What is the Best Dehydrated Dog Food?

Best Seller
The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Whole Grain Dehydrated Dog
9.7/10Our Score
  • Use code VETERINARIANS30 for 30% off
  • Made with real whole food ingredients which are gently dehydrated for maximum flavor & nutrient retention and easy digestion.
  • Complete & balanced nutrition for adult dogs and puppies of all breeds and sizes.
  • This recipe contains no preservatives, by-products, fillers, GMO ingredients, corn, wheat or soy.

Is Dehydrated Food Good For Dogs?

Yes, dehydrated dog food is good.

Out of the wide range of dog food options that are available on the market, dehydrated dog food is among the best options. This is mainly because the dehydration process eliminates moisture from the ingredients.

As a result, you can expect a longer shelf life (in comparison to raw food). Since the shelf life is already prolonged, you can expect fewer preservatives as compared to what is generally found in kibble.

Is Dehydrated Dog Food Better Than Dry Dog Food?

Yes, dehydrated dog food is better than dry dog food.

This is because the dehydrated food contains real food ingredients which are cooked at low temperatures. This keeps their nutritional profile to the max and also contains various enzymes that are naturally found in ingredients.

On the other hand, dry dog food (kibble, for example) is manufactured using both wet and dry ingredients. These are combined together to form a dough which is then cooked with high-temperature steam or water.

Due to the intense cooking process, many nutrients are lost during kibble manufacturing.

The Best Dehydrated Dog Food Formulas Reviewed

There are many dehydrated dog food options on the market. We have reviewed several best-selling recipes to help owners find the right formula for their pets.

The Honest Kitchen Human Grade Whole Grain Dehydrated Dog Food

Summary: The Honest Kitchen Whole Grain dog food contains premium whole food ingredients, including free-range chicken, oats, carrots, and even bananas. These have been gently dehydrated in order to preserve the flavor and the nutrient profile of these ingredients. This helps improve your dog’s digestion and overall health. This dehydrated raw dog food is suitable for adult dogs and puppies of all breeds and sizes, including large breed puppies, as well as adult mothers (gestation/lactation). This product is human-grade and produced in a human food facility. Customers can also get 30% off on their first orders of $30+ using code VETERINARIANS30.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Chicken

Price: $5.88/pound

Pros
  • 30% off on first orders of $30+ using code VETERINARIANS30
  • Offers complete & balanced nutrition
  • Contains no preservatives, by-products, and fillers
  • Free from GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy
  • Ensures nutrient retention and easy digestion
  • Made with uncompromising quality control standards
Cons
  • Could lead to minor stomach distress in some dogs
  • The packaging could have been better

Ingredient Analysis

  • Dehydrated Chicken: Chicken is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.
  • Organic Barley: Barley includes the whole grain with the hull and bran and is an excellent source of soluble fiber, plus carbohydrates and B vitamins for digestive health in pets.
  • Dehydrated Potatoes: Whole potatoes provide easily digestible carbohydrates, vitamins B & C, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
  • Organic Flaxseed: Flaxseed is a rich source of essential omega-3 fatty acids and is a great source of fiber that aids in digestion and promotes healthy skin and coat.

Review: This whole grain recipe is made with uncompromising quality control standards using real, whole food ingredients that are gently dehydrated to maintain nutrition. Pet owners give this food 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Dr. Harvey's Canine Health Miracle Dog Food, Human Grade Dehydrated Dog Food Base Mix

Summary: This product is made with a base mix that has been used to offer balanced, homemade meals for your dog. This makes the food easy to digest and puts less stress on your pooch’s kidneys. The product has been formulated with nine dehydrated vegetables, crushed eggshells, and six organic grains. Additionally, it is free from preservatives, dyes, chemicals, and fillers. One just needs to add hot water and raw meat of your choice to your dog’s bowl for a wholesome meal. It can further be paired with Dr. Harveys Fish Oil for Dogs and Dr. Harveys Kidney Health Supplement for a complete meal.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Base Mix with Whole Grains & Vegetables

Price: $8/pound

Pros
  • Improves your dog’s digestion
  • Offers a shinier coat, less itchy skin, and less smelly stools
  • Free from preservatives, dyes, chemicals, and fillers
  • Can substitute kibble thanks to its raw diet formula
  • Recommended by vets and nutritionists
Cons
  • The scent might not be appealing to some pet owners
  • Some of the ingredients are considered controversial

Ingredient Analysis

  • Organic Rolled Oats: This is an excellent source of carbohydrates, protein, and nutritional fibers.
  • Organic Barley: Barley includes the whole grain with the hull and bran and is an excellent source of soluble fiber, plus carbohydrates and B vitamins for digestive health in pets.
  • Organic Brown Rice: Brown rice is a natural whole grain that provides pets with essential B vitamins and minerals, and high-quality complex carbohydrates for energy, and fiber.
  • Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, B vitamins, beta carotene, phytochemicals, and carotenoids, sources of antioxidants that help support the immune system.

Review: All of the products by this brand are made with human-grade ingredients in the United States. They have been known to improve your pets’ vitality and reduce the risk of illness. Pet owners give this food 4.5 out of 5 stars.

The Honest Kitchen Limited Dehydrated Dog Food

Summary: This product contains only six whole food ingredients making it the perfect limited ingredient diet made especially for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. The Honest Kitchen Limited Ingredient Fish dog food offers complete and balanced nutrition for dogs of all life stages, breeds, and sizes, including adults, puppies, and dogs undergoing gestation. It can either be served as it is for maximum nutrition (after hydration) or can be used as a topper for dry food/raw food. Unlike most pet food, this recipe is 100% human-grade (made with human-grade ingredients & produced in a human food facility).

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Dogs of all life stages

Flavor Options: Fish and Coconut

Price: $17.88/pound

Pros
  • Contains no preservatives, by-products, and fillers
  • Suitable for dogs of all life stages
  • Made especially for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies
  • Free from GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, and soy
  • Made in the USA with trusted sources from around the world
Cons
  • Could lead to a build-up of plaque on your dog’s teeth
  • The texture might not suit some puppies and older dogs

Ingredient Analysis

  • Chickpeas: Chickpeas provide growing pets with protein, fiber, vitamin K, copper, zinc, potassium, and manganese.
  • Celery: This adds fiber to your dog’s meals making it easier to digest their food.
  • Pumpkin: Pumpkin isn’t just a great fiber source, it’s also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help pets with healthy digestion.
  • Spinach: Often referred to as a “superfood,” spinach is packed with antioxidants, fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals.

Review: This dog food is available in a wide range of flavor options leaving your dog spoilt for choice. It can also be used as a dog food topper; just add warm water. Pet owners give this food 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Only Natural Pet Wholesome Homemade Poultry Feast Dehydrated Dog Food

Summary: This brand uses only high-quality ingredients that are rich in protein in order to serve a species-appropriate diet. The product has been gently dehydrated in order to preserve maximum nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It also offers a healthy source of low glycemic carbohydrates. Furthermore, it does not contain any GMO fruits, grains, or vegetables. Finally, the product has been coated with the brand’s signature PowerBoost Blend which consists of freeze-dried superfood ingredients. This offers an additional boost to your dog’s health and immunity. It also offers anti-inflammatory and digestive support.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Dogs of all life stages

Flavor Options: Poultry

Price: $2.22/pound

Pros
  • Contains high-quality meat and protein
  • Free from artificial flavors, colors, preservatives, or fillers
  • The product is complete, balanced, & minimally processed
  • Formulated with essential fatty acids and amino acids
  • Offers anti-inflammatory properties
Cons
  • Your dog might develop tartar on their teeth with this food
  • The shelf life could have been better

Ingredient Analysis

  • Turkey Meal: Turkey meal is a protein source that supports muscle development and energy.
  • Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, B vitamins, beta carotene, phytochemicals, and carotenoids, sources of antioxidants that help support the immune system.
  • Chicken Fat: Chicken fat enhances the flavor while supplying omega-fatty acids.
  • Freeze Dried Peas: Packed with the protein, vitamins, fiber, and potassium that pets need, peas support a pet’s GI health.

Review: This product offers a bioavailable source of naturally occurring nutrients, like essential fatty acids and amino acids. Pet owners give this food 4.2 out of 5 stars.

The Honest Kitchen Grain-Free Fruit & Veggie Base Mix Dehydrated Dog Food

Summary: This product offers a fruit and vegetable base mix that contains dehydrated ingredients. As a result, you can engage in home cooking or raw feeding, depending on your pup’s needs. This recipe contains human-grade ingredients that have been manufactured in a human food facility. Therefore, you can expect higher quality ingredients and better safety standards that you would find in your own kitchen. This dog food is made in the USA using ingredients that have been sourced from all over the world.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Fruits & Veggies; Veggies, Nuts & Seeds

Price: $11/pound

Pros
  • Perfect for raw feeders and home cookers
  • Offers gently air-dried dog food
  • Contains 100% human-grade recipes
  • Made without by-products, preservatives, and fillers
  • Free from GMO ingredients, corn, wheat, or soy
Cons
  • The product might be difficult to digest for some dogs
  • Could lead to a minor allergic reaction in some cases

Ingredient Analysis

  • Dehydrated Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, B vitamins, beta carotene, phytochemicals, and carotenoids, sources of antioxidants that help support the immune system.
  • Dehydrated Peas: Packed with the protein, vitamins, fiber, and potassium that pets need, peas support a pet’s GI health.
  • Dried Apples: Apples are an excellent source of pectin, a water-soluble fiber, and are rich in vitamins A & C.
  • Dehydrated Pumpkin: Pumpkin isn’t just a great fiber source, it’s also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that help pets with healthy digestion.

Review: This fruit and vegetable base mix contains dehydrated ingredients that are designed to be mixed with meat or fish, based on your dog’s nutritional needs. Pet owners give this food 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Dr. Harvey's Veg-to-Bowl Dog Food, Human Grade Dehydrated Dog Food

Summary: This dog food helps your dog lose weight thanks to its low-calorie and highly nutritious formula. Additionally, it also helps counter various health problems, including digestive issues such as Chronic Diarrhea, Vomiting, Constipation, Loose Stools, and Gas. The product has been designed to treat and eliminate allergies thanks to its slow dehydration process. This includes itching, skin redness, and rashes. If your dog has a kidney problem and requires a low-protein diet, this product gives you complete control over the quantity and quality of protein. One can add chicken recipe, beef recipe, fish recipe, or venison recipe, depending on your dog’s preference.

Type: Dry dog food

Best for: Adult dogs

Flavor Options: Vegetable

Price: $0.85/ounce

Pros
  • Free from fillers, by-products, and artificial flavors
  • Packed with rich nutrition and human-grade ingredients
  • Helps promote natural digestion
  • Counters various health problems
  • Recommended by holistic vets
Cons
  • The product could have more nutritional value
  • The taste might not suit some dogs

Ingredient Analysis

  • Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of potassium, B vitamins, beta carotene, phytochemicals, and carotenoids.
  • Carrots: Carrots are an excellent source of beta carotene, fiber, Vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants.
  • Potatoes: Whole, fresh potatoes provide easily digestible carbohydrates, vitamins B & C, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
  • Broccoli: Broccoli is rich in vitamins A & C and calcium and is an excellent source of antioxidants.

Review: This product works great with single protein sources like chicken, white fish, or cage-free turkey. One can also add hot bone broth for added flavor. Pet owners give this food 4.6 out of 5 stars.

Best Seller
PETLIBRO Granary Camera Monitoring Feeder
9/10Our Score
  • Easy-to-clean, food-grade stainless steel bowl
  • Smart app control and 1080P HD Camera
  • Built-in advanced microphone and speaker 
  • Motion detection, smart notifications, and indicators
  • Use the code Vets15 for 15% off

What Should I Look for in a Dehydrated Dog Food?

When looking for dehydrated dog food, there are several things to consider:

  • Ingredients. Before you buy any brand of dog food, make sure you read the ingredients on the label. While most foods will contain known ingredients, there might be some harmful ones that could lead to health complications. Many brands use cheap fillers and empty ingredients to add bulk to the meal.
  • Protein Source. Most dehydrated foods offer a base mix that does not contain protein. However, if a brand is offering protein, make sure that it is real meat. Also, the use of meat by-products are red flags that need to be avoided at all costs.
  • Storage. Most dehydrated dog foods do not require refrigeration. They can be stored in a cool and dark area away from direct sunlight. Look for brands that offer these features.
  • Shelf Life. Dehydrated dog foods usually last a long time. Look for a brand with a long shelf life that does not require refrigeration. However, any dog food that has an excessively long shelf life could be a red flag as it might contain preservatives.
  • Cost. Your dog food should be easy on your pockets as you will be feeding your dog for its entire life. While you can go for premium brands, they are often similar to other cheaper brands in terms of ingredients and the cooking process.

What Ingredients Should You Avoid in a Dehydrated Dog Food?

Some ingredients should not be in dehydrated dog food. Here is a short overview of what should not be in a high-quality dehydrated recipe:

  • Melamine. This is a toxic substance added to dog food to give the impression of more protein. However, it is harmful to your dogs that can lead to kidney failure and even death.
  • BHA, BHT, and Ethoxyquin. These are common preservatives that are added to dog foods to extend their shelf life. However, they can cause various health problems like cancer. Also, ethoxyquin, which is used as a fat preservative, is also utilized as a pesticide.
  • Propylene Glycol. This is an additive that is added to the dog food to improve its texture. It helps keep your dog’s food moist and primal in texture. This can have long-term health complications on your dog’s body.
  • Carrageenan. This is commonly used as a thickener that helps maintain the consistency of your dog’s food. It is an additive that can lead to GI inflammation and possibly cancer.
  • Food Dyes or Corn Syrup. These are added to give color to your dog’s food. This serves no purpose other than to make the food look appealing to pet owners.

How much Dehydrated Dog Food Should Your Dog Eat Per Day?

Technically, you should feed your dog twice a day.

Every meal can be a balanced meal that should contain all the beneficial nutrients. Feed them once in the morning and once in the evening. Additionally, they can be given small treats to reward behavior.

For best results, consult your vet or read the label on the food package.

Is Dehydrated Dog Food Worth It?

Yes, dehydrated dog food is worth it.

Dehydrated dog food is not only nutritious, but also convenient, and affordable. This type of food uses real ingredients that have been dehydrated so that the nutritional profile is maintained.

Dehydrated food is a great option for dogs who need the benefits of raw diets but without the risk of getting a food-borne illness. Additionally, dehydrated foods also reduce the long prep times and consistent grocery store visits.