Best Freeze Dried Dog Food 2021

Whats The Difference Between Freeze

The main difference between freeze-dried and dehydrated dog food is the moisture content.

The freeze-drying process removes 98-99% of moisture without negatively affecting the texture or taste. Rehydration typically takes 2-3 minutes.

Dehydrated dog food only removes 95% of moisture while losing the otherwise appealing texture and becoming brittle. Rehydration can take up to 10 minutes.

These two types of pet food have other differences, too, including aroma, digestibility, and more.

Wellness Complete Health Dry Dog Food

Rating:

Wellness Complete Health Adult Deboned Chicken and Oatmeal is one of 13 dry recipes included in our review of the Wellness Complete Health product line.

• First 5 ingredients: Deboned chicken, chicken meal, oatmeal, ground barley, peas
• Type: Grain-inclusive
• Other recipes: Senior, puppy, large breed, small breed, whitefish and sweet potato, lamb and barley, turkey and oatmeal and more
• See all 13 available recipes

This Wellness Complete Health formula derives the bulk of its meat protein from chicken and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the product contains 27% protein, 13% fat and 52% estimated carbs creating a fat-to-protein ratio of about 50%.

One of the best grain-inclusive kibbles on the market. Highly recommended.

Sample buyer reviewI have three dogs, all different breeds and sizes. They all love this food it has caused absolutely no stomach issues After discussing this with our awesome Veterinarian she recommended Wellness and our Goldendoodle hasnt had any stomach issues in 5 years. The stomach issues brought us to Wellness, but the quality ingredients kept us loyal.

This Instinct example derives the majority of its animal protein from beef and chicken meal. Our dry matter label analysis reveals the recipe contains 40% protein, 23% fat and 29% estimated carbs which creates a fat-to-protein ratio of about 57%.

With multiple flavor options, Instinct makes an ideal choice for feeding picky eaters. Highly recommended.

Pros And Cons Of Instinct Raw Boost Mixers

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Rawz Meal Free Dry Dog Food

Made with 100% human-grade ingredients, this dried meat dog food is a strong contender for the title of the Best Freeze Dried Dog Food.

The content of each bag of grain-free freeze-dried dog food by Rawzreg is carefully crafted in FDA and USDA approved facilities. The first seven ingredients are meat products such as deboned chicken and turkey, chicken liver, and turkey hearts all full of healthy protein that will keep your beloved pup as healthy as he or she can be.

It also contains healthy veggies such as sweet potato, spinach, and broccoli.

Rawzreg is one of the best raw dog food brands when it comes to quality ingredients and fair trade. Their products have meat from non-hormone treated animals and without added antibiotics. They know that your dog deserves the best and have dedicated time and research to find out exactly what that is.

Why We Liked It:

+ The first 7 ingredients are quality meat + Made in USDA and FDA approved facilities+ With broccoli, spinach, sweet potato, and more+ Grain-free and high-protein

The effort to become the best raw dog food brand shows in the quality of this Rawz Meal Free Dry Dog Food we love that the first seven ingredients on the ingredients list are meat from quality sources!

Alternative Option: Entree Mini Nibs Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Food.

How Is Instinct Raw Dog Food Made

Real meat is the first ingredient in Instinct pet foods to try and add the maximum raw nutrition possible. For instance, real chicken, real beef, chicken recipe, and grass-fed lamb are the common meat sources. This also provides high-quality protein that your dog needs to sustain itself.

The brand also uses fish in its products that provide a natural flavor, proteins, minerals, and vitamins. Furthermore, marine ingredients act as central storehouses of omega-3 fatty acids and beneficial amino acids.

The Instinct Raw diet does not use inferior ingredients, including harmful gluten, potato, soy-by products, and corn.

However, it does contain whole-food ingredients such as pumpkin seeds, carrots, and tomato pomace, among others. These provide beneficial fibers that lead to an improvement in your dogs digestive health. Whether you opt for their frozen raw foods or wet dog foods such as patties, their product line suit both young and adult dogs.

In addition to vegetables, the brand also uses fruits like apples, blueberries, and cranberries that offer additional nutrition and antioxidants.

To boost your dogs digestion, the brand also contains the required fermentation products that provide all the enzymes required for smooth digestion. The Instinct Raw recipes are also known to improve coat health and digestive health and are shelf-stable, thanks to their wholesome ingredients. They are also suited for dogs with food sensitivities.

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How To Feed Freeze

All you need to do is to add water before serving, which puts moisture back into the food and makes it soft and appealing to eat. It is a quick process that wont take up much time, and once prepared you can barely tell it was freeze-dried, to begin with!

Companies tend to sell these types of products in smaller bags, compared to kibble, so while you can use it on its own most dog owners seem to prefer to use it as a kibble or wet food topping.

It is great for adding nutrients to a dogs diet, but also for convincing picky eaters to eat what they are served since few can resist the delicious taste of quality freeze-dried food.

Natural Premium Dog Food Topper By Meat Mates

A limited ingredient natural dried food for dogs that need extra motivation! No picky eater will be able to resist this delicious free-range beef recipe, where 99% of its content is made up by dried dog appropriate meat ingredients!

The other 1% consists of a blend of Rosemary extract and Hoki fish oil, which provides your pup with natural antioxidants for healthier skin and a shiny coat that is sure to outshine other pup coats at the dog park!

The source of the beef recipe freeze-dried dog food topper comes from New Zealand a country that is known for its quality meat , because there is no reason to why your dog shouldnt be fed high-standard dehydrated food. If you are looking for the best raw food for dogs Natural Premium Dog Food Topper by Meat Mates is a pet product worthy of your consideration.

Why We Liked It:

+ Hoki Fish Oil for a shinier and healthier coat+ 99% meat from New Zealand animals+ Contains natural antioxidants+ Money back guarantee

The manufacturer is so sure that your dog will love the beef recipe freeze-dried dog food topper that they offer you your money back if he or she doesnt love it.

For an alternative, give Natures Variety Raw Boost Mixers a try! The Freeze Dried Raw Boost Mixers from this company is fast becoming a family favorite in dog households.

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How To Make A Picky Dog Eat: Palate

Despite our efforts to avoid unpalatable foods and instill proper feeding habits in our dogs, youll occasionally find yourself faced with a protesting pup, who turns her nose up at the food you have on hand.

This can even happen in dogs who typically have an eat-first-ask-questions-later attitude from time to time.

Fortunately, dog owners, vets, breeders, and other invested parties have developed a number of tricks for enticing finicky four-footers into eating. Weve tried to compile a pretty exhaustive list of proven strategies below.

If you have another safe and effective trick, please share it in the comments below. You never know who youll help by sharing!

Drizzle something delicious over your dogs kibble. A little bit of just about any common fat can be an effective taste-bud-tempter for picky dogs.

Avoid things made from toxic or problematic substances, but your basic oils including those derived from olives, peanuts, sunflower seeds, vegetables, or safflowers will work admirably in such a context . If you can, use salmon, flaxseed, or anchovy oil to provide omega fatty acids while improving the foods flavor.

In such contexts, a little goes a long way so, youll definitely want to invest in a couple of can toppers, to keep the wet food fresh and appetizing.

Just be sure to allow for any additional calories these additives provide.

Royal Canin Size Health Nutrition Small Adult Formula Dog Dry Food

Royal Canin offers some of the most diverse dog food options on the market the brand makes both dry and wet food for a variety of dog sizes, breeds and dietary restrictions, including food sensitivities and gastrointestinal issues. I feed my 4-year-old Havachon, Bella, this small breed kibble from the brand which is formulated for small dogs from 10 months old to 8 years old that weigh 9 pounds to 22 pounds after it was recommended by my veterinarian. Bella tends to eat this brand faster than others, some of which she would leave half-eaten. Selects manager of editorial operations Shari Uyehara said she also feeds her dog Loki, an 11-month-old cavalier King Charles spaniel, the brands puppy formula, which was recommended by Lokis breeder. The brand also offers its dry food formula for medium and largebreeds.

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What Is The Best Soft Dry Dog Food For Senior Dogs

The best soft dry dog food for seniors is one that contains high-quality protein. This is because senior dogs tend to have less efficient digestive systems. You may also consider foods that include supplements that help ease digestion. For example, digestive enzymes or probiotics can be found in various brands. Also, consider talking to your vet about a glucosamine supplement on top of your senior dogs regular diet. Glucosamine is a naturally-occurring amino sugar that helps to maintain healthy joint cartilage, which is essential as dogs age. Our top picks for soft dry dog food for seniors:Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food, Humanely Raised MeatandThe Honest Kitchen Human Grade Dehydrated Whole Grain Dog Food.

Benefits Of Freeze Dried Raw Dog Food

There are many benefits associated with feeding your dog freeze-dried dog food. One of the biggest benefits is that it is highly concentrated, which means that your dog will get more nutrients from less food. Additionally, freeze-dried dog food is easy to store and transport, making it ideal for traveling or camping trips. Another big benefit is that freeze-dried dog food does not require any refrigeration, which means you wont have to worry about spoilage.

Other benefits includes

• Firmer Muscle feeding raw freeze-dried dog food supports lean muscles development with strong bones
• More Energy it is common to see an energy jump after feeding your dog with freeze-dried raw food.
• Allergy Relief your dog will be less likely to develop food allergies with freeze-dried raw dog food.
• Healthy Skin and Shiny Coat freeze-dried raw dog food can promote a healthy immune system, and will support healthy skin and a shinier coat for your dog.
• Tasty and Delicious as the freeze-drying process uses low levels of heat, it retains the taste, texture, and aroma of the raw ingredients making the food your dog will love.

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The 10 Top Rated Freeze Dried Dog Foods

• First 5 ingredients: Turkey With Ground Bone, Turkey Liver, Turkey Gizzard, Pumpkin Seed, Organic Cranberries
• Primary Protein Source: Turkey, Pumpkin Seed, Organic Cranberries
• Calories: 58 kcal/ 1/4 cup
• Life Stage: Adult

This recipe is packed with simple, minimally processed raw foods. It has a minimum of 40 % crude protein and 36 % fat. Every quarter cup delivers 58 kcal or energy for your dog. The primary sources of animal protein are turkey with ground bone, turkey liver and turkey gizzard.

There is plenty of healthy fiber and probiotics to maintain a healthy digestion. Micronutrients and antioxidants are provided by the superfoods including organic squash and organic blueberries. Vitamins have been added for overall health. This food is completely free from grains and gluten and has no hormones or antibiotics in it.

My 12-year-old pug loves this food topper. she is excited about breakfast and dinner again, her fur is softer and she doesnt pass gas as often. Also, she has more energy and her fur is shinier than before. this food is well worth the money in my book.

• Made with organic fruits and vegetables
• Grain and gluten free

• First 5 ingredients: Lamb, Sweet Potatoes, Whole Egg, Broccoli, Yellow Split Peas.
• Primary Protein Source: Lamb & Whole Egg
• Calories: 364 kcal/cup
• Life Stage: Adult

• A bit watery for some dogs
• Large chunks of vegetables cannot be digested by some dogs

• Great for dogs with sensitivities
• Promotes a shiny coat

The 7 Best Freeze Dried Dog Foods Of 2023

Traditional kibble is not always the best choice for our canine companions. Ingredients used to make kibble are processed using intense heat, which can reduce both the flavor and nutrient quality in the food.

Because of this, many have looked to a freeze-dried, raw diet for their dogs. If youre in the market for freeze-dried food, weve provided a list of the best options to help you through the process. We reviewed hundreds of products and tens of thousands of verified reviews to choose these 7 best freeze-dried dog foods.

A quick note: Were reader supported! We may receive a commission for purchases made through our links. All prices will be the same as normal.

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Primal Beef Formula Nuggets Grain

• Type of Product: freeze-dried nuggets
• Life Stage: Adult
• Best for: Active Dogs
• AAFCO Statement: formulated to meet the nutritional levels established by the AAFCO dog food nutrient profiles for all life stages including growth of large size dogs

Packed with protein, primal beef nuggets start with beef hearts and livers as the first two ingredients. This formula offers the essential building blocks for your palâs muscles. Healthy fats from beef organs, fish oil, and coconut oil support a healthy coat and skin while providing ample energy for an active lifestyle.

Naturally derived vitamins and minerals come from garden vegetables and fruits. These whole foods also offer rich sources of antioxidants for cellular health. Supplements help to ensure complete and balanced nutrition for this product.

With no grains or artificial ingredients, this product is made to be gentle on digestion. Organic ingredients in this USA-made food help to ensure there are no hormones, antibiotics, or harmful chemicals in the formula.

Merrick Grain Free Real Salmon & Sweet Potato Dry Dog Food

Select editor Morgan Greenwald said she gives Merricks salmon and sweet potato kibble to her 1-year-old pit bull mix, Suzie, since she cant tolerate some other types of protein. She gobbles it down and she does great with it she has a sensitive tummy and her vet said we should avoid chicken and turkey, so I stick to salmon, Greenwald said, adding that she likes the sweet potato in the formula because it’s good for dogs’ digestion.

The experts we spoke to agree: Studies show that proteins like beef and chicken are among the most reported causes of allergies in dogs, so its important to look out for common signs of allergies like excessive itching and vomiting to figure out what works best for them, said Dr. Joe Wakshlag, professor of clinical nutrition and sports medicine and rehabilitation at Cornell College of Veterinary Medicine. However, most dogs dont usually experience these types of allergies, so you dont need to avoid chicken and turkey unless you think your dog may have an allergy or intolerance.

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What Are Some Signs That My Dog Is Not Getting Enough Nutrients

If you have been feeding your dog a specific food for a few months and are not doing well, it is always best to speak with the vet. This is because there could be a nutrient deficiency in the dog food you are feeding your pup. Also, if your dog has lost weight or is acting abnormally, it is time to chat with the vet.

Best Toppers: Instinct Rawboost Mixers

If you only want to mix freeze-dried raw dog food with your pups kibble, you may want to consider Instinct Rawboost Mixers. These all-natural freeze-dried dog food toppers are available in beef, chicken, and lamb and are made in the U.S. All animal ingredients are responsibly sourced, and all fruits and vegetables are non-GMO.

Instinct is one of the cheapest freeze-dried dog food brands youll find, but they dont skimp on quality. They also offer freeze-dried meals, a formula of kibble mixed with freeze-dried raw chunks, raw-coated kibble formulas, and freeze-dried cat food options.

Price

• Starts at: $13.07

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