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Compared to kibble… the best wet dog foods contain more protein, fewer carbs and no cancer-causing preservatives. Plus they’re easier to chew.
Which makes canned foods a smart choice for puppies, smaller dogs and seniors.
On this page… we’ll share The Dog Food Advisor’s best wet dog foods… and we’ll answer your most frequently asked questions about feeding a wet diet.
Our editors selected these items because we believe you and your dog will benefit from them. They are listed in random order.
Best Wet Dog Foods December 2024
Here are The Dog Food Advisor's best wet dog food brands for December 2024.
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1. The Farmer's Dog
This Turkey Recipe is one of four human-grade wet formulas included in our review of The Farmer’s Dog product line.
The Farmer’s Dog Turkey Recipe derives most of its animal protein from fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 33% protein, 19% fat and 40% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 56%. Other flavor options.
The entire product line is designed by a board-certified veterinary nutritionist… and each recipe is made with human-grade ingredients.
All Farmer’s Dog formulas are 100% complete and balanced and meet AAFCO nutrient standards for all life stages… which makes each recipe suitable for puppies, adults or seniors.
A healthy feeding option for those able to afford the premium price. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full The Farmer’s Dog range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, chickpeas, carrot, broccoli, parsnip Texture Coarsely ground Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and all puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at TheFarmersDog.com"BEST dog food our dog has ever had! Our Coton De Tulear is the pickiest dog ever. We have searched forever to get a food that he will consistently eat and this is the ONLY food he will consistently eat. I love the fact that not only is it human grade food but it is formulated especially for him. His coat is thicker and softer than ever. If you love your dog feed him food from The Farmers Dog. Your dog will love it and you will love knowing it is healthy and safe."
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2. Open Farm
Open Farm Harvest Chicken recipe is one of five wet formulas included in our review of Open Farm wet product line.
This recipe derives most of its animal protein from fresh chicken. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 23% fat and 33% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
Open Farm provides high-quality and ethically sourced ingredients. Each recipe is protein-packed with non-GMO vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach to provide a highly nutritious meal.
Read our review of the full Open Farm Pate Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, potatoes, chicken liver, sweet potatoes Type Wet Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Dogs and senior dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Open Farm"I am so happy to see Open Farms with a wet food. I switched my GSD from Fromm to this canned chicken formula and she absolutely loves it. She is quite a picky eater and I was pleasantly surprised with how much she enjoyed this. It is a pate and not runny at all, I would compare it to a loaf style.I ordered one case to try and just ordered 5 more. Thank you Open Farms. I cant recommend this enough and it smells delirious too! "
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3. A Pup Above
Turkey Pawella is one of four fresh recipes contained in our review of the A Pup Above product line.
A Pup Above Turkey Pawella acquires the better part of its meat protein from fresh turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 43% protein, 22% fat and 27% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 51%.
The formula also includes zinc amino acid complex and 3 other chelated minerals, costly supplements found in better quality pet foods.
An exceptional limited ingredient diet. And a solid option for dogs with suspected food intolerances. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full A Pup Above Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey hearts, turkey livers, turkey gizzards, tomatoes Type Grain or grain-free (depends on recipe) AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult Dogs Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at APupAbove.com"Mealtime is so much more fun with A Pup Above! Grizzly can sometimes be a picky eater, but watching him chow down his food when I add this to his meal is just so satisfying. Thanks for making mealtime so easy and delicious for us!"
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4. PetPlate
Barkin’ Beef Entrée is one of six fresh recipes included in our review of the PetPlate product line.
PetPlate Barkin’ Beef acquires the major part of its animal protein from ground beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 31% protein, 22% fat and 39% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 70%.
A superior, all life stages fresh dog food that’s 100% free of corn, wheat or soy. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full PetPlate Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground beef, sweet potatoes, potatoes, beef liver, carrots Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 31% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and puppies (including large breeds) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at PetPlate"We purchased the Barkin' Beef as a supplement to our dog's regular hard food. The Barkin' Beef keeps her interested in the food, and has led to a more consistent appetite that ensures proper nutrition."
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5. Just Food For Dogs
Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Chicken and White Rice received the Dog Food Advisor’s rating of 4.5 stars.
It is one of nine recipes in this range made by Just Food For Dogs, a company founded in 2010 by entrepreneur Shawn Buckley.
Just Food For Dogs Pantry Fresh Chicken and White Rice derives the bulk of its protein from chicken, which is naturally rich in the 10 essential amino acids required by a dog to sustain life.
Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 33% protein, 11% fat and 49% carbohydrates. . . with a fat to protein ratio of 53%.
This Pantry Fresh range is vet-recommended, fresh, human-grade food. They can be stored safely for up to two years (refrigeration is only required once opened).
Read our review of the full JustFoodForDogs Pantry Fresh Dog Food range here
Main Ingredients Water, chicken, rice, carrots and spinach Texture Wet Type Fresh Protein Percentage 33% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For All dogs Sample buyer review...
"I absolutely love this product. After thawing it and serving it, you can visibly see the nutrients and the fact that it is human grade food. It looks like food I would eat for lunch. I mix it with kibble since we still are on a budget, however my dog loves it!! She gets a cup of this food and a cup of kibble per meal, and she destroys the wet food before touching the kibble. It's also super easy to use in a slow feeder or puzzle feeder! It has also helped my dog with her energy levels, and overall she's more energetic and ready for the day with this food. 11/10 would recommend and would buy again!!!"
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6. Nom Nom
Pork Potluck is one of four fresh human-grade recipes studied in our review of the Nom Nom cooked-then-frozen product line.
Nom Nom Pork Potluck derives the bulk of its meat protein from fresh ground pork. Dry matter label analysis reveals a wet recipe containing 28% protein, 20% fat and 44% estimated carbs… with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.
If you’ve ever wished you could feed your dog a fresh, home-cooked meal… but you didn’t know how to make sure it was nutritionally complete and balanced… then Nom Nom makes a smart choice.
The first time you visit Nom Nom’s website, you’ll answer a few questions about your dog’s age, weight, breed and suspected allergies. Nom Nom will then create a customized, single protein diet designed to keep your dog at optimal weight.
An excellent limited ingredient recipe… and a solid place to start an at-home elimination diet. Enthusiastically recommended.
Read our review of the full Nom Nom Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Ground pork, russet potatoes, green beans, squash, kale Texture Coarsely ground Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 28% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults + puppies (including large breeds) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at NomNomNow.com"Nom Nom has been delivering food for our picky Aussie/Border Collie mix for the last six months. He always eats it and he loves it. It is VERY convenient. If someone is watching him while we travel - we just send the correct number of pouches. So easy. We will not be cancelling anytime soon."
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7. Raised Right
Raised Right Beef is one of 11 fresh recipes included in our review of the Raised Right product line.
Raised Right Beef derives the lions share of its animal protein from fresh beef. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 61% protein, 24% fat and 8% estimated carbs… delivering a fat-to-protein ratio of about 39%.
One of the best fresh, human-grade dog foods on the market. Unusually wide recipe selection can be a major plus… especially for picky eaters. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Raised Right Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef heart, carrots, beef liver, cranberries Type Grain-free (carrots, cranberries) AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adult dogs only -
8. We Feed Raw
The Turkey Patty is one of six frozen raw recipes included in our review of the We Feed Raw product line.
The We Feed Raw Turkey Patty derives most of its animal protein from turkey. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 49% protein, 25% fat and 18% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 52%.
High quality ingredients. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full We Feed Raw Dog Food (Raw Frozen) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey Tails, turkey gizzards, turkey wings, turkey liver, WFR vitamin + mineral mix Type Grain-free, raw frozen Protein Percentage 49% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at WeFeedRaw.com"I have been feeding my dogs We Feed Raw for 3 years now and they love their food, their coats are always shining. They are active, happy, healthy dogs."
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9. Canidae All Life Stages
All Life Stages Chicken and Rice is one of four canned recipes included in our review of the Canidae product line.
This recipe derives the majority of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 41% protein, 30% fat and 22% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 72%.
A superior, all life stages, wet formula. Free of corn, wheat or soy. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Canidae All Life Stages Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, dried egg product, brown rice Texture Finely-chopped paté Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 41% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and all puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"All 4 of my dogs love it. I love the ingredients. It's nice and soft, easy to mix into dry food. And my old man teddy who doesn't have bottom teeth likes how soft it is too."
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10. Merrick
Merrick Cowboy Cookout is one of 14 canned recipes included in our review of the Merrick Grain-Free canned product line.
Cowboy Cookout takes the lion’s share of its animal protein from fresh beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 17% fat and 31% estimated carbs… resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 38%.
A healthy, grain-free food for adults or puppies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Merrick Grain Free Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Deboned beef, beef broth, chicken broth, beef liver, carrots Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 44% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My retriever loves it. She is a difficult dog to feed as she either doesn't like it or it upsets her stomach. This is a winner, she loves it, and it settles well with her digestive track."
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11. Ollie
Ollie Turkey is one of five human-grade recipes covered in our review of the Ollie fresh dog food product line.
Ollie Turkey derives the majority of its animal protein from fresh turkey and organ meat. Dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 39% protein, 25% fat and 28% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 64%.
The company designs each custom feeding plan based on your dog’s weight, age, breed type, activity level and allergies… and then recommends a precise portion size, according to the number of calories needed to keep your dog at ideal weight.
The food is delivered to you on a flexible schedule. Once in your home, store the food in your freezer… and thaw them (as needed) in your refrigerator.
An exceptional, grain-free option… ideal for those who want to feed a scientifically balanced diet that’s as close to homemade as you can get… but without all the hard work. Not cheap. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Ollie Dog Food (Fresh) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey thigh, pumpkin, turkey liver, turkey heart, carrot Texture Coarsely ground Type Grain-free, fresh Protein Percentage 39% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults and all puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at MyOllie.com"Jolene has been with Ollie from the beginning. She never has digestive issues or allergies. Her coat is shiny, she has energy, and I'm thankful I can get fresh food for her delivered at my door."
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12. Weruva
Bed and Breakfast is one of 14 canned recipes included in our review of the Weruva product line.
This Weruva recipe gets the bulk of its meat protein from fresh chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 57% protein, 10% fat and 25% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 18%.
An exceptional, grain-free formula. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Weruva Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, water, egg, pumpkin, sweet potato Texture Wet Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 57% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults & all puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"My finicky eater loves this food. In addition to being picky, she also has a very sensitive tummy and allergies to A LOT of ingredients found in most pet foods. This food is perfect for her - it doesn't cause any issues at all and she gobbles it up! I highly recommend it."
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13. Wellness Complete Health Stews
Wellness Turkey Stew is one of six canned recipes included in our review of the Wellness Stews product line.
Wellness Turkey Stew derives most of its animal protein from fresh turkey. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 22% fat and 25% estimated carbs… which yields a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A super-healthy, wet formula with an exceptional fat-to-protein balance. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Wellness Stews Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Turkey, turkey broth, water sufficient for processing, turkey liver, carrots Texture Wet Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 44% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults & small/medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Not only is my Boy crazy about this Food, its low in Calories which is Perfect. It has the right balance of Protein, fat & moisture - or so I think! The Turkey has not bothered his stomach so it's been a win win & a keeper for us."
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14. Instinct Original
Original with Real Beef is one of six canned recipes included in our review of the Instinct Original product line.
This Instinct recipe derives the largest share of its meat protein from fresh beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 52% protein, 34% fat and 6% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 65%.
A nutritionally balanced wet dog food. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Instinct Original Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef liver, beef broth, tricalcium phosphate, ground flaxseed Texture Finely-chopped paté Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 52% AAFCO Standards All Life Stages Best For Adults & small/medium breed puppies Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I started putting this on my miniature pincher's dry food and he loves it. He is diabetic and it does not effect his blood sugar. This is a real blessing."
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15. Whole Earth Farms
This Red Meat formula is one of two canned recipes included in our review of the Whole Earth Farms canned product line.
This Whole Earth Farms formula takes the dominant share of its meat protein from fresh beef and lamb. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 36% protein, 23% fat and 33% estimated carbs… yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of about 63%.
A superior grain-free adult canned formula ideal for adult dogs. Not suitable for puppies. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Whole Earth Farms Grain Free Dog Food (Dry) range here
Main Ingredients Beef, beef broth, beef liver, lamb, pork liver Texture Paté or stew Type Grain-free Protein Percentage 36% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Both Buddy, our 16 year old Chihuahua and Pannuccio our 13 year old Italian Greyhound loved the Whole Earth Red Meat Recipe canned dog food. They loved the change from the Stew type chunky food to the creamy recipe one. Very satisfied with my purchase of this food."
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16. Nature’s Recipe
Nature’s Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon is one of three canned recipes included in our review of the Nature’s Recipe product line.
Nature’s Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 65% protein, 12% fat and 16% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 18%.
An exceptional wet option. Highly recommended.
Read our review of the full Nature’s Recipe Dog Food (Trays) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, pumpkin, salmon, brown rice Texture Chunks in gravy Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 65% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"She loves seafood and the chicken mix, never any leftover. Other foods would always be a hit or miss on if she would eat it but with the Nature's Recipe any flavor is Always a Hit and she cleans her plate!"
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17. Blue Buffalo Homestyle
Chicken Dinner with Garden Vegetables is one of 10 canned recipes included in our review of the Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes product line.
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Chicken Dinner derives most of its animal protein from chicken. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 39% protein, 27% fat and 26% estimated carbs… producing a fat-to-protein ratio of about 71%.
A nutritionally complete canned formula ideal for all adult dogs.
Read our review of the full Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipes Dog Food (Wet) range here
Main Ingredients Chicken, chicken broth, chicken liver, carrots, peas Texture Finely-chopped paté Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 39% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"Was giving my dog a different brand in small single servings because I only give her a small amount of wet food at dinner. But I decided to try this because she is getting older and I want to give her better food. She loves it and I have noticed that her stools are better formed. Win for me and her!"
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18. Eukanuba
Eukanuba Beef and Vegetable Stew is one of seven canned recipe included in our review of the Eukanuba product line.
Eukanuba Adult Beef and Vegetable Stew derives most of its animal protein from chicken and beef. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 44% protein, 22% fat and 25% estimated carbs… which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.
A superior formula for adults.
Read our review of the full Eukanuba Dog Food (Canned) range here
Main Ingredients Water, chicken, beef, beef liver, pork plasma Texture Chunks in gravy Type Grain-inclusive Protein Percentage 44% AAFCO Standards Maintenance Best For Adults only (not for puppies) Sample buyer review...
Read more buyer reviews at Chewy.com"I’ve used Eukanuba since 1994 for every dog and cat I’ve had. Our current rescued Pitbull wasn’t drinking enough water, so I started mixing this wet food with the dry. He completely went crazy for it, even licking the bowl clean. It smells pleasing to me and visibly shows meat and veggies. And this brand has always produced good, solid bowels. So I know he’s healthy, and is getting a shiny coat."
More Top Picks
To view more top dog foods by category… click the link below that best meets your personal feeding needs.
How to Switch to a New Food without Making Your Dog Sick
Here’s a simple feeding tip from Dr. Gary Richter to help lower your dog’s risk of digestive upset… when you switch to a new food.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much wet food should I feed my dog?
Determining how much wet food to feed your dog is a process… NOT a one-and-done decision.
Since the size and activity level of every dog is unique…
And because every wet food contains a different number of calories per can…
It’s best to start with the recommended feeding amount printed on the label. Then, adjust that amount up or down… to keep your dog at her ideal weight.
The following image is an example only. Since can sizes vary and each recipe has its own unique calorie content, be sure to refer to the label on your own product to estimate the initial serving size.
Wet food or dry... which is better for your dog?
In many ways, canned food can be superior to kibble. In fact, wet foods typically contain more meat protein than dry recipes.
What’s more, wet foods add natural moisture to a dog’s diet. And because they’re pasteurized and sold in a sealed can, they contain no preservatives.
They’re easier to chew… a welcome advantage for older pets.
And wet dog foods taste better, too.
Unfortunately, there’s a downside. Wet dog foods can be more expensive than dry kibbles… which can make them less affordable when feeding larger dogs.
Here’s a feature-by-feature comparison between wet and dry foods.
Is it OK to mix wet and dry dog foods?
In a word… yes.
One way to enhance your dog’s appetite is to add a tasty wet food topper to her dry food.
Mixing a few tablespoons of one of the flavorful wet foods on this page with your dog’s kibble can make a big difference.
Just be sure both foods meet your dog’s nutritional needs… and are suitable for the same stage of life.
In other words… you don’t want to mix a puppy food with an adult formula… as this can upset the delicate nutrient balance of the complete meal.
How long does wet dog food last if it's not opened?
Depending on the brand, wet dog food can have a shelf life of up to 3 years. However, it’s good practice to note the manufacturer’s “Best By” date.
The “Best By” or “Best Before” date printed on the bottom of the can indicate the point in time when the product no longer contains the specified nutrients.
How long can wet food remain in the bowl?
Once open, a wet food can quickly become contaminated with disease-causing bacteria.
So, empty your dog’s bowl of all wet food not eaten within 4 hours… especially at room temperatures over 50°F.
How long does canned food last once it's open?
Open cans of dog food should be covered and stored in the refrigerator… for a maximum of 5 days.
Any wet dog food remaining after that should be discarded.
Final word
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However, we do receive a referral fee from online retailers (like Chewy or Amazon) and from sellers of perishable pet food when readers click over to their websites from ours. This helps cover the cost of operation of our free blog. Thanks for your support.
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