Dr. Laci Schaible
|January 31, 2022
Much like humans, dogs can taste salty, sweet, sour and bitter flavors, according to the American Kennel Club (AKC), but the similarities may stop there. Dogs appear to be able to discern even a certain taste in water, perhaps explaining why they don't seem to bore of the liquid that humans sometimes describe as "flavorless."
But do dogs taste the same flavors in the same way people do? It would seem, since they're known for eating nonfood objects and sifting through rancid garbage and other unmentionables, that they may not. But this could be due to the fact that while dogs' taste buds can detect the same kinds of flavors ours do, they have significantly fewer taste buds on their tongues. As the AKC notes, humans have around 9,000 while dogs have only about 1,700.
So, curious what your dog might like best to eat, be it chicken vs. beef, warm vs. cold or wet vs. dry dog food? And how do we even know if dog food tastes good to dogs? Let's explore some of the food types and factors your dog's palate may prefer.
There are several questions to ask your vet to help you select the healthiest and tastiest food for your dog. While most dog parents will ask these questions at a new puppy appointment, it's important to keep this conversation going over the years, through health and sickness. Here are some guideline questions:
There is no need to stress over flavors or wet vs. dry dog food. Usually, your dog will like how their food tastes. Don't forget to bring in the expert and consult your vet for guidance on selecting the best dog food since flavor isn't the only way to your dog's heart. High-quality and balanced meal options are crucial for your dog's long and healthy life, but time together and shared memories are the real keys to your pooch's happiness.
Dr. Laci Schaible is a small animal veterinarian, veterinary journalist, and a thought leader in the industry. She received her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Texas A&M University and her Masters in Legal Studies from Wake Forest University.
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Over 70% of dogs lost weight within 10 weeks when fed this nutrition
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep dogs active and healthy
Chicken & Barley recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a large bite size
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome for dogs age 7+
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini dogs
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Learn about alternative proteins in dog food, such as salmon, duck and turkey - and why it might be a good idea to try one for your dog.
Ear mites in dogs can cause your pup irritation & pain. If you think his ear scratching might mean he has mites, learn what to do for treatment.
Learn how to make a DIY dog obstacle course at home with items you already own. Follow these instructions and you & your pup will be training in no time!
Dog boops are all the craze on social media, but the booping nose gesture isn't just cute, it's also a great way to connect with your dog. Learn more...
My Dog Ate Raw Chicken: What Should I Do?
Get helpful tips and advice on how to properly leash train your new puppy to help make your walks together safer and more enjoyable.
Get information on Hill's Pet line of high quality dog treats designed to spoil your perfect dog without spoiling their appetite.
Learn how to create your own backyard dog park, possibly with materials you already have, so that your dog can enjoy the benefits of a dog park at home.
Learn about choosing the right dog food to help ensure your adult dog will receive the correct balance of nutrition.
Understand the different ailments that can affect aging dogs and what you can do to provide them with the quality of life they're used to living.
Learn the basics of acupuncture for dogs, including the conditions it can treat, what to expect during a session and potential side effects.
Learn about the skin condition called dog mange: what it is, how to spot the symptoms, and treatments for both Demodectic & Sarcoptic types of the disease.
By one year old, you puppy will be an adult dog – some behaviors may not change any time soon, but his needs in many areas have changed.
Learn about dog eye boogers, goop, gunk & crustiness: when it's normal vs. when it could be a health concern and which breeds & sizes are most susceptible.
It's a tasty treat, but is pineapple safe for dogs? Discover the pros and cons of feeding your dog pineapple and how to do it safely.
Learn about the different classifications between carnivores and omnivores to decide which order dogs fall under.
Learn about the five smartest dog breeds, such as border collies, german shepherds and poodles, and what makes them so trainable and intelligent.
Learn what to do if your dog starts choking, including how to perform the Heimlich maneuver on a dog, and how to prevent choking hazards in the future.
Learn how overfeeding your dog can lead to dangerous consequences for his health. Keep your dog happy and healthy with a balanced nutrition.
Learn more about collie eye anomaly in dogs, including breeds that can be affected (is it just collies?), causes & symptoms, and tips for prevention.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
©2025 Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. As used herein, denotes registered trademark status in the U.S. only; registration status in other geographies may be different. Your use of this site is subject to the terms of our Legal Statement. About our Ads. Cookie Consent Tool