Canned dog food is a convenient and often tasty option for canine owners. It’s shelf-stable and easy to store, meaning you don’t have to worry about running out of food for your pup. But how long is canned dog food good?
The answer depends on the brand and the specific recipe. Generally, canned dog food has a shelf life of two to three years when stored in a cool, dry place.
However, if you’ve opened the can, you should use it within a week or two at most, as bacteria can build up after that point. It’s also important to read the label closely for any signs of contamination or spoilage before feeding it to your pup. If there’s an odor or off-color to the food, it’s best not to feed it.
It’s also important to store canned dog food properly after opening it. Unlike kibble that can be resealed and stored in its original bag, you’ll need an airtight container for any leftover wet food.
Keeping it sealed in the fridge will help preserve its freshness and keep bacteria from growing on the surface of the food. If you plan on using the leftovers within a few days, this should suffice; however, if you’re planning on using it later than that, you may want to consider freezing it instead.
Finally, always check the expiration date on canned dog food before purchasing or feeding your pup – even if it hasn’t been opened yet! Most brands list their expiration dates clearly on the label so there won’t be any surprises once you get home.
Conclusion:
Canned dog food can last up to three years when stored properly in cool, dry conditions but should be used within one week of opening and kept in an airtight container with any leftovers refrigerated or frozen depending on when they’ll be consumed again. Always check the expiration date before purchasing or feeding your pup and discard any cans with an off-color or odor that could indicate spoilage or contamination.