Freeze-dried dog treats have become all the rage with dog owners all over the world. Numerous brands have come to the fore, offering a range of flavour and ingredient options. Health-conscious dog owners and the best dog breeders now have the opportunity to select sugar-free treats with ingredients that are safe for their furry friends.

While some people may think that freeze-dried dog treats are just another marketing buzzword invented to increase sales, that could be a short-sighted point of view. Today we’re going to demystify freeze-dried dog treats and break down whether or not they’re worth your hard-earned money.

First, we’ll need to understand how freeze-dried dog treats are made. At its core, all freeze-drying is the same, whether it’s done for dog treats or for human food. 

How Does Freeze-Drying Work

When water is frozen, it turns into ice. However, when ice is exposed to a vacuum, it sublimates, or changes directly from a solid to a gas. This process is called freeze-drying, and it can be used to preserve food.

Freeze-drying works by first freezing the food, then exposing it to a vacuum. The vacuum removes the air from the freezer, and the food gets dehydrated. The lack of water makes it difficult for bacteria to grow, so the food does not spoil as quickly.

Freeze-dried food has a long shelf life and does not need to be refrigerated. It is also lightweight and easy to store. However, freeze-dried food has both pros and cons:

Pros and Cons of Freeze-Dried Food

Pros of freeze-dried food: 

1. Freeze-dried food has a long shelf life and can be stored for years. 
2. Freeze-dried food is lightweight and easy to transport. 
3. Freeze-dried food takes up less space than other types of long-term food storage options. 
4. Freeze-dried food retains most of its nutritional value. 
5. Freeze-dried food can be reconstituted with water and eaten as is, or used in recipes. 
6. Some freeze-dried food can taste better than other types of preserved foods. 
7. Freeze-drying is a preservation method that does not require the use of chemicals or added preservatives. 
8. Freeze-dried foods are generally safe for those with allergies since there is no risk of cross contamination during the manufacturing process. 
9. Many freeze-dried foods are available in organic and non-GMO varieties.

Cons of freeze-dried food:

1. Freeze-dried food is expensive.
2. Freeze-dried food has a shorter shelf life than other emergency foods, such as canned goods.
3. Freeze-dried food can be difficult to find in stores.

Breaking Down the Benefits of Freeze-Dried Dog Treats

Highly Nutritious

Freeze-dried dog treats retain most of the nutrients found in fresh ingredients. The freezing and dehydrating process helps to preserve vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients. This makes it a highly nutritious option for your furry friend.

Easy to Digest

Freeze-dried dog treats are also easy to digest. The ingredients are broken down during the dehydration process, making them easier for your dog to digest and absorb. This can be especially helpful if your dog has a sensitive stomach or digestive issues.

Lightweight and Easy to Store

Freeze-dried dog treats are lightweight and easy to store. These treats don’t require refrigeration, so you can keep it in your pantry or cupboard. This makes it a great option for pet parents who travel often or live in small spaces. Most freeze-dried treats are also shrunken due to the lack of moisture, so they can easily be carried around in a pouch when you take your dog for a walk. 

No Added Preservatives

Freeze-dried dog treats don’t contain any added preservatives or fillers. This means that it’s a more natural option for your furry friend. And, since there are no added preservatives, it’s also less likely to cause allergic reactions or digestive issues.

Great for Picky Eaters

If your dog is a picky eater, freeze-dried dog treats could be a good option. The variety of flavours and textures can help entice even the most finicky eaters. And, since it’s easy to digest, they’re less likely to experience digestive upset from trying new treats.

Better Value for Money

Most dog treats are priced based on their net weight, so most dog owners will choose their treats based on how much they get per dollar spent. However, a better metric is how much nutritional value you get per dollar spent. When measured that way, most dog treats will have absolutely no value whatsoever, as they’re filled with sugar, fillers and flavourings. Freeze-dried dog treats are much healthier and more nutritious than traditional dog treats, making them great value for money. 

Are Freeze-Dried Dog Treats a Good Choice For Your Dog?

So are these new types of treats worth it for your dog? All the signs point to yes, but of course it depends on your dog and their needs. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, is a picky eater or has allergies, you may want to consider trying some instead of giving your dog sugary, preservative-filled treats. However, if they don’t fit your budget, they may be impractical. If your funds allow, they could be a great choice if you want the absolute best for your furry companion. 

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