Written by: Angela Beal, DVM, FFCP
Freeze-dried dog food is an increasingly popular option for pet parents who want the highest quality nutrition and convenience. Like all pet food formulations, there are some important factors to consider as you make the switch to freeze-dried food.
In this article, I’ll answer the most common questions about freeze-dried food to help you make an informed—and drool-worthy—decision for your pup.
Why freeze-dried dog food?
Pet parents love freeze-dried raw dog food for many reasons, including:
- Optimal nutrition — Freeze-dried dog foods are made with high-quality fresh ingredients and few to no preservatives or fillers, and are prepared through a process that locks in nutrients.
- Complete and balanced diet — Most reputable diets are formulated to be complete and balanced and meet the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards for dog food. This means you don’t have to add any toppers or supplements to know your dog is eating well.
- Minimally processed — Freeze-dried dog foods don’t undergo high heat, extrusion, or other cooking techniques that can reduce nutritional value.
- Limited ingredients — Freeze-dried raw foods typically have fewer and more recognizable ingredients, which is ideal for dogs with sensitivities or allergies.
- No-mess feeding — Freeze-dried dog foods are an easy way to feed your dog a raw diet without having to handle or prepare raw food.
- Convenience — Freeze-dried diets have a long shelf life and don’t require refrigeration until after they are rehydrated, making them ideal for travel and busy pet parents.
What’s in freeze-dried dog food?
Freeze-dried dog foods are typically made with raw ingredients. Unlike kibble, which is baked at high heat, freeze-dried foods are not cooked. Instead, the freeze-drying process removes the food’s water content while preserving freshness, odor, flavor, and nutritional value.
Freeze-dried dog foods are available in a range of common and novel animal proteins, including beef, turkey, chicken, lamb, duck, and more. Most recipes feature organ meats such as beef liver or beef heart for added vitamins and minerals, plus fruits and vegetables for essential nutrients, antioxidants, and overall health.
Freeze-dried raw food is sold in various shapes and sizes, including bites, nuggets, powders, and patties to suit every dog, from toy and small dogs to large breeds.
How much should you feed?
Every brand and recipe has its own nutrient profile and feeding guidelines, so always start with the label. Feeding amounts are usually given in cups, scoops, nuggets, or patties, and freeze-dried dog food serving sizes may look small compared to dry food or kibble. That’s because freeze-dried dog food is highly nutrient-dense: less volume, more nutrition!
Beyond the packaging, consider your dog’s activity level and life stage. Puppies, energetic adults, and senior dogs all have different nutritional needs. If your dog is overweight or underweight, you may need to adjust the portion up or down from what the label suggests.
Still wondering how much freeze-dried food to feed a dog? Your vet can help you fine-tune your dog’s diet based on their unique needs.
How to prepare freeze-dried dog food
Preparing freeze-dried dog food is as easy as portion, rehydrate, and serve!
- Portion — Measure your pup’s portion according to package directions.
- Rehydrate — Freeze-dried dog food is dehydrated, so you’ll need to add warm water before feeding. Check the package for the recommended water-to-food ratio and instructions for how to rehydrate freeze-dried dog food.
Rehydrating supports healthy digestion, keeps your dog hydrated, and often makes the food more appealing—especially for picky eaters. You can even swap in pet-safe bone broth for extra flavor.
Let the food soak for 5 to 10 minutes before serving to restore the moisture lost during the freeze-drying process. - Serve — Let your dog dig in! Remove uneaten food after 20 minutes to prevent spoiling.
The cost of feeding freeze-dried dog food
You may wonder whether freeze-dried food is more expensive than kibble. Yes, freeze-dried dog food is typically more expensive than kibble. But for many pet parents, the quality, convenience, and nutrition make it worth the investment.
Since freeze-dried formulas are nutrient-dense, you often feed less by volume, helping each bag or box last longer. You're also getting a minimally processed diet with high-quality ingredients, which may help your dog lead a healthier life—meaning fewer trips to the vet!
Tips for making freeze-dried pet food fit your budget
- Use the food as a topper or treats— Adding even small amounts of freeze-dried raw food to your dog’s diet can boost nutrition.
- Buy in bulk — Larger bags often cost less and their long shelf-life helps them stay fresh, which can help decrease the cost of feeding freeze-dried dog food.
- Watch for sales — Check out our weekly deals or join the MVP Rewards program for great savings!
- Set up autoship — Keep their bowl filled and your wallet happy with recurring deliveries, valuable rewards, and up to 15% off your first order!
Vet-recommended tips for freeze-dried dog food
What you feed your dog impacts their overall health, which is why we recommend working with your veterinarian to find what’s right for your pup. Here are some important aspects of freeze-dried raw food to keep in mind before making the switch:
- Consider any existing health conditions – Many freeze-dried diets are high in protein, which may not suit dogs with kidney issues or other health problems.
- Control portions for overweight dogs – Freeze-dried diets are usually high in protein, which can cause weight gain. Measure carefully and adjust feeding amounts based on your dog’s body condition.
- Introduce new foods gradually — This will prevent digestive upset.
- Expect smaller, less frequent poops – Don’t be alarmed—freeze-dried food is highly digestible, so there’s often less waste!
- Practice safe handling and storage – Treat freeze-dried food like raw food to protect yourself from foodborne illness. Wash your hands, clean bowls, and store unused food in a cool, dry place.
Final thoughts: Is freeze-dried right for your dog?
Freeze-dried raw dog food is an excellent option for many dogs, but like any major change in your dog’s routine, you’ll need to consider your lifestyle, budget, and your dog’s unique needs and preferences. If you decide minimally processed pet nutrition is the best choice for your pup, try a sample pack or use the food as a topper to ensure it agrees with your dog. And, if you need help along the way, turn to your pet hero—the BaxterBoo team of pet experts is always available by phone, email, or chat for all your pet needs!
Angela Beal is a veterinarian in Columbus, Ohio who loves using her writing to help veterinarians live more fulfilling lives by helping make practice life more efficient and less stressful. Angela has a background in private practice and academia, and since 2020, she has worked full-time with Rumpus Writing and Editing, a veterinary-specific writing and editing company. Rumpus’ clients include veterinary practices and industry partners, including marketing companies, national corporations, consultants, and several international businesses.
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