Is It Safe to Mix Dry and Wet Dog Food?
Mixing dry and wet dog food is a common practice among pet owners. It can offer nutritional balance, improve palatability, and meet a dog’s individual dietary needs. However, knowing the quality of each food type is essential before combining them. One brand often involved in this conversation is Ol’ Roy, a budget dog food available in Walmart stores. Here's an in-depth look at whether combining such products is advisable and what pet owners need to watch out for.
Potential Benefits of Mixing Dry and Wet Dog Food
- Improved flavor and variety: Wet food can enhance the taste and smell of dry kibble, making meals more appealing.
- Better hydration: Wet food has a high water content, aiding dogs that may not drink enough water.
- Textural contrast: Some dogs enjoy the mix of crunch from kibble and softness from canned food.
- Nutritional balance: Combining both may help cover deficiencies in either type alone – if both are of high quality.
Key Considerations When Mixing Foods
- Caloric adjustment: Ensure you're not overfeeding by calculating total calories from both foods.
- Consistency: Dogs thrive on routine; sudden mix changes may cause digestive upset.
- Ingredient compatibility: Some ingredients may interact poorly or cause allergic reactions.
Why Food Quality Is Important
Regardless of whether food is dry or wet, ingredient quality is paramount. Brands like Ol’ Roy offer both types, but they come with several concerns:
1. Ingredient Quality
- Dry food lists ground yellow corn, soybean meal, and poultry by-product meal as primary ingredients.
- Canned versions use meat by-products, unspecified animal fats, and artificial preservatives such as BHA and BHT.
2. Nutrient Bioavailability
- Ol’ Roy uses non-chelated minerals, leading to lower nutrient absorption.
- Lacks probiotics and quality fiber sources that support digestion.
3. Safety Record
- Has experienced recalls and reports of pentobarbital contamination, a euthanasia drug.
- Consumer reviews frequently note vomiting, diarrhea, poor coat quality, and batch inconsistencies.
Risks of Mixing Low-Quality Foods
Mixing two products with questionable ingredients may not offset their individual shortcomings:
- Digestive distress: Dogs might develop stomach upset, gas, or irregular stools.
- Inconsistent nutrition: If nutrient levels vary drastically, the dog may become deficient in essential vitamins or minerals.
- Potential toxins: Items like BHA, BHT, or even leftover contamination from recalls can pose long-term risks.
When Mixing May Be Acceptable
If you're using a reputable dry or wet food and want to incorporate Ol’ Roy for budget reasons, it’s crucial to:
- Consult a veterinarian regarding your dog’s specific health needs.
- Monitor for signs of allergies or digestive issues.
- Start with small portions and transition over 7–10 days.
- Maintain consistency in feeding habits once a mix is well-tolerated.
Better Alternatives to Consider
Several better-reviewed budget-friendly brands offer higher quality ingredients, better digestibility, and fewer safety concerns than Ol’ Roy. Look for options that:
- List whole meats as the first ingredient.
- Include chelated minerals, probiotics, and natural preservatives.
- Are transparently sourced and avoid artificial colors or additives.
Conclusion
Mixing dry and wet dog food is not inherently bad—it can enhance mealtime and improve nutrition if approached thoughtfully. However, when either option contains low-quality ingredients or has a questionable safety record, such as many Ol’ Roy products, combining them won’t improve your dog’s overall health. For optimal results, always prioritize ingredient transparency, watch your dog’s response to the mix, and consult veterinary guidance. Your pet’s long-term health depends on balanced, digestible, and safe nutrition.
