Freeze-dried dog food can be a good way to give your pup some of the benefits of a raw diet without the added hassle. Freeze-dried food for dogs is minimally processed to naturally retain more of the taste and nutrition in the raw ingredients. It's usually higher in protein and lower in carbs—many recipes are primarily meat—and it is shelf-stable for easy storage. Different types include:
Freeze-dried dog food recipes vary in form and nutritional content, so be sure to check the package so you know what you're getting. If you want to feed freeze-dried food as your dog's regular diet, be sure to choose a complete and balanced recipe that's intended as the sole source of nutrition. If you choose one that isn't—these are sometimes, but not always, called toppers—your dog won't get all the nutrients he needs for a healthy diet. Once your find the right freeze-dried food formula for your pup, be sure to set it to Autoship so you never run out!
Freeze-dried dog food is shelf-stable food that retains more of the nutrition, taste, and natural enzymes of its raw ingredients. Made by flash-freezing and then removing moisture from the raw food ingredients, most freeze-dried dog food features real meat like chicken, beef, turkey, pork, lamb, or a novel protein as the main ingredient. Some recipes include added vitamins and minerals to ensure complete and balanced nutrition, while others are intended mainly for supplemental feeding. Check the product package to be sure.
You can add water to freeze-dried dog food, but for most types, you don’t have to. Some brands recommend adding water to ensure your dog gets lots of healthy hydration, while others suggest feeding their formulas dry. Check the product package for more guidance or ask your vet if you’re unsure which way is best.
Freeze-dried dog food is raw in the sense that it is uncooked and made from raw, minimally processed ingredients. The freeze-drying process removes moisture from the raw ingredients, rendering it safe and shelf stable for easy storage and convenience. This special processing helps preserve nutrients and flavor, but it does change the food, so freeze-dried food may be a little more difficult for sensitive dogs to digest than true raw dog food.
A bag of freeze-dried dog food lasts for several years unopened, but check the product expiration date to be sure. Once opened, a package of freeze-dried food will usually last for a few months if stored properly. Store freeze-dried food in an airtight package or container at room temperature, away from direct sunlight.
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