- How should I mix wet and dry food?
- Why is mixed feeding beneficial?
- Watch that weight!
- For extra water
- Got a picky eater?
- Support those pearly whites
- Take it easy!
- For more advice
Time to mix it up?
Our best friends deserve the very best that nature has to offer. And there’s a lot of choice out there on the shelves – and a great deal more chat online amongst pet parents about whether you should stick to a wet or a dry diet.
There’s no need to choose sides, however: your dog can enjoy the best of both worlds with mixed feeding. Read on to discover the benefits of mixing things up at dinner time for your dog.
1. How should I mix wet and dry food?
First things first. Is there a particular way to mix wet and dry food? The answer is as individual as your dog. Some families prefer to put a portion of wet food in a bowl next to a portion of dry in a separate bowl at each meal. Others may prefer to feed one meal of dry food a day and the next, wet. Or you can combine both foods in one bowl, with wet food as a tasty topper to kibble, or vice versa. It all comes down to what suits your family, and your dog might even show you the way! Keeping a portion of their favourite kibble aside as a reward or snack on the go is also handy – and more pocket-friendly than wet food…
Remember not to leave wet food out for any length of time, as it can go off quite quickly compared to kibble, so do clean up swiftly after dinner time.
2. Why is mixed feeding beneficial?
It’s all nutrition, right..?
There’s no set rule that says you have to mix your dog’s food. Some dogs might prefer just wet or dry food for a variety of reasons, from age or taste, to dental health. But there are some great benefits to feeding a mix of dry and wet food that are worth taking into account:
🐾 Weight management
🐾 Hydration
🐾 Keeping interest
🐾 Dental health
3. Watch that weight!
Experts at the WALTHAM Petcare Science Institute estimate that up to a third of dogs are reported to be overweight.1
Finding the right balance to fuel your dog for energy, health and happiness, whilst not tipping the scales in the wrong direction, can be a tricky one to strike – especially if you’ve got a furry friend who always seems to have an appetite. If you’re walking that tightrope of keeping them full, but fit, feeding a combination of dry and wet food could be your friend. Wet food has fewer calories per 100g than dry. So you can add more wet food to their bowl whilst giving them the same volume of food, with a reduced calorie intake. Clever, eh!
Always refer to the feeding guide on your packs as the foundation for estimating how much food to offer your pet, adjusting the amount according to individual pet requirements. Your vet can also help if you’re unsure.
4. For extra water
One of the most important nutrients for a dog is water. It’s important for digestion and metabolism, and to regulate their temperature and lubricate eyes, ears and joints. Your dog should always have access to fresh water, but it’s not the only way to help their hydration. Whilst dry dog food contains around 10% water, wet food can contain up to 80%, so adding some wet food to the mix can help keep them hydrated, especially in the warmer months.
5. Got a picky eater?
As dogs mature, they can sometimes go through a picky phase and it’s good to keep variety in their diet. Mixing their food or simply providing a wet food topper can help to keep them interested at dinner time, and nourished.
6. Support those pearly whites
As dogs mature, their teeth may become more sensitive or less robust. Introducing softer wet food into their diet mix can be easier on older teeth.
Feeding a certain amount of dry kibble for dogs of any age is also beneficial, as the abrasive action can help to keep down plaque and tartar build-up. If you’re wondering about the right balance of wet and dry food for your dog’s dental condition, always ask your vet.
7. Take it easy!
If you’re introducing any new foods to their diet, don’t do it overnight. Transition gradually to avoid a tummy upset.
8. For more advice
Need more tips on feeding your dog? Head to our feeding guides, for every dog, of every age.
James Wellbeloved™ wet and dry food is designed to support every aspect of your dog’s health and wellbeing, from glossy skin and coat, to supporting their digestion and immune system. It’s all about doing our very best for those we love the most, for life.
Bone appétit!
