Naturediet and Forthglade are two of the most popular British wet dog food brands you’ll find on UK shelves. Both pitch themselves as natural. Both use named meats and avoid the vague “meat derivatives” you see in cheaper brands. Both are widely available in supermarkets and online.
But they’re not the same food, and picking between them comes down to a few practical differences in ingredients, texture, price, and the specific needs of your dog.
I’ve gone through both brands carefully, looking at what goes into the food, what it costs to feed, where each one falls short, and which dogs each brand suits best. Here’s the honest comparison.
## Who is Naturediet?
Naturediet has been around since the early 1980s. The company is based in Somerset and still manufactures all its food in the UK. They specialise in wet dog food sold in 390g cartons (paper-based, similar to a juice carton). That packaging choice is worth noting because it’s more environmentally friendly than the plastic trays used by most competitors.
The brand has always positioned itself as a natural alternative to mainstream wet foods. Their recipes contain whole meats, vegetables, and brown rice. No artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives. No added sugar. No soya. The ingredient lists read more like a recipe book than a chemistry experiment.
Naturediet’s range includes adult recipes (Chicken, Lamb, Beef, Fish, Duck), a puppy recipe, a senior recipe, and a “Sensible” line designed for dogs with sensitive digestion. The Sensible recipes use a single protein source and exclude common allergens. This makes them useful for dogs that react to specific ingredients.
One thing that sets Naturediet apart is the texture. The food has a softer, more pate-like consistency compared with the chunkier style of many tray-based wet foods. Some dogs prefer this smooth texture, especially older dogs or dogs with dental issues. Others find it a bit boring visually and prefer something with more visible chunks.
Naturediet is stocked in most large supermarkets, independent pet shops, and online retailers including Amazon UK. The brand has a loyal following among dog owners who value natural ingredients and recyclable packaging.
## Who is Forthglade?
Forthglade has been making dog food in Devon since 1971. That’s over 50 years, which makes them one of the longer-established natural pet food brands in the UK. They’ve been doing “natural” since long before it became a marketing buzzword.
They produce wet food in 395g plastic trays and 400g pouches. The range is broad: adult recipes, puppy, senior, grain-free lines, small breed options, and a “just” range that’s almost entirely meat. Forthglade has one of the widest product ranges of any UK wet food brand, which means you’re more likely to find a recipe that suits your dog.
Forthglade’s recipes typically contain 65-90% meat depending on the line, plus vegetables, and added vitamins and minerals. They use named meats throughout (chicken, lamb, beef, turkey, duck) and avoid artificial additives completely. No colours, no flavours, no preservatives, no added sugar. The ingredient lists are short and easy to read.
The texture is chunkier than Naturediet. You can see identifiable pieces of meat and vegetable in the tray, which some dogs find more appealing. There’s a visual variety that Naturediet’s smooth pate lacks. The food also tends to have a stronger smell when you open the tray, which gets most dogs’ attention immediately.
Forthglade is available in Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Asda, online, and in most pet shops. It’s probably the easier of the two brands to find locally, especially in smaller supermarkets where shelf space is limited.
If you want to compare Forthglade against a completely different category of food, our Forthglade vs Butternut Box article looks at how their wet trays stack up against a fresh subscription service.
## Ingredient comparison
This is where the comparison gets interesting, because both brands take slightly different approaches to formulation. Neither approach is wrong, but they do suit different dogs.
### Naturediet’s approach
Naturediet’s Chicken with Brown Rice recipe contains: chicken meat (48%), chicken broth, brown rice (16%), carrots, peas, vitamins, and minerals.
The first thing to notice is the brown rice. Naturediet includes a meaningful amount of whole grain in their standard recipes. That’s not a bad thing. Brown rice provides fibre, B vitamins, and slow-release energy. Some dogs digest it well, and it’s generally considered a low-allergen grain (much less problematic than wheat or corn). The [PDSA](https://www.pdsa.org.uk/) notes that grains can be a perfectly healthy part of a dog’s diet for dogs that tolerate them.
The meat content (48% chicken including broth) is decent but lower than Forthglade’s equivalent recipes. The chicken broth adds moisture and palatability but doesn’t contribute much in the way of protein or nutrients. The actual meat contribution is closer to the 30-35% range once you account for broth moisture.
Naturediet’s Sensible line (for sensitive dogs) drops the rice and uses sweet potato instead, which is a good move for dogs with grain sensitivities. The Sensible recipes also use a single protein source, making them useful for elimination diets.
### Forthglade’s approach
Forthglade’s Chicken with Vegetables recipe contains: chicken (65%), chicken liver, potatoes, carrots, peas, minerals, linseed.
The meat content is higher (65% including liver). Forthglade uses potato as the carbohydrate source rather than rice. Potatoes are grain-free and generally well-tolerated, though some dogs do better with rice and others with potato. It’s an individual thing.
The chicken liver is a nice touch. Liver is nutrient-dense, providing vitamin A, iron, and B vitamins. It also adds flavour, which helps with picky eaters. Dogs naturally seek out organ meats in the wild, so including liver aligns with what their digestive system expects.
Forthglade’s grain-free range swaps the potato for sweet potato. Their “just” range strips everything back to roughly 90% meat plus minerals, which is about as close to a pure meat diet as you can get in a commercial wet food. For owners who want to maximise meat content and minimise everything else, the “just” range is excellent.
The linseed in Forthglade’s recipes provides omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health. It’s a small addition but a thoughtful one.
### What [All About Dog Food](https://www.allaboutdogfood.co.uk/) says
Both brands score reasonably well on the All About Dog Food ingredient rating system. Forthglade tends to score slightly higher because of the higher meat content in most recipes. Naturediet’s scores are solid but held back a bit by the lower overall meat percentage in their standard line.
Neither brand uses the vague ingredients that drag down the scores of cheaper wet foods (no “meat and animal derivatives,” no “cereals” as a blanket term, no added sugar or artificial colours). Both brands are genuinely in the “good” category rather than the “acceptable” one.
## Nutritional comparison
Here’s how the standard adult chicken recipes compare:
| Nutrient | Naturediet Chicken | Forthglade Chicken |
|———-|——————|——————-|
| Protein | 8.5% | 9% |
| Fat | 5.5% | 5.5% |
| Fibre | 0.5% | 1% |
| Moisture | 76% | 78% |
| Ash | 2% | 2.5% |
| Carbohydrate | ~7.5% | ~4% |
The nutritional profiles are similar, but there are some differences worth noting.
Forthglade has slightly higher protein (9% vs 8.5%). That comes from the higher meat content. It’s a modest difference, but over time it can matter for active dogs that need the extra protein for muscle maintenance.
Forthglade also has higher fibre (1% vs 0.5%), which comes from the potato and vegetables. This can help with digestive regularity, though some dogs with sensitive stomachs prefer lower-fibre foods. The fibre difference is small enough that most dogs won’t notice it.
Naturediet has higher carbohydrate content (around 7.5% vs 4% for Forthglade). The brown rice contributes complex carbs that provide sustained energy. Forthglade’s standard recipe actually has fewer carbohydrates, which might surprise owners who assume potato-based foods are carb-heavy. The 90% “just” range from Forthglade has virtually zero carbohydrates.
Both foods have identical fat content (5.5%), so calorie density is very similar. Neither is particularly high or low in fat.
Both foods fall within the [FEDIAF](https://www.fediaf.org/) nutritional guidelines for complete adult dog food. Either can serve as your dog’s sole diet without any additional supplements.
The moisture levels are high for both (76-78%), which is normal for wet food and beneficial for dogs that don’t drink much water. Wet food is about 75-80% water, compared with 8-10% for dry kibble. The extra hydration can support kidney health and reduce the risk of urinary tract problems.
## Price comparison
### Naturediet pricing
Naturediet cartons (390g) typically cost £1.30-£1.60 each. A box of 18 usually comes in around £22-27.
For a medium dog (15kg) eating roughly 1.5 cartons per day:
– Per day: £1.95-£2.40
– Per month: £58-£72
### Forthglade pricing
Forthglade trays (395g) typically cost £1.20-£1.60 each. A box of 12 usually comes in around £15-18.
For a medium dog (15kg) eating roughly 1.5 trays per day:
– Per day: £1.80-£2.40
– Per month: £54-£72
### The verdict on price
The two brands are very close on price. In some shops, Forthglade is cheaper. In others, Naturediet is. Both sit in the mid-range bracket for wet food: more expensive than Butcher’s or Chappie, but cheaper than Lily’s Kitchen or Butternut Box.
Forthglade probably wins by a small margin when you buy in multipacks from supermarkets or Amazon UK. The 12-packs tend to offer better per-tray value than Naturediet’s 18-packs.
If you’re watching every penny, both brands regularly appear in our best wet dog food under £10 guide as good value options when bought in multipacks or on offer.
For a large dog (30kg+) eating 3-4 trays or cartons per day, the monthly cost difference between the two brands could be £10-20. That’s real money over a year, but it’s a difference, not a gulf.
## Which is better for your dog?
### For healthy adult dogs
Either brand works well. The choice comes down to your dog’s preference (some dogs prefer the chunkier texture of Forthglade, others prefer the smoother pate of Naturediet) and which one is easier for you to buy.
If your dog has no specific health concerns and is a reasonably enthusiastic eater, I’d go with whichever is cheaper at your local shop on any given day. The nutritional difference between the two is small enough that it shouldn’t drive the decision for a healthy dog.
### For puppies
Both brands make puppy-specific recipes. Forthglade Puppy (Chicken with Vegetables for Puppies) has adjusted calcium and phosphorus levels for growing bones. Naturediet Puppy (Chicken) does the same. Both are decent options, though puppy-specific food from either brand tends to cost a bit more per carton.
For very young puppies (under 8 weeks), wet food can be useful as a transition from milk to solid food because it’s soft and easy to eat. But you should confirm with your vet that the recipe meets all the specific needs of your puppy’s breed and expected adult size.
### For senior dogs
Naturediet has a dedicated senior recipe with slightly lower calorie content and added joint-support ingredients. Forthglade’s senior recipe also adjusts the protein and fat levels for older dogs, plus includes glucosamine for joint health.
If your senior dog is slowing down and gaining weight easily, either senior recipe is appropriate. Both have reduced fat compared with the adult versions, which helps prevent weight gain in less active older dogs.
If your older dog has specific health issues (kidney disease, heart problems, diabetes), check with your vet before switching food. The [BVA](https://www.bva-ew.co.uk/) recommends veterinary supervision for dogs with chronic health conditions, especially when it comes to diet.
### For sensitive stomachs
This is where the brands differ a bit.
Naturediet’s “Sensible” range is specifically designed for dogs with food sensitivities. The recipes use single protein sources (chicken, lamb, or fish) and exclude common allergens. The smooth texture is also easier on an irritated digestive system. Naturediet Sensible has been around for years and has a good track record with owners of allergic dogs.
Forthglade’s grain-free range and their “just” range (90% meat) are good options for sensitive dogs too. Fewer ingredients means fewer potential triggers. The “just” range is about as limited-ingredient as wet food gets.
Our best dog food for sensitive stomach guide covers both brands alongside other options.
### For fussy eaters
Forthglade probably has the edge here. The chunkier texture, the stronger smell (in a good way, as far as dogs are concerned), and the wider range of flavours make it more appealing to picky dogs. Naturediet’s smooth pate can be a bit samey, and some dogs just don’t find it that exciting.
If your dog turns their nose up at one, try the other before giving up on wet food entirely. Some dogs that refuse Naturediet will happily eat Forthglade, and vice versa. It’s unpredictable.
## Pros and cons
### Naturediet
Pros:
– British-made with natural ingredients
– Includes brown rice (good for dogs that tolerate grains well)
– Sensible range is excellent for dogs with allergies
– Smooth texture suits dogs with dental problems
– Packaging is recyclable (paper-based cartons)
– Consistent quality over 40+ years
Cons:
– Lower meat content than Forthglade’s standard line
– Limited flavour variety compared with some brands
– Texture can seem bland to some dogs
– Slightly harder to find in smaller supermarkets
– Price per gram is a touch higher than Forthglade
### Forthglade
Pros:
– Higher meat content (65-90% depending on the range)
– Wide range of recipes and life-stage options
– Chunkier texture appeals to most dogs
– Grain-free options available across multiple ranges
– Easy to find in most supermarkets
– The “just” range is near-pure meat
Cons:
– Plastic tray packaging is less eco-friendly
– Standard recipes include potato, which some dogs don’t tolerate well
– Lower fibre might not suit all dogs
– The “just” range is more expensive per tray
– Can be harder to find in smaller convenience stores
## Which should you buy?
For most UK dog owners, the answer comes down to two things: your dog’s preference and what’s available locally.
If your supermarket stocks both, try a couple of trays and cartons of each and see which your dog prefers. Some dogs are fiercely loyal to one texture over the other, and it’s not worth fighting that battle. A food your dog actually eats is always better than a slightly better-quality food they refuse.
If I had to pick one based on ingredients alone, Forthglade edges it. The higher meat content and the absence of rice (for dogs that do better without grains) make it a slightly better fit for the average dog. The wider range of recipes also means more options if your dog gets bored of one flavour.
But if your dog has a sensitive stomach or known food allergies, Naturediet’s Sensible range is well-designed and probably worth trying first. The simpler ingredient list and single-protein approach is a smart way to manage dietary sensitivities. It’s been helping allergic dogs for decades.
Both are genuinely decent brands that sit comfortably in the “good” tier of UK wet dog foods. Our best dog food UK 2026 guide ranks both brands highly within the wet food category.
For more context on how these mid-range brands compare against cheaper and more expensive alternatives, our cheap vs premium dog food guide breaks down where the real value lies. And if you’re browsing the supermarket aisles, our best supermarket dog food guide covers every major UK retailer.
## Frequently asked questions
### Is Naturediet better than Forthglade?
They’re closely matched. Naturediet has better options for sensitive dogs (the Sensible range) and more recyclable packaging. Forthglade has higher meat content, more flavour variety, and a texture that most dogs find more appealing. Forthglade probably just edges it for the average dog, but Naturediet is the better choice for dogs with specific dietary sensitivities.
### Is Naturediet good for dogs with sensitive stomachs?
Yes, Naturediet’s Sensible range is one of the better supermarket-available options for dogs with food sensitivities. The single-protein recipes and exclusion of common allergens make it a good starting point for elimination diets. Vets often recommend it as a first step before moving to prescription hypoallergenic food.
### Can puppies eat Forthglade?
Yes. Forthglade makes a specific puppy recipe with adjusted calcium, phosphorus, and protein levels for growing dogs. Don’t feed puppies the standard adult recipes, as the nutritional balance won’t be right for their development. Growing bones need specific mineral ratios that adult food doesn’t always provide.
### Where can I buy Naturediet?
Naturediet is available in most large supermarkets (Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose, Asda), independent pet shops, and online at Amazon UK, Zooplus, and directly from the Naturediet website. Availability varies by region, but it’s one of the more widely stocked British wet food brands.
### Is Forthglade grain-free?
Some Forthglade recipes are grain-free, and some aren’t. The standard adult line contains potato (which is grain-free but carb-heavy). The grain-free line uses sweet potato. The “just” range is essentially just meat and minerals with no carbohydrate source at all. Always check the label on the specific recipe you’re buying, as the brand makes both grain-inclusive and grain-free options.
Sources: [FEDIAF](https://www.fediaf.org/), [PDSA](https://www.pdsa.org.uk/), [BVA](https://www.bva-ew.co.uk/), [All About Dog Food](https://www.allaboutdogfood.co.uk/), Amazon UK
## What about recalls and safety?
Both brands have reasonably clean safety records, which matters when you’re trusting a company to feed your dog every day.
Naturediet had a voluntary recall in 2019 due to potential mould contamination in a small batch of their Fish recipe. The company handled it well, issuing clear notices and recalling affected batches. No dogs were reported to have been harmed.
Forthglade has not had any significant recalls in recent years. Their manufacturing processes meet UK and EU pet food safety standards, and the brand has a long track record of consistent production.
According to the [FEDIAF](https://www.fediaf.org/) guidelines, all pet food sold in the UK must meet specific safety and quality standards regardless of the brand. Both Naturediet and Forthglade comply with these standards. The [PDSA](https://www.pdsa.org.uk/) advises checking the FSA (Food Standards Agency) website for any current pet food recalls, regardless of which brand you buy.
## Storage and convenience
There’s a practical difference between cartons and trays that’s worth considering.
Naturediet’s paper cartons are easy to store. They’re rectangular, stack neatly in a cupboard, and don’t take up much space. They’re lighter to carry than trays. Once opened, a carton keeps in the fridge for 24-48 hours.
Forthglade’s plastic trays are slightly less convenient. They don’t stack as neatly, and the foil lids can be fiddly. An opened tray also keeps in the fridge for 24-48 hours. The main advantage of trays is that they’re often sold in smaller pack sizes (single trays in some shops), which means you can buy exactly what you need without committing to a multi-pack.
Neither brand requires refrigeration before opening. Both are shelf-stable with a long use-by date (typically 12-24 months from manufacture).
## What about recalls?
Naturediet has had at least one voluntary recall in recent years (related to a potential mould issue in a single batch), while Forthglade has not had any significant recalls. Both brands meet UK food safety standards, and recalls in the pet food industry are rare overall.
## What about the wet food market in the UK?
Wet dog food accounts for roughly 30-35% of the UK dog food market by value, with dry food making up the majority. But wet food has been gaining ground in recent years as owners become more aware of the benefits of higher moisture content and higher meat inclusion.
Both Naturediet and Forthglade have benefited from this trend. British consumers are increasingly interested in natural ingredients, shorter ingredient lists, and UK-manufactured products. Both brands tick those boxes.
The [BVA](https://www.bva-ew.co.uk/) doesn’t recommend one specific brand over another, but they do advise choosing a food that meets FEDIAF standards and is appropriate for your dog’s life stage and health status. Both Naturediet and Forthglade meet that bar.
## What do real owners say?
Feedback for both brands is generally positive.
Naturediet owners commonly praise the smooth texture (especially for older dogs), the recyclable carton packaging, and the Sensible range for sensitive dogs. Complaints tend to focus on the limited flavour range and the fact that some dogs find the pate texture less exciting than chunkier alternatives.
Forthglade owners commonly praise the wide flavour range, the chunky texture that most dogs enjoy, and the availability in virtually every supermarket. Complaints tend to focus on the plastic packaging (less eco-friendly than cartons) and occasional inconsistency between batches.
Neither brand attracts the volume of complaints that cheaper wet foods (like Pedigree or Bakers wet) tend to generate. The quality is noticeably higher across the board.
## A note on availability
Both brands have seen supply chain disruptions over the past few years, but availability has stabilised. Naturediet can occasionally be harder to find in smaller branches of Tesco Express or Sainsbury’s Local, where shelf space is limited. Forthglade’s plastic trays tend to take up less room than Naturediet’s cartons, which works in their favour for smaller shops.
If you can’t find either brand locally, both are reliably available on Amazon UK with delivery to most UK postcodes. Subscribe and Save can reduce the price by 5-15%, which brings both brands closer to the budget end of the market.
The bottom line is this: buy whichever one your dog prefers eating. A food that sits uneaten in the bowl is worthless regardless of its ingredient quality. Try a few trays of each, let your dog decide, and stick with the winner.