Kibble Vs. Wet Dog Food

The great kibble versus wet dog food debate is a classic conundrum for many pet owners. As the pros and cons of wet and dry dog food are relatively balanced, it can be hard to know which one is best for your fur baby.

In this guide, we’ll break down the differences between kibble and wet dog food, covering nutrition, cost, and what’s best for your pup. Plus, we’ll share an easy way to make mealtime more exciting—Dog Sauce—a simple addition that boosts flavor, hydration, and nutrients.

Let’s dive in!

Pros and Cons Of Kibble

Dry dog food, or “kibble,” often has specific benefits and drawbacks that wet food doesn’t provide, as we outline below:

Pros of Kibble (Dry Dog Food)

• It is convenient and easy to Store, requires no refrigeration, and has a long shelf life. Just scoop and serve!
• Affordable – Generally cheaper than wet food, especially when bought in bulk.
• Supports Dental Health – The crunchy texture helps reduce tartar buildup and plaque.
• Less Messy – No sticky cans or leftover wet food to clean up.
• Nutritionally Balanced – High-quality kibble contains essential nutrients, including probiotics, vitamins, and minerals.

Cons of Kibble

• Low Moisture Content—Kibble is dry, so it doesn’t provide moisture or hydration, which can lead to dehydration if your dog doesn’t drink enough water.
• Picky Eaters May Reject It – Some dogs find dry kibble less appetizing.
• May Contain Fillers & Additives – Some brands use preservatives, grains, or artificial ingredients that might not be ideal for sensitive dogs.
• Tougher on teeth—Dry dog food is excellent for dog dental health, but it can be tougher to chew on for dogs with sensitive teeth.

Pros and Cons of Wet Food

Wet dog food, or “canned food,” equally has specific benefits and drawbacks that dry food doesn’t present, such as:

Pros of Wet Food (Canned Dog Food)

• Higher Moisture Content – Wet food contains around 75-85% water content, helping with hydration.
• More Palatable – Picky eaters love the rich aroma and texture.
• Easier to Chew – Great for older dogs, puppies, or those with dental issues.
• Fewer Preservatives – Many high-quality wet dog food brands use fewer artificial additives.

Cons of Wet Food

• More Expensive – Wet dog food is typically pricier than kibble.
• Shorter Shelf Life – Once opened, it must be refrigerated and used quickly.
• Can Cause Tartar Buildup – Unlike kibble, it doesn’t scrape plaque off your dog’s teeth.

If your dog prefers wet food but you’re worried about dental health, mix in some kibble or add a dental chew to their routine.

Nutritional Differences Between Kibble vs. Wet Food

Protein

• Wet food: Contains more real meat, making it easier to digest.
• Kibble: May include plant-based fillers like corn, wheat, or soy.

Fat

• Wet food: Higher in fat, making it tastier and more calorie-dense.
• Kibble: Lower in fat, which helps with weight management.

Carbohydrates

• Kibble: Contains more carbohydrates for energy but may include fillers.
• Wet food: Has fewer carbohydrates and focuses more on meat and moisture.

Vitamins and Minerals: What’s Added?

Both kibble and wet food have added vitamins and minerals, but they differ in how these nutrients are included.

Kibble

• Fortified with extra vitamins, minerals, and probiotics to replace nutrients lost during processing.
• Some brands use artificial preservatives to extend shelf life.

Wet Food

• Naturally, it retains more nutrients due to its cooking process.
• Requires fewer artificial preservatives since canning keeps it fresh.

How Cooking Methods Affect Nutrients

Did you know the way dog food is made impacts its nutrition? Here’s how:

Kibble: High-Heat Cooking

• Made using high-heat extrusion, which removes some natural nutrients.
• Vitamins and minerals are added back after cooking.
• Crunchy texture can help with dental health.

Wet Food: Canning Process

• Cooked at lower temperatures, keeping more natural nutrients intact.
• Protein and fat stay closer to their raw state.
• Fewer artificial additives are needed to keep it fresh.

Wet vs. Dry: Cost Comparison

Cost is a significant factor when choosing your dog’s diet.

Price Per Meal or Month

• Kibble: $1 to $3 per pound. A 30-pound bag lasts about a month for a medium dog. Monthly cost: $30 - $75.
• Wet Food: $2 to $5 per can. A medium dog may need 2 to 4 cans per day. Monthly cost: $90 - $300.

Bulk Purchasing: Pros & Cons

Pros

• Saves money – Larger bags or multi-pack cans cost less per serving.
• Fewer trips to the store – More convenience.
• Always in stock – No last-minute food runs.
• Great for multi-dog homes – More food, better savings.

Cons

• Storage space: Big bags and cans take up the room.
• Spoilage risk: Kibble can go stale, and wet food has expiration dates.
• Picky eaters: If your dog gets bored, you’re stuck with food they won’t eat.
• Upfront cost: Bulk buying means a higher initial expense

Vet Bills: The Hidden Costs of Diet

Dental Health

• Kibble helps remove plaque, reducing tartar buildup.
• Wet food doesn’t clean teeth, so more dental care may be needed (cleanings can cost $300+).

Hydration & Kidney Health

• Wet food’s moisture content helps prevent dehydration.
• Dogs on kibble need extra water to support kidney health, as kidney health conditions can be costly.

Weight Management

• Some kibble brands are high in carbs, leading to weight gain.
• Wet food has more protein and fat, helping maintain lean muscle, but it may be too rich for some dogs.

A mixed diet can help balance dental health, hydration, and nutrition.

Real-World Cost Examples

Feeding your dog can range from budget-friendly to premium, depending on the type of food you choose.

• Basic dry kibble: $100–$250 per year (30-lb bag every 1–2 months)
• Premium dry kibble: $200–$400 per year (30-lb bag every 1–2 months)
• Canned or frozen raw food: $400–$1,000 per year (1–3 cases of cans or 10-lb bags per month)

Costs vary based on your dog’s size, age, and activity level. A small, low-energy pup may only need $100 of food annually, while a large, active dog can cost over $1,000 annually.

Can You Mix Both? Absolutely!

A mixed-balanced diet Is excellent for your dog’s health!

Suggested Ratios:

• Picky eaters: 50% kibble, 50% wet food
• Senior dogs: 25% kibble, 75% wet food
• Active dogs: 75% kibble, 25% wet food
• Sensitive stomachs: Start with 25% wet food and adjust

Transitioning to a Mixed Diet

• Start slow – Add a little wet food to kibble.
• Increase gradually – Adjust over a week.
• Watch for reactions – Monitor digestion and allergies.
• Stay consistent – Once you find the right balance, stick with it.

Making Mealtime Even Better- DogSauce

If you’re looking for an easy way to boost health benefits and hydration—without the cost of full-time wet food—Dog Sauce is the perfect addition to your pup’s bowl.

• Enhances kibble with irresistible flavor
• Adds moisture for better digestion and hydration
• Packed with nutritional needs
• Perfect for picky eaters and senior dogs

Squeeze a pouch over kibble or mix it into wet food for an instant mealtime upgrade. No messy cans, no complicated prep—just a happy, healthy pup!

Try Dog Sauce today!