Freeze-dried raw dog food is an appealing choice for pet parents who want to combine the benefits of a raw dog food with the convenience of a traditional pet food. Unlike fresh or frozen raw dog food, freeze-dried raw dog food is shelf-stable so it doesn’t require freezer or refrigerator storage. Plus, it’s lightweight, takes up less space and is easy to transport from the car into the house. But are there other differences to consider?
Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food vs. Frozen Raw Dog Food
“The primary difference between freeze-dried raw dog food and frozen raw dog food is moisture,” says Carol Osborne, DVM, at Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center & Pet Clinic in Chagrin Falls, Ohio. “Freeze-dried usually has less than about 3 percent moisture. Other than that, the benefits are very similar. The ingredients of freeze-dried raw dog foods are normally very high quality with minimal-to-no processing of the ingredients.”
Because freeze-dried raw dog food doesn’t require special storage, “it’s great if you’re traveling, if you have a sitter watching your pets who doesn’t want to mess with food, and for elderly, sick or convalescent pets who might be reluctant to eat,” Dr. Osborne says. “It’s a wonderful little starter food because it’s so tasty.”
Freeze-dried raw dog food can be fed as your pup’s sole diet or mixed in with his regular food.
“You can even use it as training treats,” Dr. Osborne says. “It’s not greasy, it doesn’t smell, and you can put it in your pocket and your clothes don’t get all messed up.”
7 Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food Options
The best freeze-dried dog food depends on your preferences and your dog’s tastes. The great news is there are many brands to choose from. Always wash your hands after handling any raw dog food, including freeze-dried raw dog food products.
Most freeze-dried dog foods can be rehydrated with water or fed straight out of the package. Adding water will bulk up the food, making it more filling for your dog.
Let’s take a look at some popular freeze-dried raw dog foods that all have four-star ratings or higher on Chewy.com.
1. Only Natural Pet’s RawNibs Freeze-Dried Dog Food
2. Instinct’s Raw Boost Mixers Freeze-Dried Dog Food Topper
3. Primal’s Raw Freeze-Dried Nuggets
4. Sojos Complete Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food
5. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties
6. K9 Natural’s Booster Freeze-Dried Dog Food Topper
7. Merrick Backcountry Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food
If you’re thinking about making a change to your dog’s diet, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian.
Dr. Carol Osborne is an author and world-renowned integrative veterinarian of twenty plus years. After graduating from the Ohio State College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Carol completed a prestigious internship at the Columbus Zoo. Shortly afterward, she launched a very successful private practice and became founder and director of the non-profit organization, the American Pet Institute.
Dr. Carol offers traditional veterinary care for dogs and cats with a softer, natural touch. Her approach highlights the importance of nutrition and utilizing holistic avenues in combination with traditional treatments. Currently, she offers holistic therapies and traditional veterinary medical care for dogs and cats at the Chagrin Falls Pet Clinic in Chagrin Falls, Ohio.
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I was just wondering what you thought about Steve’s real food freeze dried dog food ??? Thanks alot wayne