Does your dog deserve the absolute best nutrition possible? Many dog owners worry about what’s really in their pet’s bowl. We want our furry friends to have energy, a shiny coat, and a long, healthy life. But navigating the world of dog food can feel like a maze, especially when looking at raw and freeze-dried options. It’s tough to know which brands are truly good and which just have fancy labels.
You might be tired of reading confusing ingredient lists or feeling guilty about feeding your dog processed kibble. Finding a raw, freeze-dried food that balances convenience with real, whole ingredients seems like a constant challenge. We get it—you want simple answers about what works best for your dog without the guesswork.
This guide cuts through the noise. We will break down exactly what raw freeze-dried dog food is, how it benefits your pup, and the key things you must check before buying. By the end, you will feel confident choosing a food that fuels your dog’s happiness.
Top Raw Freeze Dried Dog Food Recommendations
- Raw Food Made Easy : Simply Raw combines the safety, easy prep and shelf stable convenience of kibble and canned food with the unsurpassed nutrition offered in real, fresh raw food. Just add water to make this 3 lb bag into over 18 lbs of raw whole food, ready to serve in minutes.
- Ingredients With Purpose : Simply Raw is made with only the freshest human grade ingredients. Every ingredient is chosen with care to support holistic health and provide functional benefits for lasting wellness : Freeze-dried raw beef muscle, organ meat, chicken bone broth, whole egg, vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, OMEGA fatty acids, probiotics & prebiotics. Raw, whole food ingredients you can see.
- All Natural Nutrition : At Nature’s Diet, we believe in honest, transparent labels. We are proud of the wholesome, clean ingredients we use to make Simply Raw - unlike some other brands, we never put anything into our dog food that isn’t listed on the label. No fillers, no grains, no GMOs, no unnatural preservatives, no soy, no added flavorings or dyes. Just honest, raw, whole food nutrition. Key Product Features
- USA Sourced, Sustainable, Thoughtful : Made lovingly in small batches in the USA with regionally sourced ingredients & humanely raised meat. Real food for healthy dogs and a healthier planet.
- Safe Raw : Freeze-Drying is a natural food preservation process which removes moisture while maintaining the nutritional integrity of food. Freeze-Dried Raw is always free of pathogens, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet. Shelf stable, safe to handle & easy to store.
- PREMIUM BLEND - Nutra Complete is veterinarian-developed with 95% ranch-raised beef & organs. Each delicious bite contains hand-selected ingredients for nutrition that help support healthy digestion, a thick coat, healthy immune function, and overall health and happiness.*
- HIGH QUALITY BEEF - Premium, ranch-raised beef and organs make up 95% of Nutra Complete. Our beef is 100% freeze-dried, so your dog gets easily digestible protein from every bite.*
- SEEDS, FRUITS, AND VEGETABLES - Our unique blend of seeds, fruits, and vegetables provides your dog with health-supporting nutrients. This includes flaxseed, blueberry, carrot, sweet potato, spinach, and more.*
- HEALTH-SUPPORTING VITAMINS AND MINERALS - Our food contains a variety of ingredients, carefully selected to offer your dog high-quality nutrition to help support their daily well-being and happiness.*
- USE AS FOOD OR AS MIXER - If you’d like to boost your dog’s diet with freeze-dried nutrition but don’t want to replace their current food, you can use Nutra Complete as a mixer. To add, simply reduce the amount of your dog’s food and replace it with the desired amount of Nutra Complete to avoid overfeeding. Each 1lb bag contains about 7 cups of food.
- Includes One 21 oz Resealable Tub: Stewart Freeze Dried Beef Liver irresistible dog treats are perfect for training, rewarding, or enhancing your dog’s meals with high-protein, single-ingredient nutrition with up to 475 treats per tub for a 3 month supply
- The Original Freeze-Dried Dog Treats Since 1973: Our treats are made in the USA with trusted ingredients; Freeze dried in small batches in our Dayton, Ohio facility using USDA-certified beef liver sourced from reputable US suppliers
- Professional Trainer-Preferred: Our freeze-dried treats have been trusted by professional trainers for decades and were recognized by CNN Underscored as a top dog treat in December 2024
- Single Ingredient and Versatile: Made with 100 percent beef liver, these natural dog treats are grain free, gluten free, soy free, and corn free; great for training, food toppers, or dogs with food sensitivities to add variety and raw nutrition
- Raw Nutrition Without the Mess: We gently freeze dry raw beef liver to lock in nutrients and flavor, then package it in a resealable tub to keep treats fresh and tasty; Cats love these and they are safe as a healthy cat treat for your feline friends
- HIGH PROTEIN, NUTRIENT DENSE: Featuring free-range Beef, Organs, Bone, and New Zealand Green Mussels, this grain-free dog food delivers nutrition with a mouth-watering taste for all dogs. Gentle air dried processing retains the goodness of the raw ingredients. This food offers stimulating crunchy texture small enough for puppy food but soft enough for senior dog food.
- GRAIN FREE RAW ALTERNATIVE: Gently air-dries raw ingredients for a nutritious, raw alternative dry dog food with a delicious jerky-like texture that dogs love. This process preserves the nutrition and flavor and is perfect for all life stages, from puppy food to senior dog snacks, with added vitamins and minerals. This formula is free from fillers commonly found in kibble.
- FRESH FOOD NUTRITION with SHELF STABILITY: This superfood blend of cold-washed Green Tripe, New Zealand Green Mussels, and Organic Kelp supports digestion, joint health, and healthy shiny coats. The air-dry process provides all the shelf stability of freeze dried dog treats and food with the nutritional benefits of fresh dog food.
- MEALS, TREATS, and FOOD TOPPERS: Serve as a complete balanced meal. Useful as a treat reward, or dog food toppers to provide texture stimulation with a supplement boost.
- ETHICALLY SOURCED: ZIWI sources only 100% free-range, grass-fed, grass-finished meats, and wild-caught seafoods, all from New Zealand farms and pristine oceans. Farmed without added hormones, antibiotics, or growth promotants.
- FREEZE DRIED RAW MEAT: Kibble in the Raw locks in the nutrients and flavor of raw meat through our freeze-dried process. Unlike traditional kibble, it delivers optimized nutrition and digestibility without high-heat cooking and overprocessing.
- EASY SCOOP AND SERVE: Skip the prep and mess! Kibble in the Raw is ready to serve straight from the bag, offering the convenience of dry dog food with the nutrition of a raw diet. No preparation or hydration necessary.
- BEEF RECIPE: Made with 100% freeze dried raw protein and grass-fed beef, this recipe delivers protein-rich nutrition to help maintain muscle health and support sustained energy. Packed with flavor, it’s a meal your pup will love with every bite!
- ONLY REAL WHOLE FOODS: We use organic apples, sweet potatoes, spinach, carrots, and kale—no synthetic vitamins or minerals. Our minimally processed recipes preserve natural nutrients to help support healthy digestion and overall wellness.
- GENTLE ON DIGESTION: Primal freeze dried dog food is crafted without fillers or common allergens to help support digestive health, leading to smaller, firmer stools.
- Made with High-Quality Ingredients – Each bag is crafted with real meat, nutrient-rich organ meats, fruits, vegetables, and seeds, providing a variety of ingredients in every serving. Made proudly in the USA.
- Freeze-Dried for Convenience – Freeze-drying helps maintain the natural taste and nutrients of raw ingredients while making it easy to store and prepare, with no refrigeration needed.
- Serve as a Meal or a Topper – Use as your dog’s complete meal or sprinkle over their usual food for added variety and taste. If using as a topper, reduce the amount of their current food to avoid overfeeding.
- No Fillers or Artificial Preservatives – Formulated without grains, cereals, or unnecessary fillers, and contains no artificial preservatives.
- Bite-Sized and Easy to Serve – The pieces are conveniently sized for dogs of all breeds and sizes, making mealtime quick and easy for you while providing a meal your dog will look forward to.
- EXCEPTIONAL FOR PICKY EATERS – Consistently entices even the most finicky dogs to eat when other foods fail – our freeze-dried raw patties deliver irresistible taste that transforms mealtime for selective dogs.
- VERSATILE SERVING OPTIONS – Perfect as complete meals, crumbled food toppers, or high-value training treats – ideal for puppies and adult dogs with options to serve dry or rehydrated with water.
- 95% GRASS-FED BEEF & ORGANS – Premium freeze-dried raw nutrition with whole-prey approach delivers muscle-building protein, enhanced digestibility, and natural nutrients that support coat, skin, and overall health.
- BALANCED NUTRITION FOR ALL LIFE STAGES – Complete and balanced diet for growing puppies and adult dogs with probiotics for digestive health and omega fatty acids for skin and coat – free from grains, gluten, fillers, and artificial preservatives.
- MADE IN USA WITH PREMIUM INGREDIENTS – Small-batch production with 100% organic fruits and vegetables, responsibly-sourced ingredients, and no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors – trusted by thousands of pet parents.
- PICKY EATER APPROVED - Premium kibble coated with freeze-dried raw ingredients creates an irresistible taste even the pickiest dogs can't resist.
- HIGH-PROTEIN, LOW-CARB DIET - 93% of protein from six premium poultry sources including chicken, turkey, quail, guineafowl, goose & duck, with nutrient-dense "whole prey" ingredients - muscle meat, organ meats and cartilage - providing the nutrition dogs naturally crave with fewer carbohydrates.
- UNIQUE FREEZE-DRIED RAW BLEND - Kibble coated with freeze-dried raw food plus inclusion of freeze-dried raw chunks gives you convenient dry food with the nutritional benefits of raw.
- PREMIUM NATURAL INGREDIENTS - Low-carb, grain-free and legume-free formula with no potatoes, peas, lentils, by-product meals, artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.
- SUPPORTS WHOLE BODY HEALTH - Fortified with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics for digestive support, and taurine for heart health. Rich in omega fatty acids from chia seeds and salmon oil for healthy skin & coat, plus antioxidants to support immune system health.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Food
Raw freeze-dried dog food offers a fantastic way to give your dog the benefits of a raw diet without the hassle. This guide helps you pick the best option for your furry friend.
Key Features to Look For
1. High Meat Content
The best freeze-dried foods pack a punch with real meat. Look for whole meats like chicken, beef, or salmon listed as the first few ingredients. A high percentage, ideally 80% or more, means better nutrition.
2. Minimal Fillers
Good food avoids unnecessary extras. Check the ingredient list for things like corn, wheat, soy, or excessive starches. These ingredients often lower the food’s overall quality.
3. Nutrient Retention
The freeze-drying process preserves nutrients well. However, some brands add vitamins and minerals back in after processing. Ensure the food provides a complete and balanced meal according to AAFCO standards.
4. Source Transparency
Know where your dog’s food comes from. Reputable companies clearly state the origin of their meat and produce. Traceability builds trust.
Important Materials: What’s Inside Matters
Freeze-dried food is essentially raw food with the moisture removed. The quality of the raw ingredients directly impacts the final product.
- Proteins: Look for single-source proteins or a good mix of muscle meat, organs (like liver and kidney), and bone (often ground finely). Organs provide essential vitamins.
- Fruits and Vegetables: These add fiber and antioxidants. Ingredients like pumpkin, blueberries, and carrots are excellent additions.
- Beneficial Additives: Some high-quality foods include probiotics or digestive enzymes to support gut health.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality Enhancers:
Gentle Processing: The slower the freeze-drying process, the better the nutrients survive. Brands that use low temperatures throughout the process usually produce superior food.
Whole Food Inclusion: Including ingredients in their natural form, rather than synthetic vitamins, generally improves quality.
Quality Reducers:
High Heat Exposure: If the raw ingredients were cooked or exposed to high heat before or during drying, many natural enzymes are destroyed. This lowers the nutritional value.
Artificial Additives: Preservatives, artificial colors, or flavorings signal lower quality ingredients were used.
User Experience and Use Cases
Freeze-dried food is incredibly versatile. Owners love its convenience.
- As a Complete Meal: You simply add water (or broth) to rehydrate the food. It mimics a fresh, raw meal instantly.
- As a Topper: Many people sprinkle a spoonful over their dog’s regular kibble. This boosts palatability and adds raw nutrition without switching the entire diet.
- For Travel and Training: Because it is lightweight and shelf-stable (no refrigeration needed until opened), it is perfect for camping trips, long car rides, or as high-value training treats.
Owners often report shinier coats and better digestion after switching to this type of diet.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Food
Q: What is the difference between freeze-dried and air-dried food?
A: Freeze-drying removes almost all moisture at very low temperatures, keeping nutrients intact. Air-drying uses low heat over a longer period, which can slightly reduce some heat-sensitive vitamins.
Q: Do I need to add water to freeze-dried dog food?
A: Yes, you typically need to add water or broth to rehydrate it before serving. This brings back the moisture content and texture of raw food.
Q: Is freeze-dried food safe? Does it contain bacteria like raw food?
A: The freeze-drying process effectively eliminates harmful bacteria like Salmonella because the low-temperature vacuum process kills pathogens. It provides the nutrition of raw food safely.
Q: How long does opened freeze-dried food last?
A: Once opened, most brands recommend using the food within 4 to 8 weeks, though always check the specific packaging instructions. Store it in a cool, dry place.
Q: Can I feed this to my puppy?
A: Many brands formulate their freeze-dried foods to meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, including growth. Always confirm the label states it is appropriate for puppies.
Q: Is freeze-dried food expensive?
A: It is usually more expensive per pound than traditional kibble because of the high-quality ingredients and the intensive processing required.
Q: How do I transition my dog to this food?
A: Introduce it slowly over 7 to 10 days. Start with 25% new food mixed with 75% old food, gradually increasing the ratio to prevent stomach upset.
Q: Does this food require refrigeration?
A: Unopened bags do not require refrigeration. Once you open the bag, it is best stored in a sealed container at room temperature, away from heat and sunlight.
Q: Are the carbohydrates high in freeze-dried raw food?
A: Generally, no. High-quality freeze-dried raw foods keep carbohydrate levels very low, focusing instead on protein and healthy fats.
Q: Can I use this as treats?
A: Absolutely. You can serve small, rehydrated pieces, or even use the dry, crunchy nuggets straight from the bag as excellent, high-value rewards during training.