Feeding plays a big role in your dog’s health. The right food supports growth, immunity, digestion, energy, and even mood. Whether you are bringing home a new puppy or already parenting a dog, feeding choices sometimes feel confusing. This guide keeps things simple, real, and useful so you feel confident about what goes into your dog’s bowl.
What is the difference between wet and dry dog food?
Wet food has a high moisture content and a softer texture, while dry food has a low moisture content and stays crunchy. Wet food smells stronger and feels closer to fresh meat. It works well for older dogs, picky eaters, or dogs with chewing difficulties. It also helps with hydration, especially in cities with hot weather like Chennai, Delhi, or Bengaluru during summer.
Dry food is easy to store and measure. It supports chewing and structure during routine feeding. Many vets recommend dry food for daily use because it controls overeating and supports oral health when paired with brushing.
Some pet parents mix both because wet food increases palatability and dry food supports convenience.
Here’s a quick snapshot including familiar formats in India.
|
Type |
Example |
Benefits |
When to Use |
|
Wet Style or Fresh Meals |
Home cooked meals, raw meals, bone broth, canned meals |
Tasty, hydrating, gentle on digestion |
Seniors, picky eaters, recovery feeding |
|
Dry or Crunchy Food |
Kibble, dehydrated treats |
Convenience, structure, dental support |
Daily feeding or training |
|
Hybrid Feeding |
Kibble with fresh vegetables, raw toppers, bone broth, fresh meat |
Balance of taste, cost, and nutrition |
Most households and medium to large breed dogs |
At Canine Craving, many pet parents use our fresh meals, bone broths, and dehydrated treats when creating hybrid-style feeding routines.
Can I feed my dog raw meat safely?
You can feed raw meat safely if you follow proper hygiene, storage, and sourcing rules, and introduce it gradually.
Raw feeding can support coat shine, muscle development, and gut health. However, raw meat can carry harmful bacteria like E. coli or Salmonella. A study by Science Direct found a higher contamination risk when hygiene techniques were ignored.
Safe raw feeding practices:
-
Buy meat from trusted and fresh suppliers.
-
Freeze for a minimum of 72 hours before feeding.
-
Store and thaw inside the refrigerator
-
Clean utensils, bowls, and surfaces after handling
-
Observe stool quality and behaviour.
If your dog has kidney disease, pancreatitis, or a weak immune system, get a vet's opinion before starting raw.
More Reads: 10 Healthy Liquid Dog Food Options Your Dog Will Love
How to balance nutrients in DIY dog food?
You balance nutrients by combining protein, fats, complex carbs, fibre, and essential vitamins and minerals in the right ratio.
Homemade food sometimes misses micronutrients like omega-3 fats, calcium, zinc, and amino acids. UC Davis research found that more than 90 percent of homemade dog food recipes online lacked complete nutrition.
A balanced fresh meal usually contains:
-
Protein: chicken, mutton, eggs, liver
-
Fibre: pumpkin, carrots, greens
-
Carbs (optional): rice, millets, or sweet potato
-
Fat: fish oil or ghee in moderation
-
Calcium: eggshell powder or safe, natural bone
A certified canine nutritionist can customize this based on allergies or breed needs.
More Reads: Healthy Foods to Help Your Dog Gain Weight Safely
How often should I feed my dog?
Feed puppies 3 to 4 meals daily. Feed adult dogs 1 to 2 meals daily. Adjust feeding for senior dogs based on mobility and digestion.
Portion size depends on breed, age, metabolism, and activity. An article from The Times of India reports a rise in obesity among pet dogs in major cities because of accidental overfeeding and lack of exercise.
Watch these signs:
-
Increasing belly size
-
Laboured breathing during walks
-
Low energy after meals
If you see these changes, reduce the portion size slightly.
Final Thoughts
Feeding your dog feels easier when you understand the differences between food types, follow balanced nutrition, and maintain a regular schedule. Every dog has unique needs, so observe appetite, digestion, skin, and energy while adjusting portions slowly. If you ever feel unsure, speak to a vet or a certified canine nutritionist for guidance.
If you prefer fresh food with clean ingredients, you can explore Canine Craving for natural meals, bone broths, and treats that support both wet and dry feeding. Your dog deserves nutrition that feels good and tastes exciting.
