Raw vs. Freeze-Dried vs. Air-Dried Dog Food: Which Is Best?
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Raw vs. Freeze-Dried vs. Air-Dried: Which Is Best for Your Dog?
Pet parents today have more choices than ever when it comes to feeding their dogs. Raw, freeze-dried, air-dried, dehydrated, kibble—the options can feel overwhelming. Each has its pros and cons, but not all deliver the same level of nutrition and freshness.
At Bone & Harvest, we believe in doing raw the right way. Here’s a breakdown of the three most common raw-inspired feeding methods—raw, freeze-dried, and air-dried—so you can make the best choice for your pup.
1. Frozen Raw Dog Food
What it is: Fresh, human-grade meat, bone, and organ, served raw and stored frozen to lock in nutrients.
Pros:
- Closest to a natural canine diet.
- Maximum nutrient retention (nothing lost to heat processing).
- Moisture-rich, which supports digestion and hydration.
- Dogs love the taste—high palatability.
Cons:
- Requires freezer space.
- Must be thawed before feeding.
👉 Why we chose it: Frozen raw is the gold standard. At Bone & Harvest, we grind whole ingredients into balanced recipes, then freeze immediately to preserve nutrition. It’s raw done right—safe, simple, and biologically appropriate.
2. Freeze-Dried Dog Food
What it is: Raw ingredients that are frozen and then dehydrated under vacuum.
Pros:
- Shelf-stable, no freezer required.
- Convenient for travel
- Retains many nutrients compared to cooking.
Cons:
- Often expensive per serving.
- Needs rehydration with water for best digestion.
- Not as fresh as true frozen raw.
3. Air-Dried Dog Food
What it is: Meat and ingredients slowly dehydrated at low heat.
Pros:
- Shelf-stable, lightweight.
- Easier storage than frozen.
- Less processed than kibble.
Cons:
- Heat destroys some enzymes and nutrients.
- Texture can be tough for some dogs.
- Not truly “raw” due to heat exposure.
Which One Should You Choose?
If convenience is your #1 priority, freeze-dried or air-dried can be options. But if your goal is to give your dog a truly fresh, natural, and biologically appropriate diet, frozen raw is the clear winner.
That’s why Bone & Harvest is committed to frozen raw meals only. Our recipes provide the nutrition nature intended—without fillers, grains, or unnecessary processing.
Final Thoughts
Every dog deserves the health benefits of real food. Whether you’re new to raw feeding or upgrading from other styles, frozen raw gives your pup the closest thing to nature’s diet.
At Bone & Harvest, we keep it simple: whole ingredients, carefully balanced, frozen fresh, delivered to your door. Because your dog deserves nothing less than Raw Done Right.