Glossary

Dry matter basis

A way of comparing dog foods by removing the water from their labeled nutrient percentages so wet and dry foods can be compared fairly.

Also called: DMB, dry matter, comparing dog foods, guaranteed analysis conversion

The guaranteed analysis on a dog food label lists nutrients such as protein and fat as a percentage of the food as it comes, including its water. Canned food can be around three quarters water and kibble about ten percent, so the labels look very different even if the recipes are similar.

To compare on a dry matter basis, subtract the stated moisture percentage from 100 to find the dry matter, then divide each nutrient percentage by that figure and multiply by 100. For example, a food with 10 percent moisture and 25 percent protein is about 28 percent protein on a dry matter basis.

The result lets you compare a can with a bag. It still says nothing about quality or whether the food is right for your dog, and a manufacturer or vet can supply exact figures.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

AAFCO The US body that sets model pet food rules and nutrient profiles but does not itself approve, test or certify any dog food. Kibble Dry, cooked, bite-size pieces of dog food, usually made by extrusion, that are shelf-stable, convenient and the most common way to feed dogs. Calorie The unit of energy in food; dog food labels list kilocalories per cup or kilogram, which is how portions and weight are controlled.