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In the UAE's extreme heat, choosing the right dog food - wet or dry - affects your pet's hydration, health, and overall well-being. Here's what you need to know:

• Wet food: Contains 75–85% water, helps with hydration, ideal for picky eaters, and suits dogs with dental or digestive issues. However, it costs more (up to AED 110/kg) and requires refrigeration once opened.
• Dry food: Easier to store, more affordable (as low as AED 13/kg), and supports dental health. However, it lacks significant moisture, so dogs need plenty of water alongside it.

Key considerations:

• UAE's heat doubles a dog's water needs, making hydration vital.
• Wet food is better for hydration but has a shorter shelf life once opened.
• Dry food is cost-effective and convenient for daily feeding.

Quick Comparison:

Factor	Wet Food	Dry Food
Moisture Content	75–85%	5–10%
Cost (per kg)	AED 18.75–110	AED 13–30
Storage	Refrigeration needed	No refrigeration needed
Shelf Life (Opened)	1–2 days	6 weeks
Hydration Benefits	High	Low
Daily Cost	AED 32.80 (medium dog)	AED 7.10 (medium dog)

Your choice depends on your dog's needs, lifestyle, and budget. A mixed feeding approach can balance hydration, nutrition, and cost. Always consult your vet for tailored advice.

Nutrition and Which Dogs Need What

Main Nutritional Differences

The differences between wet and dry dog food go beyond just moisture levels. Wet food usually has higher amounts of protein, phosphorus, sodium, and fat when compared to dry or semi-moist food on a dry-matter basis. With wet food containing at least 65% moisture compared to less than 20% in dry food, it packs more concentrated nutrition per gram once the water is removed.

Dry kibble, however, is packed with more carbohydrates. This is because carbohydrates are essential for the cooking process. They not only hold the kibble together during manufacturing but also serve as an energy source for your dog.

Both wet and dry options can provide a balanced diet. The best choice depends on your dog’s specific health and lifestyle needs, which we’ll explore further below.

Which Dogs Need Which Food

Different dogs benefit from different food types, and this is especially true in the UAE’s hot climate. For senior dogs or those with dental problems, wet food can be easier to chew, simplifying mealtimes and ensuring they get the nutrition they need.

Wet food is also more appealing in taste and smell, making it a great option for picky eaters or dogs that lose their appetite during the UAE’s scorching summers. On the other hand, dry food offers dental advantages, as its crunchy texture helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup.

Puppies, with their growing bodies, need food rich in protein and fat. Wet food, with its higher protein content and easier digestibility, can be a great choice for their developing digestive systems.

For large breed dogs, higher protein levels can support muscle mass and joint health. Meanwhile, smaller breeds may benefit from nutrient-dense food that’s easy to chew and digest.

Staying Hydrated in UAE Heat

In the UAE’s intense heat, keeping your dog hydrated is crucial, and your choice of food can play a big role. Wet food contains 75–85% water, compared to just 7–10% in dry kibble, making it an excellent option for boosting hydration.

This can be especially useful for dogs that don’t drink enough water on their own. The texture and aroma of wet food can encourage eating, which is particularly helpful during hot periods when dogs may eat less than usual.

Wet food is also gentler on sensitive stomachs, which can be a concern during heat stress, as high temperatures can upset your dog’s digestion. The extra moisture in wet food also helps food move smoothly through the digestive system.

Look out for signs that your dog might need more hydration, such as lethargy, dry gums, or a reduced appetite. Wet food can help increase fluid intake while you address any underlying concerns.

For best results, serve wet food cool but not cold, and refrigerate leftovers within 48 hours. Always have fresh, cool water available alongside meals, especially during the UAE’s extreme summer heat.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Daily Use

How to Store Each Type

In the UAE's sweltering heat and persistent humidity, keeping your dog's food fresh requires careful storage. For dry dog food, it's best to leave it in its original packaging, which is designed with food-grade material to protect its contents. To go the extra mile against humidity, you can transfer it into an airtight container. Always store it in a cool, dark, and dry spot to maintain its quality and flavour.

For wet dog food, unopened cans or pouches are fine in the pantry. However, once opened, any leftovers need to be refrigerated and consumed within 1–2 days to avoid spoilage.

How Long Each Type Lasts

Dry dog food, when unopened, generally has a shelf life of 12 to 18 months. Once opened, it’s best to use it within six weeks to ensure it stays fresh and nutritious.

These differences in shelf life are important to consider when planning your daily feeding routine.

Daily Use and Convenience

Dry food is a go-to option for its ease of use in daily feeding. It’s simple to pre-portion and store in airtight containers, making it perfect for dogs that like to graze throughout the day.

On the other hand, wet food requires more structured meal times. If you prefer feeding wet food, single-serving pouches are a practical solution - they help reduce waste and make storage much easier.

Vet Advice | Should I Feed My Dog Wet or Dry Food?

Cost Comparison and Local Prices

In the UAE, pet food prices are shaped by factors like environmental conditions and the demand for high-quality care. Knowing the cost differences and local pricing trends can help you manage your pet’s diet effectively without straining your budget.

Price Ranges in AED

When browsing dog food options in the UAE, you'll notice a clear difference in pricing between wet and dry food. Wet dog food generally falls in the range of AED 5.70 to AED 125.40. Standard-sized cans (370-400g) are typically priced between AED 14.00 and AED 22.00. For premium options, like Open Farm Grass Fed Beef Rustic Stew, expect to pay around AED 29.75 for a 354g can. Multipacks, such as Carnilove Carp With Black Carrot (12x300g), are available for AED 157.59.

On the other hand, dry dog food tends to offer better value per kilogram. For instance, Drools Focus Premium Adult Dry Dog Food (13kg) is priced at AED 156.75, which breaks down to AED 13.06 per kilogram. Premium brands like Royal Canin Maxi Adult (10kg) cost AED 253.00, or AED 25.30 per kilogram, while high-end varieties such as Taste of the Wild (12.2kg) are priced at AED 346.95, equating to AED 28.44 per kilogram.

To put it into perspective, wet food can range from AED 18.75 per kilogram for basic options like Pedigree Beef Loaf to as high as AED 110.57 per kilogram for premium brands such as Cesar.

Which Offers Better Value

When it comes to cost per serving, dry food is consistently the more economical option. Even premium dry food rarely exceeds AED 30 per kilogram, whereas wet food can climb to AED 110 per kilogram for comparable nutritional content.

But price alone doesn’t tell the whole story. Wet food contains 70–80% water, which contributes to its higher cost compared to the more concentrated nutrition found in dry food. Dry food, with only about 10% moisture, provides more nutrients per dirham spent.

Portion sizes also play a role in cost efficiency. Dogs generally require larger servings of wet food to meet their daily nutritional needs, which increases the overall expense. Considering that pet owners in the UAE spend an average of AED 213-983 per month on food for a medium-sized adult dog, selecting the right type of food becomes an important financial decision.

For those looking to save, buying dry food in bulk is often the best choice. It not only lowers the cost per kilogram but also benefits from a longer shelf life, making it easier to take advantage of discounts and promotions.

Save Money with The Pets Club

The Pets Club provides several ways to stretch your budget while ensuring your pet gets the best. Their free shipping on orders above AED 100 makes it easy to stock up on your dog's preferred food without worrying about delivery fees. This is especially convenient when purchasing large bags of dry food or multipacks of wet food.

New customers can also enjoy a 15% discount on their first order, which means instant savings whether you’re exploring a new wet food option or switching to a premium dry food brand. For example, this discount could save you AED 23-52 on a typical AED 150-350 purchase.

To maximise savings, consider planning bulk orders. Instead of buying small quantities frequently, ordering larger amounts helps you qualify for free shipping and take advantage of promotional deals. This strategy works especially well for dry food, thanks to its extended shelf life.

With The Pets Club’s extensive range of brands, you can easily compare prices and find the best option for your dog’s needs - all without visiting multiple stores. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re getting genuine, high-quality products at competitive prices.

Where to Buy Quality Dog Food in the UAE

Finding the perfect food for your dog has become much simpler in the UAE, thanks to an impressive variety of premium and organic pet food options available in the market. If you're wondering where to begin, The Pets Club stands out as a top choice for dog owners seeking high-quality food options.

The Pets Club: A Trusted Name in Pet Care

The Pets Club has earned its reputation as a reliable provider of wet and dry dog food across the UAE. Their focus on quality assurance and knowledgeable customer support ensures that pet owners can make informed decisions about their furry friend's nutrition.

What makes The Pets Club unique is their extensive selection of premium brands catering to various budgets and nutritional needs. From Royal Canin's breed-specific formulas to Hill's Science Diet for specific health concerns, and Purina Pro Plan for active dogs, they offer trusted brands that veterinarians often recommend.

Additionally, they provide options for every stage of your dog's life and dietary preferences. Whether you're looking for puppy formulas, senior dog nutrition, grain-free choices, or specialised diets for sensitive stomachs, The Pets Club has you covered. This variety means you can find everything your dog needs in one convenient place.

Convenient Shopping and Fast Delivery

Shopping for dog food has never been easier. The Pets Club offers a seamless online experience, eliminating the need for time-consuming trips to physical stores. With same-day and next-day delivery available in major UAE areas, you can rest assured that your dog's food will arrive promptly.

Their website is designed for easy navigation, allowing you to browse by brand, food type, dog size, or specific nutritional needs. Each product comes with detailed descriptions, so you can review ingredients, feeding guidelines, and suitability for your dog's age and breed. This is especially helpful if your dog has a favourite food and you want to maintain consistency in their diet.

Tailored Nutrition for Your Dog

The Pets Club takes the guesswork out of choosing the right food for your dog. Their website features helpful filters to narrow down options based on breed, age, and dietary requirements like weight management, digestive health, or coat care.

For those uncertain about switching between wet and dry food, their expert customer support team is ready to assist. They can offer tailored advice based on your dog's current diet, health needs, and even the UAE's hot climate, ensuring your pet stays hydrated and healthy during the warmer months.

Side-by-Side Comparison: Wet vs Dry Dog Food

Complete Comparison Table

Choosing between wet and dry dog food gets easier when you compare their key differences side by side. Factoring in the UAE's hot climate, local pricing in AED, and practical concerns for pet owners, the table below highlights the most important distinctions to consider.

Factor	Wet Dog Food	Dry Dog Food
Moisture Content	75–85% water content	Less than 20% moisture, typically 5–10%
Protein & Fat	Higher protein and fat levels on a dry‐matter basis	Lower protein and fat content overall
Carbohydrates	Lower carbohydrate content	Higher carbohydrate content
Hydration Benefits	Provides substantial hydration - especially helpful in the UAE heat	Minimal hydration; additional water is necessary
Dental Health	May contribute to faster dental disease progression	Promotes chewing, which helps reduce tartar buildup
Storage Requirements	Requires refrigeration after opening; use within 2–3 days	Store in a cool, dry place below 26.7°C; consume within 2–3 months
Shelf Life (Unopened)	Up to 2 years with proper storage	6–18 months; can last 25+ years with optimal storage conditions
UAE Climate Considerations	Stable when unopened but spoils quickly once opened	Degrades above 27°C and spoils after 4+ hours at temperatures exceeding 32°C
Daily Cost (Medium Dog)	Around AED 32.80 per day	Around AED 7.10 per day
Local Price Examples	Cesar 100g: AED 10.79; Lily's Kitchen 400g: AED 25.00	Pedigree 3kg: AED 47.79; Royal Canin 2kg: AED 85.90
Convenience	Needs refrigeration and must be used quickly after serving	Easy to measure and requires no refrigeration
Nutrient Density	Less nutrient-dense due to high water content	More nutrient-dense and concentrated
Digestive Health	Natural moisture may aid digestion	Often includes added probiotics for digestive support

For UAE pet owners, the cost difference is striking. Feeding a medium-sized dog wet food costs about AED 32.80 daily, compared to just AED 7.10 for dry food. Over a year, this means wet food could cost nearly five times as much.

Dry food is better suited for the UAE's climate due to its long shelf life and ease of storage. However, its quality can deteriorate quickly when exposed to temperatures above 27°C. On the other hand, wet food’s high water content not only helps keep dogs hydrated during the scorching heat but also demands careful storage - once opened, it must be refrigerated and used promptly.

Convenience is another key factor. Dry food is ideal for busy pet owners, as it doesn’t require refrigeration and can sit in a dog’s bowl for hours without spoiling. Wet food, by contrast, loses its appeal and freshness within a few hours after being served.

Interestingly, research shows that 60% of pet owners are unaware of the risks of improper food storage in hot climates. Knowing these differences can make all the difference in choosing the best option to keep your dog healthy and happy in the UAE.

Conclusion: Choose What Works for Your Dog

Selecting the right food for your dog in the UAE's climate means considering their unique needs and the environment they live in. Both wet and dry food can provide balanced nutrition when you choose high-quality options tailored to your dog's specific requirements.

The UAE's hot weather makes hydration a key concern. Wet food, with its 75–85% moisture content, can support hydration needs, especially during the sweltering summer months. Meanwhile, dry food offers practicality and affordability, provided your dog has consistent access to fresh water.

Your dog's age, size, and health should guide your decision. For instance, senior dogs or picky eaters might prefer the taste and texture of wet food, while active dogs could benefit from the convenience and dental health perks of dry kibble.

Budget also plays a role. Dry food is generally more cost-effective, while wet food adds hydration and flavour benefits. Many pet owners in the UAE find a mixed feeding approach works well, combining the best of both worlds to balance taste, dental care, and moisture intake. If you decide to switch or combine food types, transition gradually over 7–10 days to avoid digestive upset. Always opt for high-quality formulas designed for your dog's life stage - whether they're a playful puppy, an active adult, or a slower-paced senior.

For convenience, trusted providers like The Pets Club offer premium wet and dry dog food options, with free shipping on orders over AED 100. Whether you choose wet food for hydration, dry kibble for ease, or a mix of both, the goal is to support your dog's health, especially in the UAE's challenging heat.

Pay attention to how your dog responds to their food, consult your veterinarian when in doubt, and adjust feeding habits as your pet's needs evolve. By prioritising their well-being and considering their preferences, you can ensure your dog stays happy and healthy.

FAQs

What’s the best way to balance wet and dry dog food for my pet in the UAE’s hot climate?

To help your dog stay healthy and hydrated in the UAE's warm climate, adding more wet food to their diet can be a smart choice. Wet food contains about 75–85% moisture, making it a great way to support hydration during those scorching days. Another option is to mix wet and dry food or simply add a splash of water to dry kibble to boost their water intake.

For an extra touch of freshness, store opened wet food in the fridge and serve it slightly chilled. This not only keeps meals more appealing but also helps your dog stay cool, comfortable, and well-nourished in the heat.

How can I tell if my dog needs more hydration, and how does wet food help?

If your dog shows signs like excessive panting, a dry nose or gums, dull or sunken eyes, or less elastic skin, it could mean they're dehydrated. These are clear indicators that your furry friend might not be getting enough fluids.

One way to help is by adding wet dog food to their diet. Wet food usually contains about 80% water, making it an excellent option for dogs that aren't keen on drinking water. This is especially important in the UAE's warm climate, where staying hydrated is crucial for your pet's health.

Are certain health conditions or life stages better suited to wet or dry dog food?

Yes, your dog's health and life stage can play a big role in determining the best type of food for them. For instance, dogs dealing with kidney or urinary problems can benefit from wet food because its higher moisture content helps keep them hydrated and supports kidney function. Likewise, older dogs or those with dental issues often find wet food easier to chew and digest.

On the flip side, dry food can help maintain dental health by reducing tartar buildup and is a good option for dogs without chewing difficulties. It’s essential to take into account your dog’s specific needs, age, and health conditions when making this choice. To ensure you're making the best decision for your furry friend, consult your veterinarian for tailored guidance.