Best Wet Dog Food for Large Breeds – Top Picks!

Having a large dog like an English Otterhound can be fun, but it entails more responsibilities. Among these is your puppy’s diet, and wet dog food is an excellent addition. However, the question is this: what is the best for large breeds?

The best ones should contain natural ingredients, be packed with nutrition, and be easy to eat. With that in mind, I’ve put together this article to help you make the best choice for your pup.

WET DOG FOODBRANDEXPERT RATINGCHECK PRICE
Our Top Pick!
Solid Gold Wet Dog Food (Cold Water Salmon and Vegetable Recipe)
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Simply Perfection Wet Dog Food (Lamb Recipe) Check Price
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wet Dog Food (Turkey & Chicken Grill Recipe) Check Price
"I and love and you" Wet Dog Food (Duck in Gravy Recipe) Check Price
NUTRO Wild Frontier Wet Dog Food Check Price
Purina ONE Smartblend Wet Dog Food (Turkey and Venison Recipe) Check Price
Purina Pro Plan Focus Wet Dog Food (Beef and Rice Recipe) Check Price
AvoDerm Wet Dog Food (Salmon and Potato Stew Recipe) Check Price

Wet Dog Food for Large Breeds vs. Regular Wet Dog Food

Due to their size, large dogs have different dietary needs than normal dogs. Therefore, when shopping for their food, you must ensure your pup gets the nutrition they need.

However, unlike kibble or dry food, there aren’t many wet food options for large breed dogs. So, what is the difference between wet dog food for large breeds and regular ones?

🍖 Protein

The most crucial thing you must remember is that larger breeds usually have more muscle mass. That means they are naturally leaner than smaller pups and large dogs need more protein. After all, what else would help maintain or build all of that muscle? 

The issue with regular dog food is that they tend to neglect protein and add other nutrients instead. Therefore, when buying food for your large dog, ensure it has decent protein levels. And that it consists of quality protein. 

Quality protein means the product has ‘real meat,’ making it healthier and more nutritious. Although not all wet dog food for large breeds has this, there is an alternative. And that is ensuring the product has little to no by-products.

📏 Size 

Moreover, you need to consider the Size or amount of the wet food. After all, regular wet food for small- to average-sized dogs tends to have smaller servings. So you need to look at the product’s serving size to see if it’s sufficient for your big pup. And this applies to kibble toppers as well. 

That’s because 1 to 3 ounces of wet dog food won’t go far in satisfying a pup weighing over 50 pounds.

I’ll talk more in detail later in the article about the other things you need to look for when buying wet food for large breeds. However, here are my top 8 wet dog foods for now.


Best Wet Dog Food for Large Breeds – Our Top 8!

OUR TOP PICK: Solid Gold Wet Dog Food (Cold Water Salmon and Vegetable Recipe)

Product Name: Solid Gold Wet Dog Food (Cold Water Salmon and Vegetable Recipe)

Product Description: If you're looking for the best wet dog food for large breeds, look no further than the Solid Gold Wet Dog Food (Cold Water Salmon and Vegetable Recipe). This dog food consists of a balanced formula tailored to meet the unique dietary needs of large dogs. In addition, it has quality proteins, helping maintain your pup's health with ease. The protein comes from real chicken, which is a luxury for dog food. Moreover, it's packed with more than 20 core superfoods. This formula has been designed to give your dog all the nutrients they need for long and healthy life. And it includes Omega-6 and Omega-3 fatty acids for healthier skin and coat. Finally, the ingredients are easy to digest to give your dog a more significant health boost. It contains single-source protein, probiotics and is 100% grain- and gluten-free. So even pups with sensitive stomachs can enjoy great food without compromising their health!

Offer price: $$$

Availability: InStock

  • Ingredients Quality
  • Packaging
  • Recipe
  • Price
Overall
5

Summary

Due to its top-quality recipes, Solid Gold has been a favorite brand among large breed owners, including me! In addition, this product uses a holistic blend. That means everything in this package is all-natural and organic. So you can give your dog delicious and healthy food free from any by-products like wheat and corn. Moreover, the blend comes with probiotics that can stay alive and thrive until consumed.

With this, you can help your pup achieve optimal digestive and stomach health. As a result, your furry companion will likely be coming back for more without compromising their health! The only issue with this product is that since it contains a single protein source (chicken), it isn’t the best choice for dogs sensitive to chicken. Anyway, you can always check Solid Gold for other recipes. Overall, this product is the perfect all-around wet dog food for large breeds.

Pros

Made with 100% natural and organic ingredients. Has a single protein source (chicken). Contains probiotics for easier digesting. Doesn’t contain by-products. Uses a tasty recipe for the pickiest dogs.

Cons

Expensive for canned dog food, but it’s definitely worth the price. One can is only good for a single serving.


RUNNERS-UP

Simply Perfection Wet Dog Food (Lamb Recipe)

Best Wet Dog Food

The following product I recommend for large breeds is Simply Perfection Wet Dog Food (Lamb Recipe). After all, in the world of pets, who doesn’t know this brand? It’s been in the business for years, helping all large breed owners like you and me.

Its blend is unbeatable as it uses real meat (lamb) and is jam-packed with protein. That is perfect for large dogs that are sensitive to common meats like chicken.

Moreover, its lamb and rice combination is perfect for pups who aren’t sensitive to grains. In addition to the meat, it’s also rich in whole grains and vegetables! As a result, this blend gives your pup ample carbohydrates, keeping them energized. With this, you can rest assured that your active dog is getting the nutrition they need.

With Simply Perfection, you don’t need to worry about getting by-products. After all, this feed contains 100% lamb meat, giving your larger-than-average dog everything they need. Hence, the brand’s name!

 

The best part is, you know you’re getting your money’s worth since it uses vegetable broth instead of water. No wonder my Otterhound loves scarfing this stuff down! So not only are you investing in quality food, but you also satisfy your large canine needs easily.

Finally, all cans are easy to open, so you don’t need to worry about running late for work during morning feedings! The only issue here is since it has whole grains, it’s not ideal for pets with sensitive stomachs.

Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wet Dog Food (Turkey & Chicken Grill Recipe)

The Blue Buffalo Wilderness Wet Dog Food (Turkey & Chicken Grill Recipe) is quality and made for large breeds! It has become a classic favorite among owners looking for quality wet dog food.

It’s packed with real turkey and chicken, using a formula tailored for large breeds. And it has the perfect protein levels your large dog needs to maintain optimal health. Moreover, this is grain-free and doesn’t hold back on its meat, making it one of the tastiest on the market.

Furthermore, its formula contains 100% wholesome ingredients. That means the blend has no by-product meals, corn, wheat, and soy. So you can be confident that you’re only giving the best of the best for your pup.

Moreover, the wet dog food also has added vitamins and minerals for an added health boost. These will keep your large dogs healthy and active up into their golden years!

But I like this formula because you can feed your pet three ways! They can make delicious treats to reward your large dogs, stand in as a meal on their own, and add more flavor to kibbles. With Blue Buffalo Wilderness, you’re getting 100% value for your money.

The only issue is that some customers have complained that their pooch experienced stomach aches after eating this dog product. Although they didn’t state the specific reason, the high protein levels might be the issue. Anyway, you can easily avoid this by consulting with your vet.

Pros
  • 100% grain-free.
  • Doesn’t contain any by-products like corn and wheat.
  • Uses a complete and balanced formula.
  • Made with chicken broth.
  • Has high protein levels.
Cons
  • Customers have complained about dogs having stomach issues after consumption.
  • Shipping issues have been highlighted by some customers.

I and love and you Wet Dog Food (Duck in Gravy Recipe)

Are you looking for a more budget-friendly option? Then look no further than the “I and love and you” Wet Dog Food (Duck in Gravy Recipe). This wet food topper has become a top pick among the large breed owner looking for quality at a low price.

The most notable feature of this wet dog food is that it’s tailored to meet the unique needs of large breeds. And even though it’s just a food topper, it can give your pup’s meal 10x the health boost needed. After all, it has the perfect calorie and protein levels large breeds need to stay healthy.

You know you’re getting a great deal for your money as the product lists real meat as its primary ingredient. So you can be confident enough that you’re giving quality meals to your pup.

Plus, it contains no fillers, from corn to gluten; you can’t find these in this product. However, it does have additional ingredients like montmorillonite clay and ground flaxseeds. And these support healthy digestion for your pet.

Moreover, this food topper is delicious for hounds, thanks to the added gravy. For this reason, this product is a good choice for picky eaters. All you need to do is pour it on top of your pooch’s favorite kibble!

Overall, “I and love and you” Wet Dog Food (Duck in Gravy Recipe) is the best choice for large breed owners who want a budget-friendly pick. The only issue is that this isn’t enough to meet your dog’s health needs. Anyway, this is an excellent addition to kibble.

Pros
  • Its serving size perfect for mixing with kibbles.
  • Has no additives like corn, wheat, soy, or gluten.
  • Provides an ample boost of superfoods.
  • Uses Non-GMO protein.
  • 100% grain-free.
Cons
  • Isn’t enough to feed a large dog by itself.
  • Only comes in 3-ounce pouches.

NUTRO Wild Frontier Wet Dog Food

Another contender for the best wet canine food for large breeds is NUTRO Wild Frontier Wet Dog Food. Its formula is specially made for large breed dogs.

Its meaty flavor is a favorite among large breeds as not only is it delicious, but it also builds muscles! When eaten in recommended servings, your dog will stay in top health up to its golden years.

The primary ingredients of this product are all meat, complete with gravy. In addition, ingredients include lamb, chicken, and pork. And to make things even more delicious, this wet dog food uses chicken broth instead of water. For this reason, it’s one of the most popular picks for large breed owners.

Moreover, for added nutrition, this food also has a nutrient-rich liver. This extra ingredient should be enough to satisfy your dog’s desire for full prey.

Meanwhile, for sensitive pups, its grain-free formula is safe enough for consumption. That means you can be confident enough that your dog will receive the nutrition they need without affecting their health. Plus, you get many vitamins and minerals all in one can.

Finally, you don’t need to worry about by-products or other unnecessary preservatives. After all, this wet dog food contains no artificial colors, flavors, etc.; you’re only getting the best quality!

Overall, this protein-packed wet food is an excellent choice for large breeds as it helps muscle growth. With this, you can ensure your pup stays in perfect health, allowing them to enjoy a long life.

The only downside is that since it contains 92% meat, dogs can easily get addicted. And this can lead to obesity, so make sure to feed them in moderation.

Pros
  • 100% grain-free recipe.
  • Doesn’t have artificial preservatives.
  • Contains no by-products like corn, wheat, or soy.
  • Around 92% of the formula comes from real meat.
  • Doesn’t contain any chicken by-product.
Cons
  • Initially switching to this wet dog food may cause digestive issues. However, it gets better overt ime.
  • Expensive.

Purina ONE Smartblend Wet Dog Food (Turkey and Venison Recipe)

If you’re looking for balanced yet affordable wet dog food for your large dog, I recommend Purina ONE Smartblend Wet Dog Food (Turkey and Venison Recipe). This quality food uses organic ingredients made for larger breeds.

It uses a tailored recipe to specifically meet the unique dietary needs of large breeds. In addition, the primary ingredient of this wet food is real meat (turkey). So in that department, you can be confident enough of this product’s quality.

Moreover, this formula is 100% grain-free, making it ideal for large dogs of all stages. Plus, pups with sensitive stomachs can enjoy this product without issues. And for easy digestion, this wet dog food blend also has fiber.

Purina ONE guarantees that all its products contain no fillers, such as wheat, corn, and soy. All blends only use quality ingredients to promote better health in all large breeds.

However, what stands out for me regarding this dog food is its antioxidant levels. This wet dog food has four antioxidant sources, promoting a healthier immune system. And not only that, but this addition can help promote better skin and coat health.

My only issue with this product is that some customers say their dogs quickly got tired of it. After all, it is on the cheaper side, meaning they’re likely made in mass production. And this can affect the quality of the food.

You can change your pup’s wet food daily to change it up.

Overall, this is an excellently balanced wet food perfect for all large dog breeds. And you get quality food for fewer costs compared to other brands.

Pros
  • Cheaper than other brands.
  • Contains real turkey meat.
  • Has no fillers or added preservatives.
  • Contains no grain or gluten.
  • Uses chicken broth instead of water.
Cons
  • Dogs quickly get tired of the flavor.
  • Some dogs reacted negatively to the food according to some reviews.

Purina Pro Plan Focus Wet Dog Food (Beef and Rice Recipe)

I recommend getting the Purina Pro Plan Focus Wet Dog Food (Beef and Rice Recipe) for owners with pups who don’t do well on protein-packed foods. That is an excellent option since it has a relatively simple ingredient list.

It only contains oat bran, rice, and meat, which shouldn’t be too overwhelming. Moreover, this dog food was made with the needs of larger canine breeds in mind. Finally, it doesn’t contain too many carbs, managing your tail-waggers weight while keeping them satisfied.

The primary ingredient of this wet food is beef, making it still a relatively rich food for your dog. So even if it isn’t as protein-packed as other products on this list, it should be enough to meet your dog’s needs. After all, this was specifically made for large dogs over 50 pounds!

Aside from that, the recipe contains no artificial flavors or colors. In this formula, you can expect only the best organic ingredients sourced from the US. Plus, your pooch shouldn’t have many issues when eating, thanks to its thin consistency. With this, your large dog’s digestion should improve in no time.

An issue that most customers share about this product is the smell. However, although it can be unpleasant, it shouldn’t bother your pet much. You can feed your pooch in an area far from people.

Pros
  • Boasts a balanced recipe.
  • Doesn’t contain any artificial flavors.
  • Has the perfect mix of premium proteins and nutrients.
  • Uses top-quality energy sources.
  • Simple ingredient list for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Cons
  • Many buyers complained about its smell.
  • Some report dogs having digestive issues after consumption. So, feed in moderation.

AvoDerm Wet Dog Food (Salmon and Potato Stew Recipe)

My last pick for the best wet dog food for large breeds is the AvoDerm Wet Dog Food (Salmon and Potato Stew Recipe). You’ll see this premium brand everywhere, and many experts highly recommend it.

AvoDerm produces a quality line of wet food made for larger breeds. It uses a high-quality recipe for breeds over 50 pounds, consisting of salmon and vegetables. This unique flavor is perfect for picky pups, and it’s easier to chew, thanks to its thin consistency.

With this, your canine friend will get all the nutrition they need without making mealtimes a chore. However, what makes AvoDerm unique is that they use avocadoes in all their dog food. And this is an excellent source of fatty acids.

Fatty acids like Omega-3 are crucial in a larger dog’s diet, especially ones with a lot of fur like otterhounds, because they promote better skin and coat health. Moreover, this blend contains easy-to-digest proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

Finally, its unique flavor and aroma can encourage even the pickiest pups to chow down. That’s why I included it on this list since bigger dogs tend to have larger and more specific appetites.

Pros
  • Improves skin and coat health.
  • Uses salmon, peas, carrots, and potatoes as primary ingredients.
  • 100% organic.
  • Has no grains or gluten.
  • Doesn’t contain any added preservatives.
Cons
  • Flavor isn’t favored by all dogs.
  • Expensive.

How to Choose the Best Wet Dog Food for Large Breeds (Buying Guide)

So, how can you tell quality wet dog food from junk food? From protein quality to supplements, here’s what you need to look for when buying wet dog food for large dogs:

🥩 Lists Whole Protein as the First Ingredient

The first indication of quality food is it has ‘real meat’ as its primary ingredient. After all, why would you pay for water? But unfortunately, many companies nowadays use water as the primary ingredient in their products.

Although water is crucial for making wet dog food, it shouldn’t be the primary ingredient. If you see water at the top, avoid the product immediately since you’re likely paying more than you should. Plus, it isn’t the healthiest option for your pup. 

So the first thing you need to look at when buying wet dog food for large breeds is the primary ingredient. And make sure it says real meat like chicken, beef, etc. 

However, don’t just go along with it when you see the word ‘chicken’ or ‘beef.’ You must ensure it doesn’t have ‘processed’ or ‘by-product’ next to the word. These indicate that it’s not real meat and likely made by leftovers of the animal stated. And these can include mixtures of beaks, hooves, and bones.

In short, always look for wet food that lists whole protein as its primary ingredient.

❌ Doesn’t Have Artificial Ingredients

Many dogs, especially larger breeds, couldn’t care less about what color their food is. After all, most pups are only in it for the flavor and quality. So, why would you give them food filled with unhealthy and necessary artificial dyes? 

Moreover, not only are these unnecessary, but they can also compromise your dog’s health. Therefore, choose brands with fewer added ingredients when looking for wet dog food. Or pick one with a holistic or all-natural blend.

Overall, the fewer the ingredients, the healthier the food is for your pooch.

🌎 Made in a Nation with High Safety Standards

Nowadays, many corporations do their manufacturing overseas to save some money. Although it’s one thing to buy shirts and shoes made overseas, you shouldn’t trust your dog’s health in countries with low safety standards. These ‘safety standards’ can give you a good idea of how well the dog food was manufactured and handled. 

So it’s best to choose wet food made in countries like the US and Canada. After all, these countries are well-known for their strict safety standards. 

🐟 Contains Ingredients Rich in Fatty Acids

Omega-3 and Omega-6 are examples of fatty acids crucial in maintaining a dog’s skin and coat health. These nutrients are responsible for building healthier undercoats, coats, and skin in dogs. And this is especially crucial for larger breeds with longer fur. 

You can find these fatty acids in foods like salmon, avocado, and flaxseeds. So if you’re concerned about your dog’s skin and coat, ensure the wet food is rich in fatty acids. Even just one of the ingredients mentioned should be enough.

🦠 Has Probiotic Supplements

Many know that taking probiotics can be good for your health. However, did you ever wonder if it could also benefit your pup? And the answer to that is a big yes! Probiotic supplements can improve your pup’s digestive health and immune system.

Moreover, since only a few foods have these, it’s a significant indicator of their quality. So not only are you giving your dog healthier meals, but you’re also giving them the best of the best. If your dog has stomach issues, look for probiotic formulas. 

🥕 Has Nutritious Vegetables

Healthy vegetables for dogs like potatoes and carrots are often used in wet dog food to thicken their consistencies. However, these also provide additional nutritional benefits. But, though vegetables are great additions to dog meals, I don’t recommend products that list them in the first three ingredients. 

🌾 Grain-Free or Whole Grains?

If your dog doesn’t have a sensitive stomach, choose wet dog food products with whole grains. Quality grains you need to look for include barley and brown rice. Any one of these can provide an ample dose of carbohydrates for your large dog. 

On the other hand, if your dog is sensitive to grains, choosing grain-free products is better. 


Q: Is it a good idea to give my large dog wet food?

A: Feeding larger breeds like St. Bernard or Rotweiller wet food is ideal. That’s because these foods offer higher amounts of protein and other nutrients essential in maintaining their health. Unfortunately, many owners overlook wet dog food since they’re expensive compared to kibbles. However, a mix of both foods is recommended to give your large dog the nutrition they need.

Q: What are the recommended wet dog food servings for a large dog?

A: Although the amount drastically varies per breed and Size, most vets recommend giving your dog at least 3 ounces of wet food daily. Specifically, you need to provide 3 ounces of wet food per 3 to 3½ pounds of your dog’s body weight daily. Make sure to divide this into two or more meals to keep your dog full throughout the day.

Q: Is wet dog food better than dry dog food or kibble?

A: In numerous ways, wet dog food is positively better than dry dog food or kibbles. Firstly, they contain more protein than kibbles and usually use real meat instead of fillers. Next, they have fewer carbs that tend to fill up even the most giant dogs better than dry food. Finally, thanks to their air-tight packaging, wet food typically has no synthetic preservatives.

Q: Should I only give wet food to my large dog?

A: Although wet food is significantly healthier than dry food or kibbles, having a mix of both is ideal for your pet’s health. Combining these two in your large dog’s diet should provide enough nutrition to maintain their health and energy levels. However, wet dog food impacts pups with urinary issues or those who don’t drink water often better.

Q: How many times a day should I give my large dog wet dog food?

A: The amount you need to give your pup every day varies, but generally, it’s best to feed your large dogs wet food twice a day. However, I recommend consulting with your vet first to get a better and more accurate time – and amount. 


The best wet dog food for large breeds will keep your bigger-than-average hound healthy long-term. And the products I mentioned can keep your dog full and happy without affecting their health! So aside from giving them extra love and attention, invest in top-quality food to keep your pup in top health.