If your pup turns up their nose at dry kibble or rarely visits their water bowl, wet dog food might be worth considering. Not only does this type of food appeal more to picky eaters, but it can be gentler on sensitive stomachs and provide extra moisture. After researching popular options, consulting veterinary experts and testing several brands ourselves, we confidently recommend Open Farm Surf & Turf Pâté as the best wet dog food overall. It’s made with ethically sourced proteins and simple ingredients, and most importantly, dogs seem to love eating it. That said, the ideal choice depends heavily on your pup’s lifestyle, health conditions and personal taste.
Knowing what to prioritize can make choosing the right food easier. To start, take a close look at each food’s ingredient list. “The best wet dog food includes clearly named protein sources, limited filler ingredients and whole-food elements like sweet potatoes or carrots,” says Dr. Aimee Warner, resident veterinarian at Waggel. “When checking food labels, look for real, recognizable ingredients.” For example, a fresh dog food option like The Farmer’s Dog delivers customized, human-grade meals made with incredibly high-quality ingredients. Ahead, we’ve rounded up the best wet dog foods available, including picks tailored specifically for puppies, senior dogs, prescription diets and more. And to give you further peace of mind, all of our recommendations adhere to nutritional guidelines set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), so you can feel confident you’re choosing a complete and balanced food.
Hey there, fellow dog parents! If you’ve been wandering down the pet food aisle feeling completely overwhelmed by all those colorful cans of dog food, you’re definitely not alone. I’ve been there too, staring at shelves full of options and wondering, “What is the best canned dog food for dogs?” Well, today I’m gonna break it all down for you in simple terms so you can make the best choice for your furry friend.
Why Canned Dog Food Might Be Better Than Kibble
Before we dive into the specific brands, let’s talk about why wet food deserves your attention:
- Higher protein content – Most canned foods contain more meat protein than dry kibble
- More moisture – Helps keep your dog hydrated (especially important for dogs who don’t drink enough water)
- No artificial preservatives – Unlike dry food, wet food is sealed and pasteurized, eliminating the need for chemical preservatives
- Easier to chew – Perfect for puppies, seniors, or dogs with dental issues
- Better taste – Let’s be honest, dogs typically find wet food more appetizing
The only real downside? Canned food can be pricier than kibble, especially if you have a large breed dog.
Top Canned Dog Foods for 2025
After researching the latest Dog Food Advisor ratings and customer reviews, here are the absolute best wet dog foods you should consider:
1. The Farmer’s Dog
Rating: 5 stars
This isn’t technically “canned” but it’s a premium wet food option. Their Turkey Recipe contains:
- Fresh turkey as the primary protein source
- 33% protein content (dry matter basis)
- 19% fat content
- Human-grade ingredients
- Formulated by veterinary nutritionists
What makes it special is that it’s designed for all life stages, from puppies to seniors. Dog parents rave about how their picky eaters suddenly become food enthusiasts when switched to The Farmer’s Dog
2. Open Farm Harvest Chicken
Rating 4.5 stars
Open Farm provides ethically-sourced ingredients with
- 36% protein from fresh chicken
- 23% fat content
- Non-GMO vegetables like sweet potatoes and carrots
- Suitable for adult dogs and seniors
Dog owners particularly love the pate texture which isn’t runny at all.
3. A Pup Above Turkey Pawella
Rating: 5 stars
This fresh food option features:
- 43% protein primarily from fresh turkey
- 22% fat content
- Limited ingredients (great for dogs with food sensitivities)
- Chelated minerals for better nutrient absorption
It’s basically a limited ingredient diet in wet food form, which is pretty rare to find!
4. Canidae All Life Stages Chicken and Rice
Rating: 4.5 stars
A more traditional canned option with:
- 41% protein from fresh chicken
- 30% fat content
- Free from corn, wheat, and soy
- Suitable for all life stages
This is a great option if you’re looking for a high-quality canned food that won’t break the bank.
5. Instinct Original with Real Beef
Rating: 5 stars
For meat lovers, this option provides:
- A whopping 52% protein from fresh beef
- 34% fat content
- Grain-free formulation
- Suitable for all life stages
It’s particularly good for active dogs who need that extra protein boost.
Special Dietary Needs? We’ve Got You Covered
For Dogs with Allergies
- Weruva Bed and Breakfast – With 57% protein and only 10% fat, this chicken-based recipe is gentle on sensitive tummies
- A Pup Above – Their limited ingredient recipes are perfect for elimination diets
For Weight Management
- Nature’s Recipe Chicken and Wild Salmon – With 65% protein but only 12% fat, it’s great for dogs who need to slim down
- Wellness Complete Health Stews – Their Turkey Stew offers a balanced 44% protein with 22% fat
For Puppies
- The Farmer’s Dog – Formulated for all life stages
- PetPlate Barkin’ Beef – Contains 31% protein and is designed for all life stages including large breed puppies
For Senior Dogs
- Open Farm Pate – The soft texture is easy on aging teeth
- Eukanuba Beef and Vegetable Stew – Has 44% protein to maintain muscle mass in older dogs
How to Introduce Wet Food to Your Dog’s Diet
If your dog has been on kibble their whole life, don’t just switch their diet overnight! Here’s a simple transition schedule:
| Day | Old Food | New Wet Food |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 | 75% | 25% |
| 3-4 | 50% | 50% |
| 5-6 | 25% | 75% |
| 7+ | 0% | 100% |
This gradual transition helps prevent tummy troubles like diarrhea or vomiting.
FAQs About Canned Dog Food
How much wet food should I feed my dog?
This depends on your dog’s size, activity level, and the specific food’s calorie content. Start with the recommended amount on the can’s label, then adjust based on whether your dog needs to gain or lose weight.
Can I mix wet and dry dog food?
Absolutely! Many pet parents use wet food as a “topper” to make kibble more appealing. Just make sure both foods are appropriate for your dog’s life stage.
How long does an unopened can of dog food last?
Most canned dog foods have a shelf life of up to 3 years. Always check the “Best By” date on the bottom of the can.
How long can wet food stay in my dog’s bowl?
No more than 4 hours, especially in temperatures above 50°F. Bacteria can multiply quickly in wet food left at room temperature.
What about opened cans?
Store opened cans in the refrigerator with a cover for a maximum of 5 days. After that, toss it out even if it still looks and smells fine.
The Bottom Line
The best canned dog food ultimately depends on your unique pup’s needs, age, activity level, and any health concerns they might have. But if I had to pick just one overall winner, I’d say The Farmer’s Dog offers the best combo of quality ingredients, proper nutrition, and palatability that most dogs absolutely love.
Remember that the most expensive option isn’t always the best for YOUR dog. Pay attention to how your dog responds to different foods – their energy levels, coat condition, poop quality (yep, we gotta talk about poop), and overall enthusiasm at mealtime.
I’ve had great success with rotating between a few different high-quality wet foods to give my dogs variety. They get super excited when they smell something new, and it ensures they’re getting a wide range of nutrients.
Have you tried any of these canned foods with your furry friend? Did I miss any amazing brands that your dog absolutely loves? Drop a comment below – I’d love to hear about your experiences!
And remember, when in doubt about your dog’s nutritional needs, especially if they have health issues, your vet is always the best resource. They can help guide you toward the perfect wet food for your specific pup.
Happy feeding!
Best Fresh Wet Dog Food
Type: Fresh (frozen) | Life stage: All life stages | AAFCO-compliant: Yes | Subscription required: Yes
What youll love:
- Made with fresh, human-grade ingredients
- Meals customized to your dog’s age, breed and activity
Keep in mind:
- Requires freezer space for storage
- Packaging isnt resealable
The Farmer’s Dog is different from typical wet foods because it’s fresh and arrives frozen, but it still has the softer texture and high moisture content that make wet food appealing to many pups. Forbes Vetted recently named it the best dog food delivery service in 2025, thanks largely to its personalized approach and high-quality ingredients. Recipes feature proteins like beef, chicken, turkey and pork, combined with vegetables and nutrient-rich ingredients such as chickpeas and salmon oil. The meals are cooked gently in a human-grade facility, then frozen and shipped directly to you.
When you sign up, you first have to answer a quick survey about your dog’s age, breed, weight and activity, so the meals arrive already portioned out for your pup’s specific needs. The packaging conveniently includes your pet’s name, which is helpful if you board your dog or use daycare regularly. Just remember you need a decent amount of freezer space, and the packages can’t be resealed once opened. That said, I regularly feed The Farmer’s Dog to my pup and have never had an issue with storage. The packs of food lay flat in the freezer and they’re easy to stack, and the brand sends you a convenient storage container to keep partially used packages fresh in the fridge.
Best Wet Dog Food For Senior Dogs
Type: Canned | Life stage: Adult | AAFCO-compliant: Yes | Subscription required: No
What youll love:
- Simple recipe thats easy on sensitive senior digestion
- Real chunks of recognizable chicken breast
- Made in a human food facility
Keep in mind:
- Minimalist formula might be limiting for dogs who prefer more variety
- Not specifically labeled as senior food
Several veterinarians we spoke to recommended limited-ingredient diets for senior dogs, because simpler recipes are often easier on aging digestive systems. Weruva’s Paw Lickin’ Chicken recipe is a great example. Its main ingredient is cage-free chicken breast, and you can actually see the recognizable chunks of real meat as soon as you open the can. Plus, it’s soft enough for older dogs to chew comfortably without being overly mushy.
Weruva also offers plenty of variety if your older pup is still excited about trying new flavors. There are over a dozen other recipes to choose from, including options featuring turkey, duck, tuna, pumpkin, carrots and more, all made to the same high-quality standards. So even if your senior dog’s tastes change as they age—or they simply get picky—there are plenty of options to keep them interested in mealtime.