11 best wet dog foods for healthy pets

Dania Aziz

February 19, 2024
7 min read

Our furry friends shower us with unconditional loyalty and affection, so it’s only right that we pamper them with the best—the finest dog food and a bounty of treats to show our appreciation.

Navigating the sea of dog food brands and the plethora of canned options can be quite the task, though.

With so many wet dog food brands boasting about being the top choice, it’s hard to sift through the noise and find the truth.

That’s why we’ve carefully curated a list of canned dog foods that truly stand out for their quality and deliciousness.

Some of the canned dog foods we’ve discovered are so impressively made, you might just be tempted to try a spoonful yourself!

1. Purina Beneful Prepared Meals Wet Food

What makes Purina Beneful Prepared Meals a top pick in our wet dog food favorites?

It’s all about the variety it brings to your dog’s mealtime.

Imagine opening a pack and finding real beef, chicken, or lamb and rice recipes, each enriched with hearty grains and veggies for a nutritious and tasty feast.

This dog food stands out with its chunks of tender meat enveloped in a yummy stew, showcasing its quality.

You won’t find any artificial colors, preservatives, or flavors here—just a wholesome meal packed with the vitamins and minerals vital for your adult dog’s health and happiness.

Why do dogs go nuts for this wet food?

A rich and savory gravy that’s a joy to lap up.
Generous pieces of real meat, whether it’s beef, lamb, or chicken, making every bite satisfying.
Actual veggies that not only add a crunch but also pack the meal with 23 essential vitamins and minerals.
Versatile serving options: mix it with dry food or serve it up as a standalone feast.
A balanced mix of calories and protein to keep your dog in tip-top shape.
An assortment of pack varieties to keep mealtime exciting and new.

2. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe

Looking for a dog food that feels like it’s made right in your kitchen?

Consider Blue Buffalo’s Homestyle Chicken Dinner recipe—a choice that feels as close to homemade as it gets.

This recipe’s special mix of chicken, brown rice, and assorted garden veggies offers a nutritious, low-calorie meal.

Plus, the addition of blueberries and cranberries brings a burst of antioxidants that you won’t find in many other dog food options.

Blue Buffalo keeps it wholesome by excluding wheat, corn, artificial preservatives, and by-products, reducing the chance of allergies for your pooch.

Not only is this homestyle meal health-friendly, but it also promises a delicious chunk of chicken in every bite—a surefire hit with most dogs.

And the cherry on top?

It’s budget-friendly, so you can spoil your furry friend without emptying your wallet.

Why dogs can’t get enough of this wet food:

A powerhouse of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to boost your dog’s health and energy levels.
Packed with biotin for radiant skin and a glossy coat.
Visible, high-quality chicken chunks for meat lovers.
Whole grains provide the healthy carbs needed for all-day energy.
A mix of garden veggies and fruit adds exciting textures to every meal.
It’s a complete nutritional meal, meaning you can ditch those unloved supplement tablets.

3. Royal Canin Veterinary Canned Dog Food

If your furry companion has a sensitive stomach, investing in this premium wet dog food could make all the difference.

Veterinarians often recommend it for dogs with special dietary needs who still deserve something tasty that won’t upset their tummies.

For those pups who are overall healthy but find fats hard to stomach, the Canin Veterinary Diet gastrointestinal low-fat canned food is a top choice.

This product is crafted with a mix of ingredients designed to offer a healthy dose of antioxidants, easy-to-digest proteins, and prebiotics.

This blend not only supports your dog’s immune system but also maintains optimal physical health and promotes a healthy gut flora.

But it’s not just about physical well-being; Royal Canin Veterinary Canned Food Diet also focuses on mental health.

It’s packed with EPA, DHA, and Omega-3 fatty acids, usually derived from fish, to keep your dog’s mind as sharp as their bark.

Do note, due to its specialized formula, you might need a vet’s approval to purchase this dog food.

Why dogs adore this wet food:

It’s rich in dietary fibers for regular and healthy bowel movements.
Ideal for dogs that struggle with fat digestion.
Vet-recommended for aiding recovery from vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite.
Supports a robust immune system and an energetic lifestyle.
Filled with Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, and DHA for cognitive health.

4. Taste of the Wild High Prairie Canned Food

If your pup has a sensitive stomach, splurging a bit on this high-end wet dog food could be a game-changer for them.

Vets often give it a thumbs up for dogs with special dietary requirements, offering a yummy yet easy-to-digest meal option.

For those healthy dogs that just can’t seem to handle fats well, the Canin Veterinary Diet gastrointestinal low-fat canned food is a go-to recommendation.

Crafted with a carefully chosen mix of ingredients, this food ensures your dog gets a balanced intake of antioxidants, proteins that are easy on the stomach, and prebiotics.

This powerful combo helps bolster your dog’s immune system, maintain optimal health, and promote a flourishing gut microbiome.

But Royal Canin doesn’t stop at physical health; this diet also caters to your dog’s mental well-being, thanks to its richness in fish-derived EPA, DHA, and Omega-3 fatty acids.

Just a heads-up, its specialized nature means you might need a vet’s nod before you can buy it.

Why dogs wag their tails for this food:

Packed with dietary fibers for smooth digestion and healthy poops.
A lifesaver for pups struggling with fat digestion.
Vet-endorsed for aiding in recovery from issues like vomiting, diarrhea, or a lack of appetite.
An immune system booster that supports a zestful lifestyle for your dog.
Full of Omega-3 fatty acids, EPA, and DHA, keeping your dog mentally sharp and focused.

5. Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food

The name might sound ordinary, but the contents of this dog food are anything but!

You don’t need a gourmet chef to convince your dog to eat their greens.

Just open up a can of Hill’s Science Diet Adult Savory Stew with chicken and vegetables.

This blend boasts real chicken strips, an assortment of vegetables brimming with nutrients, and brown rice, all marinated in a sumptuous stew.

The perfect mix of proteins, carbs, minerals, vitamins, and Omega-6 fatty acids makes it a fantastic choice for keeping your adult dog sprightly and in tip-top health.

Why dogs can’t get enough of this wet food:

A stew so tasty, it’ll have them drooling, featuring beef, chicken, brown rice, and veggies.
The lean proteins help keep your dog in shape and their muscles strong.
Gentle on the digestive system.
Packed with biotin and vitamin E for healthy skin and a glossy coat.
Available in versions tailored to adult dogs from 1 to 6 years old, as well as those aged 7 and up.

6. Natural Balance Ultra-Premium Wet Food

Natural Balance offers a fantastic and budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on taste, meatiness, or nutritional goodness.

While the chunks of chicken, lamb, salmon, and venison in Natural Balance Ultra-Premium might not be as hefty as those in other high-end canned dog foods, the company compensates by blending them with a delightful mix of fresh carrots, legumes, sweet potatoes, and brown rice.

When it comes to mealtime, taste and scent are crucial for capturing any dog’s interest.

Natural Balance ensures they hit the mark by steering clear of artificial ingredients and by-products.

Why dogs wag their tails for this wet food:

Available in beef, lamb, liver, and chicken options, and with prices that won’t break the bank, you can treat your furry friend to a different recipe every day to keep things exciting.
Includes Yucca Schidigera extract to support a healthy digestive system and minimize any unpleasant odors in your dog’s business.
Suitable for dogs of all breeds and ages.
Packed with dried kelp and carrots, offering essential vitamins like A and B12 to boost the immune system.
Each batch undergoes rigorous testing for quality and safety before hitting the shelves.

7. Instinct by Nature’s Variety Original Canned Dog Food

Rest assured, there’s no need to sift through labels for corn, wheat, soy, or gluten with this star contender on our list of top wet dog foods.

It’s incredibly budget-friendly, ringing in at under $20, suitable for small, medium, or large breed adult dogs.

Each can is brimming with protein-packed goodness, featuring chicken meat, turkey, and chicken liver, guaranteed to make any pooch’s tail wag with delight.

Instinct’s Original Canned dog food formula balances out its rich protein content with wholesome fruits and vegetables, loaded with vitamins and minerals.

Plus, to keep your furry friend’s coat luscious and velvety, omega fatty acids are sprinkled into the mix.

Why dogs go barking mad for this wet food:

Each can boasts a whopping 95% chicken meat, chicken liver, and turkey.
Packed with fruits and veggies rich in minerals and vitamins, promoting a robust immune system and peak physical health.
No artificial colors, preservatives, or by-product meals to be found.
Ideal for fussy eaters, with no potatoes, soy, corn, wheat, or other grains in sight.

8. CESAR Wet Dog Food Variety Pack Trays

Indulge your furry friend with this gourmet wet food fit for dogs of all sizes.

This variety pack offers four irresistible recipes: Angus beef, filet mignon, rotisserie chicken, and ham and eggs.

Say goodbye to struggling with stubborn cans—this delight comes in easy-to-peel, single-serve trays that even your pooch can handle.

Each recipe is brimming with essential vitamins and minerals, ensuring your dog enjoys a happy and healthy life.

These self-serve trays can be served as a complete meal or as a tasty topper on dry dog food.

But wait, there’s more! Alongside the beef, chicken, and ham variety pack, there’s also the CESAR Steak Lover variety pack, packed with mouthwatering meat cuts for those meat-loving pups.

Plus, there’s the Poultry Lover variety for those with a craving for bird meat.

Why dogs go nuts for this wet food:

With delectable filet mignon, Angus beef, rotisserie chicken, and ham and egg recipes, it’s like fine dining for dogs.
Bursting with immunity-boosting vitamins and minerals, ensuring a healthy and happy pup.
Loved by both small and large dogs, whether served alone or mixed with dry food.
Each serving offers a variety of textures, making it irresistible even for picky eaters.
Easy-to-use and lick disposable single-serve trays for ultimate convenience.

9. Pedigree Choice Cuts in Gravy Pouches

Give your furry friend a taste of luxury with Pedigree Choice Cuts.

Each pouch is packed with mouthwatering Filet Mignon cuts drenched in a savory gravy—sure to make tails wag with delight.

Whether you’re looking to treat your pup or serve up a satisfying meal, this wet food won’t break the bank.

Choose from single-pack pouches or opt for the value-packed options of eight, 18, or 24 packs to suit your needs.

Each meaty pouch is fortified with essential vitamins, oils, and minerals, promoting both inner and outer well-being for your beloved pet.

Why dogs go gaga for this wet food:

Perfect for adult dogs of all sizes, from small to large breeds.
Irresistible Filet Mignon cuts that’ll have your dog begging for more.
The ideal texture and size of each meat piece ensure effortless eating.
Opt for the variety pack and switch between mouthwatering flavors like Filet Mignon in gravy, Grilled Chicken in sauce, Beef, Noodles, and Vegetable in sauce, and more.
Packed with vitamins, oils, and minerals, keeping your pup looking and feeling their best.

10. Merrick Real Chicken Wet Dog Food

Say hello to a can of canine joy that’s as wholesome as it gets—free from corn, wheat, soy, grains, and gluten, but packed with the goodness of real deboned chicken.

Nestled in a flavorful chicken broth, each bite is elevated with moisture and taste, making mealtime a drool-worthy affair.

Merrick’s gluten-free recipe goes the extra mile, fortified with essential vitamins A, B12, E, D3, amino acids, and other vital nutrients to ensure your furry friend enjoys a balanced diet while savoring every mouthful.

Rest assured, this tasty treat is also a safe one, with each serving free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.

Why dogs go bonkers for this wet food:

Suitable for various breeds of both small and large dogs.
Packed with easily digestible proteins and wholesome carbs for optimal nutrition.
Features deboned chicken, adding a delicious twist without posing any choking hazards.
Boasts a rich chicken broth with a flavor and aroma that keeps tails wagging for more.
The perfect blend of vitamins and minerals helps maintain your dog’s weight and overall well-being.

11. Iams ProActive Health Canned Dog Food

While Iams may have had its ups and downs in the past, it’s certainly making amends with this top-notch product.

Iams ProActive Health Adult with lamb and rice puts high-quality animal proteins in the spotlight.

This dynamic duo is complemented by a carefully balanced blend of vitamins, minerals, and omega fatty acids, all geared toward bolstering your pup’s immune system and overall health.

Thanks to a slow-cooking process, the lamb and rice pate retains as many vitamins and minerals as possible, while the rich broth locks in all the delicious flavors.