Freeze-Dried vs Gently Cooked vs Raw vs Air-Dried vs Dehydrated : Dog Food Types Explained + What’s Best for Your Dog
Posted by Feeders Pet Supply on Aug 11th 2025
Choosing the right dog food can feel overwhelming. With so many new-generation options—freeze-dried, raw, gently cooked, air-dried, and dehydrated—all claiming to be the best, how do you know which one is right for your pup? Each type offers unique benefits, textures, and storage needs, making them better suited for different dogs and lifestyles. Here’s a simple breakdown to help you decide with confidence.
1. Freeze-Dried Raw:
Raw ingredients that are frozen and then dried using a vacuum process. This removes moisture while preserving the raw nutrition. Lightweight, shelf-stable, and full of raw benefits.
Why it’s great:
- Raw nutrition without refrigeration.
- Great for picky eaters and travel.
- Can be used as a complete meal or topper.
Best For:
- Dogs needing protein & nutrient-rich food with the convenience and palatability of freeze-dried.
- Also great for digestion & weight management.
Our Recommendations:
2. Gently Cooked
Fresh ingredients cooked at low temperatures to preserve nutrients while making it safe and highly digestible. Often sold frozen or in shelf-stable meal pouches.
Why it’s great:
- Fresh, home-cooked quality without the work.
- Excellent for sensitive stomachs or picky eaters.
- High moisture content for hydration.
Best for:
- Dogs with sensitive digestion.
- Senior dogs.
- Transitioning from kibble.
Our Recommendations:
3. Frozen Raw
Frozen raw food is uncooked, minimally processed meat, organs, and bones that are stored and kept frozen to retain nutrients and freshness. It’s the closest diet to what your dog’s wild ancestors might’ve eaten—and it’s packed with bioavailable nutrients.
Why it’s great:
- High protein and nutrient-dense.
- Supports lean muscle, healthy skin, and shiny coat.
- Often improves digestion and dental health.
- No heat processing = maximum nutritional integrity.
Best for:
- Dogs with active lifestyles.
- Skin or coat issues.
- Ideal for pet parents who are comfortable with raw handling and have freezer space.
Our Recommendations:
4. Air-Dried
Ingredients are slowly dried at low temperatures (without freezing) to remove moisture while keeping nutrients intact.
Why it’s great:
- Lightweight and shelf-stable.
- Higher nutrient density than kibble.
- Often easier to store than frozen raw.
Best for:
Owners seeking nutrient-rich convenience without refrigeration. Great for travel or limited freezer space.
Our Recommendations:
5. Dehydrated
Ingredients are gently heated to remove moisture. Food rehydrates with water before serving.
Why it’s great:
- Shelf-stable but closer to fresh than kibble.
- Customizable moisture level when rehydrating.
- Good balance between convenience and nutrition.
Best for:
- Dogs needing a nutrient boost with fresh human-grade ingredients, without switching fully to raw or fresh.
- Also excellent for travel.
Our Recommendations:
Choosing the best dog food doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s about finding what works best for your dog’s health, lifestyle, and preferences. Whether you’re exploring raw nutrition for the first time, looking for something shelf-stable and travel-friendly, or seeking a fresh, gently cooked option for a picky eater, there's a perfect fit out there. When switching diets, transition slowly and consult your vet—especially if your dog has health conditions.
At Feeders Pet Supply, we carry a curated selection of all five food types—freeze-dried, gently cooked, raw, air-dried, and dehydrated—from trusted brands we believe in. Our knowledgeable team is always here to help you find the right option for your furry family member.