Rehydrating freeze dried dog food
Freeze-dried dog food is a convenient, shelf-stable option for providing raw nutrition. It is particularly useful during travel, in emergency situations, and for transitioning dogs from processed dry kibble to higher-protein, minimally processed diets.
Freeze-drying removes approximately 95–99% of the food’s moisture content. While this preserves nutrients and extends shelf life, it also means the food is not ready to feed in its dry form. To be physiologically appropriate for dogs, freeze-dried meals should be fully rehydrated before feeding.
Importance of Proper Rehydration
Dogs evolved consuming prey with a natural moisture content of 60–75%, primarily in the form of intracellular water. This moisture plays a vital role in digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall hydration status. When dry or insufficiently hydrated food is consumed, water is drawn from the body’s tissues and gastrointestinal tract to aid digestion.
This internal water shift can:
Increase workload on the kidneys.
Contribute to systemic dehydration, particularly in hot climates or active dogs.
Cause signs of dryness such as flaky skin, a dry nose, or firm stools.
Long-term mild dehydration is associated with impaired thermoregulation, reduced exercise performance, and increased risk of urinary tract issues. In cats, chronic low-moisture feeding is linked to urinary disease, and similar physiological principles apply to dogs.
How to Rehydrate Freeze-Dried Food
To optimise moisture intake and digestive comfort:
Add sufficient filtered water to fully cover the freeze-dried food.
Soak overnight in the refrigerator to allow complete rehydration of muscle fibres and plant matter.
Before serving, add warm (not boiling) water to bring the meal to room temperature, which can improve palatability and support digestive enzyme activity.
Adding water immediately before feeding is not enough — the food requires time to absorb moisture into its structure.
Special Considerations
Freeze-dried treats do not require rehydration if fed in small amounts alongside a fresh raw diet, as the primary meal provides sufficient moisture to offset them.
Dogs fed a processed dry kibble diet can also benefit from having water or low-sodium bone broth mixed into their meals to increase moisture intake.
For dogs with kidney disease, urinary tract issues, or those living in hot environments, ensuring adequate dietary moisture is particularly important.