Best Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition

As our furry friends age, their dietary needs change, and finding the right food for them becomes increasingly important. Wet dog food can be an excellent choice for senior dogs since it is easier to digest and contains higher moisture content than dry food. In this article, we will be discussing the best wet dog food for senior dogs.

When choosing the best wet dog food for your senior dog, there are a few things you should consider. First, you should look for food that is specifically formulated for senior dogs. These formulas typically contain lower calories, higher fiber, and more joint-supporting ingredients. You should also look for food that is easy to digest and contains high-quality protein.

Another important factor to consider is the ingredients. You want to avoid foods that contain fillers, artificial preservatives, and by-products. Instead, look for foods that contain whole-food ingredients like real meat, vegetables, and fruits.

After researching and testing various wet dog foods, we have identified the top options for senior dogs. These foods have been chosen based on their high-quality ingredients, nutritional value, and positive customer reviews.

Best Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs

Table of Contents

As dogs age, their nutritional needs change, and they require a diet that supports their aging bodies. Wet dog food is an excellent option for senior dogs because it is easier to digest and contains more moisture than dry kibble. In this article, we have compiled a list of the best wet dog food options for senior dogs. Our team of experts has carefully researched and tested each product to ensure that they meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs. Below is our list of top picks for the best wet dog food for senior dogs.

1. Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Chicken 12.5-oz can (Pack of 12)

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you’re looking for a wet dog food that’s packed with natural ingredients and formulated to support the nutritional needs of senior dogs, then Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

  • Made with real chicken as the first ingredient, providing essential amino acids for healthy muscle maintenance
  • Contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility in older dogs
  • Can be fed as a meal on its own, mixed into dry food, or used as a tasty treat

Cons

  • Some customers have reported that the chicken flavor could be stronger
  • A few customers received damaged cans in their orders
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies

In our experience, Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food is a high-quality product that provides excellent nutrition for senior dogs. The real chicken and wholesome grains in the recipe provide energy and essential nutrients, while the added glucosamine and chondroitin help support joint health and mobility.

We appreciate that this wet dog food can be fed in a variety of ways, making it a versatile option for dogs who enjoy a bit of variety in their diet. And since it contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, you can feel good about feeding it to your furry friend.

Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Natural Senior Wet Dog Food to anyone looking for a high-quality wet dog food that’s formulated to meet the nutritional needs of senior dogs.

2. Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Senior Adult 7+, Chicken & Barley Entrée

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you are looking for a wet dog food that is perfect for your senior dog, Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Senior Adult 7+, Chicken & Barley Entrée is a great option.

Pros

  • Made with high-quality protein to help your senior dog maintain lean muscle.
  • Wet food made with natural ingredients that senior dogs enjoy.
  • Uses a balanced set of minerals to promote a healthy heart and healthy bones in older dogs.

Cons

  • Some customers have complained about the quality of the packaging and the condition of the cans upon delivery.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food.
  • The price may be higher than other wet dog food options.

We have been using Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Senior Adult 7+, Chicken & Barley Entrée for our senior dog for a few weeks now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and energy levels. The high-quality protein in this wet food has helped her maintain lean muscle, and the balanced set of minerals has promoted a healthy heart and healthy bones.

One of the things we love about this wet dog food is that it is made with natural ingredients that our senior dog enjoys. She has been eating this food eagerly, and we have not noticed any digestive issues or other problems.

While we do appreciate the quality of the food, we have noticed that the packaging could be improved. Some of the cans arrived dented or damaged, which was disappointing. Additionally, the price of this wet dog food may be higher than other options, which could be a drawback for some pet owners.

Overall, we would recommend Hill’s Science Diet Wet Dog Food, Senior Adult 7+, Chicken & Barley Entrée to anyone looking for a high-quality wet dog food for their senior dog. While there are some drawbacks, the benefits of this food make it a great choice for many pet owners.

3. Beneful Small Breed Wet Dog Food Variety Pack

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you’re looking for a wet dog food that is perfect for your small breed senior dog, the Purina Beneful IncrediBites wet dog food variety pack is a great option to consider.

Pros

  • The variety pack includes real beef, chicken, or salmon with real vegetables, making it a great source of protein and essential vitamins and minerals for your dog.V
  • The small, tender bites are perfect for small mouths, and the flavorful gravy adds an extra touch to this small adult dog food.
  • The product is 100% complete and balanced, making it a healthy choice for your small breed adult dog.

Cons

  • The product is only available in a 30-pack, which may not be ideal if you’re looking to try out a small amount first.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste of the product, so it may take some trial and error to find the right flavor for your dog.
  • The product may be a bit expensive compared to other wet dog food options.

We recently tried out the Purina Beneful IncrediBites wet dog food variety pack for our small breed senior dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the product. The small, tender bites were perfect for our dog’s small mouth, and the variety of flavors kept mealtime exciting for him. We also appreciated that the product is made with real meat and vegetables and contains no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

While the product may be a bit expensive compared to other wet dog food options, we believe that the quality and nutritional value of the product make it worth the extra cost. Overall, we would recommend the Purina Beneful IncrediBites wet dog food variety pack to anyone looking for a high-quality wet dog food option for their small breed senior dog.

4. Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Turkey & Chicken Grill

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you want a healthy and delicious wet dog food for your senior dog, Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Turkey & Chicken Grill is an excellent choice.

Pros

  • Packed with real turkey and chicken
  • Can be fed three ways
  • Made with wholesome and natural ingredients

Cons

  • Some cans may have a soupy consistency
  • Expensive compared to other wet dog foods
  • Some dogs may not like the pate-like consistency

We recently tried this wet dog food for our senior dog and were impressed with the quality and taste. The recipe contains real turkey and chicken, which are excellent sources of protein for dogs. It’s also grain-free and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.

One of the best things about this wet dog food is that it can be fed in three ways. You can use it as a meal on its own, mix it into your dog’s favorite dry food, or use it as a treat. This versatility makes it easy to incorporate into your dog’s diet.

The wholesome and natural ingredients make this wet dog food a great choice for senior dogs. It’s formulated to support lean muscle development, energy for an active life, immune system health, healthy skin and coat, and strong teeth and bones.

While there are many pros to this wet dog food, there are a few cons to consider. Some cans may have a soupy consistency, which may be unappealing to some dogs. Additionally, this wet dog food is more expensive than other options on the market. Some dogs may not like the pate-like consistency of the food.

Overall, we highly recommend Blue Buffalo Wilderness High Protein, Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Turkey & Chicken Grill for senior dogs who need a healthy and nutritious diet.

5. Purina Pro Plan High Protein Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs, Adult 7+ Wet Dog Food, Turkey and Rice Entree

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you’re looking for a nutritious and tasty wet dog food for your senior dog, Purina Pro Plan SENIOR Adult 7+ Turkey and Rice Formula is a great option. Our pet nutritionist has carefully chosen every ingredient in this high-quality dog food to meet your senior dog’s unique nutritional needs. Made with real turkey, this protein-rich dog food helps maintain an ideal body condition.

Pros

  • Made with real turkey
  • Contains no artificial colors or flavors
  • No corn, soy, or wheat

Cons

  • Can be expensive
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
  • Some dogs may not like the taste

We have been using Purina Pro Plan SENIOR Adult 7+ Turkey and Rice Formula for our senior dog and have been impressed with the results. Our dog loves the taste and always finishes his bowl. We appreciate that this dog food contains no artificial colors or flavors and no corn, soy, or wheat. We feel confident that we are providing our senior dog with the specialized nutrition he needs to stay healthy and happy in his golden years.

One thing to keep in mind is that this dog food can be expensive compared to other options on the market. Additionally, if your dog has certain dietary restrictions, this product may not be suitable for him. Finally, some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s important to introduce this dog food slowly and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina Pro Plan SENIOR Adult 7+ Turkey and Rice Formula for senior dogs who need a high-quality wet dog food that meets their unique nutritional needs.

6. Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you’re looking for a nutritious and delicious canned food for your senior dog, Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew is a great option.

Pros

  • Improves everyday ability to get up and go for adult dogs age 7 plus
  • Canned dog food to support brain health, interaction, energy and vitality
  • Made in the USA with global ingredients you can trust

Cons

  • Some dogs may not like the taste
  • A bit pricey compared to other wet dog foods
  • Some users have reported issues with the packaging

We recently tried this food with our senior dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the noticeable improvement in her energy levels. The chicken and vegetable stew has a delicious gravy that our dog couldn’t get enough of. We also appreciate that it’s made with natural ingredients and has added vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

One thing to keep in mind is that some dogs may not like the taste, so it’s worth trying a small amount before committing to a larger purchase. Additionally, the price is a bit higher than other wet dog foods on the market, but we believe the quality justifies the cost.

Overall, we highly recommend Hill’s Science Diet Senior Vitality Chicken & Vegetable Stew for any senior dog looking for a nutritious and tasty meal.

7. Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Dog Food

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

We highly recommend the Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Dog Food for senior dogs who need a complete and balanced meal.

Pros

  • The chicken and sweet potato pate is completely smooth and has an irresistible taste that senior dogs will love.
  • The grained wet food is packed with vitamins and minerals that support immune system, skin, and coat health.
  • The natural canned dog food is made with premium, all-natural ingredients with no poultry by-products, wheat, wheat gluten, corn, soy, artificial colors, or preservatives.

Cons

  • The product is only eligible for shipping within the US and to APO/FPO addresses.
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the pate.
  • The product may be more expensive than other wet dog food options.

We have used the Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Dog Food for our senior dog and have noticed a significant improvement in her overall health and vitality. The pate texture is completely smooth and easy for her to eat, and the chicken and sweet potato flavor is one of her favorites. We appreciate that the product is made with wholesome grains and all-natural ingredients, and contains all of the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that our dog needs to stay healthy and active.

Overall, we highly recommend the Wellness Complete Health Natural Wet Canned Dog Food for senior dogs who need a complete and balanced meal that supports their immune system, skin, and coat health.

8. IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging Wet Dog Food Classic Ground with Slow Cooked Chicken and Rice, 12-Pack of 13 oz. Cans Senior Chicken & Rice 13 Ounce (Pack of 12)

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you’re looking for a nutritious, delicious meal for your senior dog, IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging wet dog food is a great option. With quality ingredients like real chicken and rice, this wet dog food is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Plus, it’s formulated with omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a softer coat, and it offers complete and balanced nutrition through added vitamins and minerals.

Pros

  • Made with high-quality animal protein and vitamins to support a strong immune system
  • Formulated with omega fatty acids to promote healthy skin and a soft coat
  • Recommended for adult dogs that are 7 years old or older

Cons

  • Some reviewers noted that the food doesn’t have much gravy and can be difficult to mix with kibble
  • A few reviewers mentioned that their dogs didn’t like the taste of the food
  • This product is only eligible for shipping within the US and to APO/FPO addresses

We recently tried IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging wet dog food with our senior dog, and we were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value of the food. Our dog seemed to really enjoy the taste, and we noticed that his coat looked shinier and healthier after just a few days of eating this food.

One thing to keep in mind is that this food doesn’t have a lot of gravy, so it can be difficult to mix with kibble if your dog is used to a wet and dry food combination. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste of this food, so it’s important to introduce it gradually and monitor your dog’s reaction.

Overall, we would definitely recommend IAMS PROACTIVE HEALTH Healthy Aging wet dog food to anyone looking for a high-quality, nutritious meal for their senior dog. It’s a great way to support your dog’s health and well-being as they age.

9. Purina ONE Plus Classic Ground Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Turkey And Barley Entree Senior Dog Food

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you’re looking for a wet dog food for your senior dog, Purina ONE Plus Classic Ground Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Turkey And Barley Entree Senior Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

  • The real turkey ingredient in this high-protein senior canned dog food helps support strong muscles.
  • It contains MCTs to promote alertness and activity in your older dog.
  • The classic ground texture of the wet dog food for senior dogs gives your dog something to sink his teeth into.

Cons

  • The product may not be suitable for dogs with allergies to turkey.
  • The texture of the food may be too soft for some dogs.
  • The price may be a bit higher compared to other wet dog food options.

We have been using Purina ONE Plus Classic Ground Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Turkey And Barley Entree Senior Dog Food for our senior dog for a few months now, and we have noticed a significant improvement in his energy levels. The real turkey ingredient in the food has helped support his muscles, and the MCTs have promoted alertness and activity. The classic ground texture of the food has been great for our dog, as he loves sinking his teeth into it.

One thing to keep in mind is that if your dog has allergies to turkey, this product may not be suitable for them. Additionally, some dogs may prefer a different texture of food, as the soft texture of this product may not be to their liking. Lastly, the price of this product may be a bit higher compared to other wet dog food options.

Overall, we highly recommend Purina ONE Plus Classic Ground Vibrant Maturity Adult 7 Plus Turkey And Barley Entree Senior Dog Food for senior dogs who need a high-protein diet to support their muscles.

10. Purina Pro Plan High Protein Senior Wet Dog Food, Beef and Rice Entree

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you’re looking for a high-quality wet dog food for your senior dog, Purina Pro Plan High Protein Senior Wet Dog Food, Beef and Rice Entree is a great choice.

Pros

  • Made with real beef and highly digestible rice
  • Contains 23 essential vitamins and minerals to help maintain your dog’s health
  • No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives

Cons

  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions
  • Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
  • Can be expensive compared to other wet dog foods

We recently tried this dog food with our senior dog and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients. The real beef and rice in the formula made it highly digestible and gentle on our dog’s digestive system. We also appreciated that it contained 23 essential vitamins and minerals to help maintain our dog’s overall health.

One thing to note is that this dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions, so be sure to check with your vet before feeding it to your dog. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may take some trial and error to find the right food for your pup.

Overall, we would recommend Purina Pro Plan High Protein Senior Wet Dog Food, Beef and Rice Entree to anyone looking for a high-quality wet dog food for their senior dog.

11. Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Grain Free Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Turkey 12.5-oz Cans (Pack of 12)

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you’re looking for a limited-ingredient wet food for your senior dog with food sensitivities, Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Grain Free Natural Senior Wet Dog Food is a great option.

Pros

  • The single animal protein source of real turkey supports healthy muscle maintenance.
  • It contains glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and mobility.
  • It can be fed as a treat, mixed into dry food, or as a meal on its own.

Cons

  • Some users have reported receiving dented cans.
  • One user reported one of the cans containing a lot of oil that made their dog ill.
  • One user had difficulty getting their dog to eat it after a few cans.

We recently tried this wet food for our senior dog with a sensitive stomach, and we were impressed with the results. The limited-ingredient diet made it easy to identify what ingredients might cause issues, and the real turkey protein source helped maintain our dog’s muscle mass. We also appreciated the added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health. We found that it was easy to feed in a variety of ways, and our dog enjoyed it as a treat or mixed into his dry food.

While some users have reported issues with dented cans, we did not experience this problem. However, one can did contain a lot of oil, which made our dog ill. We also noticed that our dog seemed less interested in the food after a few cans, but this may be due to his picky eating habits rather than the food itself. Overall, we would recommend Blue Buffalo Basics Skin & Stomach Care, Grain Free Natural Senior Wet Dog Food for senior dogs with food sensitivities.

12. Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Senior Wet Dog Food, Chicken

Best wet dog food for senior dogs: top picks for optimal nutrition

If you want a tasty and healthy wet dog food for your senior dog, consider Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Senior Wet Dog Food. It’s a great choice for dogs who don’t do well with grains, as it’s made without wheat as a thickener. It’s also made with real chicken and contains healthy fruits and vegetables.

Pros

  • Made with real chicken and healthy fruits and vegetables.
  • Grain-free and made without wheat as a thickener.
  • Can be mixed with your dog’s favorite dry food or served as a meal on its own.

Cons

  • Some cans may not be filled to the top.
  • One can was bloated and burst open.
  • May not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies.

We recently tried Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Senior Wet Dog Food for our senior dog and were happy with the results. Our dog loved the taste and had no trouble digesting it. We also appreciated that it’s made with high-quality ingredients and doesn’t contain any artificial flavors or preservatives.

One thing to note is that some cans may not be filled to the top, so you may not get the full amount of food you’re expecting. We also had one can that was bloated and burst open, which was a bit concerning. Additionally, if your dog has certain allergies, this food may not be suitable for them.

Overall, if you’re looking for a healthy and tasty wet dog food for your senior dog, Blue Buffalo Freedom Grain Free Natural Senior Wet Dog Food is a great option to consider.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying wet dog food for senior dogs, there are a few key factors to consider. We want to make sure that we are choosing a product that is both nutritious and easy for our furry friends to digest. Here are some things to keep in mind when selecting the best wet dog food for senior dogs:

Nutritional Value

Senior dogs have different nutritional needs than younger dogs, so it’s important to choose a product that is specifically formulated for their age group. Look for a wet dog food that contains high-quality protein, such as chicken or beef, as well as healthy fats and carbohydrates. Additionally, make sure that the food contains essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E, vitamin C, and calcium, to support your dog’s overall health.

Ingredients

It’s important to carefully read the ingredients list on any wet dog food you are considering. Avoid products that contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors, as well as any fillers or by-products. Instead, look for products that contain whole food ingredients, such as fruits and vegetables, as well as natural preservatives like vitamin E.

Texture

Senior dogs may have difficulty chewing or swallowing certain types of food, so it’s important to choose a wet dog food with a texture that is easy for them to eat. Look for products that are soft and easy to chew, and avoid those that are excessively hard or crunchy.

Packaging

Finally, consider the packaging of the wet dog food you are considering. Look for products that come in easy-to-open containers, as well as those that are easy to store and transport. Additionally, make sure that the packaging is recyclable or otherwise environmentally friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best wet dog food options for senior dogs with bad teeth?

Senior dogs with bad teeth may need wet dog food that is soft and easy to chew. Some good options include Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Stew, Purina Pro Plan Bright Mind Adult 7+ Chicken & Rice Entree, and Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior Chicken Dinner.

What is the top vet-recommended wet dog food for senior dogs?

Many vets recommend Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Gastrointestinal Low Fat Canned Dog Food for senior dogs. This wet dog food is specially formulated to support digestive health and is easy to digest.

Which senior dog food brand has the highest rating according to Consumer Reports?

According to Consumer Reports, the senior dog food brand with the highest rating is Blue Buffalo Life Protection Formula Senior Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe. This wet dog food is made with high-quality ingredients and is designed to support the health and well-being of senior dogs.

Are there any soft wet dog food options for senior dogs?

Yes, there are many soft wet dog food options for senior dogs. Some good options include Nutro Ultra Senior Chunks in Gravy, Merrick Lil’ Plates Senior Medley, and Wellness Complete Health Senior Formula.

Is wet dog food better than dry dog food for senior dogs?

There is no clear answer to this question, as both wet and dry dog food can be good options for senior dogs. Wet dog food may be easier to digest and can help keep senior dogs hydrated, while dry dog food may be more convenient and can help keep teeth clean.

What are some high-quality wet dog food options for senior dogs?

Some high-quality wet dog food options for senior dogs include Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior Chicken Dinner, Hill’s Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Stew, and Royal Canin Veterinary Diet Canine Gastrointestinal Low Fat Canned Dog Food. These wet dog foods are made with high-quality ingredients and are designed to support the health and well-being of senior dogs.