: dry or wet. Let’s take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of both so that you know which option is better for your little one.
Dry Dog Food
Generally, the main advantages of dry dog food are cost, convenience and better for oral health.
On a cost per serving basis, dry kibble can be over 10 times cheaper than wet food. As canned dog food usually has a higher water percentage, it is often more economical to feed your dog dry dog food on a per-serving basis. However, you should be aware that dry kibbles have a lower fat content and a higher carbohydrate component compared to its wet counterpart.
Dry kibble is also more convenient. Since it doesn’t require refrigeration after opening, it can be left out in the open for your dog to munch on whenever your dog feels like it. It can be stored in any container and travels well. The longer shelf life of dry dog food also means less waste.
Kibbles are ideal to maintain your dog’s oral health. This is because the crunch of the kibble helps to reduce buildup of plaque and tartar in their mouth. This is the reason why dogs who eat dry food often have better breath than their wet-eating counterparts.
Wet Dog Food
Generally, wet dog food is more appetizing for your dog, more easily digested and has a higher moisture content.
The majority of dogs love the taste of wet dog food, even for the pickiest of eaters. This is because canned dog food is primarily made of protein and fat, which your dog absolutely adores.
While the soft texture of canned dog food is more easily digested by your dog, the same soft texture lacks the ability to provide oral care for your dog. For smaller dogs with more crowded teeth, this can lead to more plaque and tartar buildup.
Thirdly, canned dog food can be healthier for your dog. As it has a higher moisture content, wet food can keep your dog hydrated, which is beneficial for the urinary tract.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, there really isn’t a right or wrong way to feed your dog. The most important thing to consider when choosing food for your dog is that it should be as healthy as possible and it matches your feeding philosophy.
If you choose to only feed wet food, give your dog multiple opportunities to crunch down on snacks to clean their teeth. On the other hand, if you only feed dry dog food, you might want to occasionally provide a meaty treat for your dog. It’s all about balance.
Want to know more dog food hacks? Click here to find out more!!
