How To Store Dog Food

Many dry dog food bags are re-sealable, making it even more convenient for storage. However, if you would still prefer to store kibble in a container, make sure that it will stay fresh and try to keep the original bag handy in case you need to reference specific information. You can also tape the packaging information to the outside of the container. Just remember to update it when you refill the container with a new bag of kibble. Alternatively, you can simply place the bag inside your container of choice. This can be helpful if your dog is likely to get into the food easily.¹ 

What’s the Best Way to Store Wet Dog Food?

It’s even more important to regularly wash your dog’s bowl and any utensils if you feed them wet food, as there is a higher chance of bacteria developing. Even small pieces of wet food can put your dog at risk of food-borne illnesses if left at room temperature for too long.¹ 

Try to put a lid or plastic wrap over any opened wet food cans in the fridge. Pouches can be put in a small sandwich bag. This will help retain moisture and reduce odor transfer, increasing the likelihood of being able to use it for a second meal. If you think the food is too cold after refrigeration you can try heating it in the microwave for a maximum of 10 seconds. Your dog might find warm wet food more enjoyable.⁴

Generally, canned dog food is safe for your dog to eat for 3-7 days after opening, although this might vary slightly, depending on the specific type of food. For example, canned paté lasts in the fridge for about 5-7 days, while stews tend to last about 3-5 days. Any wet food that’s high in fish oil should be consumed within 3 days of opening, because it tends to have a strong odor that can become unpleasant fairly quickly.⁴

Other Food Safety Tips 

Always wash and dry your dog’s food bowl regularly, particularly if you feed them wet food. Treats should be kept in a secure location to prevent your pooch from accessing them behind your back. Dog treats are usually dry, so they can be stored in a cool, dry place no higher than 80°F, just like kibble. Open treat bags should be placed inside an airtight container or re-sealable bag. It’s important to seal soft treats properly, as exposure to air can cause them to go hard or stale. You might be inspired to make homemade doggy treats from time to time. Store them in the refrigerator in a bag or container to maintain maximum taste and freshness.⁵

As hard as we try to feed our furry friends nutritious, healthy, good-quality food, there is always a risk of food-related illness. So, what do you do if this happens? The best way to determine if your dog has eaten spoiled food is to immediately check the food itself. Be on alert if you notice that wet food has a foul smell, leakage, or irregular consistency. Wet food pouches might also look swollen if they’ve gone off. Mold is another indicator of spoiled food.

You know your dog best. If you suspect that they might have eaten bad food, monitor them and seek veterinary care if they show symptoms of being ill. Symptoms look out for include⁶: 

• Vomiting (particularly right after eating)
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Twitching
• Low energy
• Sudden reduced appetite
• Standing in a hunched way (this can be due to stomach pain) 

Sometimes, it can take a couple days for symptoms to appear, although it’s more likely that your dog will vomit soon after consuming the contaminated food. Your vet will be able to determine the best course of treatment to make your dog feel better. They might use an injection to induce vomiting if your dog hasn’t been able to do so naturally. Blood tests, an abdominal ultrasound, or IV fluids may be necessary in more extreme cases. 

FAQs

How long is dog food good for?

It varies depending on the brand. Check the manufacturer information on the packaging. 

Is it OK to store dog food in a plastic container?

Yes. Just make sure to have the original packaging information on hand. Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Should you keep dog food in a bag or a container?

Both are fine. Bags should be re-sealable and containers should be airtight to maintain freshness and nutrient quality. Keep out of reach of your dog, children, and other pets.

Does dog food go bad in a sealed container? 

Yes, it can. Wet food can be stored safely for about 3-7 days, depending on the brand and type of food. Kibble will keep for a long time if stored properly. Always pay attention to manufacturer guidelines and expiration dates on the packaging.

Final Notes

Once you have decided which dog food to purchase, it’s equally important to store it properly in order to prevent bacterial contamination, loss of nutrients, and a decrease in flavor. Kibble is often sold in a convenient, re-sealable bag, but some dog owners may prefer to store it in their own containers. Always store dry dog food in a cool, dry place without excess moisture. 

Not sure how to best store your dog food or have you switched to a different type of dog food? Ask a Dutch-affiliated vet. The vets at Dutch.com are highly qualified professionals, who can offer you advice about your pet’s nutrition via online consultations, so you can get all the answers you need from the comfort of your own home. Try Dutch’s tele-vet services today and receive expert guidance anytime.