With so many choices when it comes to dog food these days, most pet parents find themselves comparing two different food types. Canned vs fresh dog food is one of the comparisons that always come up.
Canned dog food, also known as wet food, is sold in airtight containers for preservation. The reason is that wet food is vulnerable to breaking down and spoils quickly when exposed to the elements. Physically canned and fresh dog food may look similar aside from the packaging, but the former is prepared with preservatives; while the latter includes organic ingredients selected for their benefit. These are animal proteins like chicken, fish, or beef, as well as some veggies, and they are gently cooked before serving. The mode of preparation of each type of pet food has its benefits and drawbacks.
Canned dog food pros
High moisture levels
Canned dog food is also known as wet food. Typically the food has 80 percent more moisture levels than one would find in the average kibble or raw food diet. The extra moisture in the food assists with digestive functions as the water released in the intestines reduces constipation. It also keeps the dog full so they do not overheat.
High protein values and low-fat levels
Canned dog food has a lot of animal protein and low-fat levels, which is excellent for canine systems. Dogs have high protein, and low-fat needs, so canned food offers the proper nutrients. You could then ensure that the dog gets the peptides needed for cellular growth and bone development.
Palatability
Wet food is prepared in such a manner the texture of the food makes it tastier for the dogs. The ingredients also soak in moisture, making the dog more appetizing. Canned dog food also has a higher protein content, which is reminiscent of the typical diet dogs are used to in the wild.
Cons of canned dog food
Toxic cans
Metal cans have a compound which is known as bisphenol. This industrial agent can cause endocrine issues in dogs, leading to hormonal imbalances and increased blood pressure. Compared to dry foods, the BPA levels increase by three levels in dogs that consume canned food.
Loose fecal material
Canned foods come with preservatives which then affect the firmness of your dog’s bowel movement. Aside from making it difficult to clean when the dog defecates, this can cause the dog to become dehydrated much faster. It is ironic, considering that canned food has high moisture levels.
Pros of fresh dog food
High-quality ingredients
Fresh dog food delivery services typically use high-quality ingredients. These ingredients, such as beef, chicken, turkey, and various vegetables, are from reputable sources that do not use additives. These ingredients are human grade, so they are edible, unlike the materials used to make most commercial dog food. In this case, the advantage is that dog owners can tell exactly what is in the dog food. See our comparison of fresh dog food vs dry kibble to know more on this topic.
Palatable taste
Fresh pet food is made from muscle and organ meat, as well as certain vegetables. The meal plan resembles the default diet of any canine species, so they are tailored to match their taste. The fresh food ingredients are also gently heated to remove the pathogens without destroying the nutrient quality. That increases the food’s palatability as it has a rich aroma. It is safe to say that fresh dog food tastes better than its dry dog food equivalent. If you have a dog that does not enjoy eating kibble or boring canned food, giving them fresh dog food would be an excellent option.
Cons of fresh dog food
Short shelf life
Fresh dog food is prepared by gently cooking raw ingredients for the dog. Though it is less vulnerable to pathogens than raw dog food, there is still a chance that it can go bad should it be left exposed. For that reason, fresh food has to be handled delicately. It also has to be portioned appropriately to avoid waste due to its short shelf life. Knowing how much fresh food to feed a dog will help you portion Fido’s meals and avoid wastage and over- or underfeeding.
Costing
If you want a cost-effective meal plan for your dog, fresh food may not be the best option. Fresh food entails meats and vegetables, which are expensive when sourced from the right places. It can also be more expensive if you care for more than one pet. The cost of feeding one average-sized two-year-old dog could range from $4 to $7 a day when providing them with fresh food.
FAQs
Is fresh food better than canned for dogs?
Fresh dog food is a healthier option for dogs due to the nutritional quality of the ingredients offered. Canned dog foods do have moisture though they contain preservatives and high sodium levels, which may be unhealthy for your pet in the long run. Fresh dog food guarantees fewer trips to the vet.
Is it OK to only feed your dog wet food?
It is up to you if you would like to feed the dog a diet of only wet food. That is provided, the ingredients come with a balanced nutritional plan according to the dog’s size, age, activity level, and health issues [1].
Which is healthier dry or wet dog food?
The common consensus is wet food is better than dry dog foods. It is because it has less carbs which are harder for the dog to digest. It also comes with high moisture levels, so the dog stays hydrated. Both dry and wet food, though, have preservatives that have health effects on the dog.
