5 Key Tips for Feeding Wet or Canned Dog Food

Feeding your dog wet food, whether canned, pouch-packed, or in trays, can be a highly nutritious and enjoyable option for your pet. Like all feeding styles, it comes with its own benefits and considerations. Deciding between mixing wet food with dry kibble or feeding wet food exclusively takes some understanding to make sure your dog receives maximum nutritional benefit. In this guide, you'll discover five vital tips for dog owners using wet food, allowing you to support your dog's health, hydration, and overall happiness.

Storing and Refrigerating Wet Dog Food Correctly

Unopened cans or pouches of wet dog food should be kept in a cool, dry spot, such as a pantry or cupboard away from direct sunlight. It's important to practice stock rotation—using the oldest products first—to avoid waste and prevent feeding your dog expired food. Additionally, keep the storage area clean and dry to avoid dampness and protect against pests like rodents that can contaminate the food.

Once opened, any leftover wet food should be transferred to a non-metal, sealed container and refrigerated. Consume refrigerated leftovers within 24 to 48 hours to ensure freshness and prevent spoilage. Freezing opened wet dog food is generally not advised because many commercially prepared varieties don't freeze well and may lose their texture and taste. For instance, in the U.S., many pet owners prefer properly refrigerated meals for their dogs rather than freezing leftovers.

Preparation and Serving: Enhancing Palatability and Safety

Before serving, bring refrigerated wet food to room temperature to boost its aroma, making it more appealing to your dog. Adding wet food to dry kibble can provide a satisfying variety and texture. However, mix them only right before mealtime to stop the kibble from turning too soft or mushy.

It’s best to use ceramic or glass dishes for feeding. These materials are generally safer as plastic or some metal bowls may leach unwanted chemicals or minerals over time, potentially affecting your dog's health. Clean your dog's food bowls thoroughly after each meal to maintain hygiene and minimize bacterial risks, which is particularly important if you live in humid climates like many parts of the Southern US.

Protecting Your Dog’s Oral Health

Wet food helps with hydration and can lower the risk of urinary tract problems. However, it tends to cling to teeth more than dry food, which can promote plaque buildup, tartar, and gum disease. Regular dental care is crucial for dogs primarily on wet food diets.

Veterinarians in the U.S. often recommend brushing your dog’s teeth multiple times weekly using products designed specifically for dogs. Routine dental checkups can identify problems early, such as bad breath, gum inflammation, or loose teeth. Keeping your dog’s teeth clean supports their overall wellness and comfort.

Monitoring Your Dog’s Health and Dietary Compatibility

Every dog has unique nutritional requirements and food sensitivities. Observe your dog’s coat condition, energy levels, and stool consistency frequently when feeding wet food. Typically, firm stools are a healthy sign. It’s normal for stools to be somewhat larger than when eating dry food exclusively, but they should never be loose or watery.

If your dog shows symptoms like lethargy, dull fur, digestive upset, or other health changes, contact your veterinarian. They can evaluate and adjust your dog’s diet to suit their age, activity level, or health conditions. For example, in American veterinary practices, diets might be tailored more specifically for senior dogs or breeds prone to allergies.

Troubleshooting and Adjusting Your Dog’s Diet

As dogs age and their lifestyles or health status change, their dietary needs evolve too. Even if your dog has enjoyed the same wet food for years, remain alert to changes in their appetite, digestion, or behavior that might signal the need for dietary review.

Working with your veterinarian regularly to reassess feeding schedules and diet quality ensures your dog’s nutritional demands are met consistently. Making responsible diet modifications contributes to your pet’s longevity and quality of life.

Beyond feeding practices, always verify that your wet food products come from ethical, reputable sources to support responsible pet ownership. Choosing highly nutritious foods from trusted American suppliers or breeders helps safeguard your dog’s health long-term.

By implementing these five tips, American dog owners can confidently feed a tasty, wholesome wet food diet while promoting their dog's health and well-being for years to come.