The Benefits of Feeding Wet Food to Working Dogs

Feeding wet food to dogs can offer several benefits, especially for working dogs, and it can be mixed with dry food to create a balanced and appealing diet. Here’s a look at the benefits of wet food, as well as considerations for mixing it with dry food for working dogs:

Benefits of Wet Food for Dogs

1. Increased Moisture Content
• Wet food contains significantly more water than dry kibble (about 75% moisture vs. around 10% for dry food). This is particularly beneficial for dogs that may not drink enough water, which is a common issue for some dogs, especially in working or high-energy breeds. The additional moisture helps maintain proper hydration, which is essential for overall health and supports kidney and urinary tract function.
2. Easier to Digest
• Wet food tends to be more palatable and easier for dogs to digest. The softer texture is often easier on the stomach, especially for dogs with sensitive digestion or dental issues. For older dogs or dogs that are recovering from illness or surgery, wet food can be gentler on their systems.
3. Higher Palatability
• Wet food is often more palatable, making it a great option for picky eaters or dogs with reduced appetite. The smell of wet food can entice dogs to eat more readily, which is helpful for working dogs that need a high-energy diet.
4. Better Weight Control (for some dogs)
• Wet food is typically lower in calories per volume because of its higher water content. For dogs prone to obesity or those that need to manage their weight, this can be beneficial. However, you need to be mindful of the caloric content if you’re mixing it with dry food.

Mixing Wet Food with Dry Food for Working Dogs

Mixing wet food with dry food can offer the best of both worlds, but there are some important considerations:

1. Balanced Nutrition
• Ensure that the combination provides a balanced and complete diet. Both wet and dry foods should meet your dog’s nutritional needs, including protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. If you're feeding a working dog with higher energy demands, make sure the food is formulated to meet those needs (such as a working or performance dog formula).
2. Caloric Needs
• Wet food tends to be lower in calories per volume due to its high moisture content. When mixing wet and dry food, you’ll need to adjust the amounts to ensure your dog is receiving enough calories to sustain their activity levels. If you feed too much wet food, you might underfeed them. Conversely, feeding too much dry food could lead to weight gain.
3. Digestibility and Satiety
• A combination of wet and dry food can be more satisfying for dogs and help keep them full longer. The moisture in wet food can make the meal more filling, while the crunch of dry kibble may satisfy your dog’s natural chewing instincts.
4. Convenience and Storage
• Wet food needs to be stored in the fridge after opening and has a shorter shelf life than dry food. Mixing it with dry kibble can help reduce waste by making the wet food last longer in each meal. For working dogs, this might be a practical option for meals that need to be prepared in bulk and stored.
5. Meal Variety
• If you have a dog that’s always out working, variety in their meals can help keep them interested in eating. A mix of wet and dry food offers different textures and aromas which can make mealtime more enjoyable for them, particularly when they’re on the go.
6. Water Intake
• Working dogs, especially those involved in intense physical activity, can become easily dehydrated. Mixing wet food with dry food can help boost their hydration levels, especially if they aren’t drinking enough water throughout the day. However, ensure fresh water is always available, particularly if you're feeding a primarily dry food diet.

Considerations for Working Dogs

• Energy Requirements: Working dogs typically have high energy needs. Make sure that the mix of wet and dry food provides adequate calories, protein, and fat. Look for dog food specifically designed for active or working dogs, which will have the right balance of nutrients for their physical demands.
• Meal Timing and Frequency: For working dogs, you may need to feed them multiple times throughout the day, particularly after strenuous activities. Mixing wet and dry food can help provide the right balance of quick energy (from wet food) and sustained energy (from dry food).
• Easy Transport: If you're feeding a working dog during training sessions, competitions, or outdoor activities, you may find that dry food is easier to transport and store. However, if you're mixing with wet food, consider using airtight containers to keep it fresh and to prevent spoilage.

Chudleys Wet Dog Food

A complete wet food for adult working dogs, packed with quality ingredients including meat or fish along with nutritious vegetables with key vitamins and minerals. The diet is naturally hypoallergenic and benefits from natural ingredients, no artificial colours, flavours or preservatives as well as added joint, digestive, skin & coat support.

• Glucosamine & Chondroitin for joint support
• Prebiotics, FOS & MOS for digestive support
• Skin & coat support
• Natural antioxidants
• No artificial colours, flavourings or preservatives
• No added dairy or soya
• Hypoallergenic
• Four recipes;
  • Rich in Chicken & Beef with Lamb
  • Rich in Beef & Chicken with Tripe
  • Chicken rich in Turkey with Liver
  • Chicken rich in White Fish

Conclusion

Wet food can be a valuable addition to the diet of working dogs, providing moisture, palatability, and extra nutrition. When mixed with dry food, it can enhance a dog’s meal experience and improve hydration. However, it’s essential to adjust portions to meet the dog’s energy and caloric needs, and to ensure that the food mix remains nutritionally balanced. Always monitor your dog’s weight and activity level to avoid over or underfeeding and consult with a veterinarian if you're unsure about the right balance for your working dog’s needs.