Many pet owners debate issues such as nutrition, dental health and cost when deciding whether to select a dry or wet petfood, according to an article on zootoo.com .

Dry and wet foods possess much of the same nutrients. Dry food, however, was found to result in less calculus buildup and less gingivitis, according to Colin Harvey, professor of surgery and dentistry at the University of Pennsylvania's School of Veterinary Medicine. In dogs, these results were seen in the first upper molar teeth; in cats, calculus buildup was slightly less likely on eight major teeth and gingivitis was less likely on two teeth.

Cost is another factor when choosing a dry or wet food. According to Consumer Reports, wet food, which contains about 75% water, is more expensive per serving than dry food because more of it is required for the pet to receive the same amount of nutrients and calories.