Can Canned Dog Food Be Left in the Can?

Canned dog food is a convenient way to feed your pup, but it can also come with some potential risks. While canned food has its advantages, such as being more shelf-stable than dry kibble and offering a higher moisture content, leaving the food in the can is not recommended.

When left in the can, canned dog food can become contaminated with bacteria or mold that can be harmful to your pup. The reason for this is twofold: first, cans are made of metal which makes them prone to rusting and corrosion; second, the moist environment inside the can provides an optimal breeding ground for bacteria.

Additionally, leaving canned dog food in its container for too long can lead to spoilage due to oxidation. Oxidation occurs when oxygen and other elements come into contact with certain foods (in this case, canned dog food) and cause them to break down over time. This process accelerates when exposed to light or heat sources.

So what should you do instead?

The best way to ensure your pup is safe from any potential contamination or spoilage is to transfer the contents of each can into a sealed container as soon as possible after opening it. Make sure the container is airtight so that no air (or light) can enter the container and speed up oxidation. Furthermore, make sure that you store the food in a cool, dark place so that it remains fresh for as long as possible.

Conclusion: Canning dog food may be convenient, but it’s important to keep in mind that leaving it in its original container comes with some risks. To keep your pup safe from potential contamination or spoilage, transfer each opened can into an airtight container immediately after opening and store it in a cool, dark place for maximum freshness.