Are you looking for the best freeze-dried dog treats? In recent years, freeze-dried dog treats have surged in popularity. I love them because they are healthier and preserve more nutritional content than regular dog treats. I also like them because they store longer and are easier to transport, making them great for any circumstance.
However, with so many options, many dog owners struggle to identify the best brand. We’ve compiled information on the top-rated freeze-dried dog treats to help you pick the best one for your furry friend. Our team of experts reviewed dozens of freeze-dried dog treats and ranked them based on specific needs. Let’s dive right in!
Table of contents
In This Article:
Table of contents
In This Article:
Best Freeze-Dried Dog Treats Brands — At A Glance
Best Overall
Stella & Chewy’s
With a protein-rich, high-value, all-natural nutritious recipe makes this brand our top pick
Canine Bible has tested and rated thousands of dog products, including freeze-dried dog treats, to help you make better buying decisions. This specific review article was written by the research team at Canine Bible, passionate and experienced dog experts and enthusiasts. All content has been fact-checked and vet-approved by Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, DVM, and our veterinary review board. For a deeper understanding of freeze-dried dog treats, our writers and editorial team have referenced and cited peer-reviewed studies and insights from industry thought leaders. Read our editorial mission to learn more about our writing process.
To compile our list of the best freeze-dried dog treats, 3 of our testers and their dogs evaluated several different brands in The Canine Bible Lab and at home. They assessed each product’s performance in key areas, including ingredient quality, nutritional value, taste, digestibility, packaging, and overall value. To learn more about our testing methods, please refer to our product review and test methodology.
Here’s how we tested across five performance categories:
Ingredient Quality: We first assessed the quality of ingredients in each freeze-dried dog treat. Testers closely examined the ingredient list, focusing on high-quality, wholesome, and minimally processed components. Special attention was given to protein sources and the absence of fillers or artificial additives.
Nutritional Value: The nutritional value of each treat was analyzed by examining the balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates and the inclusion of essential vitamins and minerals. We also checked if the treats met the nutritional standards set by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Taste: The ultimate judges, our canine participants, were given a serving of each treat. We observed their reactions and preferences, noting which treats were favorites and which were ignored. Treats that were widely enjoyed received higher scores.
Digestibility: This test involved monitoring dogs for any signs of digestive upset after consuming each treat, including changes in stool consistency, gas, or vomiting. Treats that were easily digested without causing adverse reactions scored higher.
Packaging: The packaging of each treat was evaluated for its ease of opening, resealing, and storage. We also considered eco-friendly options and the clarity of labeling, including feeding instructions and nutritional information.
Overall Value: Finally, considering the price, testers determined whether the treats offered good value. High scores were given to products that were deemed worth their price or more.
How We Rated The Best Freeze-Dried Dog Treats
4.8 to 5 stars: These are the best freeze-dried dog treats we tested. We recommend them without reservation. They excel in ingredient quality, nutritional value, brand transparency, price, customer feedback, and our personal experience.
4.5 to 4.7 stars: These treats are excellent, though they might have minor drawbacks, such as slightly higher prices or limited availability. Nonetheless, they come highly recommended.
4.0 to 4.4 stars: While these are great options, there are better ones available. They meet most criteria for high-quality treats but may fall short in areas like brand transparency.
3.5 to 3.9 stars: Average in performance, these treats fulfill basic requirements but may lack in aspects such as nutritional content or brand transparency.
3.4 and below: We don’t recommend treats with this rating. Common concerns include poor ingredient quality, insufficient nutritional value, and negative customer feedback.
We reviewed over a dozen freeze-dried dog treat companies to offer dog owners comprehensive, well-researched, and trustworthy information. Our aim is to empower you to make informed decisions regarding freeze-dried dog nutrition and assist you in discovering the finest brands of freeze-dried dog treats.
Are Freeze-Dried Dog Treats The Best Treats?
Freeze-dried dog treats are often considered superior to regular dog treats in terms of nutritional value, as the freeze-drying process is one of the most common dehydration methods due to its numerous benefits. Freeze-drying is an excellent method for preserving beneficial compounds like phytochemicals and nutrients while maintaining the food’s color, flavor, and structure.[1],[2],[3] This effectiveness makes it a popular choice for creating high-value pet food products and is why many brands now offer freeze-dried dog products. Research indicates that freeze-drying surpasses other drying techniques in preserving antioxidants, including anthocyanins, flavonoids, and ascorbic acid, commonly known as vitamin C.[4]
Freeze-dried dog treats are known for better nutrient retention, natural ingredients, longer shelf life, better taste, and easier digestion when compared to regular dog treats.
Freeze-dried dog treats typically feature fewer and simpler ingredients, making them a better choice for dogs with allergies or sensitivities and those on a raw diet. Read our “Are Freeze-Dried Treats Good For Dogs?” article to learn more about the research and benefits of these treats.
Best Freeze-Dried Treats For Dogs
Whether searching for the best training freeze-dried dog treats or seeking a natural option, this review offers the top alternatives for your pup, tailored to your needs and preferences.
Why we picked and recommended it: Stella & Chewy’s wins our top pick for best freeze-dried dog treats. They have the most complete collection of freeze-dried dog treats made from safe, premium-quality ingredients. These treats offer the best benefits of raw dog foods. The natural enzymes and raw ground bone ingredients work chemically and physically on your pet’s teeth and gums to keep them clean and strong.
What sets it apart from competitors: All of Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried snacks support better health for your dog with improved appetite and digestion. The natural oils, omega fatty acids, and minimal processing of their treats aid in improving the skin and coat of your pet. Additionally, they support lean, strong muscles and boost your pup’s endurance and stamina.
Key Features
Three freeze-dried treat categories. Carnivore Crunch is 98% meat, organs, and ground bone. Wild Weenies is 97% muscle meat and organ meat. And Raw Single Ingredient, made with one simple ingredient, 100% organ meat, is ideal for dogs with food sensitivities and allergies.
Zero junk. No artificial preservatives or coloring, No hormones or antibiotics. No corn, wheat, or soy. No by-products
Low calorie. This formula contains less than three calories per treat.
Pros
Made from sustainably sourced ingredients and raw protein
Mirrors the prey diet
Perfect for training and rewarding
Cage-free poultry and meats (responsibly sourced)
Cons
Slightly higher monthly cost
Some parents complain the treats arrived crushed due to shipping
Best Single Ingredient Freeze-Dried Dog Treats
4.7
★★★★★
Stewart
Who It’s For: For those looking to reduce the risk of allergic reactions or digestive issues in dogs with food sensitivities. Also great for picky eaters.
Why we picked and recommended it: Stewart wins our pick for the best single-ingredient freeze-dried dog treat option. With over 45 years in the market, Stewart offers award-winning natural freeze-dried dog treats. They only use premium-quality protein (lean and low-fat) from 100% pure meat or organ meats. All Stewart freeze-dried dog treats contain higher nutrients, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and antioxidants.
What sets it apart from competitors: Thanks to its freeze-drying process through high-pressure processing (HPP), these treats retain the enticing aroma, delectable flavor, and ingredient nutritional value.
Key Features
Third-party tested. For customer safety, our treats are tested at a USDA/FDA-accredited lab for E. coli, Listeria monocytogenes, and Salmonella and held until cleared. Random tests also ensure nutritional integrity and food safety. Steward products are produced under the following safety programs: HACCP, GMP, TQC, SSOP, PREOP & PIP.
Resealable packaging. It comes in a trademarked resealable blue bucket to preserve the treats’ delicious taste and freshness.
Bite-sized. Perfect for training and rewarding. It can also be crumbled over kibble to add variety or entice a picky pooch.
Pros
No grains, soy, gluten, or artificial colors
Work as training treats or diet toppers
Cons
Some pet parents report they are not easy to break
Slightly expensive
Best Freeze Dried Dog Training Treats
4.5
★★★★★
Pupford
Who It’s For: Ideal for dog owners who require effective, high-value treats for training sessions.
Why we picked and recommended it: The title for the best freeze-dried dog training treats goes to Pupford Training treats. These training treats are made with 1 to 3 simple ingredients and are small enough for repetitive rewards. Each bite has only one calorie per treat. In other words, they’re the perfect high-value reward. Plus, they’re super healthy for your pup. There are a whopping 475 treats per bag.
What sets it apart from competitors: These treats are designed for dedicated training sessions as rapid rewards. Pupford recommends, for most behaviors, using one treat (or even half of a treat) to reward the correct behavior. Pupford offers the healthiest, low-calorie, high-protein, freeze-dried dog training treat with one calorie per treat.
Remember. Treats should only comprise 10-15% of your dog’s daily caloric intake. This is why you should avoid companies that sell “training” treats that are too big, messy, and sometimes filled with sugar and other junk ingredients.
Key Features
No crumbled treats. Made with tocopherols, an antioxidant that helps hold the treats together so they don’t crumble at the bottom of the bag.
Lean protein. They typically use a single lean protein (i.e., chicken, liver) mixed with tocopherols.
Pros
Low-calories
No fillers, junk, sugar, or other harmful chemicals
Why we picked and recommended it: If you are looking for the most natural freeze-fried dog treat, Halo Liv-A-Littles Freeze-Dried comes on top. Halo Liv-A-Littles are made with no artificial ingredients or in factory farms. Halo is a well-known dog brand that rejects the factory farm model of close confinement, growth hormones, antibiotics, and genetically modified feeds.
What sets it apart from competitors: This company fosters naturally raised animals (no cages, crates, or crowding), regenerative soils, and environmental balance to produce the healthiest possible dog treats and food. Halo doesn’t use “meat meals” in their holistic dog treats.
Key Features
Natural ingredients. Unlike dehydrated treats, which lose up to 50% of nutrients, Halo’s freeze-dried treats don’t contain additives, retain their original nutrients, and preserve the original texture of meat, aroma, and taste.
Topper and treat. Treats can be crumbled into an irresistible food topper or rehydrated to become an enticing reward while training.
Pros
It’s a high-protein snack low in calories
Humane ingredient sourcing
Uses global animal partnership certified chicken
Grain-free
Cons
Some customers report the quality isn’t as good as it used to be
Some customers complain treats arrived as powder
Best Premium Freeze-Dried Dog Treat
4.6
★★★★★
Whole Life Pet
Who It’s For: Those who seek the highest quality treats for their dogs and are willing to invest in top-tier products.
Why we picked and recommended it: We picked Whole Life Just One Ingredient Freeze-Dried Dog Treats as our best premium option because they use certified human-grade ingredients and are made in human-grade kitchens. Their facility has the highest level of food safety rating, BRC AA rating and their ingredients are 100% traceable and verified ingredients sourced.
What sets it apart from competitors: Recipes are made using pure breast meats (or fillets in the case of salmon), sliced then freeze-dried to perfection, removing moisture while concentrating flavor, aroma and nutrition.
Key Features
Meat-rich-protein treat. Their meats provide lean-low-fat, high-protein, vitamins and minerals that support muscle development and healthy weight
Third-party tested. Third-party testing for safety with lab results available on the website.
Pros
Great for dogs with food allergies and on limited-ingredient diets
Great for training, picky eating, stomach sensitivity, or overweight pet
Gluten-free and grain-free recipes
No preservatives, fillers, chemicals, salt, or artificial ingredients.
Long-term storage option (2 years unopened)
Cons
Vacuum packing is not always the best
I wish they offer more flavors
Best Freeze-Dried Treats For Puppies
4.4
★★★★★
PureBites
Who It’s For: Ideal for those who want to provide their growing puppies with nutrient-rich treats that support healthy growth and development.
Why we picked and recommended it: I have fed this product to my puppies, and they love it. Our puppy cleans and gets excited when he smells it. Mini-PureBites Freeze Dried Dog Treats contain nutrients, including essential amino acids, vitamins B3 and B6, and selenium, among other nutrients essential for your puppy’s healthy function.
What sets it apart from competitors: It’s made with only one simple human-grade ingredient, USA-raised meats. There is one calorie per treat.
Key Features
Refund. All PureBites treats, food, mixers, and toppers are always backed by our 100% money-back satisfaction guarantee
Moisture-free packing. The bag is injected with non-harmful nitrogen gas to keep oxygen from getting back in and spoiling the food.
Pros
Also great for dogs with diabetes, allergies, other health issues
Why we picked and recommended it:Wag freeze-dried dog treat by Amazon offers the most affordable pricing for freeze-dried dog treats. We compared the price to all the other companies reviewed here; it’s your best option if you are on a budget. They have a semi-soft texture with a light, chewy crunch.
What sets it apart from competitors: These treats are “gently freeze-dried” to preserve the freshness and flavor. They’re also sourced and freeze-dried in the USA, so you can be sure you’re giving your pup the best.
Key Features
Amazon brand. The Wag brand is owned and distributed by Amazon. Amazon works directly with a supplier to manufacture them
Diced into bite-size pieces. It’s a wag-worthy reward your dog will love
Pros
No added grain, corn, wheat, soy, potato, or egg
No added artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
Resealable pouch
Cons
Some parents report that it is too big for tiny dogs
Packing needs improvement to avoid crumbling during shipping
Best Grain-Free Freeze-Dried Dog Treats
4.6
★★★★★
Orijen
Who It’s For: Ideal for dogs that are allergic or intolerant to grains, providing a safe and healthy treat option.
Why we picked and recommended it: Looking for the best grain-free freeze-dried dog treats? ORIJEN Freeze-Dried Grain-Free Dog Treats use raw animal ingredients, including meat, organs, cartilage, and bone, to deliver the most natural and nourishing treats available for dogs. It contains some natural preservatives to maintain freshness.
What sets it apart from competitors: Made with nutrient-dense whole-prey ratios that provide a natural source of every nutrient dogs need to thrive.
Key Features
Fresh ingredients. Meats are delivered fresh (refrigerated, without preservatives) or raw (flash-frozen, without preservatives), then gently freeze-dried.
Raw ingredients. It is made of 99% animal protein.
Pros
.Made from the succulent parts of the prey to deliver optimal nutrition
Uses 100% free-run poultry, wild-caught fish & ranch-raised meat
Excellent customer satisfaction scores
Cons
May fall apart easily
Some of the flavors may be smelly
Best Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats
4.7
★★★★★
Vital Essentials
Who It’s For: Ideal for pet owners who follow or are interested in a raw diet philosophy for their dogs, as these treats align closely with raw feeding principles.
Why we picked and recommended it:Vital Essentials Freeze-dried Raw Dog Treats won the highest spot for providing the formula with the closest resemblance to actual raw. Their unique slow freeze-drying process locks in vitamins and nutrients without cooking or intense processing.
What sets it apart from competitors: Made from premium butcher-cut raw protein, responsibly sourced and humanely harvested to support your dog’s overall health and wellness. Their meats are never exposed to any artificial hormones or antibiotics.
Key Features
Grain-free and gluten-free. Perfect for pups with sensitivities.
Prey approach. No fruits or vegetables – just nutrient-dense organs like the lungs, liver, stomach, heart, fat, kidney, and blood. These are the most nutritious and delicious parts of an animal for a carnivore.
Pros
Rich in protein and omega fatty acids
High-value reward
Made with a single-source protein
No synthetic vitamins or minerals
No added fillers, dyes, flavorings, preservatives, or rendered by-products
Cons
Slightly more expensive than the others
Best Sustainable Freeze-Dried Dog Treat
4.7
★★★★★
WEST PAW
Who It’s For: Ideal for those who prioritize environmental sustainability in purchasing decisions and want to support eco-friendly practices in pet food production.
Why we picked and recommended it: West Paws is our winner for the best sustainable freeze-dried dog treats. These treats are not only delicious and a hit with most dogs, but the company goes beyond dogs. They care about people and the planet too. West Paws is eco-friendly in material usage and manufacturing choices. Their mission is to “use [their] business as a force for good to help future generations enjoy a healthy planet, productive work, and strong communities.”
What sets it apart from competitors: It’s crafted with humanely raised and sustainably sourced fresh ingredients and a rich flavor.
Key Features
High-pressure pasteurization(HPP). Uses HPP to freeze-dried and preserve treats without additives to maintain nutrition, but also the rich taste of each dog snack
Superfoods. Offers three freeze-fried dog treat recipes boosted with superfoods.
Pros
Uses 100% American Grassfed Certified Beef liver, humanely raised and sustainably sourced
Made from the liver—a protein powerhouse
Ich in iron, folate, and B vitamins (just to name a few)
Backed by their Love It Guarantee (available in the US only)
Best Freeze-Dried Dog Treats For Large Dogs. Most treats recommended in this review will work well with large dogs. But, if you are looking for something a bit larger, Open Farm Freeze Dried Raw Patties can work as oversized treats for large or giant breeds.
Best Freeze Dried Salmon Dog Treats. Reward your good boy with IMK9 Freeze-Dried Treats are made with 100% wild-caught salmon that’s low-fat and high in protein. Your beloved pup will enjoy these all-natural treats.
There is a limited amount of freeze-dried dog treats in bulk options. Most brands max out at 2lbs per bag. Here are some of the best freeze-dried dog treat bulk offers.
When searching for the best freeze-dried dog treats, key factors include the quality and source of ingredients, with a preference for all-natural and minimally processed options. It’s important to look for treats that contain high-quality proteins and avoid those with unnecessary fillers, artificial colors, or preservatives. The nutritional value is crucial, so treats that offer a balanced blend of proteins, fats, and essential vitamins and minerals are ideal. Additionally, consider the specific dietary needs of your dog, such as any food sensitivities or allergies, and choose treats that cater to these requirements. Treats made from ethically sourced and humanely raised ingredients can also be a priority for those concerned about animal welfare. Lastly, check for clear labeling that provides detailed information about the ingredients and their origins, ensuring transparency and trustworthiness from the manufacturer.
Freeze-dried dog treats are often considered superior to regular treats in terms of nutritional value, as the freeze-drying process better preserves vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. They typically feature fewer and simpler ingredients, making them a better choice for dogs with allergies or sensitivities and those on a raw diet. Many dogs find freeze-dried treats more palatable due to the concentrated flavor, and they’re generally easier to digest, which is beneficial for dogs with sensitive stomachs. While freeze-dried treats are more expensive and less varied than regular treats, they offer a longer shelf life and a more intense flavor experience. However, regular treats are more widely available, offer a greater variety of flavors and textures, and are more budget-friendly. The environmental impact of producing freeze-dried treats is also higher due to the energy-intensive process. Whether freeze-dried treats are better than regular ones depends on individual dog needs, dietary restrictions, and owner preferences.
Generally, they are suitable for most dogs, but it’s important to consider individual dietary needs, especially for dogs with specific health issues or food sensitivities. Be sure to talk to your vet before feeding your pet these treats.
Yes, some dogs may be allergic to specific ingredients in the treats. Always check the ingredient list if your dog has known allergies. If you don’t know if your dog is allergic to a certain ingredient, we recommend performing a dog allergy test before feeding any new recipes to your canines.
Freeze-dried treats are generally more expensive than regular treats due to their processing method and the quality of ingredients, but many owners find the nutritional benefits justify the higher cost.
Best Freeze-Dried Treats For Dogs — Conclusion & Alternatives
Freeze-dried treats are an excellent choice if you’re searching for a healthy snack that your dog will love. You might be hesitant to spend more on these snacks, as they can be expensive, but considering their benefits, they are worth the investment. Freeze-dried treats offer significantly better nutritional value than regular dog treats, contributing to your pet’s health and happiness.
Based on our research, we confidently recommend freeze-dried treats as one of the healthiest options for dogs. However, if they are beyond your budget, consider dehydrated dog treats as an alternative. These treats are still a much better option than regular dog treats. Being less processed and cooked at lower temperatures, they retain more nutrients.
For dog owners seeking treats that can aid in managing anxiety, chronic pain, arthritis, and other health issues, CBD dog treats are another excellent choice.
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Canine Bible uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process and product review methodology to learn more about how we fact-check, test products, and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Canine Bible authorship represents the unified voice of our entire editorial team and our in-house veterinarians rather than a single author. Each article, blog post, and review published under the Canine Bible name undergoes a rigorous review process, involving all team members to guarantee accuracy and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. This collaborative effort is an integral part of our editorial process and aligns with our four pillars of content creation. This approach ensures our content is backed by expert knowledge and factual information, offering our readers reliable, actionable, and trustworthy content.
Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, DVM, Veterinary atCanine Bible|+ posts
Dr. Sandra Tashkovska, our esteemed Senior In-House Veterinarian, is passionately committed to sharing her extensive knowledge and experience with our readers, aiming to assist with any issues concerning your non-human family members. A staunch advocate for animal welfare and preventive medicine, she specializes in companion animals, dedicating much of her time to these furry friends. Despite spending two days a week at a local veterinary practice, she aspires to make a broader impact by disseminating crucial information gleaned from her consultations and academic research through her writing.
In addition to her veterinary role, Dr. Tashkovska holds the position of Financial Manager and maintains active membership in the International Veterinary Students' Association (IVSA). Her unwavering commitment to her field and international collaboration shines through her active participation in Erasmus+ and CEEPUS projects, and her volunteer work in Erasmus training courses and Youth exchanges.
Her educational journey is both extensive and diverse. Dr. Tashkovska earned her Masters in Veterinary Medicine from the renowned Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, and furthered her education at Summer Schools in Sarajevo and Vienna, where she explored vital topics such as Animal Welfare, Veterinary Ethics and Law, and Communication Skills.
Her pursuit of excellence doesn’t end there. Dr. Tashkovska has actively engaged in numerous prestigious events and training, including the International Veterinary Medicine Student Scientific Research Congresses in Istanbul, the Congress of Veterinarians in Small Practice in Zagreb, and the Eastern European Regional Veterinary Conference, among others. These cumulative experiences continuously augment her professional insight, solidifying her position at the forefront of veterinary medicine.
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