Mary Allen
Opinions differ on the question of whether dry food or wet food is healthier for dogs. Even experts do not always agree. In addition, it always depends on the respective dog which type of food he likes and gets better. Here are a few tips to help you find your way through the dog food jungle.
Some dog owners swear by dry food because it is so practical, other dog owners prefer wet food because their four-legged friend can better meet their fluid needs. But who is right now? Which is better for the dogs?
Benefits of Dry Dog Food
A major advantage of dry dog food is its longer shelf life. Due to the low water content, the croquettes and biscuits do not go bad so quickly and are easier to store. In addition, they make less dirt when the woof spills while eating. If you take your dog on holiday or go on a long trip with him, it is much easier to take dry food with you. Furthermore, your furry friend needs smaller portions of the croquettes than of the pieces of meat in sauce and pies. In the long term, this is more cost-effective and protects the environment, since less packaging material is required.
Wet Food Also Has Advantages
Wet food usually tastes better to dogs than dry food because the water content releases more aromatic substances. In addition, it is easier for dogs to meet their water needs if they are already hydrated with their food. Dogs with a big appetite often find it easier to maintain their weight with wet food because they can eat larger portions without exceeding their calorie requirements. The soft pieces of meat are better accepted by dogs with gingivitis or toothache because they are easier to chew. A common bone of contention when it comes to dog food is which is better for the teeth. Some say that dry food helps to clean teeth due to its hard consistency; others argue that kibble sticks to teeth when chewed and may even contribute to dental problems. It is also said that wet dog food is easier to tolerate in the case of digestive problems and food allergies. But neither the one nor the other has so far been scientifically refuted or confirmed.
Dry Food or Wet Food? Dogs Often Eat Both
There is nothing wrong with combining dry food and wet food for dogs. In order not to confuse digestion, you should not mix both types of food at the same time, but feed them at different times. However, once you have found a form of nutrition that your dog likes and is good for, you should stick with it. It is an option, but not a requirement, to mix up dry and wet dog food.
If your four-legged friend suffers from food intolerance or allergy or needs a special diet due to digestive problems or chronic illnesses, speak to your veterinarian. He can prescribe you special food for the sick woof and give you tips for bland food or hypoallergenic food. In general, good dog food – whether dry or wet – should have a high meat content and contain high-quality fats and oils. Salmon oil is usually well tolerated by dogs; if the label only says “fats” or “vegetable oil” in general, you should better refrain from this food. A little grain or pseudo-cereals are fine, with amaranth, buckwheat, millet, and rice usually being the safest.