As puppies grow, they need food that will support their muscles and bones and ensure they get the best start in life. Wet puppy food is a popular choice amongst dog owners due to its wide availability and convenience, but when can you feed wet food to a puppy? And is it the best overall choice?
Our guide will explore the signs that your puppy is ready for wet food, the different variations available to feed your puppy, and the ingredients to look out for to ensure high quality. We will also discuss whether it is safe to feed your dog exclusively wet dog food, and answer some frequently asked questions.
Discover when it's the right time to feed your puppy wet food
Wet food can in various forms, such as pouches and cans
Here are some ingredients to look out for in wet puppy food, and some to avoid
If you're planning to feed your dog wet food only, it is important to be aware of the implications
We answer some common queries about wet puppy food
What are the Signs That My Puppy is Ready for Wet Food?
There are no direct signs that a puppy is ready for wet dog food, you simply have to go by their age and follow the weaning process accordingly.
Weaning a puppy from their mother's milk to solid food usually happens when your puppy is around 3-4 weeks of age and can take around six weeks to complete. When you first start feeding your puppy wet food, they may seem to dislike it and avoid finishing their meals, but don't be dismayed. Puppies need to become accustomed to their new food, so try and lift their food up to their noses a few times a day to help them adjust.
You can find out more about the best times to feed wet food to a puppy in our previous guide here.
What Variations of Wet Dog Food Can I Feed My Puppy?
Wet puppy food usually comes in cans or pouches. Most dog owners won't think twice about the best packaging for wet puppy food unless they're concerned about storage, but there could be various elements to consider.
Wet food pouches offer long shelf life and portability; airtight pouches protect food from germs and keep the food in its original state, perfect for protecting your pup from foodborne illnesses. They even come in resealable options if your pup is on a strict diet. They don't take up as much space in the cupboards when compared to cans, and can often be easier to feed to your pet. At Fetch, we stock handy wet food can lids to keep things fresh.
Wet food cans also have a long shelf life, but they aren't as convenient as pouches. However, they are a more environmentally friendly option, and are still popular amongst dog owners.
At Fetch, we stock both pouched and canned wet puppy food in our online puppy store.
What Ingredients Should I Look for in Wet Puppy Food?
When choosing high-quality wet puppy food for your pooch, try to avoid going for the cheapest possible option. They often contain low-quality ingredients and filler products; instead, look for trusted brands with named ingredients, such as "beef" and "chicken." Other features to look out for include:
- Healthy fats: examples such as salmon oil and omega-3 fatty acids are great for improving their skin and coat, and can help their developing joints and brain.
- Carbohydrates such as sweet potato and whole grains like brown rice are the better choice over alternatives like soy and white rice.
- A high percentage of meat is highly recommended. For example, the Ydolo range of wet puppy food contains 90% fresh meat, perfect for a growing puppy.
- Vitamins and minerals: such as vitamin A, vitamin D and vitamin E
All puppies are different, so it is important to browse the best options before committing. Changing a puppy's diet too much could cause digestive distress.
Is it Okay if My Dog Only Eats Wet Food?
Wet food is perfectly fine to feed exclusively to your puppy so long as they get a balanced diet. This is why providing your puppy the best diet from the get-go is essential. Our recommended brands at Fetch include:
- Carnilove: available in cans and pouches, Carnilove contains a balanced puppy-specific diet that includes 85% meat. Carnilove is completely grain free and is highly palatable, perfect for fussy pups.
- Aniforte PureNature: this canned puppy food option is available in chicken and beef flavours here at Fetch, and is free from artificial ingredients such as preservatives and colourants.
- Ydolo: a premium option, Ydolo is packed full of 90% fresh meat and 10% fruits, vegetables and supplements.
Often, budget can be an issue when providing the best diet for your puppy. That's why we recommend booking a wellbeing consultation with a canine nutrition specialist to find not only the best diet for your puppy, but one that suits your needs and lifestyle too.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should Puppies Eat Puppy Food?
Puppies should eat puppy food until they reach adulthood, which varies by breed and size. Small dogs can usually stop eating puppy food at around 9-12 months, whereas larger breeds usually have to stay on special formulas until they are between 18 and 24 months old.
What if my Puppy Refuses to Eat Wet Food?
If your puppy is refusing food, sometimes they are just trying to get used to it. If you have gradually introduced the food and they are still not eating, consider adding a small amount of kibble to their food, or switch it up completely for dry or raw. Consult with a vet if they won't eat any food whatsoever.
Are There Any Risks to Feeding Young Puppies Wet Food?
Potential risks for feeding a wet food diet include:
- Bacterial contamination if not handled or stored properly
- Overfeeding
- Dental problems, as it lacks the abrasive nature
- Nutritional completeness, but only if you opt for cheaper, filler-based options
Do Breeds or Sizes of Puppies Affect When They Can Eat Wet Food?
Yes, breed size affects when certain breeds and sizes should stop eating puppy food and move onto a strictly wet adult dog food diet, as explained previously. Consult with a canine nutrition specialist if you are still not sure.