Best Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Food: Expert-Vetted Guide for 2025

Quick Summary: Best Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Foods at a Glance

• Best Overall: Stella & Chewy’s Dinner Patties — Unmatched nutritional profile and digestibility for all-around health.
• Best High-Protein: Primal Freeze-Dried Nuggets — Packed with muscle meat and organs for active dogs.
• Best Limited Ingredient Formula: Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Raw — Simple, whole-animal recipes perfect for sensitive systems.
• Best for Allergies: Northwest Naturals Freeze-Dried Raw — Single-protein options to easily identify and avoid triggers.
• Best Budget-Premium: Stewart Freeze-Dried Raw — High-quality ingredients at a more accessible price point.
• Best Raw Topper: Instinct Raw Freeze-Dried Mixers — The easiest way to boost your dog’s current food with raw nutrition.
• Best for Small Breeds: Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend — Small, easy-to-rehydrate morsels ideal for smaller mouths.
• Best for Seniors: Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw — Balanced omegas and humane sourcing for gentle, joint-supporting nutrition.

Pros and Cons of Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Food

Introduction

Many dog owners can recall the exact moment they realized their dog’s food wasn’t working. For one of our team members, it was with her 5-year-old rescue, who suffered from constant itching and a dull, flaky coat despite trying half a dozen “premium” kibbles. Frustrated, she decided to research the best raw freeze dried dog food as a last resort. Within a month of making the switch, the change was undeniable. The itching subsided, his coat grew back thick and shiny, and he had a newfound burst of energy on their morning walks. His stool became smaller and firmer—a clear sign of better digestion.

This story is incredibly common. Many owners struggle with similar issues, from picky eating and chronic food sensitivities to low energy and poor digestive health. Highly processed kibble, often loaded with fillers and cooked at extreme temperatures, can fall short of providing the biologically appropriate nutrition dogs need to truly thrive. This guide is built on extensive research, hands-on testing, and veterinarian consultation to help you navigate the world of raw freeze-dried dog food. We will explain what it is, how it differs from kibble, what to look for in a quality formula, and our top eight expert-vetted recommendations for 2025.

What Is Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food and Why It Matters?

Freeze-dried raw dog food offers the nutritional benefits of a fresh raw diet with the convenience and safety of dry food. The process, called lyophilization, is key to its quality. First, the raw ingredients—meat, organs, bones, fruits, and vegetables—are flash-frozen. Then, they are placed in a vacuum chamber where the frozen water content is turned directly into vapor, bypassing the liquid stage.

This gentle process removes moisture without using high heat, which is the standard for making kibble. High-heat extrusion can destroy sensitive vitamins, denature proteins, and degrade essential fatty acids. By preserving ingredients in their near-original state, freeze-drying locks in vital nutrients, enzymes, and flavors.

This makes it a fantastic option for owners interested in the benefits of a raw diet but concerned about handling fresh raw meat and the risk of pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli. The freeze-drying process effectively makes the food safe and shelf-stable. For dogs suffering from allergies, digestive problems, or skin conditions, the switch to a highly digestible, low-processed freeze-dried raw diet can often lead to remarkable improvements.

Signs Your Dog Might Benefit From Raw Freeze-Dried Food

Chronic gas, bloating, or inconsistent stool

If your dog regularly has loose stools, excessive gas, or seems uncomfortable after eating, their food may be hard to digest. Raw ingredients are more biologically available, meaning the body can absorb and utilize more nutrients, often resulting in smaller, firmer, and less frequent stools.

Dull or flaky coat

A dog’s coat is a direct reflection of their internal health. A diet rich in high-quality protein and balanced omega fatty acids, which are preserved in freeze-dried foods, can nourish the skin and fur from the inside out, leading to a shinier, softer coat and reduced shedding.

Food allergies or recurring skin issues

Many common food allergens in dogs are proteins like chicken or beef, but fillers like corn, wheat, and soy can also trigger sensitivities. Freeze-dried raw diets often use novel proteins and eliminate common grain fillers, helping to reduce chronic itching, hot spots, and ear infections.

Picky eating or low appetite

Dogs are naturally drawn to the scent and taste of meat. Freeze-dried raw food is intensely aromatic and flavorful, making it irresistible to many picky eaters who turn their noses up at bland, dry kibble.

Lack of sustained energy

Carbohydrates in kibble provide quick energy, but protein and fat offer more sustained fuel. A diet centered on high-quality meat provides the building blocks for strong muscles and lasting energy, helping your dog feel their best throughout the day.

What to Look for in the Best Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Food?

Real, identifiable meat as the first ingredient

The foundation of any great raw diet is meat. Look for formulas that list a specific protein source, like “grass-fed beef” or “cage-free chicken,” as the very first ingredient. Avoid generic terms like “meat meal.”

Organ meats for natural micronutrients

Organs such as liver, heart, and kidney are nature’s multivitamins. They are packed with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. A good formula will include a mix of muscle meat and organ meat for a complete nutritional profile.

Single-protein options for allergy-prone dogs

If you suspect your dog has a food allergy, a single-source protein food is your best tool. Formulas using only lamb, duck, or rabbit allow you to isolate and identify potential triggers.

Balanced omega-3 levels for coat and joints

Omega-3 fatty acids, often from sources like salmon oil or ground flaxseed, are crucial for reducing inflammation, supporting joint health, and promoting a healthy coat. Look for a guaranteed analysis of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids on the bag.

Low-carb formulas without fillers

The best freeze-dried raw foods are low in carbohydrates and free of unnecessary fillers. Ingredients like potatoes, corn, wheat, and soy offer little nutritional value for dogs and can contribute to weight gain and digestive issues. Opt for formulas with low-glycemic vegetables and fruits instead.

AAFCO-complete balance

Ensure the food is labeled “complete and balanced” according to AAFCO (The Association of American Feed Control Officials) standards for your dog’s life stage (e.g., adult maintenance, all life stages). This confirms it provides all the necessary nutrients.

Brand transparency and safe sourcing

Trustworthy brands are open about where they source their ingredients. Look for companies that prioritize humanely raised, grass-fed, or cage-free proteins and use high-pressure processing (HPP) for pathogen control before freeze-drying.

Ingredients to Avoid in Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Foods

While freeze-dried raw is a step up from kibble, not all formulas are created equal. Be cautious of brands that cut corners with low-quality ingredients. Avoid foods that contain:

• High-Starch Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, soy, and white potatoes are often used to lower costs but offer minimal nutritional benefit and can spike blood sugar.
• Unnamed By-Products: Vague terms like “meat and bone meal” or “animal by-product” can hide low-quality, inconsistent ingredients. Look for specific sources, such as “beef liver.”
• Artificial Preservatives, Colors, and Flavors: Additives like BHA, BHT, propylene glycol, and artificial dyes have no place in a natural raw diet. Quality raw food is palatable on its own.
• Synthetic Additives: While some added vitamins and minerals are necessary for balance, a long list of synthetic additions can indicate a low-quality base recipe that is not naturally nutrient-rich.
• Sugars and Sweeteners: Ingredients like corn syrup or molasses are sometimes added to improve taste but are unhealthy and unnecessary.

Best Raw Freeze-Dried Dog Foods (Top 8 Ranked)

#1 Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties

Best For: Overall nutrition and digestive health.

Stella & Chewy’s is a leader in the raw food space, and their Dinner Patties are our top overall pick. Made with 95% meat, organs, and bone, these patties offer a biologically appropriate meal that’s incredibly easy to digest. The recipes are fortified with organic fruits and vegetables, probiotics for gut health, and antioxidants. They come in a huge variety of proteins, making it easy to rotate and keep meals exciting.

Tailwaves Testing Notes: Our test dogs showed incredible enthusiasm for the Beef and Salmon & Cod recipes. We observed improved stool quality within a week. The patties are soft and rehydrate in minutes, making meal prep simple.

Pros: High meat content, great protein variety, includes probiotics, AAFCO complete.

Cons: One of the more expensive options on the market.

Value Assessment: A premium price for a premium, best-in-class product. The nutritional density means you may feed smaller portions than kibble, offsetting some cost.

#2 Primal Freeze-Dried Raw Nuggets

Best For: Active dogs and picky eaters.

Primal’s nuggets are another fantastic high-protein option, formulated with 85% meat, organs, and bone, complemented by organic produce for fiber and antioxidants. Their recipes are known for being highly palatable, winning over even the fussiest eaters. The inclusion of unrefined vitamins and minerals from whole food sources like organic quinoa and ginger adds to their nutritional powerhouse status.

Tailwaves Testing Notes: The Duck and Pork formulas were a huge hit with our picky eaters. The nuggets crumble easily, whether you serve them dry or rehydrated. Energy levels in our active test dogs were noticeably more sustained.

Pros: Excellent ingredient quality, palatable for picky dogs, uses organic produce.

Cons: Nuggets can be crumbly in the bag; slightly higher in carbohydrates than some competitors.

Value Assessment: High-end price, but the quality of the ethically sourced ingredients and meticulous formulation justifies the cost for owners prioritizing peak performance.

#3 Open Farm Freeze-Dried Raw

Best For: Ethically-minded owners and dogs needing joint support.

Open Farm sets the standard for transparency and ethical sourcing. You can trace every ingredient in your bag back to its source. Their recipes feature 85% humanely raised meat, bone, and organs, plus organic leafy greens and superfoods like coconut oil and turmeric. This focus on anti-inflammatory ingredients makes it a great choice for senior dogs and those with mobility issues.

Tailwaves Testing Notes: The Surf & Turf recipe was very popular. The small, pellet-like pieces are easy to portion and rehydrate quickly. We appreciate the brand’s commitment to sustainability, which adds value beyond just the food itself.

Pros: Unmatched sourcing transparency, humanely raised proteins, includes superfoods for joint health.

Cons: Premium price point, limited protein options compared to other brands.

Value Assessment: You pay a premium for ethical sourcing and traceability, making it a worthy investment for owners who prioritize animal welfare and ingredient purity.

#4 Instinct Raw Freeze-Dried Mixers (Topper)

Best For: Transitioning to raw or boosting a kibble diet.

For owners who aren’t ready to commit to a full raw diet, Instinct’s Raw Boost Mixers are the perfect solution. These toppers allow you to add the power of raw to your dog’s existing food. Made from whole-food ingredients like cage-free chicken and non-GMO vegetables, they are a simple, affordable way to enhance your dog’s meal with high-quality protein and nutrients, enticing picky eaters and adding a nutritional punch.

Tailwaves Testing Notes: Our testers found this to be the easiest way to get their fussy dogs to finish their kibble. The Gut Health formula, with added probiotics, was particularly effective for dogs with sensitive stomachs.

Pros: Affordable way to add raw, highly palatable, improves kibble nutrition, easy to use.

Cons: Not a complete and balanced meal on its own.

Value Assessment: Excellent value. A small bag can last a long time, making it a budget-friendly way to introduce the benefits of a raw food for dogs.

#5 Northwest Naturals Freeze-Dried Raw

Best For: Dogs with significant food allergies.

Northwest Naturals excels at creating simple, limited ingredient diets that are ideal for allergy-prone dogs. They offer a wide range of single-protein formulas, including novel options like Rabbit and Whitefish, making it easy to conduct an elimination diet. The recipes are straightforward—just meat, organs, bone, and a small amount of produce—minimizing the risk of a reaction.

Tailwaves Testing Notes: The nuggets are dense and less crumbly than some competitors. We used the Rabbit formula for a dog with a suspected chicken allergy and saw a significant reduction in itching and skin redness. It’s an effective, no-frills raw diet.

Pros: Excellent for elimination diets, wide variety of novel proteins, simple formulas.

Cons: May require adding a fish oil supplement for a better omega balance.

Value Assessment: Mid-to-high price range, but invaluable for owners struggling to pinpoint and manage food allergies. The single-protein purity is what you’re paying for.

#6 Stewart Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food

Best For: Owners seeking a budget-premium, high-meat option.

Stewart is a long-standing name in the freeze-dried space, known for their simple, meat-first recipes. They offer one of the best balances of quality and affordability. Their formulas are packed with protein from sources like beef, chicken, and salmon, and they avoid common fillers. While the ingredient list might be simpler than premium brands, the nutritional value is excellent for the price.

Tailwaves Testing Notes: The patties rehydrate well and have a strong, meaty aroma that dogs love. It’s a reliable, straightforward food that consistently delivers good results in coat health and stool quality without the sticker shock of some other brands.

Pros: More affordable than other top brands, high meat content, made in the USA.

Cons: Fewer organic ingredients and “superfoods” than premium competitors.

Value Assessment: Outstanding value. It makes a high-quality freeze-dried raw diet accessible to more pet owners, hitting a sweet spot between quality and cost.

#7 Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend

Best For: Picky small-breed dogs and improving coat shine.

Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend is a popular choice, especially for picky or smaller dogs. The formula combines multiple protein sources (turkey, beef, salmon, duck) to create a highly palatable and nutrient-diverse meal. The small, pellet-like pieces are easy for little mouths to chew and rehydrate quickly. Many users report significant improvements in their dog’s coat, likely due to the mix of proteins and omega-rich ingredients.

Tailwaves Testing Notes: This food was a clear winner among the small-breed test panel. Owners loved how easy it was to serve, and the dogs cleaned their bowls. The multi-protein blend seems to be a key factor in its high palatability.

Pros: Very palatable for picky eaters, multi-protein formula, great for skin and coat health.

Cons: Can be expensive, multi-protein source is not suitable for elimination diets.

Value Assessment: A premium-priced food that often delivers visible results, making it a worthwhile purchase for owners of discerning dogs.

#8 Vital Essentials Freeze-Dried Raw

Best For: Dogs needing a simple, limited ingredient diet.

Vital Essentials focuses on a “whole-animal” philosophy, using meat, organs, and bone with no added fruits, vegetables, or fillers. This makes their food extremely low-carb and ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing a true limited ingredient diet. Their patties and mini-nibs are available in a variety of proteins, offering a clean, simple, and carnivore-focused meal.

Tailwaves Testing Notes: This is the go-to for dogs with the most sensitive systems. The Beef and Duck patties were well-received. Stools were consistently excellent on this food. It’s a prime example of a simple but complete raw diet.

Pros: True limited ingredient diet, very low-carb, great for sensitive dogs.

Cons: Lack of produce may not be ideal for all dogs; some owners prefer more fiber.

Value Assessment: Competitively priced for a limited ingredient diet. Its simplicity and purity offer great value for dogs who cannot tolerate more complex formulas.

Comparison at a Glance

This variety ensures there’s a perfect fit for nearly every dog. Choose Stella & Chewy’s for all-around excellence, Northwest Naturals or Vital Essentials for allergies, Instinct Mixers to start your raw journey, and Open Farm if ethical sourcing is your priority.

How to Safely Switch to a Raw Freeze-Dried Diet?

Transition timeline (7–10 days)

A slow transition is crucial to allow your dog’s digestive system to adapt. Rushing the process can cause gas or loose stool.

• Days 1–3: 25% new food, 75% old food.
• Days 4–6: 50% new food, 50% old food.
• Days 7–9: 75% new food, 25% old food.
• Day 10: 100% new food.

How much freeze-dried raw to feed?

Freeze-dried food is much more calorie-dense than kibble. Carefully read the feeding guidelines on the package. These are usually based on your dog’s ideal weight and activity level. It’s best to start with the recommended amount and adjust based on your dog’s body condition.

Hydration needs and how to rehydrate patties

Most brands strongly recommend rehydrating the food by adding warm water, goat milk, or bone broth. This restores the moisture that was removed and is critical for proper digestion and hydration. Simply crumble the patties or nuggets into your dog’s bowl, add liquid, wait 3-5 minutes, and serve.

Monitoring coat, stool, and energy changes

Pay close attention to your dog during and after the transition. Look for positive signs like a shinier coat, higher energy, and smaller, firmer stools. If you notice persistent digestive upset, slow the transition or consult your vet.

When to combine raw and kibble safely?

You can absolutely mix freeze-dried raw with kibble, either as a topper or a permanent mix. This is a great way to boost nutrition on a budget. Because freeze-dried food is considered safe from pathogens, it doesn’t carry the same risks as mixing fresh raw and kibble, which digest at different rates.

Vet-Approved Tips for Feeding Freeze-Dried Raw

• Rotate Proteins: To provide a wider range of nutrients and prevent the development of new allergies, rotate between different protein sources every 1-3 months.
• Avoid Overfeeding: Raw freeze-dried food is very high in calories. Measure portions carefully and monitor your dog’s weight to prevent unwanted gain.
• Combine with Supplements if Needed: While most formulas are complete, dogs with specific health needs like arthritis might still benefit from joint supplements. Talk to your vet about your dog’s individual needs.
• Choosing for Puppies vs. Adults: Puppies have different nutritional requirements. Ensure you choose a formula labeled “for all life stages” or specifically for puppies to support their growth.
• Storage and Safety: Keep the bag sealed and stored in a cool, dry place. Wash your hands, bowl, and any surfaces after handling the food, just as you would with fresh raw meat. Never feed an unbalanced or homemade raw diet without guidance from a veterinary nutritionist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Verdict: Which Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Food Is Best?

Making the switch to a freeze-dried raw diet can be a transformative step for your dog’s health. Based on our extensive testing and research, we have clear winners for different needs:

• Best Overall: Stella & Chewy’s Dinner Patties deliver unparalleled nutrition, digestibility, and variety.
• Best for Allergies: Northwest Naturals Freeze-Dried Raw provides clean, single-protein formulas perfect for elimination diets.
• Best High-Protein: Primal Freeze-Dried Nuggets are ideal for fueling active dogs and satisfying picky eaters.
• Best Budget Option: Instinct Raw Boost Mixers offer the most affordable entry point to add the power of raw to any diet.

The best food is one that fits your dog’s unique needs and your budget. Choose a formula, transition slowly over 7–10 days, and monitor your dog for 30 days. The results—a healthier coat, better digestion, and a happier dog—often speak for themselves.