Wet foods are fantastic solutions for senior dogs that may have dental issues, are picky eaters, or just love soft foods.
At the same time, even healthy older dogs need complete nutrition to maintain their overall health and vitality, so what is the best wet dog food for senior dogs?
Throughout the years we tested hundreds of dog foods for all ages and health issues. In this piece, we will focus on wet senior dog foods for healthy seniors.
Our criteria in choosing best wet dog food for senior dogs are:
- Food has to include high-quality protein sources
- Food has to include whole grains and complex carbohydrates, grain-free food has to include high-quality substitutes
- Food has to include healthy fats and oils
- Food has to include antioxidants and vitamins
- Foods have to be vet recommended
- Foods have to follow American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and the National Research Council (NRC) guidelines
Five wet foods with the highest ratings, vet recommended and personally picked by our senior dogs 🙂 made the cut.
So let’s talk about each in depth.
Best Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs: Table of Contents
1. HILL’S SCIENCE PLAN: Mature Adult 7+ Dog Food with Chicken
Hill’s Science Plan Mature Adult 7+ Dog Food with Chicken is a high-quality wet dog food formulated with a unique blend of ingredients selected to promote overall health and vitality in mature dogs.
Added glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate help to support joint health and mobility in aging dogs, especially those prone to arthritis or other joint-related issues.
This wet dog food is easy to digest and has a soft texture ideal for senior dogs with dental issues or sensitive teeth.
Hill’s Science Plan Mature Adult 7+ Dog Food with Chicken has been reviewed and recommended by many veterinarians, who appreciate the high-quality ingredients and balanced nutrition that this formula provides.
Overall, Hill’s Science Plan Mature Adult 7+ Dog Food with Chicken is an excellent choice for senior dogs who need a nutritionally balanced diet to support their aging bodies.
Key Ingredients
Chicken, barley, maize, pork liver, whey powder, dried beet pulp, vegetable oil, maize gluten meal, digest, minerals.
- High-quality chicken protein for muscle maintenance and immune support
- Brown rice for energy and digestive health
- Barley for healthy digestion and fiber
- Beet pulp for healthy digestion and stool quality
- Omega-6 fatty and Vitamin E acids for healthy skin and coat
- Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for joint health and mobility
- Balanced minerals for heart & kidney health.
Best for
senior dogs over the age of 7 who need a nutritionally balanced diet to maintain muscle mass, energy levels, joint health and mobility, and digestive health in older dogs.
HILL’S SCIENCE PLAN: Mature Adult 7+ Dog Food with Chicken – Reviews
Hill’s Science Plan Mature Adult 7+ Dog Food with Chicken has received positive reviews from many dog owners and veterinarians.
Dogs seem to enjoy the taste of this formula, and owners have reported improvements in their dog’s energy levels, coat quality, and overall health.
Some owners have noted that the formula may be slightly more expensive than other options, but many believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price.
2. Blue Buffalo: Homestyle Recipe™
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior is a wet dog food formula that is specifically designed to provide optimal nutrition for aging dogs.
Food is made with all-natural ingredients and contains no artificial preservatives, flavors, or colors. This makes it an excellent choice for pet owners who want to feed their dogs a natural, wholesome diet.
The formula is also free from poultry by-product meals, corn, wheat, and soy, which are common allergens for dogs, so it is a good choice for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior is available in a variety of flavors, including chicken, beef, turkey, and lamb, which can help to keep your senior dog interested and excited about mealtime.
The texture of this wet dog food is soft and easy to chew, which can be beneficial for senior dogs with dental issues or missing teeth.
Key Ingredients
- Real chicken (Chicken, Chicken Broth, Chicken Liver) as the first ingredient, which provides high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and immune support
- Brown rice for energy and digestive health
- Sweet potatoes for healthy digestion and fiber
- Carrots, peas, and cranberries for antioxidants and overall health
- Flaxseed for omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
- Glucosamine and chondroitin for joint health and mobility
- Vitamin B complex
- Vitamin D
- Potassium Iodide
- Vitamin A
- Zinc Amino Acid Chelate
- Iron Amino Acid Chelate
- Copper Amino Acid Chelate
- Cranberries
- Blueberries
- Barley
- Carrots
- Peas
- Oatmeal
Best for
Senior dogs who need a nutritionally balanced diet for maintaining muscle mass, joint health, energy levels, and overall health in older dogs.
Blue Buffalo: Homestyle Recipe™ – Reviews
Some owners have noted that the formula may be more expensive than other options, but many believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price.
Blue Buffalo is a well-respected brand that is known for producing high-quality, natural dog food formulas. The company uses only the finest natural ingredients and avoids artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. This makes Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Senior an excellent choice for pet owners who are looking for a natural, nutritionally balanced diet for their senior dogs.
3. NUTRO ULTRA: Senior Grain Free Soft Wet Dog Food
Nutro Ultra Senior Grain Free Soft Wet Dog Food is a premium wet dog food formula made with high-quality ingredients that are carefully selected to provide optimal nutrition for aging dogs.
This formula is free from grains, corn, wheat, and soy, which makes it a good option for senior dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
The soft pate texture of this formula is easy for senior dogs to chew and digest, which can be beneficial for dogs with dental issues or missing teeth.
Nutro Ultra Senior Grain Free Soft Wet Dog Food is available in a variety of flavors, including chicken, lamb, and whitefish. Food is also fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, and amino acids to support your dog’s overall health and well-being.
Key Ingredients
- Chicken, lamb, and whitefish as the first three ingredients; a trio of high-quality proteins for muscle maintenance and immune support
- Spinach, kale, carrots, and blueberries for antioxidants and overall health
- Sweet potatoes and pumpkin for healthy digestion and fiber
- Flaxseed for omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat
Best for
Ideal for maintaining muscle mass, energy levels, overall health, and immune function in senior dogs.
NUTRO ULTRA: Senior Grain Free Soft Wet Dog Food
Nutro Ultra Senior Grain Free Soft Wet Dog Food has received positive reviews,.dogs seem to enjoy the taste and texture of this formula, and owners have reported improvements in their dog’s energy levels, coat quality, and overall health.
Some owners have noted that the formula may be more expensive than other options, but many believe that the quality of the ingredients justifies the price.
Nutro Ultra is a well-respected brand that is known for producing high-quality, natural dog food formulas. The company uses only the finest natural ingredients and avoids artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. This makes Nutro Ultra Senior Grain Free Soft Wet Dog Food an excellent choice for pet owners who are looking for a natural, nutritionally balanced diet for their senior dogs.
4. Wellness: Senior Formula
Wellness Complete Health Senior is a premium wet dog food formula that is designed to promote overall health, balanced diet, and wellness in aging dogs.
The formula is available in a variety of flavors, including chicken and sweet potato, lamb and barley, and turkey and peas. This variety can help to keep your senior dog interested and excited about eating, especially dogs with reduced appetite due to aging.
The wet formula can also help to support your senior dog’s hydration for maintaining healthy kidney function in older dogs.
Wellness Complete Health Senior wet dog food is made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients, and the company has a strong commitment to quality and safety in all of its products.
Formula is free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors, and does not contain any meat by-products or fillers.
Key Ingredients
- Chicken and chicken liver as the first two ingredients; a high-quality protein for muscle maintenance and immune support.
- Sweet potatoes and carrots for healthy digestion and fiber.
- Flaxseed and salmon oil for omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and coat.
- Cranberries and blueberries for antioxidants and overall health.
Best for
This formula is ideal for maintaining muscle mass, immune funcion, energy levels, and overall health in older dogs.
Wellness: Senior Formula – Reviews
Owners have reported improvements in their dog’s energy levels, coat quality, and overall health.
Wellness is a well-respected brand that is known for producing high-quality, natural dog food formulas. The company uses only the finest natural ingredients and avoids artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. This makes Wellness Complete Health Senior an excellent choice for pet owners who are looking for a natural, nutritionally balanced diet for their senior dogs.
5. Royal Canin: Small Aging 12+ chunks in gravy
Royal Canin Small Aging 12+ chunks in gravy is an excellent wet dog food formula that provides high-quality nutrition for aging small breed dogs. With highly digestible proteins, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and a specialized blend of nutrients, this formula is designed to promote overall health and vitality in aging small dogs.
The chunks in gravy texture is easy for older dogs to chew and digest, making it an ideal option for senior dogs who may have dental issues or a reduced appetite.
The formula does not contain any artificial preservatives or flavors and is made with natural ingredients to support healthy digestion and promote overall well-being.
Royal Canin Small Aging 12+ chunks in gravy is available in a 3-ounce can, making it easy to portion and serve. It can be fed as a standalone meal or mixed with the dry kibble for a more varied diet.
The company offers a satisfaction guarantee for its products; pet owners can return the product for a full refund if they are not satisfied with the results.
Key Ingredients
- Highly digestible proteins, such as pork and chicken help to maintain muscle mass and support overall health and vitality.
- A blend of antioxidants, including vitamins E and C, help to neutralize free radicals and support healthy aging.
- Omega-3 fatty acids, such as EPA and DHA, help to support joint health, cognitive function, and healthy skin and coat.
- A specialized blend of nutrients, including calcium and phosphorus, helps to maintain bone density and support overall health and wellness.
Best for
Small breed dogs aged 12 years and older for maintaining muscle mass, cognitive function, bone health and overall health and vitality.
Royal Canin: Small Aging 12+ chunks in gravy – Reviews
Owners have reported improvements in their dog’s energy levels, coat quality, and overall health.
Royal Canin is a well-respected brand that is known for producing high-quality, specialized dog food formulas. The company uses only the finest natural ingredients and carefully balances each formula to meet the unique nutritional needs of different dogs. This makes Royal Canin Small Aging 12+ chunks in gravy an excellent choice for pet owners who are looking for a specialized, nutritionally balanced diet for their aging small dogs.
What is The Best Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs
| Hill’s | Blue Buffalo | Nutro Ultra | Wellness | Royal Canin | |
| Ingredients | 4.6 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.4 | 4.5 |
| Benefits | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.3 | 4.4 |
| Flavour | 4.2 | 4.3 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.1 |
| Price | 3.9 | 4 | 3.9 | 4.1 | 4.0 |
| Score | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 4.2 | 4.2 |
How to Choose the Best Wet Dog Food for Senior Dogs
Key factors to consider when choosing the best wet dog food for senior dogs:
- Nutritional Requirements: Senior dogs have different nutritional requirements than younger dogs, so choose a wet dog food formula that is specially designed for senior dogs. Look for formulas that have balanced levels of protein, fats, and carbohydrates and are rich in vitamins and minerals, especially those that promote joint health and cognitive function.
- Ingredients: Always read the ingredients list on the wet dog food packaging. Avoid formulas that contain artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors. Look for formulas that contain high-quality protein sources such as chicken, beef, or fish, as well as complex carbohydrates and healthy fats.
- Brand Reputation: Choose a reputable brand that has a history of producing high-quality, nutritious dog food formulas. Look for brands that have received positive reviews from other pet owners and have a strong commitment to pet health and wellness.
- Price: While price should not be the only factor in your decision, it’s important to choose a wet dog food formula that fits within your budget. Look for formulas that provide good value for money and offer balanced nutrition for your senior dog.
- Supplements: Wet foods should include high-quality supplements to support overall health and bodily functions in senior dogs.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best wet dog food for your senior dog, ensuring that they receive the nutrition they need to live a healthy and happy life.
Wet Senior Dog Food FAQ
- According to a survey conducted by the American Pet Products Association, wet food is the most popular type of food given to senior dogs, with 56% of senior dog owners reporting that they feed their dogs wet food.
- A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Science found that wet dog food was more digestible than dry food, particularly for senior dogs with compromised digestive function.
- The same study also found that wet dog food increased hydration levels in senior dogs, which is particularly important as dogs age and their ability to regulate hydration levels declines.
- According to a report by Grand View Research, the global market for wet dog food is expected to reach $22.7 billion by 2025, driven in part by an increasing number of pet owners who prefer wet food for their senior dogs
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