Is Wet or Dry Food Better for French Bulldogs?

French bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds these days. Their cute, squishy faces and playful personalities make them amazing companions. As a French bulldog owner, you want to make sure you’re feeding your Frenchie the best diet to keep him happy and healthy. One of the biggest decisions owners have to make is whether to feed wet or dry dog food. There are pros and cons to both types of food, so it’s important to look at your individual dog’s needs. Here are some things to consider when choosing between wet and dry food for your French bulldog.

Ingredients

The first thing to look at is the ingredients in both wet and dry foods. Wet foods typically contain more animal protein, which is essential for muscle growth and development. They also have higher moisture content, which can help with hydration. However, some wet foods may contain lots of by-products and fillers. Read labels carefully and look for named meats like chicken, beef or fish as the first ingredients.

Dry kibble often has more plant-based proteins like corn, wheat or soy. While plants can provide nutrients, dogs need animal protein as their main source. Grain-free dry foods with quality meat as the first ingredient are best. Also look out for preservatives and artificial colors in any kibble.

Digestion

Many French bulldog owners choose wet food because it is easier to digest than dry. The high moisture content and soft texture means less work for your Frenchie’s stomach. This makes wet food a great choice for senior dogs or dogs with sensitivities. The downside is that wet food can spoil quickly once opened. Dry kibble has a longer shelf life as long as it is stored properly in an air-tight container.

Jaw and Dental Health

One of the biggest benefits of dry dog food is that the crunchy kibble helps keep your French bulldog’s teeth clean. Chewing scrapes away tartar and plaque, which can reduce dental disease. Given their adorably squished faces, Frenchies are prone to dental problems, so dry food is a good preventative measure. However, make sure to also brush their teeth and provide dental chews.

Wet food is undoubtedly softer, so it does not provide this teeth-cleaning action. Some pet parents add a bit of water to kibble to make it softer but still allow for some chewing. Overall though, wet food is not ideal for cleaning your Frenchie’s teeth on its own.

Hydration

French bulldogs are prone to overheating and dehydration due to their small size and squished snouts. Wet food has much higher water content than dry kibble. This can help Frenchies stay hydrated, which is crucial in hot weather. If you feed dry food, be sure to provide plenty of fresh, clean drinking water at all times. Adding water to kibble can also increase moisture intake.

Cost

When looking at expenses, dry dog food is generally more affordable than wet options. Canned wet food can cost up to three times as much as a bag of kibble. However, you may be able to offset costs by buying in bulk or looking for deals. Check the cost per ounce or pound to accurately compare products rather than just package sizes.

Convenience

In terms of convenience, dry kibble wins out. You can easily portion out and store dry food. Canned wet food needs to be refrigerated once opened and used within a few days. This makes dry food a better choice for busy families or owners who like the simplicity of feeding kibble. However, for Frenchies that prefer a soft diet, canned food may be worth the extra effort.

Your individual Frenchie’s needs should drive your decision between wet or dry dog food. Work with your vet to determine any health issues to address or allergies to watch for. Many owners find that a combination of wet and dry works well by balancing the benefits of both. Pay attention to your dog’s preferences too. Offering both types can satisfy selective eaters. With high-quality nutrition and proper dental care, your French bulldog can thrive on either wet food, dry kibble or a mix of both.