Freeze-dried dog food has become very popular in recent years as pet owners try to return to a more natural diet for their canine companions. However, like all things, there are advantages and disadvantages to feeding the diet. You can opt to feed freeze-dried dog food solely as your pet’s main diet source or use the tasty morsels as a topper to their regular dog food. The topper will help appeal to a picky eater.
Pros:
- Long shelf life, no need for refrigeration
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Nutritional value is preserved
- Convenient for travelers or outdoor activities
Cons:
- More expensive than traditional dry food
- Requires rehydration before serving
- May not be palatable for all dogs
- Can contain artificial preservatives and ingredients
Overall, freeze-dried dog food can be a good choice for pet owners looking for a convenient, long-lasting option with good nutritional value. However, it's important to consider the cost and the ingredients in the food, as well as your dog's individual preferences and needs.
What Exactly is Freeze-dried Dog Food?
Freeze-dried dog food is a type of dog food that uses a process of dehydration to preserve its ingredients. The food is first cooked and then freeze-dried to remove moisture, which can help extend its shelf life.
To successfully feed freeze-dried dog food, you’ll need to rehydrate the food by soaking it in water. Depending on the type of food, the amount of time that you soak it can vary, but it can take an hour so you’ll need to plan ahead when feeding the food so your dog’s meals are ready. Also, you must promptly refrigerate any uneaten portions or the food could quickly spoil.
It is important to choose a high-quality freeze-dried dog food that is formulated to meet your dog's nutritional needs. Before feeding, it is also important to rehydrate the food according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Is Freeze-dried Dog Food Safe?
Yes, freeze-dried dog food is generally considered safe for dogs to eat. As with any pet food, it's important to choose a product made by a reputable manufacturer and to check the ingredients and nutrition information to make sure it meets your dog's individual needs and preferences. Some freeze-dried dog foods may contain artificial preservatives or ingredients that are not suitable for dogs, so it's important to read the label carefully and consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns.
Do Dogs Like Freeze-dried Dog Food?
It depends on the individual dog. Some dogs love the taste of freeze-dried dog food, while others may not find it as palatable as other types of pet food. Some dogs may be more attracted to the smell or texture of freeze-dried food, while others may prefer the taste of wet or dry food. It's important to pay attention to your dog's reactions and try different types of food to see what they prefer. If you have concerns about your dog's dietary preferences, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian.
2 comments
Both my French Bulldogs (now 10 and 7 Yo) were raised and remain healthy on Freeze Dried. They love it and it is very convenient to prepare and feed. I agree with the article and you do need to do your product research on what is locally available.
Make sure it is a single animal protein product with lots of vegetables and vitamins added. I’m not sure if it’s allowed but I’ll mention here Balanced Life by Vet’s All Natural, which is a brand available in Australia and I use.
I was interested in pricing and maybe ordering freeze-dried food — but you don’t provide any way to do that. Why?!