Hill's Science Diet Healthy Cuisine Braised Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew (12.5 oz cans, case of 12) and how it compares to other dog food options like BIXBI Liberty Beef, Zignature Turkey, and Whole Earth Farms:
Hill's Science Diet Healthy Cuisine Beef Stew Overview
Key Features:
Format: Wet food (stew) in 12.5 oz cans, sold in cases of 12 (total ~9.4 lbs).
Protein Source: Beef as primary protein, with added vegetables (carrots, peas).
Life Stage: Formulated for adult dogs (1–6 years).
Nutritional Profile:
Crude Protein: 7% min (lower than dry kibble due to moisture content).
Crude Fat: 3% min.
Crude Fiber: 1.5% max.
Moisture: 78% max (typical for wet food).
Calories: ~395 kcal/can (or ~32 kcal/oz).
Pros:
✅ Palatability: Soft texture and savory stew appeal to picky eaters.
✅ Digestibility: Easier to chew and digest for senior dogs or dental issues.
✅ Vet-Recommended: Hill’s is a trusted brand with clinical research backing.
Cons:
⚠️ Low Protein: 7% protein (wet food) vs. 26–30% in dry kibble—may not suit active dogs.
⚠️ Pricey for Calories: ~3.00/can (36/case) = ~3.80/lb.
⚠️ Not Grain-Free: Contains brewers rice and wheat gluten (avoid for grain allergies).
Comparison: Hill's Wet Beef Stew vs. Dry Kibble Options
| Feature | Hill's Wet Beef Stew | BIXBI Liberty Beef (Dry) | Zignature Turkey (Dry) | Whole Earth Farms Salmon (Dry) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Protein Source | Beef, carrots, peas | Fresh beef + liver | Turkey meal + turkey | Salmon + whitefish meal |
| Protein % | 7% (as-fed) / ~32% (dry matter basis) | 30% | 27% | 26% |
| Fat % | 3% (as-fed) / ~14% (DMB) | 16% | 14% | 14% |
| Grain-Free? | No (brewers rice, wheat gluten) | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Texture | Wet stew | Dry kibble | Dry kibble (small bites) | Dry kibble |
| Price per Ounce | ~0.24/oz | ~0.55/oz (dry) | ~0.31/oz (dry) | ~0.12/oz (dry) |
| Best For | Picky eaters, seniors, toppers | High-protein needs, allergies | Turkey-limited diets | Budget grain-free |
Which to Choose?
Pick Hill’s Wet Beef Stew If:
Your dog loves wet food or needs a palatable topper for dry kibble.
You’re feeding a senior or small breed with dental issues.
You trust vet-recommended brands (despite grains).
Pick BIXBI/Zignature/Whole Earth Farms If:
You prioritize high-protein, grain-free nutrition.
Your dog has grain or protein allergies.
You need cost-effective, calorie-dense meals (dry kibble wins here).
Alternatives to Hill’s Wet Food:
For Grain-Free Wet Food:
Blue Buffalo Homestyle Recipe Beef Stew (no grains, ~$3/can).
Merrick Grain-Free Cowboy Cookout (higher protein, ~$3.50/can).
For Budget Wet Food:
Purina Pro Plan Savory Beef & Vegetables (~$2/can, includes grains).
Feeding Tips for Wet Food:
As a Meal: Feed ~1 can per 15–20 lbs of body weight daily (adjust for activity).
As a Topper: Mix ¼–½ can with dry kibble to enhance flavor.
Storage: Refrigerate opened cans for up to 3 days.
Final Verdict:
Hill’s Science Diet Healthy Cuisine is a reliable wet food for dogs needing soft, tasty meals, but it’s not ideal for grain-free or high-protein diets. For allergies or budget concerns, dry kibble like BIXBI or Whole Earth Farms is more efficient.
