The best wet dog foods, in comparison to kibble, have a higher protein content, fewer carbohydrates, and lack cancer-causing preservatives. Additionally, they are more easily chewable.
Canned foods are a wise choice for puppies, smaller dogs, and seniors due to their advantages.
We will share The Dog Food Advisor’s top wet dog food options on this page.
The 10 Best Wet Dog Foods 2023
Nom Nom Fresh Dog Food
In our review of the Nom Nom cooked-then-frozen product line, Pork Potluck is one of the four fresh human-grade recipes that were studied.
- First 5 ingredients: Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale
- Type: Grain-free
- Texture: Coarsely ground
- Life Stage: All life stages
- Best For: Adults + puppies (including large breeds)
The main source of meat protein in Nom Nom Pork Potluck comes from fresh ground pork. After conducting a dry matter label analysis, it was determined that the recipe is composed of 28% protein, 20% fat, and 44% estimated carbs. The ratio of fat-to-protein in the recipe is approximately 71%.
If you have ever desired to give your dog a freshly cooked meal at home, but were unsure about ensuring its nutritional completeness and balance, then Nom Nom is a wise option.
When you first go to Nom Nom’s website, you will be asked a few questions regarding your dog’s age, weight, breed, and any possible allergies. After that, Nom Nom will develop a personalized diet consisting of a single protein to help your dog maintain an ideal weight.
Dr. Justin Shmalberg, a board-certified veterinary nutritionist (DACVN), expertly designed it.
Highly recommended as an outstanding limited ingredient recipe and a great starting point for an at-home elimination diet.
The Farmer’s Dog Fresh Dog Food
Our review of The Farmer’s Dog product line includes four human-grade wet formulas and this Turkey Recipe is one of them.
- First 5 ingredients: Turkey, chickpeas, carrot, broccoli, parsnip
- Texture: Coarsely ground
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
- Recipes: Pork, Beef, Turkey (ratings vary)
The primary source of animal protein in The Farmer’s Dog Turkey Recipe comes from fresh turkey. By analyzing the dry matter label, it is determined that the recipe contains 33% protein, 19% fat, and an estimated 40% carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 56%. There are also alternative flavor choices available.
Every recipe in the product line is made with human-grade ingredients, designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
Each recipe of Farmer’s Dog formulas is suitable for puppies, adults, or seniors because they are 100% complete and balanced, meeting AAFCO nutrient standards for all life stages.
A highly recommended option for those with the means to afford a premium price, offering a healthy feeding choice.
We Feed Raw Turkey Patty
Our review of the We Feed Raw product line includes the Turkey Patty, which is one of 6 frozen raw recipes.
- First 5 ingredients: Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix
- Type: Grain-free
- Profile: All Life Stages
- See all 6 available recipes
The primary source of animal protein in the We Feed Raw Turkey Patty is turkey. An analysis of the dry matter label shows that the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat, and an estimated 18% of carbohydrates. As a result, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 52%.
Ingredients of high quality that are highly recommended.
Canidae All Life Stages Canned Dog Food
Our review of the Canidae product line includes four canned recipes, one of which is the All Life Stages Chicken and Rice.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, dried egg product, brown rice
- Texture: Finely-chopped pate
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, barley)
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
This recipe mostly obtains its meat protein from fresh chicken. After conducting a dry matter label analysis, we determined the recipe consists of 41% protein, 30% fat, and 22% estimated carbs. As a result, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 72%.
Highly recommended, this wet formula is free of corn, wheat, or soy and suitable for all life stages.
Merrick Classic Canned Dog Food
In our review of the Merrick Classic product line, Merrick Cowboy Cookout is one of the 10 canned recipes featured.
- First 5 ingredients: Deboned beef, beef broth, chicken broth, beef liver, carrots
- Texture: Chunks in gravy
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not for puppies)
Cowboy Cookout predominantly derives its animal protein from fresh beef, as indicated by our dry matter label analysis. The analysis shows that the recipe consists of 44% protein, 17% fat, and 31% estimated carbs, leading to a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 38%.
Highly recommended, this is a healthy food for adults or puppies that is grain-free.
Ollie Fresh Dog Food
In our review of the Ollie fresh dog food product line, we cover five human-grade recipes, including Ollie Turkey.
- First 5 ingredients: Turkey thigh, pumpkin, turkey liver, turkey heart, carrot
- Texture: Coarsely ground
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
The primary source of animal protein for Ollie Turkey is fresh turkey and organ meat. Upon closely examining the label analysis of the dry matter, it is determined that the recipe consists of 39% protein, 25% fat, and approximately 28% estimated carbs. This composition ultimately results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 64%.
The company creates a personalized feeding plan for every dog, taking into consideration their weight, age, breed type, activity level, and allergies. They then suggest an exact portion size based on the required calorie intake to maintain your dog’s ideal weight.
The food will be delivered to you with a flexible schedule. Once you have it in your home, keep the food in your freezer and thaw it in your refrigerator whenever necessary.
For those seeking a scientifically balanced diet that closely resembles homemade food but without the effort, this exceptional, grain-free option is highly recommended, despite being expensive.
Weruva Wet Dog Food
Our review of the Weruva product line includes Bed and Breakfast, which is one of the 14 canned recipes.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, water, egg, pumpkin, sweet potato
- Texture: Chunks in gravy
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + all puppies
The Weruva recipe primarily derives its meat protein from fresh chicken. After analyzing the dry matter label, we found that the recipe consists of 57% protein, 10% fat, and 25% estimated carbs. As a result, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 18%.
This formula is exceptional and grain-free. It comes highly recommended.
Wellness Stews Canned Dog Food
In our review of the Wellness Stews product line, Wellness Turkey Stew is one of the 6 canned recipes that is included.
- First 5 ingredients: Turkey, turkey broth, water sufficient for processing, turkey liver, carrots
- Texture: Chunks in gravy
- Type: Grain-inclusive (barley)
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + small or medium breed puppies
Most of the animal protein in Wellness Turkey Stew comes from fresh turkey. According to our analysis of the dry matter label, the recipe contains 44% protein, 22% fat, and 25% estimated carbs, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 50%.
This wet formula has a remarkable fat-to-protein balance and is highly recommended for its super-healthy qualities.
Instinct Original Wet Dog Food
Our review of the Instinct Original product line includes Real Beef, one of the six canned recipes.
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef liver, beef broth, tricalcium phosphate, ground flaxseed
- Texture: Fine-chopped pate
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: All life stages
- Best for: Adults + small or medium breed puppies
The main source of meat protein for this Instinct recipe is fresh beef, which contributes the highest portion. When looking at the label analysis for dry matter, we find that the recipe has 52% protein, 34% fat, and 6% estimated carbs. As a result, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 65%.
A wet dog food that is nutritionally balanced and comes highly recommended.
Whole Earth Farms Canned Dog Food
Our review of the Whole Earth Farms canned product line includes a total of 13 canned recipes, and one of them is the Red Meat formula.
- First 5 ingredients: Beef, beef broth, beef liver, lamb, pork liver
- Texture: Multiple options (pate or stew)
- Type: Grain-free
- Life stage: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only
The majority of the meat protein in This Whole Earth Farms formula comes from fresh beef and lamb. When we analyze the dry matter label, we find that the recipe consists of 36% protein, 23% fat, and 33% estimated carbs. As a result, the fat-to-protein ratio is approximately 63%.
This highly recommended adult canned formula is superior and grain-free, making it ideal for adult dogs while not suitable for puppies.
Nature’s Recipe Dog Food Trays
One of the Nature’s Recipe product line reviews includes the Nature’s Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon, which is one of 3 canned recipes.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, pumpkin, salmon, brown rice
- Texture: Chunks in gravy
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice)
- Life stage: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not for puppies)
The main source of meat protein in Nature’s Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon comes from chicken. When looking at the dry matter label analysis, it shows that the recipe has 65% protein, 12% fat, and 16% estimated carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of approximately 18%.
An exceptional wet option. Highly recommended.
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Wet Dog Food
Our review of the Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes product line includes 12 canned recipes, among which is the Chicken Dinner.
- First 5 ingredients: Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, carrots, peas
- Texture: Fine-chopped pate
- Type: Grain-inclusive (brown rice, barley, oatmeal)
- Life stage: Maintenance
- Best for: Adults only (not for puppies)
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Chicken Dinner gets most of its animal protein from chicken. When we analyze the label in terms of dry matter, we find that the recipe has 39% protein, 27% fat, and 26% estimated carbs. This results in a fat-to-protein ratio of roughly 71%.
An ideal food option for adult dogs that is nutritionally complete and comes in a canned formula.
BONUS: Best Dog Foods for Picky Eaters in 2023
Pupper Chicken Topper
Fuel was created to ensure optimal health and superior performance, utilizing solely natural ingredients without any grains. Our recipes incorporate free range chicken, fresh produce, and natural minerals.
This specialized dog food is designed for dogs who are picky eaters and includes all the necessary minerals, vitamins, and nutrients that your dog needs. It consists of a total of 29 components, 13 of which are active and 16 of which are inactive, working together to provide your dog with the best possible diet.
Nom Nom Dog Food
Nom Nom aims to simplify dog nutrition by removing the inconvenience and uncertainty, allowing you to concentrate on excelling as a pet parent. They ensure that you can easily offer your dog delicious and nutritious meals, specifically customized to fulfill their unique nutritional needs.
They only use the highest-quality ingredients in their meals. Each recipe is developed by a team of veterinarians, animal nutritionists, and culinary experts to accommodate your dog’s specific nutritional requirements.
Nom Nom is dedicated to assisting you in making the finest achievable choices for your dog’s health and nutrition. They provide a variety of resources to assist you with understanding and making informed decisions about your dog’s nutrition requirements.
Blue Buffalo Divine Delights
The primary factor to take into account when selecting a dog food is if it suits your specific German shepherd. Blue Buffalo Divine Delights Dog Food stands out as a superb option among high-end moist dog foods due to the superior quality of its ingredients.
The Divine Delights pet food line consists of ten different options, such as Chicken & Vegetable Stew, Beef & Vegetable Stew, and Turkey & Potato Stew. Each of these flavors is made using top-notch ingredients and does not contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.
The Blue Buffalo Divine Delights Dog Food is a high-quality wet food that offers your dog a delicious and nutritious dinner. Divine Delights is a fully balanced meal containing real chicken or beef and vegetables, all mixed in a savory sauce that your dog will love.
Instinct Raw Boost
OptiMind Raw Boost Mixers is a freeze-dried dog food topper made from cage-free chicken and farm-raised vegetables. It can be mixed with your dog’s regular kibble to provide a nutritional boost.
Boost Mixers are free from grains and gluten, and they lack any artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Additionally, they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which contribute to the promotion of healthy skin and hair.
The Instinct Raw Boost Mixers are made with cage-free chicken and farm-grown vegetables to enhance your dog’s current food with additional nutrients.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection
The Premium Grain-Free Puppy Food satisfies the nutritional needs of various dog breeds and all stages of life. It is made from real meat, whole grains, and garden veggies.
There are several flavors of Life Protection Dog Food, such as Chicken & Brown Rice, Lamb & Brown Rice, and Fish & Brown Rice. Furthermore, it is offered in a version suitable for large breeds.
Blue Buffalo Life Protection Dog Food is a high-quality pet food that contains real meat, whole grains, and garden veggies. It is specifically formulated to meet the nutritional requirements for dogs of all life stages and breeds.
Taste of The Wild Prairie
The high protein content of 32% in the Taste of the Wild High Prairie Dog Food assists in the restoration of bone, muscle, and joint tissue in your dog, while the inclusion of real roasted bison and venison aims to stimulate your dog’s curiosity. In addition, this dog food is rich in omega fatty acids.
This product is manufactured in compliance with all USDA guidelines to guarantee maximum safety. Additionally, it does not contain commonly found allergens like grain, gluten, corn, or wheat, which are known to elicit allergic reactions in dogs.
Taste of the Wild is an expensive diet that contains numerous nutrients, which may make it unaffordable for some individuals.
American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe
The main ingredient in The American Journey Salmon & Sweet Potato Recipe is real salmon, making it a grain-free food. In addition, it includes nutritional ingredients such as peas, carrots, and sweet potatoes.
This food is free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Additionally, it is designed to meet the nutritional needs of dogs of all life stages and breeds.
Purina Pro Plan Salmon & Rice Formula
The Purina Pro Plan Salmon & Rice Formula is a diet made with real salmon and rice that is of high quality. It has been specifically formulated to meet the needs of dogs at all life stages and of various breeds.
There are several flavors available, including Salmon & Rice, Chicken & Rice, and Beef & Rice. Additionally, a big breed version is also offered.
The Pro Plan may not be cost-effective for all budgets, despite being a high-quality food rich in nutrients for your dog.
Is fresh dog food better for picky eaters?
Feeding your picky eater dog involves considering numerous factors, including the freshness of the food, as many owners believe that fresh dog food improves their pet’s health and addresses picky eating habits effectively.
However, there are numerous individuals who believe that frozen or canned dog food is equally, if not more, satisfactory. The optimal choice for your dog and their specific requirements truly relies on your personal opinion.
When considering fresh food, it is important to remember a few things. Initially, you should find a trustworthy source of fresh food. Numerous companies produce fresh dog food, however, they are not all of the same quality. Hence, it is essential to conduct thorough research and select a trusted company.
Another point to consider is that fresh dog food may have a higher cost compared to other kinds of dog food. It is important to remember this aspect while planning your dog’s food budget.
When deciding whether fresh food is suitable for you and your dog, it is crucial to consider that storing it correctly and using it within a specific timeframe are necessary.
When considering feeding your picky eater dog fresh food, it is crucial to weigh the advantages and disadvantages. It is essential to prioritize your pet’s well-being and address their individual requirements. If you opt for fresh food, ensure to locate a trustworthy supplier and plan for the higher expenses involved.
What are the signs that my dog is a picky eater?
If your dog is reluctant to try new foods or only eats specific types of food, it may be a picky eater. Certain dogs prefer wet food, while others prefer dry food. Picky eaters may also have preferences when it comes to treats and snacks.
There are several factors that can contribute to your dog being a selective eater:
Born with Sensitive Palate
Certain dogs possess a naturally more discerning taste than others, while some dogs develop finicky eating habits as a result of stress or anxiety. This can be triggered by various factors, including relocating to a new residence, introducing a new pet or baby to the family, or alterations in their daily schedule.
Never Introduced to New Foods
The primary cause of picky eating in dogs is often due to their long-term exposure to one type of food, leading to familiarity with its taste and smell.
Why is my dog not eating his food but will eat treats?
It is a frequently asked question by pet owners that can be quite frustrating when you witness your dog rejecting his food only to eagerly devour a treat.
There are several explanations for this situation. Perhaps your dog isn’t feeling hungry, or possibly he is not fond of the food you are providing him. Another possibility is that he has become accustomed to receiving treats and is less interested in his usual food.
If you have worries about your dog’s eating habits, it is advisable to consult with your veterinarian. By doing so, you can determine if there might be a medical explanation for your dog’s lack of appetite and receive guidance on the most suitable steps to take.
Do dogs get bored of eating the same food?
It is important to provide dogs with a diverse range of food because, similar to humans, dogs can become weary of consuming the same food daily.
If your dog appears uninterested in their food, consider incorporating different ingredients or changing to a different food type. Additionally, experiment with serving methods like concealing it in a puzzle toy or utilizing a slow feeder bowl.
