As devoted dog owners, choosing the right diet for your pet is a cornerstone.
The debate between feeding dogs wet food, dry kibble, or combining both has garnered significant attention.
Each type of food presents unique advantages and considerations, ultimately prompting the question: Can I feed my dog wet and dry food?
In this article, we delve into the benefits, potential drawbacks, and guidelines for providing a balanced diet that combines the goodness of both wet and dry dog food.
Let’s scroll down to find the information you need!
About Dog Food

What Is Wet Food?
Wet dog food is a type of dog food that comes in a semi-liquid or moist form.
It is typically packaged in cans or pouches and contains a higher moisture content compared to dry kibble.
Wet dog food is made by blending various ingredients such as meat, vegetables, grains, and other nutrients.
Then, cook and process them to create a palatable and easily consumable texture.
Adding water or broth during manufacturing increases its moisture content. This results in a soft and moist texture that resembles freshly cooked food.
Wet dog food often comes in various flavors and formulations to cater to different dietary needs and preferences.
It’s commonly praised for its appetizing aroma and taste, making it a tempting option for picky eaters.
Additionally, wet dog food can be easier for dogs with dental issues or older dogs with reduced jaw strength to chew and digest.
However, because of its higher moisture content and packaging, wet dog food has a shorter shelf life once opened than dry kibble.
It also tends to be more expensive per serving than dry food.
What Is Dry Food?
Dry dog food, often referred to as kibble, is a type of dog food that comes in a solid and crunchy form.
It is one of the most commonly available options for feeding dogs and is manufactured through a process that involves mixing various ingredients, including proteins, grains, vegetables, vitamins, and minerals.
The mixture is then cooked, extruded, and dried to create bite-sized pellets or nuggets.
One of the primary characteristics of dry dog food is its low moisture content. Unlike wet dog food, kibble has only a small amount of moisture, typically around 10% or less.
This contributes to its longer shelf life and makes it convenient for storage and feeding.
However, some dogs might be more selective about eating only dry kibble due to its lack of strong aromas and flavors.
Additionally, some dogs with dental issues or those prone to gulping their food might not benefit as much from the dental advantages of chewing kibble.
Can I Feed My Dog Wet And Dry Food Together?

Yes, you can definitely feed your dog a combination of wet and dry food.
By combining wet and dry dog food, you can provide your canine companion with a balanced diet that takes advantage of the strengths of both types of food.
Pros
Nutritional Variety
Is it ok to mix dry and wet dog food?
Yes, each type of food offers its own set of nutrients, flavors, and textures, and combining them can create a more diverse and balanced diet for your dog.
Wet and dry dog foods are formulated differently.
Wet food often contains higher moisture content and can provide a good source of hydration, while dry kibble typically contains a higher concentration of nutrients.
By combining the two, you can ensure your dog receives a broader spectrum of essential nutrients.
This method can introduce your four-legged friend to a wider range of protein sources.
Different proteins (such as chicken, beef, lamb, or fish) provide varying amino acid profiles, contributing to a more complete protein intake.
Hydration
Can you feed wet and dry dog food together to provide more water for pets?
Wet dog food has a significantly higher moisture content than dry kibble, and incorporating wet one into their diet can increase their overall fluid intake.
Some dogs are not naturally inclined to drink enough water, which can lead to dehydration and potential health issues.
Dogs with kidney issues may require increased hydration to support their kidney function. Wet food can provide the extra moisture they need.
This approach is a great way to solve the disadvantages of dry food.
Appetite Stimulation
Dogs, like humans, can get bored with the same type of food day after day.
Mixing dry and wet dog food can often help stimulate your dog’s appetite, especially for picky eaters or have a decreased interest in their meals.
The combination of different textures, flavors, and aromas can make mealtime more appealing and enticing for your pet.
The contrast between wet food’s soft texture and dry kibble’s crunchiness can engage your dog’s senses and encourage them to eat more eagerly.
Cons
Caloric Intake
Mixing two types of dog food can potentially lead to challenges in managing caloric intake if not done carefully.
Wet dog food generally contains more moisture and can be calorie-dense, while dry kibble is more calorie-concentrated due to its lower moisture content.
This can pose a risk of overfeeding and weight gain if portion sizes are not monitored closely.
Storage and Spoilage
Wet dog food has a shorter shelf life than dry kibble, especially after opening.
Wet food has a higher moisture content, which makes it more prone to spoilage if not stored properly.
The high moisture content creates an environment where bacteria can thrive if the food is left at room temperature for an extended period.
Which Dogs Should You Apply This Method?

Wet dog food to mix with dry can be a great option for a variety of dogs, but certain situations and characteristics might make this approach particularly beneficial:
- Picky Eaters: If you have a dog that is a picky eater and tends to get bored with one type of food, offering a combination of wet and dry food can provide more variety and make mealtime more appealing.
- Dental Health Concerns: Dogs with dental issues, such as gum disease or tooth decay, might struggle to chew crunchy kibble. Mixing wet and dry dog food can make it easier for them to consume their meals while still benefiting from the dental advantages of dry food.
- Hydration needs: Some dogs may not drink enough water on their own, leading to potential dehydration. Wet food’s higher moisture content can help increase their overall fluid intake, promoting better hydration.
- Senior dogs: Older dogs might have dental problems, reduced appetite, or difficulty chewing. A combination of wet and dry food can give them the nutritional variety they need while addressing potential challenges.
- Sensitive stomachs: Some dogs have sensitive stomachs and might struggle with digesting dry kibble alone. The moisture in wet food can help alleviate digestive issues and make meals gentler on their stomachs.
- Adding medication or supplements: If your dog requires medication or supplements, mixing them with wet food can make it easier to ensure they consume the entire dose.
Tips for Mixing Two Types Of Food
How to mix wet dog food with dry? The method is a great way to provide your canine companion with a balanced and enjoyable diet.
Here are some tips to help you navigate the process effectively:
- Know your furry friend’s demands: Because each dog is unique, your pal’s caloric requirements must be established by having your veterinarian examine your dog’s body condition score.
Bring the wet and dry food you intend to mix with your veterinarian so they can calculate for that precise combination.
- Choose High-Quality Food: Opt for high-quality wet and dry dog food brands that provide balanced nutrition. Look for products with real meat as the primary ingredient and minimal fillers. Thus, always pay attention to the protein level on the ingredient list!
- Hydration: While wet food contributes to hydration, ensure your dog still has access to fresh, clean water at all times.
Conclusion
Can I feed my dog wet and dry food?
Yes, this approach offers many benefits, including enhanced nutritional variety, improved hydration, better dental health, and appetite stimulation for picky eaters.
By carefully balancing the wet-to-dry food ratio and consulting with your veterinarian, you can create a well-rounded diet that caters to your dog’s specific requirements.