Skip to content

10 Best Semi-Moist Dog Foods

Written by Larese
Larese is passionate about all sorts of domesticated pets. They have written dozens of articles across the web.
Published on
Tuesday 11 August 2020
Last updated on
Tuesday 9 May 2023
best semi moist dog foods
This page may contain affiliate links. We may receive a commission if you make a purchase using these links.

Feeding your dog may require a lot of trial between wet and dry foods, but have you considered semi-moist dog foods? It may not be as popular as its counterparts, but these are still one of the meals that your furry pals will definitely love. Dog owners have been cautious in picking the best diet for their pooches that offers better health and fresher.

⚠️ “Semi-moist dog food” is not a strict pet food category. Oftentimes, pet parents buy dry kibble and mix it with either water, canned food, homemade recipes, or DIY toppers. In all instances, moisture will hugely increase palatability.

Due to higher palatability than dry kibbles, it is essential to pick the best semi-moist food for dogs. What are the differences in wet dog foods? How to choose the right kind of moist food for your pooch? We’ll help you answer that in this article. Plus, we’ll give you the top best semi-moist dog food or dry kibble that tastes delicious when mixed with water, food toppers, enhancers, or delicious wet dog food.

10 Best Semi-Moist Dog Foods

If it is your first time hearing about semi-wet dog foods and you feel interested in trying it, don’t worry because we’re about to give you the best options that you currently have on the market. Some say that this meal may harm your pooch. While it may happen, it depends on how much you give to your dog. Therefore, moderation is always the key, not just with semi-dog feeds, but for other edibles for your pet.

1. Moist & Meaty Burger with Cheddar Cheese Flavor Dry Dog Food

Give your dog new flavors every day. Moist & Meaty Burger with Cheddar Cheese Flavor Dry Dog Food offers an exciting mealtime adventure that would make your pooch’s tail wiggle. Every bite provides real meat with a hearty taste that your pet will definitely love. Moreover, the cheddar cheese accents, bacon, and egg bring extra flavor. For complete and balanced nutrition, try giving it to your pet. However, it is only suitable for adult dogs.

Either you serve it with a meal or as toppings, each serving offers a delicious and nutritious snack. However, some pet owners had issues with the shipping period when the food had molds when it reached their home. Still, the Moist & Meaty Burger is a new way to keep your pet’s stomach full while getting its nutrition. The individual and hassle-free packages preserve freshness while allowing convenient serving.

Regardless of the hassle from other pet owners, this dog food can support muscle strength and serve high-protein nutrition made from real beef and chicken. Every recipe ensures a complete and balanced diet for adult dog breeds.

Pros

  • Supports muscle strength
  • Provides complete and balanced nutrition
  • High in protein
  • Hassle-free packages

Cons

  • Some customers had problems with the shipping period
  • Some packs arrived with molds
  • Only suitable for adult dogs

2. Rachael Ray Nutrish Dish Natural Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe with Veggies & Fruit Dry Dog Food

Rachael Ray’s Nutrish Dish Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe comes with real ingredients to serve pure goodness in a nutritious meal. The farm-raised chicken has a hickory smoke flavor and is slow-roasted to savor the flavor.

With the combination of brown rice, cranberries, and tree-ripened apples, your pet’s stomach will be full throughout the day. Add a dose of healthy fiber to a delicious dish and mouth-watering taste. Your furry friend will enjoy every bite of this semi-wet food for dogs.

What makes Rachael Ray’s Nutrish Dish Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe so good is that every ingredient added offers the nutrition a dog needs. The combination of high-quality proteins from chicken and wholesome veggies guarantees that your pooch will receive essential vitamins and minerals. Moreover, it has no poultry by-product meal and even added artificial flavors, so 100% safe for sensitive dogs.

Pros

  • Made with free-range chicken
  • Contains superfoods for added nutrition
  • It has essential vitamins and minerals
  • Safe for sensitive dogs

Cons

  • Some dried veggies are too sharp
  • Not for picky eaters

3. Natural Balance L.I.D. Limited Ingredient Diets Sweet Potato & Fish Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food

If you are looking for natural dog food for your pet, the Natural Balance L.I.D. Formula Grain-Free Dry Dog Food will make your pooch feel so good. It features real salmon as the primary ingredient. It is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids to support the immune system.

Moreover, it helps in decreasing inflammation while maintaining your dog’s shiny and healthy coat. Salmon is also a great source of protein, making it a common ingredient for most high-quality dog foods.

On the other hand, sweet potatoes are an easily digestible source of carbohydrates. Compared to rice, sweet potatoes work like magic when it comes to maintaining weight, and it is more nutritious as well. Formulated by a team of board-certified clinical veterinarians, research scientists, and expert animal nutritionists, you can be sure of its quality. Overall, this premium dog feed can provide full nutrition with a quality taste that your pup deserves.

Pros

  • Great source of protein
  • Helps decrease inflammation
  • It contains highly digestible carbohydrates
  • Helps dog to maintain a healthy weight

Cons

  • It has a strong smell
  • Some dogs had bad breath and gas

4. Cesar Filets in Gravy Beef Flavors Variety Pack Dog Food Trays

Even doggies with the most sensitive palates will enjoy the Cesar Filets in Gravy Beef Flavors Variety Pack Dog Food Trays. Made from U.S. premium beef, with flavors like Filet Mignon, Prime Rib, and New York Strip, it will make your dog wiggle as it eats.

This delicious dog food is suitable for all breeds and ages. The tasty filet texture is so delightful and packed with vitamins and minerals for complete and balanced nutrition. Plus, Cesar’s handy trays make every meal simpler and more convenient.

No matter the size or breed, your canine will definitely enjoy this gourmet dog food as a stand-alone meal or as a tasty dry food topper. When it comes to transitioning your pets’ new food, do it gradually. Continue with 25% fresh food and 75% old food for the first week. Week 2 will be a combination of 50/50 of both old and new dog food. Finally, with the 3rd week should be 75% fresh and 25 percent old.

Pros

  • Made with premium ingredients
  • Can serve as a meal or a tasty topper
  • Suitable for all dog breeds and sizes
  • Convenient to feed

Cons

  • Not for dogs with sensitive stomachs
  • Some dogs experienced sickness

5. Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Mini Meals Chunky Chicken & Tuna in Gravy Dog Food Pouches

Send your dog great tastes and health with Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Mini Meals. However, by the name itself, it only contains essential vitamins and minerals that are only suitable for small dog breeds. Every mighty-nutrient mini-meals offers nutrients, specially formulated for your little pooch.

Considerable portions of shreds and gravy are rich in quality proteins from real meat, vital nutrients from real vegetables, and added vitamins and minerals for your pet’s health. Nourish your most loyal best friend’s health, and spoil it with delicious and tasty foods. The Wellness CORE Grain-Free Small Breed Mini Meals have no meat by-products, artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives to guarantee safety.

More and more pet owners are getting impressed with how effective it is, even those who are picky eaters. This grain-free and delicious dog meal include complete and balanced everyday nutrition to support your small pooch’s health. So, fill your dog’s bowl with flavor and nutrition for every meal.

Pros

  • Has essential vitamins and minerals
  • Free from artificial preservatives, colors, and flavors
  • Rich in quality proteins
  • Provides complete and balanced nutrition

Cons

  • Some dogs had an upset stomach
  • Some contain more liquid than solid food

6. Happy Howie’s Premium Turkey Roll Dog Treat

Give your pet the most delicious and healthiest dog food with Happy Howie’s Premium Turkey Roll. This tasty and nutritious dog treat has a moist and flavorful aroma. Moreover, it never crumbles, so you wouldn’t have problems with your dog messing around.

You can buy it in one-pound or two-pound rolls, depending on your dog’s size. Made in the U.S.A., the combinations of real turkey and other healthy ingredients ensure holistic growth. Moreover, you can be sure that these dog treats are 100% safe for any breed because it is free of corn, sugar, soy, wheat, and other artificial flavors and preservatives.

So, train your dog or stop the boredom of your pooch. This dog food may not have many ingredients as its rivals, but it is abundant in flavor and health benefits. Use it as a food topper or as a dessert for your favorite furry pal.

Pros

  • Free from dust and crumbles
  • Does not have artificial flavors and preservatives
  • Provides holistic growth
  • Rich in flavor

Cons

  • Some dogs had diarrhea

7. Purina Beyond Grain-Free Chicken & Beef Variety Pack Canned Dog Food

Purina Beyond Grain-Free Canned Dog Food is packed with natural ingredients to give your pooch the required vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Complete with balanced nutrition that every pet needs, regardless of the breed’s weight and size. Every recipe comes from high-quality ingredients to ensure overall wellness.

To ensure quality, the Purina Beyond Grain-Free Canned Dog Food comes from real meat, poultry, or fish. Even other pet owners who have dogs that are picky eaters are happy with its results. Moreover, this dog meal has no grains and gluten like soy, wheat, and corn that are harmful to your pooch’s health.

The great-tasting ingredients guarantee that your pet gets natural nutrients, which makes it a food that you can trust. You can now offer your dog the nutrition you want without compromising the taste of the food. Purina Beyond Grain-Free recipes have the right amount of protein, fat, and carbohydrates that are essential in supporting a long and healthy life.

Pros

  • Provides a complete and balanced nutrition
  • Contains great-tasting ingredients
  • Free from grains
  • Has the right amount of fats, carbs, and proteins

Cons

  • Some dogs do not like the flavor
  • Some customers found black residue in the bag

8. Hill’s Science Diet Adult

Every pup deserves a holistic diet that will make it feel good physically and mentally. The Hill’s Science Diet Adult Recipe is especially for breeds that are picky eaters.

However, take note that it is only effective for adult toy breeds. Let your dog enjoy the real chicken packed with antioxidant benefits. Moreover, it supports healthy digestion and healthier coats.

The manufacturers invested decades of cutting-edge research in ensuring that every pet will enjoy every bite and flavor. Entrust your dog’s health with quality global ingredients, formulated by a veterinarian. Moreover, the prebiotic fiber helps in supporting your doggie’s digestive health. A happy pet starts with delicious food.

Pros

  • Suitable for picky eaters
  • Rich in antioxidants
  • Formulated by veterinarians

Cons

  • It is limited to adult toy breeds
  • Some dogs had dry coats

9. Royal Canin Indoor Life

The Royal Canin Indoor Life is suitable for small adult dog breeds with a predominantly quiet and indoor lifestyle. Hence, it is essential for those pooches that have an inactive lifestyle. Even when staying indoors most of the time, make sure that your furry friend is healthy even with less exercise. We all know that inactivity could impact a breed’s weight and digestive system. So, make sure to support it with precise nutrition.

Each Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition diet is from precisely balanced nutrients to support digestive health and reduce fecal odor. Moreover, it guarantees a steady weight with its digestible protein and soluble and insoluble fibers. It is also rich in high-quality carbohydrate sources for energy throughout the day. From small breeds to large-sized pooches, Royal Canin diets promote efficient dental care, optimal weight, and joint support.

As pet owners, we all have to look out for our dog’s health. Just like humans, they need a balanced and healthy diet to foster health care and improved growth. Don’t settle for anything less than your pooch deserves. As much as possible, start giving holistic nourishment to your furry pal to support its growth.

Pros

  • Suitable for indoor dogs
  • Supports healthy digestion
  • Reduces poop odor
  • Promotes healthy joint, weight, and teeth

Cons

  • It is expensive for the size

10. Nutro Grain-Free Premium Loaf Slow Cooked

Last on the list is the Nutro Premium Canned Dog Food with full of nutrients and flavor that dogs need. Whether big or small, every dog breed will love its taste while the body absorbs all the nutrition from its premium ingredients.

This dog food has a high-protein meal with well-balanced vitamins and minerals. Moreover, your furry pal will enjoy the tasty real, slow-cooked chicken to retain its flavors and nutrients.

Feed your pooch with confidence, knowing that every content of this dog food is from a trusted network of farmers and suppliers. With 100% free of grains, corn, soy, and by-products, your pet will love every bite and flavor that this dog food offers. Many dog parents love the fact that their pets loved every bit of real ingredients. Just like them, start giving your best furry friend the nutrition that it deserves with a mouth-watering taste.

Pros

  • 100% free from fillers and grain
  • Suitable for picky eaters
  • Contains essential vitamins and minerals

Cons

  • Some cans arrived with dents
  • It is pricy
best soft dry dog food
Soft dry dog food are excellent for dogs with weak teeth!

What are Semi-Moist Dog Foods?

Semi-moist dog food is a type of dog food that combines dry and wet dog food for a yummy mix. Little did you know that semi-damp dog nibbles have been in the market, and have been one of the favorites of your pooch. They call it “semi-most” or soft-moist because these are not as dry as dog treats, and not as wet as those canned goods. Moreover, these dog edibles also don’t fit into frozen, freeze-dried, or any other category.

These kinds of dog grubs lie in between wet and dry substances that also offer nutritional benefits. It contains approximately 60 to 65 percent of water, making it more expensive for every calorie compared to regular dry food. Some semi-wet meals for your pooch come in pouches and trays, making it a great addition to your pooch’s daily diet. However, you should maintain what you give to your furry pal because these meals may contain artificial colors, chemical preservatives, extra sugar, and salt.

One of its drawbacks is that it has a short shelf life after opening. It means your dog has to consume it within 3 to 5 days. With the right amount of semi-moist dog nibbles, these are still very convenient for feeding. Just make sure to ask your veterinarian’s advice to determine the right amount of calorie intake and appropriate daily portions.

How To Choose Semi-Moist Dog Foods?

It may have no concrete definition or label on its packaging, dog nibbles that are semi-damped still comes in various options. So before you buy anything, here are some factors that you have to consider when buying this kind of pet food. More importantly, make sure to give the right amount depending on your dog’s age, size, activity level, and allergies.

Your Dog’s Age

In buying semi-wet dog meals, you always have to consider your dog’s age to determine the right amount. It also tells you the physical characteristics, behavior, and overall health. Some puppies and lactating adult pets may require more calories per day. On the other hand, senior pooches need fewer calorie intake. The more important thing is that your dog can eat it comfortably and safely, with the right amount of nutrition.

choosing semi moist dog food
When choosing semi-moist dog food, always consider your dog’s age.

Size

The breed size is another essential factor when it comes to choosing the right semi-moist dog food. Your pooch requires consuming balanced nutrients to ensure immune function, body development, and healthy skin and coat. However, these are only possible if you give the right amount according to your breed’s size.

Small dog breeds have faster metabolic rates, which means they require more fatty nutrients and special care. For example, puppies need higher calorie intake and water to transition into a more potent immune function and healthy body for adulthood. To avoid obesity, diabetes, and arthritis for dogs, make sure to choose a balanced diet compromise of healthier ingredients. It includes several vitamins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Medium dog breeds have less aggressive metabolic rates. It means their body can absorb nutrients, but not as fast as small pooches do. So, you must make sure that you feed it with a nutrient-dense diet that includes a healthy supply of vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fatty acids.

Finally, large dog breeds have the most extensive nutritional needs. It means you have to provide large amounts of high-quality and natural dog rations. It must consist of balanced fiber, carbs, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. However, since large pouches are more prone to bloating, heart problems, and diabetes, you have to moderate its food intake.

Activity Level

Highly active pets require more calories compared to those who love to sleep all day. Yes, even dogs have varying lifestyles. Not all breeds have the same amount of activity. For example, some toy dogs like Pugs and Pitbulls really have low-level activity. It is essential to control what they do since breathing may be difficult due to their short nozzles.

The characteristics and quantity of calories that you feed to your pooch will help prevent health problems due to obesity. More often, large breeds of dogs are the most active. Therefore, they require the highest calorie intake. However, they are also prone to getting obese. So, make sure to give your dog a healthy, maintained, and balanced diet.

Allergies

Allergies are one of the factors that you have to consider when buying any kind of feed. If your pet has delicate and redness of the skin, and slender coat quality, you need to be extremely cautious when selecting the right dog food. Food allergies are on the rise for pets, so if you catch your dog scratching its body regularly, it’s time for a quick allergy test.

Redness of the skin, itching, poor fur performance, and skin or ear inflammation are symptoms of dog allergies. Moreover, look out for those manufacturers that break down protein and carbohydrates for better digestion and absorption because it may also alleviate allergic triggers. There are many causes of allergic reactions, and feeding with artificial additives, and harmful ingredients make it worse.

food for dogs with allergies
Choose foods that will not cause your dog’s allergies to flare up.

Semi-Moist Dog Foods – FAQs

Semi-moist dog foods now come in nutritious content and health benefits. However, it is still essential to give the right amount of calories to your pets. We understand that these dogs’ foods may not be as popular as dry and wet nibbles, so let’s answer more commonly asked questions.

Is Semi-Moist Dog Food Good for Dogs?

It may not be as natural as other dog meals, but it still gives proper nourishment for your pet when you give it in moderate amounts. Dog feeds that are semi-wet contain about 60 to 65 percent of water, salt, extra sugar, and preservatives. Therefore, you must consider your pooch’s age, size, activity level, and any allergies.

Small dog breeds have low activity levels, but they also have higher metabolic rates. So, you can give more calories during the early stages until it reaches adulthood. On the other hand, medium and large dog breeds have the highest activity level, but a lower metabolic system. Plus, these pets are more prone to obesity and other health risks. Overall, the key is to maintain the right amount of dog food and feed moderately.

What is the Best Soft Dry Dog Food?

The best soft dry dog food must be suitable for pets that have been having troubling chewing due to worn teeth and old age. These are relatively new products on the market, so it is common for you to have some concerns about this kind of food. However, most pet owners have been trusting the quality of this kind of feed. At a glimpse, here are some of the best soft dry dog foods.

Purina Moist and Meaty Formula
Rachael Ray Nutrish Dry Dog Food
Iams Proactive Health Formula
Wellness Core Rawrev Natural Formula
I and Love and You Naked Essentials
Purina Pro Plan Formula
Purina Beneful Incredibites

If you want to know more about soft dry dog foods, check the details here. The new versions of soft dry dog edibles already offer the health benefits and nutrition that your pooch needs. It’s only a matter of moderation and making sure that you are not over-feeding your pet.

What is the Best Soft Dry Dog Food for Older Dogs?

Soft dry dog food refers to those ready-to-eat meals that are neither dry hard kibble nor wet feed. It is beneficial for senior dogs that have chewing problems, and even to younger pups who are picky eaters and do not seem to enjoy regular chewing. Some of the best soft dry dog food for older dogs are the following.

Purina Pro Plan Focus
Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Cuisine
Wellness Senior Formula Dog Food
Purina One Smartblend
Nulo Freestyle Grain-Free Adult Turkey

Soft dry dog food comes in many different flavors and textures to stimulate the dog’s palatability. You can choose a meal that is either from soft chewable food or something that adds a touch of rough kibble to keep things crunchy. Regardless, it offers the necessary nutrients that your pooch needs.

What is the Difference Between Semi-Moist and Wet Dog Food?

Compared to wet dog foods, semi-moist have lower water content but higher than dry nibbles. It may not be as popular as either damp or dry, but it also contains good nutritional content that your dog needs every day. Moreover, wet dog foods have a shorter shelf life since it has more water. Therefore, it requires immediate consumption after opening.

semi-moist vs dry dog food
Semi-moist dog food have more water content than dry kibble.

Now you should know a little more about semi-moist dog foods and the advantages and disadvantages for your dog. Happy shopping!

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *