The best best freeze-dried dog food is the 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog, the only one here that blends five protein sources (beef, chicken, fish, liver, and organs) with superfoods, all in a single 1-pound bag that works as a meal or topper. It’s the pick for owners who want maximum variety without buying multiple bags.
Want a simpler, single-protein option instead? The Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Dog (beef patties) is the runner-up, as long as your dog is happy with just one meat source and you’re okay with a slightly smaller bag.
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This guide walks you through the key differences between freeze-dried, air-dried, and raw-kibble blends, so you don’t waste money on a format your dog won’t eat. It also includes a section for buyers who should skip freeze-dried entirely and stick with traditional kibble or wet food.
Everything below comes from current Amazon product data, manufacturer specs, and each product’s owner track record, not from hands-on lab testing. I’ve based the scores on verified buyer feedback and nutritional claims.
Quick Answer: The Best Freeze-dried Dog Food
The 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog is the top pick for most dogs because of its multi-protein formula and added superfoods.
- 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog (Best Multi-Protein Blend): Five protein sources plus fruits, veggies, and omega-3s.
- Stella & Chewy's Freeze Dried Dog (Best Classic Beef Patty): Trusted brand, single-protein, easy to crumble over meals.
- RawMix 25 Beef Freeze-Dried Dog Food (Best Raw-Kibble Hybrid): 25% raw freeze-dried pieces mixed with kibble for texture contrast.
- Dr. Marty Nature's Blend Freeze-Dried Raw (Best 3-Bag Value Pack): Three 16-ounce bags, variety of proteins, premium brand.
- Stella & Chewy's Wild Red Coated (Best Budget-Friendly Coated Kibble): Lower price point, coated with freeze-dried raw, 3.5-pound bag.
- ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food (Best Limited Ingredient Air-Dried): Single protein, air-dried (not freeze-dried), made in New Zealand.
- BADLANDS RANCH Air-Dried Beef Dog Food (Best High Meat Content): 87% real meat, includes organs and salmon, suitable as topper or meal.
Thinking about a traditional kibble diet instead? Jump to Who Should NOT Buy below before you spend anything.
Comparison Table
Here’s the lineup at a glance: photo, product, who it’s built for, and our /10 score.
Scroll sideways on small screens to see every column.
360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog: Best Overall for Multi-Protein Variety
360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog: Best Overall for Multi-Protein Variety
#1
360Multi-protein blend
8.8OUT OF 10
Nutritional Value9.0
Ingredient Quality9.2
Palatability8.5
Owner Satisfaction8.5
This is the only freeze-dried dog food on our list that packs five animal proteins into a single bag. Beef, chicken, fish, liver, and organs give your dog a range of amino acids and essential fatty acids, including omega-3s from the fish. The recipe also includes fruits, vegetables, and superfoods like blueberries and spinach, so you get a complete meal in one scoop.
Owner feedback consistently highlights how well even picky dogs take to it. The 1-pound bag is small enough to try as a topper or to mix with your dog’s current food without committing to a massive tub. The brand makes it in the USA and uses no fillers, corn, wheat, or soy.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The bag size is only 1 pound, so if you have a large breed dog, you’ll go through it quickly. A few owners mention the crumbles are a bit dusty at the bottom of the bag. That’s typical for freeze-dried raw food and doesn’t affect nutrition.
If you need a larger quantity for a multi-dog household, the
RawMix 25 Beef Freeze-Dried Dog Food comes in a 2-pound bag and offers a hybrid raw-kibble texture that may stretch further.
⚠Storage: Freeze-dried food stays fresh longer in a cool, dry place. Once opened, reseal the bag tightly or transfer to an airtight container to keep moisture out.
Pros
- ✓Five protein sources for balanced amino acids
- ✓Includes superfoods and omega-3s
- ✓Grain-free and no fillers
- ✓Made in USA with transparent sourcing
Cons
- ✕Only 1 lb bag, runs out fast for large dogs
- ✕Some dust at bottom of bag
- ✕Not suitable for dogs with single-protein allergies
Protein Source
Beef, Chicken, Fish, Liver, Organs
Best for: Owners who want a single bag that covers multiple protein sources, especially for dogs that need variety to stay interested. Great as a topper or standalone meal for small to medium breeds.
Stella & Chewy's Freeze Dried Dog: Best Classic Beef Patty
Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Dog: Best Classic Beef Patty
#2
StellaClassic beef patties
8.9OUT OF 10
Nutritional Value8.8
Ingredient Quality9.0
Palatability9.2
Owner Satisfaction8.8
Stella & Chewy’s is the brand most dog owners recognize, and this beef patty formula is the reason why. Each 16-ounce bag contains 32 freeze-dried patties made from 90% beef, organs, and bone, with added probiotics and taurine. The patties are easy to crumble over kibble or rehydrate into a soft meal.
Aggregate buyer reviews give it a 4.6-star rating, with owners praising how well it works for dogs with sensitive stomachs. The single-protein source makes it a go-to for elimination diets. The brand also publishes a complete nutrient profile including guaranteed analysis on every bag.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. Some owners report that the patties can be brittle and break into small pieces during shipping. That doesn’t affect the food, but it means you might get more crumbles than whole patties. Also, the bag is relatively small compared to the price.
⚠Feeding: Start with 1/4 cup per 10 lbs of body weight and adjust. Always provide fresh water, especially when feeding dry freeze-dried food.
Pros
- ✓Single-protein beef, ideal for sensitive dogs
- ✓Added probiotics and taurine
- ✓High palatability even for picky eaters
- ✓Brand transparency with full nutritional info
Cons
- ✕Patties can break into crumbs in transit
- ✕Small bag (16 oz) for the price
- ✕Only one protein source, limited variety
Best for: Dogs with food sensitivities that need a simple, single-protein diet. Also great for owners who want a trusted brand with a proven track record of palatability.
RawMix 25 Beef Freeze-Dried Dog Food: Best Raw-Kibble Hybrid
RawMix 25 Beef Freeze-Dried Dog Food: Best Raw-Kibble Hybrid
#3
RawMixRaw-kibble hybrid
9.2OUT OF 10
Nutritional Value9.3
Ingredient Quality9.5
Palatability9.0
Owner Satisfaction9.0
This is the only food on our list that combines 25% freeze-dried raw pieces with high-quality kibble in one bag. The raw pieces are organ-rich beef, while the kibble provides a crunchy texture that many dogs love. The blend gives you the nutritional benefits of raw food without the full commitment of a 100% raw diet.
Owner feedback on Amazon is stellar: a 4.9-star rating from over 500 reviews. Many owners mention that dogs who previously turned their noses up at kibble now eagerly finish their bowl. The 2-pound bag is a good middle ground between the small 1-pound bags and the larger 3.5-pound options.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The mix includes kibble, so it’s not a true raw-only diet. If you’re aiming for a fully raw meal plan, you’ll want a 100% freeze-dried product like the
360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog. Also, the bag is 2 pounds, which may not last a large breed dog very long.
For a larger bag with a similar raw-kibble concept, check the
Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Coated at 3.5 pounds, though it’s a coated kibble rather than a true hybrid.
⚠Transition: When switching to a raw-kibble blend, mix slowly over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset. Start with 25% new food, 75% old food, then gradually increase.
Pros
- ✓Unique raw-kibble hybrid for texture variety
- ✓Organ-rich beef raw pieces
- ✓Highest owner rating (4.9 stars) in this lineup
- ✓Larger 2 lb bag than many competitors
Cons
- ✕Not 100% raw, includes kibble
- ✕Only one protein flavor (beef)
- ✕Bag size still modest for large dogs
Raw Content
25% Freeze-Dried Raw
Best for: Owners who want to introduce raw food without going fully raw. The kibble base helps with the transition, and the raw pieces add nutritional variety. Ideal for dogs that need a texture mix to stay interested.
Dr. Marty Nature's Blend Freeze-Dried Raw: Best Premium 3-Bag Pack
Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend Freeze-Dried Raw: Best Premium 3-Bag Pack
#4
Dr.Premium 3-bag pack
8.7OUT OF 10
Nutritional Value9.0
Ingredient Quality9.3
Palatability8.5
Owner Satisfaction8.2
Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend comes as three separate 16-ounce bags, giving you 48 ounces total of freeze-dried raw food. The formula features a blend of beef, turkey, and salmon, along with nutrient-dense organs like liver and heart. It’s grain-free, legume-free, and contains no artificial preservatives.
Many owners report that this food works well for dogs with allergies to common proteins. The three-bag bundle is convenient for multi-dog households or for owners who want to stock up without buying a single huge bag. The brand is well-known for its veterinary-formulated recipes.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The price point is higher than most other options here, and the three-bag format means you’ll have to reseal each bag individually. Some owners note that the bags are not resealable, so you’ll need clips or a container. Also, a few reviews mention that the texture is fine, which can be dusty.
If you prefer a single bag with a larger volume, the
BADLANDS RANCH Air-Dried Beef Dog Food offers 24 ounces in one bag with 87% meat content, which can be more economical for single-dog homes.
⚠Storage: Since each bag is 16 ounces and not resealable, transfer unused portions to an airtight container after opening. This keeps the food fresh and prevents moisture from affecting the freeze-dried texture.
Pros
- ✓Three-bag bundle for convenience and variety
- ✓Multi-protein blend (beef, turkey, salmon)
- ✓Veterinary-formulated, grain-free
- ✓Works well for dogs with food allergies
Cons
- ✕Higher price for the total volume
- ✕Bags are not resealable
- ✕Fine texture can be dusty
Protein Source
Beef, Turkey, Salmon
Best for: Owners who want a premium, multi-protein freeze-dried raw diet in a bulk bundle. Great for multi-dog homes or for owners who prefer to buy in larger quantities for convenience.
Stella & Chewy's Wild Red Coated: Best Budget-Friendly Coated Kibble
Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Coated: Best Budget-Friendly Coated Kibble
#5
StellaBudget-friendly coated
8.0OUT OF 10
Nutritional Value7.5
Ingredient Quality8.0
Palatability8.5
Owner Satisfaction8.0
This is the most budget-friendly option on our list, and it’s a coated kibble rather than a true freeze-dried raw food. The 3.5-pound bag contains prairie-style kibble that is coated with freeze-dried raw ingredients for added flavor and nutrition. It’s grain-free and made with real beef as the first ingredient.
Many owners choose this as a step up from standard kibble without the full cost of 100% freeze-dried food. The larger bag size (3.5 lb) means fewer repurchases, and the coated formula helps with palatability for picky dogs. The brand’s reputation for quality carries over here.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. This is not a true freeze-dried raw food. The coating provides some raw benefits, but the base is still processed kibble. If you’re looking for a completely raw diet, this won’t suffice. Also, the protein content is lower than the fully freeze-dried options.
⚠Expectation: This is a coated kibble, not a freeze-dried raw product. If you want the full raw benefits without the processing, choose one of the 100% freeze-dried options above.
Pros
- ✓Largest bag size (3.5 lb) at a budget-friendly price
- ✓Coated with freeze-dried raw for extra flavor
- ✓Grain-free with real beef first ingredient
- ✓Trusted brand with high palatability
Cons
- ✕Not a true freeze-dried raw food
- ✕Lower protein content than raw options
- ✕Coated kibble, not raw pieces
Best for: Owners who want to upgrade from standard kibble without paying for 100% freeze-dried raw. Good for households with multiple dogs or dogs that need a larger bag to last longer.
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food: Best Limited Ingredient Air-Dried
ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food: Best Limited Ingredient Air-Dried
#6
ZIWILimited ingredient air-dried
8.5OUT OF 10
Nutritional Value8.8
Ingredient Quality9.0
Palatability8.0
Owner Satisfaction8.3
ZIWI Peak uses a gentle air-drying process instead of freeze-drying, which preserves nutrients while creating a shelf-stable, jerky-like texture. This beef formula is a limited ingredient diet with only a few key components: beef, beef organs, and superfoods like green-lipped mussel. It’s grain-free, legume-free, and made in New Zealand.
The air-drying method means the food is denser than freeze-dried options, so a smaller portion provides more calories. Many owners with dogs that have grain allergies or multiple food sensitivities turn to ZIWI for its simple ingredient list. The 16-ounce bag is compact but nutrient-dense.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The texture is harder and chewier than freeze-dried food, which some dogs don’t like as much. A few owners report that the pieces are too large for small breeds. You can crumble them, but it takes extra effort. Also, the price per ounce is on the higher side.
If your dog prefers a softer, easier-to-crumble texture, the
Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Dog offers freeze-dried patties that rehydrate quickly and are easier to break apart.
⚠Texture: Air-dried food is denser and harder than freeze-dried. For small dogs or senior dogs with dental issues, consider rehydrating with warm water to soften the pieces before feeding.
Pros
- ✓Gentle air-drying preserves nutrients
- ✓Limited ingredient, ideal for allergies
- ✓Includes green-lipped mussel for joint health
- ✓Made in New Zealand with high-quality beef
Cons
- ✕Harder texture, less palatable for some dogs
- ✕Pieces can be too large for small breeds
- ✕Higher price per ounce than freeze-dried
Best for: Dogs with food allergies or sensitive stomachs that need a simple, limited ingredient diet. Also good for owners who want a nutrient-dense, shelf-stable option that doesn’t require freezing.
BADLANDS RANCH Air-Dried Beef Dog Food: Best High Meat Content
BADLANDS RANCH Air-Dried Beef Dog Food: Best High Meat Content
#7
BADLANDSHigh meat content
8.3OUT OF 10
Nutritional Value8.5
Ingredient Quality8.8
Palatability8.0
Owner Satisfaction8.0
BADLANDS RANCH claims 87% real meat content, which is among the highest of any air-dried dog food on this list. The formula includes beef, organs, and salmon, making it a meat-heavy option that also provides omega-3 fatty acids. It’s grain-free and contains no corn, wheat, soy, or artificial fillers.
This food works well as a kibble topper or as a standalone meal for adult and senior dogs. The 24-ounce bag is larger than most of the 1-pound options here, offering better value for the volume. Many owners choose it for dogs that need a high-protein, low-carb diet.
Flaws but not dealbreakers. The air-dried texture is similar to ZIWI’s: dense and chewy. Some dogs, especially small breeds, may struggle with the hardness. Also, the 4.3-star rating is slightly lower than some competitors, with a few owners noting that the pieces vary in size.
If your dog prefers a softer, freeze-dried texture that’s easier to crumble, the
360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog offers a more delicate, crumbly texture that mixes easily with kibble or water.
⚠Feeding: Because of the high meat content, start with a smaller portion than you think. Overfeeding can lead to loose stools. Mix with your dog’s current food for the first week.
Pros
- ✓87% real meat content, very high protein
- ✓Includes organs and salmon for omega-3s
- ✓24-ounce bag offers good value for the size
- ✓Grain-free, no fillers or artificial ingredients
Cons
- ✕Dense, chewy texture may be too hard for small dogs
- ✕Piece sizes vary in the bag
- ✕Lower palatability rating compared to freeze-dried options
Protein Source
Beef, Organs, Salmon
Best for: Owners who want a high-protein, low-carb diet for their dog, especially for active or working breeds. Works well as a topper for dogs that need a protein boost without adding bulk.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food
What’s the Difference Between Freeze-Dried, Air-Dried, and Coated Kibble?
Freeze-drying removes moisture from raw ingredients at low temperatures, preserving the nutritional profile without cooking. The result is a lightweight, crumbly texture that rehydrates easily. Air-drying uses gentle heat over a longer period, creating a denser, jerky-like texture that’s more shelf-stable but harder to break apart.
Coated kibble is standard kibble sprayed or dusted with freeze-dried raw ingredients for flavor, but it’s still processed kibble at its core.
In our lineup, the 360 Pet Nutrition, Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Dog, RawMix 25, and Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend are true freeze-dried products. The ZIWI Peak and BADLANDS RANCH are air-dried, while the Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Coated is a coated kibble.
If you want the full raw benefits, go with freeze-dried. If you need a budget-friendly upgrade from kibble, coated options work.
How Much Protein Does Your Dog Really Need?
Protein content is the main reason owners switch to freeze-dried dog food. Most of these products range from 30% to 45% crude protein, which is significantly higher than standard kibble (typically 18% to 25%). For active dogs, working breeds, or dogs on a grain-free diet, higher protein supports muscle maintenance and energy levels.
The RawMix 25 and BADLANDS RANCH lead in protein density, with the latter claiming 87% meat content. The Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Coated has the lowest protein because it’s primarily kibble. If your dog has kidney issues or other health conditions, consult your vet before switching to a high-protein diet.
The right balance depends on your dog’s age, activity level, and health status.
Bag Size and Value: What’s the Sweet Spot?
Bag sizes in this category range from 1 pound to 3.5 pounds. The 1-pound bags (360 Pet Nutrition, Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Dog, ZIWI Peak) are great for trying a new food or for small dogs. The 2-pound and 24-ounce bags (RawMix 25, BADLANDS RANCH) offer a middle ground, while the 3.5-pound Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Coated is the largest but is coated kibble, not raw.
For multi-dog households or large breeds, the Dr. Marty Nature’s Blend 3-bag pack gives you 48 ounces total, but you’ll need to manage multiple bags. The 360 Pet Nutrition is the most affordable entry point, but you’ll buy it more often.
The BADLANDS RANCH offers the best meat-to-price ratio in a single bag.
How to Transition Your Dog to Freeze-Dried Food
Switching to freeze-dried or air-dried food should be gradual. Start with 25% new food mixed with 75% old food for 2-3 days. Then move to 50/50 for another 2-3 days, then 75/25, and finally 100% new food.
This prevents digestive upset, especially with high-protein foods.
Some dogs take to freeze-dried immediately, while others need a few days. If your dog is picky, try crumbling the freeze-dried pieces over their current food as a topper first. The 360 Pet Nutrition and Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Dog are both highly palatable and work well for this.
Always provide fresh water, as freeze-dried food expands when rehydrated.
To see how these factors play out on real picks, compare the 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog, Stella & Chewy's Freeze Dried Dog and the RawMix 25 Beef Freeze-Dried Dog Food reviewed above.
Who Should NOT Buy Best Freeze-Dried Dog Food
Freeze-dried dog food is the wrong purchase for three kinds of buyers. Here’s who they are, and what to look at instead.
You Need a Budget-Friendly Everyday Kibble
If you’re feeding a large breed dog on a tight budget, freeze-dried food will cost significantly more per pound than standard kibble. The 1-pound bags in this list can run out fast, and even the larger 2-pound bags won’t last a big dog more than a week. For everyday feeding, stick with a high-quality kibble from a trusted brand.
The Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Coated is a middle ground, but it’s still more expensive than basic kibble. If you want to add raw benefits without the full cost, use a freeze-dried topper instead of a full meal.
Your Dog Has a Known Medical Condition That Requires a Prescription Diet
Freeze-dried dog food is not formulated for specific medical conditions like kidney disease, pancreatitis, or urinary crystals. These require prescription diets with controlled levels of phosphorus, fat, or minerals. If your dog has a chronic health issue, ask your vet before switching to any freeze-dried or raw food.
High-protein diets can worsen certain conditions. Stick with a veterinary-prescribed diet that meets your dog’s specific needs.
You Want a Fully Raw, Unprocessed Diet
Freeze-dried food is close to raw, but it’s still processed through freezing and dehydration. The nutrients are well preserved, but the structure changes slightly. If you want a truly raw diet with no processing at all, you’ll need to prepare fresh raw food at home or buy frozen raw food from a supplier.
The products here are a convenient middle ground, but they’re not the same as freshly prepared raw meat. The ZIWI Peak and BADLANDS RANCH are air-dried, which is even more processed than freeze-dried.
Final Verdict
The 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog is our top pick for most owners. It offers five protein sources, superfoods, and omega-3s in a single 1-pound bag that works as a meal or topper. The multi-protein blend gives your dog variety without buying multiple bags.
Want a simpler, single-protein option? The Stella & Chewy’s Freeze Dried Dog (beef patties) is the runner-up, with a trusted brand and high palatability for picky dogs.
Need a larger bag or a raw-kibble hybrid? The RawMix 25 Beef Freeze-Dried Dog Food combines 25% raw pieces with kibble in a 2-pound bag, and it has the highest owner rating in this lineup.
If you have a dog with food allergies, the ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food offers a limited ingredient list with just beef and a few superfoods. And if you’re on a tight budget, the Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Coated is a budget-friendly upgrade from standard kibble, though it’s not a true raw food.
Before you buy, check the Who Should NOT Buy section above. If freeze-dried isn’t right for your situation, stick with a high-quality kibble or a prescription diet from your vet.
FAQ
What’s the best freeze-dried dog food overall?
The 360 Pet Nutrition Freeze-Dried Raw Dog is the best overall because of its multi-protein blend, superfoods, and omega-3s. It works as a sole meal or a topper.
Is freeze-dried dog food better than kibble?
Freeze-dried dog food retains more nutrients than kibble because it’s not cooked at high temperatures. It also has higher protein content and fewer fillers. However, it’s more expensive and requires proper storage.
Can I mix freeze-dried food with kibble?
Yes, many owners mix freeze-dried food with kibble to add flavor and nutrition. The RawMix 25 is designed as a hybrid, but any freeze-dried food can be crumbled over kibble.
How long does freeze-dried dog food last after opening?
Once opened, freeze-dried dog food stays fresh for about 30 days if stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Always check the bag for specific expiration dates.
Is freeze-dried dog food safe for puppies?
Most freeze-dried dog foods are formulated for adult dogs, but some brands offer puppy-specific formulas. Check the label for life stage recommendations. The 360 Pet Nutrition and Stella & Chewy’s are suitable for all life stages, but consult your vet for puppies.
Do I need to add water to freeze-dried dog food?
Rehydrating freeze-dried food with warm water is recommended, especially for dogs that don’t drink enough water. It also softens the texture for easier chewing. The 360 Pet Nutrition and Stella & Chewy’s rehydrate quickly.
