Best freeze dried dog foods are climbing the popularity charts, serving as a chic alternative to the classic fresh and raw feast. Envision this: first frozen, then meticulously dried to perfection, this process encapsulates the nutrients, setting these premium crunchies apart for their shelf stability against the fresh and raw selections.
Stepping into the limelight, high-pressure processing (HPP) acts as the guardian, eliminating threats like Listeria, E. coli, and Salmonella. With its refined approach and high protein levels, the best freeze dried dog food provides a soothing journey through your pup’s digestive system. It is a standout choice over traditional kibble for those seeking the utmost in canine nutrition and comfort.
How to Choose The Best Freeze Dried Dog Food?
- Focus on options where premium, authentic meats lead the ingredient list — ideal freeze-dried meals are predominantly real meat.
- Steer clear of formulas laced with synthetic preservatives, dyes, or flavorings.
- Bypass options are padded with non-nutritive fillers like corn, wheat, and soy.
- Confirm the food’s completeness and balance, ensuring it aligns with the AAFCO nutritional standards for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, or senior).
- Factor in your dog’s health specifics and seek veterinary guidance before dietary shifts.
Navigating to the best freeze dried dog food requires diligence. Below, discover five standout freeze-dried options perfect for your canine companion!
The Best Freeze Dried Dog Food
Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food
Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food
Open Farm’s Surf and Turf uses fresh beef and wild Pacific salmon as primary protein sources.
Analysis shows it contains 43% protein, 34% fat, and approximately 15% carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 79%.
This high-protein blend includes organic fruits and vegetables, with no rendered poultry or meat by-products.
Each ingredient is 100% traceable, reinforcing our strong recommendation.
Pros
High-protein formula
Grain-free with organic fruits and vegetables
100% traceable ingredients
Cons
Relatively high-fat content
It may be pricey for some budgets
Not suitable for dogs with specific dietary restrictions
Surf and Turf is one of 6 freeze-dried recipes showcased in our comprehensive Open Farm product range analysis.
- Main ingredients: Ethically sourced beef, hearts, salmon, kidneys, livers
- Meal Types: Grain-free (with carrots, squash)
- Design For: Suitable for all life stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs, puppies (including larger breeds)
- Variety: Beef, turkey, chicken, lamb, and more
A testimonial from a satisfied buyer: “My finicky golden doodle devours these, and I’m reassured knowing they’re packed with nutrients and ethically sourced proteins. It’s a win-win with Open Farm’s freeze-dried range.”
Nulo Freestyle Freeze-Dried Raw
Nulo Freestyle Freeze-Dried Raw
Nulo Freestyle Raw Beef is rich in fresh beef protein, with a balanced composition: 44% protein, 29% fat, and 18% carbs, yielding a fat-to-protein ratio of 67%.
This grain-free option, meticulously crafted in a USDA-inspected facility, is flash-frozen to preserve flavor and nutrients.
It’s free from corn, wheat, soy, and artificial additives, making it highly recommended for all life stages.
Pros
Fresh, high-quality ingredients
Grain-free recipe with apples and broccoli
Ideal for adult dogs, puppies, including large breeds
Varied flavor options, including duck, lamb, salmon, and turkey
Cons
Limited availability in some areas
Slightly higher fat content
It may not be budget-friendly for all
Nulo’s Raw Beef is among the 5 freeze-dried formulas examined in our Nulo Freestyle collection.
- Main ingredients: Beef, beef heart, liver, kidneys, ground beef bone
- Meal Types: Grain-free (including apples, broccoli)
- Design For: Suitable for all life stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs, puppies (including large breeds)
- Variety: Also available in Duck, Lamb, Salmon, and Turkey
A testimonial from a satisfied buyer… “For around a year, I’ve entrusted Nulo to my 4-year-old Mastiff and 5-year-old Shepard Mix. They adore Nulo’s offerings. Their coats gleam and previous allergy issues have vanished! I enthusiastically endorse Nulo products.”
Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties
Stella and Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Dinner Patties
Stella and Chewy’s Dinner Patties use fresh chicken as their primary protein source, with a breakdown of 51% protein, 29% fat, and 12% carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 58%.
This formula merges raw diet advantages with freeze-dried convenience, containing cage-free chicken and 100% organic-certified fruits and vegetables. Highly recommended.
Pros
Rich in animal protein
Grain-free formula with pumpkin seed and cranberries
Ideal for adult dogs, puppies, including large breeds
Diverse flavor options including beef, lamb, duck, goose, and turkey
Cons
Limited availability in some regions
Slightly higher fat content
This may pose affordability challenges for some
Stella and Chewy’s Chicken is among the 13 freeze-dried formulas scrutinized within our Stella and Chewy assortment.
- Main ingredients: Chicken (including ground bone), chicken liver, gizzard, pumpkin seed, organic cranberries
- Meal Types: Grain-free (includes pumpkin seed, cranberries)
- Design For: Suitable for all life stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs, puppies (including large breeds)
- Variety: Also available in Beef, Lamb, Duck, Goose, Turkey, Puppy (multiple flavors), and more
A testimonial from a satisfied buyer… “My Plottie girl needs to watch her figure. One and a half of these patties broken up and rehydrated in warm water create a fantastic gravy for her kibble. Moreover, they’re wonderfully portable and lightweight, easily stored, sparing me from the hassle of carrying cans when traveling and the risk of spoilage. Above all, my 6-year-old sweetheart eagerly anticipates mealtime. While they’re pricey, I firmly believe they’re worth every penny.”
Bravo Homestyle Freeze-Dried
Bravo Homestyle Freeze-Dried
Bravo Homestyle’s beef recipe boasts 48% protein, 16% fat, and 28% carbohydrates, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 34%.
Crafted by a top raw pet food manufacturer, it’s free from artificial additives and highly recommended.
Pros
Rich in fresh beef protein
Grain-free with sweet potatoes and chickpeas
Ideal for adults and puppies
Variety with pork and turkey recipes
Cons
Moderately high carbohydrate content
It may not suit all budget ranges
Bravo Homestyle Complete Beef Dinner stands among the 3 freeze-dried formulations featured in our review of the Bravo range.
- Main ingredients: Beef, beef liver, sweet potatoes, chickpeas, beef hearts
- Meal Types: Grain-free (includes sweet potatoes, chickpeas)
- Design For: Suitable for all life stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs, puppies
- Variety: Also available in Pork and Turkey
A testimonial from a satisfied buyer… “This food is exceptional. I’ve been feeding it to my working German Shepherds, and their coats are stunning, and their overall health is fantastic. This is the way to go if you’re looking to feed raw without the hassle of sourcing all the necessary ingredients. I’ve been feeding it for years!”
Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Raw Food for Dogs
Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Raw Food for Dogs
Vital Essentials’ turkey formula offers 60% protein, 18% fat, and 14% carbohydrates, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 31%.
Ideal for dogs with food sensitivities, it meets AAFCO nutrient profiles through live animal feeding trials, earning high recommendations.
Pros
Rich in fresh turkey protein
Grain-free formula
Ideal for adults and puppies
Cons
Limited availability in some regions
Slightly higher fat content
Maybe cost-prohibitive for some
Turkey Mini Nibs is one of the 19 freeze-dried formulas featured in our Vital Essentials assortment.
- Main ingredients: Turkey, turkey heart, turkey liver, herring oil, mixed tocopherols
- Meal Types: Grain-free
- Design For: Suitable for all life stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs, puppies (including large breeds)
- Variety: Also available in Beef, Chicken, Duck, Rabbit, and Salmon
A testimonial from a satisfied buyer… “Vital Essentials is a top-quality, meticulously sourced food that pleases the palate! My dog eagerly devours his meals. Extremely satisfied with this dog food!”
Halo Freeze-Dried Raw Meal Bites
Halo Freeze-Dried Raw Meal Bites
Halo’s beef formula provides 43% protein, 29% fat, and 19% carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 68%.
Free from fillers or generic by-products, it’s made with natural beef and free from corn, wheat, soy, antibiotics, artificial flavors, or preservatives and is highly recommended.
Pros
Rich in fresh beef protein
Grain-free formula
Variety with turkey, turducken, and whitefish recipes
Cons
Moderately high carbohydrate content
It may not be suitable for all budgets
Beef Meal Bites is among the 4 freeze-dried recipes scrutinized in our Halo lineup review.
- Main ingredients: Beef, beef heart, beef liver, beef lung, beef kidney
- Meal Types: Grain-free
- Ideal for: Adult dogs
- Variety: Also available in Turkey, Turducken, and Whitefish
A testimonial from a satisfied buyer… “Halo is of exceptional quality, serving as both training treats and a meal topper to entice my dog to eat. Not all dogs have hearty appetites. I’m a big fan of this brand, as is my vet, and I purchase many of their products. My dog is always thrilled when he sees the bag come out.”
Grandma Lucy’s Freeze-Dried
Grandma Lucy’s Freeze-Dried
Grandma Lucy’s Pureformance Chicken formula delivers 36% protein, 15% fat, and 41% carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 41%.
Crafted in a family-owned California facility, this grain-free formula undergoes small-batch production for optimal quality and consistency.
Free from generic by-products and preservatives, it features premium ingredients throughout.
It is highly recommended.
Pros
Abundant of USDA chicken
Grain-free formula with carrots and celery
Ideal for adults and puppies
Variety includes fish, lamb, and rabbit recipes
Cons
Moderately high carbohydrate content
It may not suit all budget ranges
Pureformance Chicken Recipe is among the 4 formulas assessed within our Grandma Lucy’s freeze-dried range.
- Main ingredients: USDA Chicken, chickpeas, flax, carrots, celery
- Meal Types: Grain-free (includes carrots, celery)
- Design For: Suitable for all life stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs, puppies
- Variety: Also available in Fish, Lamb, and Rabbit
A testimonial from a satisfied buyer… “My dogs devour this stuff the moment I set the bowl down. And my overweight dog has shed some pounds since switching to this food. I’m sticking with Grandma Lucy’s from now on.”
Sojos Complete Freeze-Dried Raw
Sojos Complete Freeze-Dried Raw
Sojos Complete formula contains 31% protein, 13% fat, and 48% carbohydrates, resulting in a fat-to-protein ratio of about 43%.
It’s an excellent choice for adult dogs with food and skin sensitivities and is free from genetically engineered and artificial ingredients, preservatives, or fillers.
It is highly recommended.
Pros
Abundant in fresh turkey and egg
Grain-free formula with broccoli and apples
Ideal for adult dogs
Variety includes beef, lamb, chicken, and senior recipes
Cons
Moderately high carbohydrate content
It may not be suitable for all budgets
Turkey Recipe is among the 5 freeze-dried formulations examined in our review of the Sojos Complete lineup.
- Main ingredients: Turkey, sweet potatoes, whole egg, broccoli, apples
- Meal Types: Grain-free (includes broccoli, apples)
- Ideal for: Adult dogs
- Variety: Also available in Beef, Lamb, Chicken, and Seniors
A testimonial from a satisfied buyer… “This dog food is unparalleled! My 14-year-old Sheltie had major stomach issues, and this cleared them up. He adored the Wild Venison flavor the most, but when it became unavailable, we switched to turkey, and he loved it just as much!”
Bixbi Rawbble Freeze-Dried
Bixbi Rawbble Freeze-Dried
Bixbi Rawbble’s formula boasts 54% protein, 32% fat, and 6% carbohydrates, with a fat-to-protein ratio of about 60%.
It’s designed as a simple, single-protein diet, ideal for limited ingredient use.
Made with antibiotic and hormone-free poultry, it’s free from rendered meal by-products, corn, wheat, soy, artificial preservatives, or coloring agents.
A top grain-free, freeze-dried choice. It is highly recommended.
Pros
Abundant in fresh duck protein
Grain-free formula with pumpkin
Ideal for adult dogs and small or medium-breed puppies
Variety includes beef, chicken, pork, and more recipes
Cons
Limited availability in some regions
Moderately high-fat content
It may not suit all budget ranges
Duck Recipe is one of the 7 dry formulations examined in our Bixbi Rawbble product line review.
- Main ingredients: Duck with ground bone, duck liver, duck heart, pumpkin, fenugreek seed
- Meal Types: Grain-free (includes pumpkin)
- Design For: Suitable for all life stages
- Ideal for: Adult dogs and small or medium breed puppies
- Variety: Also available in Beef, Chicken, Pork, and more
A testimonial from a satisfied buyer… “My dog ADORES this. He’s incredibly picky, but his bowl is empty every day when we sprinkle it on top of his food and shake it. It’s such a relief knowing he’s getting enough to eat. I HIGHLY recommend it. It’s a bit pricey but worth every penny.”
The Best Freeze Dried Dog Food: Pros And Cons
Pros
Dive into the world of the best freeze dried dog food, and you’ll unearth treasures like nutrient-rich ingredients, a fantastic raw diet stand-in, enduring shelf life, and a solution for the fussy eater dilemma.
1. Nutrient Preservation at Its Best
Selecting the best freeze dried dog food means blessing your furry companion with top-notch nourishment. Why? The freeze-drying wizardry perfectly keeps the raw goodies—vitamins and minerals—intact.
Unlike other methods that lean heavily on heat and tend to snatch away the meal’s nutritional essence, freeze-drying keeps everything just as nature intended. But remember, the starting lineup of ingredients needs to be nothing short of premium (stick around; I’ll clue you in on what to scout for). Here’s why this matters:
- They’re your pup’s ticket to vibrant health and sidestepping ailments.
- They slash the chances of allergies or dietary upsets.
- The natural taste of whole foods beats processed bites and paws down.
- Natural ingredients are champions of gut health and keeping those coats glossy.
2. Raw Diet Alternative
The raw diet’s benefits are no secret, yet it comes with its hassles—constant shopping, chilling needs, and meal prep munching away at your time.
Enter freeze-dried dog food: the ease of kibble meets raw diet virtues.
Imagine all the raw diet’s components, simply dehydrated for your convenience. It’s a leap forward in pet food innovation, sparing us and our pets from the downsides typically tied to food “advancements.”
3. Shelf Life That Keeps on Giving
The longevity of freeze-dried dog food is another feather in its cap. Bidding farewell to moisture wards off bacteria and spoilage villains.
This means your pantry can stash months, or even years, worth of meals without sweating about spoilage. No need for fridge gymnastics. Just stash it away in an excellent, shadowy spot, and you’re golden.
4. Dogs Prefer Freeze Dried
Our furry friends go wild for the intense and hearty taste of the best freeze-dried food—a throwback to their ancestral diet.
Cons
While celebrated for its quality, the best freeze dried dog food brings a few considerations:
- It’s costlier due to its sophisticated freeze-drying process.
- Finding the right formula is a quest, especially for specific dietary requirements.
- There’s a slight risk of bacteria given its raw nature, though careful preparation can mitigate this.
- Ultimately, it may not suit every dog’s taste or digestive system.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why should your pup switch to the best freeze dried dog food?
Tapping into the best freeze dried dog food could be a game-changer for your furry friend’s health and happiness. It’s a nutritional jackpot, preserving the raw goodness—protein-packed, vitamin-rich, and mineral-laden.
This drying wizardry locks in the meat’s tantalizing taste, winning over even the fussiest diners (take my poodle Atlas, for example). Plus, the ease of storing and dishing out this food—dry, crumbled, or soaked—makes meal prep a breeze.
Why Is Freeze Dried Dog Food So Expensive?
Compared to wet food or kibble, the steeper price tag on freeze-dried dog food boils down to the caliber of ingredients and the intricacies of its production process. These foods are crafted with substantial amounts of genuine, top-tier meats.
Achieving up to 97% moisture elimination from dog food is a time-intensive and energy-hungry endeavor, escalating the overall expenses of crafting freeze-dried options.
How To Make the Freeze Dried Dog Food?
The journey to the best freeze dried dog food begins with blending quality ingredients, which are then frozen and placed into a vacuum chamber. Here, they’re dried at low heat and pressure, transforming ice directly into vapor and leaving the food nearly moisture-free.
Depending on the brand, the final product might be powdered or shaped into pellets or chews. It’s then vacuum-sealed with nitrogen to keep it fresh and protected from moisture and oxygen.
Can Puppies Eat Freeze-Dried Dog Food?
Yes, but with caution. Freeze-dried food can suit puppies, but waiting until they’ve matured is advisable. Not all puppies may take to the taste, and their developing digestive systems might struggle with the transition. It’s essential to consider your puppy’s specific needs and consult a veterinarian to ensure the best dietary choice.
Or you can discover The Doggo Bio’s extensive guide to the best foods for large breed puppies.
Should I Moisten Freeze-Dried Dog Food?
Yes, but it’s optional. Many brands suggest adding water to freeze-dried dog food to mitigate dehydration and improve taste. Yet, dogs are also safe and acceptable to enjoy it dry, with some preferring its crunch.
Can I mix it with freeze-dried dog food?
Yes, you can. Mixing freeze-dried food into your dog’s current diet or using it as a topping boosts their intake of protein and quality ingredients. Combining it with kibble or wet food is cost-effective and an ideal way to enhance the nutritional content of homemade dog meals.
What type of freeze-dried dog food is best for allergies?
The top pick in freeze-dried dog food sticks to a limited ingredient script for pups battling allergies, steering clear of usual suspects like wheat, corn, soy, faux preservatives, chicken, and legumes.
Aim for options boasting premium, locally sourced proteins and a light touch in processing to lock in those vital nutrients. Constantly scrutinize the ingredient list to confirm it’s free from allergens, and team up with your vet to pinpoint the perfect freeze-dried diet tailored to your dog’s unique health requirements.
How long does freeze-dried food last in the bowl?
For dry feeding, freeze-dried food can linger in the bowl for 12 hours before disposal. However, if the food has been rehydrated, it’s best to discard it after 2 hours.
How Much Freeze Dried Food Can I Feed My Dog?
When trying the best freeze dried dog food, start slow. Dogs have delicate stomachs, and a sudden switch can cause upset. Begin with 20% freeze-dried food mixed with 80% of their usual meal, gradually increasing over two weeks.
Follow Dr. Gary Richter’s guide for a smooth transition:
| Transitioning Days | Old Food | Freeze-Dried Food |
| Days 1 to 3 | 80% | 20% |
| Days 4 to 7 | 70% | 30% |
| Days 8 to 11 | 60% | 40% |
| Days 12 to 14 | 50% | 50% |
| Days 15 to 17 | 40% | 60% |
| Days 18 to 19 | 30% | 70% |
This method minimizes the risk of digestive issues, ensuring a successful diet change.
Is it safe to warm freeze-dried food?
No, Freeze-dried dog food should never be heated, cooked, or warmed. Serving it in its natural state preserves its nutritional integrity. Heating can compromise the benefits of a freeze-dried raw diet.
Is Freeze-Dried Dog Food Free from Preservatives?
The charm of the best freeze dried dog food lies in its minimal need for preservatives—the freeze-drying craft preserves, strips away moisture, and locks in nutrition, taste, and hue.
However, it’s not a flawless paradise. You may encounter natural preservers such as vitamin E (tocopherol) or rosemary extract aimed at boosting longevity. These options exceed the less savory preservatives in other dog foods.
Diligent label scrutiny is critical to steering clear of any unwelcome additives.
What’s the difference between dehydrated and freeze-dried dog food?
Here’s the drill: dehydrated dog food come to life under warm, dry air, zipping across the food’s surface. It’s hot enough to chase away moisture yet cool enough to dodge the cooking bullet.
On the flip side, freeze-drying is like a magic act, banishing 98-99% of moisture and outshining dehydration, which only manages to wave goodbye to about 90%.
This secret sauce behind freeze-dried fare hangs onto more vitamins and minerals from its original form, not to mention its knack for chilling on your shelf longer, standing the test of time.
Can Freeze-Dried Dog Food Help Reduce Fur Shedding?
Yes, transitioning to freeze-dried dog food can potentially help reduce fur shedding. These foods are nutrient-dense with high protein content, which promotes healthier skin and coat condition. They also typically include omega fatty acids essential for coat health.
However, shedding is influenced by various factors including genetics, overall health, grooming routines, and environmental conditions. While freeze-dried food can have a positive impact, it may not entirely eliminate shedding if other factors are involved. Consistent grooming, sufficient hydration, regular exercise, and a balanced diet tailored to your dog’s specific needs are crucial for effectively managing shedding.
If shedding is excessive, consulting a veterinarian is recommended to rule out any underlying health issues. For recommendations on the Best Dog Food for Shedding, consider exploring The Doggo Bio’s comprehensive guide.
Can Human-Grade Dog Food Come in Dry Form?
Yes, human-grade dog food is available in various forms, including dry food, wet food, freeze-dried, and dehydrated options.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best freeze dried dog food offers clear and compelling benefits. Its superior nutritional preservation, prolonged shelf life, and convenience make it an ideal choice for pet owners striving for their furry companions’ optimal health and well-being.
Whether nourishing a growing puppy or supporting a senior dog’s health, freeze-dried dog food presents a convenient and nutritious solution. Manufacturers have positioned freeze-dried dog food at the forefront of canine nutrition by prioritizing top-quality ingredients and innovative processing methods. Embracing this option ensures dogs receive essential nutrients for thriving, promoting vitality and longevity in our cherished four-legged companions.
Please note that the insights shared here serve solely for informational purposes and do not replace professional advice. Always consult your veterinarian or a pet nutrition expert regarding any concerns about your dog’s diet or health.