Does your dog turn their nose up at their usual kibble? Maybe you worry about the questionable ingredients lurking in that dry brown stuff. Many pet owners feel a knot of worry when feeding their furry best friend. We all want to give our dogs the best nutrition, but navigating the world of dog food can feel like a confusing maze.
Frozen dog food is gaining popularity, promising fresher, more natural meals. However, jumping into the frozen aisle brings its own set of questions. Which brands are trustworthy? How do you properly thaw and serve it? Should you even switch at all? These are common hurdles that stop well-meaning owners in their tracks.
This post cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what frozen dog food offers, explore the real benefits, and give you practical tips for making the switch smoothly. By the end, you will feel confident knowing if a frozen diet is the perfect fit for your pup.
Top Frozen Dog Food Recommendations
- FRESH, BOWL-READY MEALS: Fresh, bowl-ready meals for dogs who crave the taste of a home-cooked meal without the prep, mess, or need for refrigerator space. Ideal for picky eaters.
- HUMAN-GRADE INGREDIENTS: Made with fresh whole ingredients that you would feed your family like carrots, sweet potatoes, and broccoli, plus a powerful blend of superfoods - bone broth, turmeric, kelp, sage, thyme, and coconut oil to support your dog’s overall health and vitality.
- SHELF STABLE & CONVENIENT: No more crowded freezers or refrigerators. No thawing. No waiting. It’s ready when you are. Just open and serve fresh, whole foods, slow-cooked in small batches without preservatives. Perfect for home or travel.
- VETERINARIAN FORMULATED: Health Extension Gently Cooked is complete and balanced for dogs of all sizes.
- NO REFRIGERATORS, NO FREEZERS, NO PRESERVATIVES: Our proprietary approach gently preps all ingredients and locks in freshness by slow-cooking each meal inside the pouch, preserving essential nutrients and flavor. No need to refrigerate, thaw, or prep—just open, serve, and store with ease. Fresh dog food has never been this simple.
- SCIENCE-BACKED NUTRITION: Fresh dog food and dog food toppers developed by veterinary nutritionists to support health and vitality. Healthy dog food and science backed diet informed by over a decade of research, ensuring premium dog food quality and trusted fresh food for dogs.
- 100% HUMAN GRADE DOG FOOD: Every JustFoodForDogs meal is limited ingredient dog food made with fresh whole foods that are gently cooked for optimal nutrient absorption. Our formula is nutrient-rich for dogs across all life stages and stages, from puppy food to senior wet dog food and small breed to large breed.
- PRESERVATIVE-FREE: Keep your dog food fresh! Storing dog food wet has never been easier thanks to FreshLink technology and resealable dog food pouches. Unopened, JustFresh is shelf stable food that stays good for up to 2 years. Opened, keep your fresh pet dog food refrigerated with easy, resealable storage.
- USE AS FULL MEAL OR DOG FOOD TOPPER FOR PICKY EATERS: Does your pup prefer their dog food wet? While JustFresh is formulated as a complete and balanced meal, our soft dog food can also be used as dog food toppers for dry food for those picky eaters. Whether served as a meal or dog toppers for dry food, our highly digestive formula is great for immune support, skin and coat health, and weight management.
- #1 VET-RECOMMENDED FRESH DOG FOOD BRAND: We pioneered the fresh dog food category and are the only fresh dog food brand used in feeding trials published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Raw Food Made Easy : Simply Raw combines the safety, easy prep and shelf stable convenience of kibble and canned food with the unsurpassed nutrition offered in real, fresh raw food. Just add water to make this 3 lb bag into over 18 lbs of raw whole food, ready to serve in minutes.
- Ingredients With Purpose : Simply Raw is made with only the freshest human grade ingredients. Every ingredient is chosen with care to support holistic health and provide functional benefits for lasting wellness : Freeze-dried raw beef muscle, organ meat, chicken bone broth, whole egg, vegetables, fruit, nuts, seeds, OMEGA fatty acids, probiotics & prebiotics. Raw, whole food ingredients you can see.
- All Natural Nutrition : At Nature’s Diet, we believe in honest, transparent labels. We are proud of the wholesome, clean ingredients we use to make Simply Raw - unlike some other brands, we never put anything into our dog food that isn’t listed on the label. No fillers, no grains, no GMOs, no unnatural preservatives, no soy, no added flavorings or dyes. Just honest, raw, whole food nutrition. Key Product Features
- USA Sourced, Sustainable, Thoughtful : Made lovingly in small batches in the USA with regionally sourced ingredients & humanely raised meat. Real food for healthy dogs and a healthier planet.
- Safe Raw : Freeze-Drying is a natural food preservation process which removes moisture while maintaining the nutritional integrity of food. Freeze-Dried Raw is always free of pathogens, making it the safest way to feed a raw diet. Shelf stable, safe to handle & easy to store.
- WET DOG FOOD FOR SENSITIVE SKIN: Fortified with high quality omega 6 and omega 3 for dogs, JustFoodForDogs dog food for sensitive skin is rich in fatty acids EPA and DHA to support skin and coat health.
- SCIENCE-BACKED NUTRITION: Frozen fresh wet dog food and dog food toppers developed by veterinary nutritionists for health and vitality. Fresh dog food and science backed diet informed by over a decade of research, ensuring premium dog food quality.
- HUMAN GRADE DOG FOOD: This grain free dog food for itchy skin and allergies uses whitefish as a single, novel animal protein paired with sweet potato & quinoa for balanced nutrition. Dog food that's chicken free and free of top allergens.
- PROVEN HEALTHY DOG FOOD: Can wellness dog food be tasty and healthy? Our frozen dog food is 40% more digestible than dry dog food. Pet parents report improvements like better gut health, healthier skin and coat, energy, and healthy weight management.
- #1 VET-RECOMMENDED FRESH DOG FOOD BRAND: When it comes to fresh pet food, we pioneered the fresh dog food category and are the only fresh dog food brand used in feeding trials published in peer-reviewed scientific journals.
- Healthy and Natural Fresh Dog Food
- High Quality Nutrition from U.S. Farm Raised Chicken and Veggies You Can See
- Gently Steam Cooked to Lock in Essential Nutrients
- Supports Healthy Digestion with High Quality, Easily Digestible Ingredients
- Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants from Farm Fresh Vegetables
- Veterinary Formulated - Raw dog food made with human-grade, USDA, and AAFCO-approved beef ensures a biologically appropriate raw food diet, incorporating lean protein, vitamin-rich organ meat, and fresh produce into every bowl.
- No Mess or Prep Makes Mealtime Easy - Flash frozen for freshness (and to support plaque removal and dental hygiene), our food comes to your doorstep ready to eat - no mess, no prep, no thawing necessary. Simply open, pour, and serve.
- Benefits of Raw - A complete and balanced raw food diet is the healthiest, most natural way to feed our dogs. A growing body of scientific evidence points to the health benefits of raw food and to the dangers of commercial pet food manufacturing.
- Core Ingredients in Maev Raw Dog Food - USDA Beef, USDA Beef Liver & USDA Sweetbreads, Potato, Green Beans, Zucchini, Peanut Butter, Kale, Blueberries, Fish Oil, Flaxseed Oil, Mineral Blend.
- Supplemented for weight and digestion - Chicory root and a blend of impactful probiotics are formulated to support gut health, digestive function, gas relief, and healthy bowel regularity.
- Made from fresh chicken vitamin-rich peas and carrots and high fiber brown rice this recipe is as tasty as it is healthy for your pup
- No preservatives
- All Natural
- Country Of Origin: United States
- EXCEPTIONAL FOR PICKY EATERS – Consistently entices even the most finicky dogs to eat when other foods fail – our freeze-dried raw patties deliver irresistible taste that transforms mealtime for selective dogs.
- VERSATILE SERVING OPTIONS – Perfect as complete meals, crumbled food toppers, or high-value training treats – ideal for puppies and adult dogs with options to serve dry or rehydrated with water.
- 95% GRASS-FED BEEF & ORGANS – Premium freeze-dried raw nutrition with whole-prey approach delivers muscle-building protein, enhanced digestibility, and natural nutrients that support coat, skin, and overall health.
- BALANCED NUTRITION FOR ALL LIFE STAGES – Complete and balanced diet for growing puppies and adult dogs with probiotics for digestive health and omega fatty acids for skin and coat – free from grains, gluten, fillers, and artificial preservatives.
- MADE IN USA WITH PREMIUM INGREDIENTS – Small-batch production with 100% organic fruits and vegetables, responsibly-sourced ingredients, and no artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors – trusted by thousands of pet parents.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Frozen Dog Food
Frozen dog food is becoming very popular. Many dog owners choose it because it offers fresh, high-quality ingredients. This guide will help you pick the best frozen meals for your furry friend.
1. Key Features to Look For
When shopping for frozen dog food, certain features make a big difference in quality and convenience. Look closely at the label.
Ingredient Transparency
- Whole Food Sources: Good brands list specific meats (like “chicken thigh” or “beef heart”) instead of vague terms like “meat byproduct.”
- Vegetable Variety: Check for a good mix of safe vegetables and fruits, such as spinach, carrots, or blueberries. These provide important vitamins.
Nutritional Completeness
- AAFCO Statement: Always find the statement from the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO). It confirms the food meets standards for your dog’s life stage (puppy, adult, or all life stages).
- Balance of Macronutrients: The food should have a good balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
Handling and Storage
- Portion Control: Pre-portioned patties or cubes make feeding easy. You simply thaw what you need.
- Freezer Life: Check how long the food stays good in the freezer (usually several months).
2. Important Materials (Ingredients Matter)
The ingredients used directly impact your dog’s health. Frozen foods often mimic a raw or gently cooked diet.
Protein Sources
High-quality protein is the backbone of your dog’s diet. Look for:
- Muscle meats (turkey, lamb, fish).
- Organs (liver, kidney), which are packed with nutrients.
- Bone content (sometimes included for calcium, or calcium is added separately).
Fats and Supplements
Healthy fats provide energy and support skin and coat health. Omega-3 fatty acids, often from fish oil, are excellent additions. Vitamins and minerals are usually added to make sure the food is complete and balanced.
3. Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all frozen foods are created equal. Some manufacturing methods keep nutrients high, while others can strip them away.
Quality Enhancers
- Gently Cooked or Lightly Steamed: These methods kill harmful bacteria while keeping more vitamins intact than high-heat cooking.
- Human-Grade Ingredients: When ingredients are fit for human consumption, they are generally much higher quality.
Quality Reducers
- Fillers: Ingredients like corn, wheat, or soy often bulk up the food but offer little nutritional value to dogs.
- Artificial Additives: Preservatives, artificial colors, or flavors should never be present in premium frozen food.
4. User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the food daily is part of the experience. Frozen food requires a little planning.
Thawing Methods
Most users thaw food overnight in the refrigerator. Some people use a microwave for a quick meal, but be careful not to overheat it. Always serve the food cold or at room temperature, never hot.
Best Use Cases
- Sensitive Stomachs: Many owners switch to frozen food because their dogs react poorly to highly processed kibble.
- Pick Eaters: The fresh smell and taste often entice dogs that refuse dry food.
- Weight Management: Because you know exactly what is in every serving, it is easier to control calories precisely.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Frozen Dog Food
Q: Is frozen dog food safe?
A: Yes, if handled correctly. Brands use safe preparation methods like flash-freezing or light cooking. You must thaw it safely in the fridge, just like human food.
Q: How long does frozen dog food last after thawing?
A: Generally, thawed food should be kept in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within 3 to 4 days.
Q: Do I need to add anything to frozen dog food?
A: If the label states the food is “complete and balanced” and has the AAFCO statement, no additions are necessary.
Q: Is frozen food the same as raw food?
A: Not always. Some frozen foods are raw, meaning no heat is applied. Others are gently cooked and then frozen. Always check the packaging.
Q: Can I switch my dog to frozen food suddenly?
A: No. Dogs need a slow transition. Start mixing a small amount of the new food with the old food over 7 to 10 days to prevent stomach upset.
Q: Is frozen food expensive?
A: It is often more expensive per pound than standard dry kibble. However, many owners feel the cost is worth the high-quality ingredients.
Q: How much should I feed my dog?
A: Always follow the feeding guidelines on the package based on your dog’s current weight and activity level. Adjust amounts based on your vet’s advice.
Q: What if my freezer runs out of space?
A: Most brands recommend keeping the food frozen until you are ready to use it. If you must store thawed food longer, keep it refrigerated, but use it quickly.
Q: Does frozen food help with dog allergies?
A: Often, yes. Frozen foods usually contain fewer common allergens like corn or wheat, making them a great choice for elimination diets.
Q: What is the best way to store the unopened packages?
A: Keep them stacked neatly in the coldest part of your freezer. Avoid storing them near the freezer door where temperatures fluctuate.