Raw Guide
How to use freeze-dried raw treats and freeze-dried raw foods along with your dog’s regular kibble?
Freeze-dried dog food is a good option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with the benefits of raw food without the inconvenience of handling fresh raw meat.
Here’s how you can incorporate freeze-dried raw treats and foods into your dog’s regular kibble:
Treats and Toppers
Treats:
- Use freeze-dried raw treats as special rewards during training sessions or simply as a tasty snack. They’re lightweight, convenient, and packed with flavor.
Toppers:
- Sprinkle raw, freeze-dried treats/meats into their regular kibble as a tasty and protein-packed topper.
- Experiment with the amount of raw treats added as a topper; we recommend approximately ⅓ cup mixed in for smaller breeds, approximately ½ cup for medium breeds and up to 3/4 cup for larger breeds. Note: In this instance, you are using the raw freeze dried food/treats as additional nutrition– these recommended amounts would not meet the full nutritional and caloric needs alone, in these quantities.
- Place the freeze-dried treats/food in a bowl.
- Add warm (not hot) water and stir. Allow to sit for a few minutes before mixing with your dog’s kibble.
Raw Freeze Dried Foods as a full Meal Replacement
- If you’re transitioning your dog to a raw diet, you can use freeze-dried raw food as a complete meal replacement. Follow the rehydration instructions provided by the specific brand you choose. Some dogs will require as little as ½ cup per day but larger dogs will require 5-6 cups per day to meet caloric needs. (if your budget does not allow you to fully transition to raw, consider using raw treats and foods as mix-ins/toppers, as mentioned above)
- Most freeze-dried dog foods are formulated to be nutritionally balanced, containing high-quality animal protein, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals.
- Follow the instructions on the packaging to successfully transition your dog to freeze-dried, raw food as a full meal replacement in the proper amounts. Raw, freeze-dried foods will be naturally higher in protein but may contain much lower amounts of carbs, compared to your dog’s regular kibble.
Hydration
- Always add water to rehydrate freeze-dried food. Warm water or broth (not boiling) works well. The ratio of water to food varies depending on the brand, so check the product label for specific instructions.
How long does freeze-dried raw dog food last? How about the shelf-life for freeze-dried raw meat treats?
Storage and Shell Life
- Freeze-dried dog food has a long shelf life because the removal of moisture prevents bacterial growth. Once rehydrated, use within a reasonable time frame (usually a day or two).
- Once opened, ‘zip’ the package shut to maintain freshness. We recommend using the opened package within 4 weeks. Refrigeration is not recommended.
Remember that freeze-dried dog food retains most of its nutrients and provides an excellent alternative to raw feeding. It’s convenient, safe, and loved by many dogs!
Still have questions? We are dog owners also and would be happy to assist. Please submit your question on the contact form and allow 24 hours for a response.