Picking the perfect food for your pet can be a bit of a head-scratcher. With shelves stacked high with kibble, freezers stocked with raw meals, and fancy freeze-dried options promising peak health, it’s no wonder pet parents feel overwhelmed. The truth? There’s no universal “best” choice—what works for one pet may not be right for another. The ideal diet depends on your pet’s individual needs, lifestyle, and what’s realistic for your daily routine.

To help you navigate the options, we’ve put together a simple breakdown of the most common types of pet food—along with their benefits, drawbacks, and what to keep in mind as you decide.

Dry Kibble

Pros:

• Super convenient and easy to store
• Long shelf life means less waste
• Budget-friendly compared to other food types
• Pre-cooked, reducing the risk of harmful bacteria

Cons:

• Low moisture content, which can be an issue for pets prone to urinary problems
• Some brands may include fillers or ingredients that are harder to digest
• Might not appeal to picky eaters

Best For:
Busy pet parents, animals without special dietary needs, and dogs or cats who love a good crunch.

Canned or Wet Food

Pros:

• High moisture levels help keep pets well-hydrated
• It’s smelly and that makes it more appealing to picky eaters
• Softer texture makes it ideal for older pets or those with dental sensitivities

Cons:

• Typically costs more per serving than dry food
• Requires refrigeration after opening
• Can promote tooth decay if used exclusively over time

Best For:
Cats (especially those with urinary concerns), senior pets, and finicky eaters who need a little extra enticement at mealtime.

Frozen Raw

Pros:

• Closely resembles a pet’s natural, ancestral diet
• Usually made with high-quality, minimally processed ingredients
• May support improved digestion, energy, and coat health

Cons:

• Requires freezer storage and proper handling to avoid bacterial risks
• Needs to be nutritionally balanced, which can take extra research
• Often more expensive and less convenient than other options

Best For:
Pet owners who are confident handling raw food and want to feed a biologically appropriate, whole-food-based diet.

Freeze-Dried Raw

Pros:

• Long shelf life without the need for refrigeration
• Packed with protein and typically easy to digest
• Lightweight, mess-free, and simple to serve
• Can be served dry or rehydrated, depending on your pet’s preference

Cons:

• Generally more expensive than kibble or frozen raw diets
• Requires careful portioning and added hydration
• May carry risks associated with raw ingredients if not handled properly
• Some formulas may need additional supplements to ensure balanced nutrition

Best For:
Pet owners looking for the nutritional benefits of raw feeding in a more convenient, travel-friendly form.

Homemade Meals

Pros:

• Full control over every ingredient that goes into your pet’s bowl
• Can be customized for pets with allergies, sensitivities, or dietary restrictions
• Offers variety and fresh, wholesome meals

Cons:

• Requires significant time and effort for planning and prep
• Risk of nutritional imbalance without proper guidance
• Must follow trusted recipes closely to ensure your pet’s needs are met

Best For:
Committed pet parents who are willing to work with a veterinarian to create a safe, balanced diet tailored to their pet’s needs.

What to Keep in Mind When Choosing Pet Food

• Your pet’s individual needs: Age, breed, size, and any health conditions play a big role. Puppies, kittens, seniors, and pets with medical concerns each have unique nutritional requirements.
  
• Your lifestyle and budget: The best food is one that fits your daily routine and what you’re comfortable spending and preparing.
  
• Ingredient quality: Check the label! Look for real meat listed as the first ingredient and steer clear of unnecessary fillers or low-quality by-products.
  
• AAFCO compliance: Make sure the food is labeled as meeting AAFCO guidelines to ensure it provides complete and balanced nutrition.
  

Thinking of Trying Something New?

Making a sudden switch can lead to upset stomachs and messy surprises—no fun for anyone! To keep things smooth, transition slowly by mixing in the new food with the old over 1 to 2 weeks, gradually increasing the new and decreasing the old.

Whatever food you choose, the goal is simple: a happy, healthy companion with a shiny coat, oodles of energy, and tail-wagging excitement at mealtime. Not sure what’s best? A quick chat with your vet can help guide you.Swing by The Clever Critter Pet Shop in North Woodstock or Waterville Valley to pick up your go-to brand or explore something new! We carry trusted favorites like Fromm, Tucker’s, and Steve’s Real Food —something for every critter (except homemade meals… you’ve got that covered! *chef’s kiss*).