Best Freeze-Dried Dog Treats: Raw Nutrition Made Easy (2026)

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Freeze-dried dog treats have taken the pet food world by storm, and it is easy to see why. They deliver the nutritional benefits of raw feeding in a convenient, shelf-stable format that requires no refrigeration and has virtually no mess. The freeze-drying process removes moisture from raw ingredients while preserving the natural nutrients, enzymes, and flavors that dogs crave. The result is a treat that is nutrient-dense, lightweight, and irresistible to even the pickiest eaters.

Whether you are looking for a high-value training reward, a nutritious snack for a dog with allergies, or simply the cleanest treat you can find, freeze-dried options check every box. Most of the best freeze-dried treats are made from a single ingredient, which means no fillers, no preservatives, no artificial flavors, and no mystery additives. What you see on the label is exactly what your dog is eating.

In this guide, we review seven of the best freeze-dried dog treats available in 2026, covering a range of proteins, price points, and use cases. If your dog has food sensitivities, you may also want to read our guide on the best single-ingredient dog treats. For picky eaters who need extra motivation, our guide on the best dog treats for picky eaters has additional recommendations. And if you are watching your dog’s waistline, check out the best low-calorie dog treats.

What to Look For in Freeze-Dried Dog Treats  

Not all freeze-dried treats are the same. Here is what separates the great options from the mediocre ones.

Single-Ingredient Simplicity  

The hallmark of a quality freeze-dried treat is a short ingredient list, ideally just one ingredient. Single-ingredient treats eliminate the guesswork about what your dog is eating and make it easy to identify and avoid allergens. Whether it is chicken breast, beef liver, or turkey, you want the ingredient list to be straightforward and transparent.

Protein Source  

Different proteins offer different nutritional profiles and flavors. Chicken breast is lean and low-calorie. Beef liver is nutrient-dense and rich in vitamins A and B. Turkey offers a middle ground with moderate fat and excellent flavor. Some dogs have preferences or sensitivities to certain proteins, so having options is valuable.

Calorie Content  

Freeze-dried treats can vary significantly in calorie content depending on the protein source. Chicken breast treats tend to be the lowest, often around 3 calories per treat, while liver-based treats can be 5 or more calories each. If you are using treats for training and giving dozens per session, those calories add up. Choose lower-calorie options for frequent treating and richer options for occasional rewards.

Processing and Sourcing  

Look for treats that are minimally processed and made from responsibly sourced ingredients. Human-grade sourcing means the ingredients meet the same standards as food intended for people. Made in the USA is another quality indicator, as domestic manufacturing is subject to stricter regulatory oversight.

Texture and Size  

Freeze-dried treats should be light and crunchy with a texture that breaks apart easily. This makes them ideal for training because you can break larger pieces into smaller bits. The treats should not be so hard that they pose a risk to your dog’s teeth, and they should crumble cleanly without turning to dust.

Shelf Stability  

One of the major advantages of freeze-dried treats is their long shelf life. Properly processed freeze-dried treats can last months or even years when stored correctly. Check the packaging for resealable bags or airtight containers that maintain freshness after opening.

Best Freeze-Dried Dog Treats: Product Reviews  

We evaluated dozens of freeze-dried treats across proteins, brands, and price points. Here are our seven top picks for 2026.

1. Stella & Chewy’s Carnivore Crunch Turkey  

Stella & Chewy’s Carnivore Crunch Turkey is a premium freeze-dried treat that delivers raw nutrition in a convenient, crunchy format. Stella & Chewy’s is one of the most respected names in raw and freeze-dried pet food, and their Carnivore Crunch line lives up to that reputation. The treats are minimally processed to preserve the natural nutrients and enzymes found in raw turkey. Multiple protein options are available across the Carnivore Crunch line, so you can rotate flavors to keep things interesting for your dog.

Price range: $8-14

Pros:

• Premium brand with an excellent reputation in raw nutrition
• Minimally processed to preserve natural nutrients and enzymes
• Multiple protein options available across the line
• Crunchy texture that dogs love and that breaks easily for training
• No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors

Cons:

• Smaller bag size compared to some competitors at a similar price
• Premium pricing reflects brand reputation
• Treats can crumble in the bag during shipping or storage

2. PureBites Chicken Breast (11.6 oz)  

PureBites Chicken Breast 11.6oz are a standout for their single-ingredient simplicity and incredible calorie efficiency. Each treat contains only about 3 calories, making them one of the best options for training sessions where you need to give multiple rewards without overfeeding. Made in the USA from human-grade chicken breast, these treats contain nothing but 100% pure chicken. They carry the Amazon’s Choice badge and have earned a massive following among trainers and pet owners alike.

Price range: $18-24 for 11.6 oz

Pros:

• Single ingredient: 100% pure chicken breast
• Only 3 calories per treat, perfect for frequent training use
• Made in the USA from human-grade ingredients
• Amazon’s Choice with outstanding customer reviews
• 11.6 oz bag offers excellent value for the quality

Cons:

• Chicken-only flavor may not excite dogs who prefer richer proteins
• Treats can be brittle and break apart in the bag
• Some dogs with chicken allergies will need an alternative protein

3. PureBites Beef Liver (16.6 oz)  

PureBites Beef Liver 16.6oz take the same single-ingredient approach as their chicken counterpart but with beef liver, which is one of the most nutrient-dense proteins available. Beef liver is packed with vitamins A, B12, iron, and other essential nutrients. At about 5 calories per treat, they are slightly richer than the chicken version but still reasonable for regular use. The 16.6 oz bag is the Best Seller size and provides excellent value for the amount of product you get.

Price range: $20-26 for 16.6 oz

Pros:

• Single ingredient: 100% pure beef liver
• Nutrient-dense with vitamins A, B12, iron, and high protein
• Amazon Best Seller with massive customer base
• 16.6 oz bag is one of the largest single-ingredient options available
• About 5 calories per treat for reasonable calorie management

Cons:

• Beef liver has a strong smell that some owners find unpleasant
• Richer than chicken treats, so moderation is needed for smaller dogs
• Can stain hands and surfaces due to the liver content

4. Vital Essentials Beef Liver  

Vital Essentials Beef Liver is a single-ingredient, responsibly sourced freeze-dried treat that focuses on delivering maximum nutrition in every piece. Vital Essentials prides itself on sourcing from responsible suppliers and using a freeze-drying process that locks in the full nutritional profile of raw beef liver. The treats are nutrient-dense, high in protein, and free from any additives, fillers, or artificial ingredients.

Price range: $12-18

Pros:

• Single ingredient with responsible sourcing practices
• Nutrient-dense with a full raw nutritional profile preserved
• No additives, fillers, or artificial ingredients
• Competitive pricing for a premium-quality product
• Excellent for dogs on limited-ingredient diets

Cons:

• Smaller package sizes at the lower price point
• Strong liver smell typical of beef liver treats
• Availability can vary by retailer

5. Wag Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats  

Wag Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats are Amazon’s own brand entry into the freeze-dried treat market, and they offer the most affordable option on this list without cutting corners on quality. The ingredients are straightforward and the freeze-drying process preserves the raw nutritional benefits. For pet owners who want to try freeze-dried treats without a significant financial commitment, Wag is an excellent starting point.

Price range: $8-12

Pros:

• Most affordable freeze-dried treat option on this list
• Quality ingredients with proper freeze-drying process
• Amazon brand with easy availability and fast shipping
• Good introduction to freeze-dried treats for budget-conscious owners
• Multiple protein options available

Cons:

• Less established reputation compared to specialty brands
• Ingredient sourcing transparency is less detailed than premium brands
• Bag sizes tend to be smaller at the lower price points

6. Whole Life Just One Ingredient Beef Liver  

Whole Life Just One Ingredient Beef Liver does exactly what the name promises: 100% beef liver with nothing else added. This is a brand that has built its entire identity around single-ingredient transparency, and the quality shows. The treats are excellent for training because they break apart easily into smaller pieces, and the intense beef liver flavor is incredibly motivating for most dogs. The value per ounce is competitive, making them a smart choice for regular use.

Price range: $10-16

Pros:

• 100% beef liver with absolute ingredient transparency
• Great value per ounce compared to many competitors
• Breaks apart easily for training use
• Intense flavor that motivates even reluctant dogs
• Brand built entirely around single-ingredient commitment

Cons:

• Only available in beef liver, limiting protein variety
• Treats can be inconsistent in size from piece to piece
• Strong liver odor that owners may find unpleasant

7. Shepherd Boy Farms Freeze-Dried Dog Treats  

Shepherd Boy Farms Freeze-Dried Dog Treats have earned a strong following as a popular best-seller in the freeze-dried category. Made in the USA with quality protein sources, these treats deliver on both nutrition and palatability. The brand focuses on providing a premium freeze-dried experience at a reasonable price point, and customer reviews consistently praise the quality and consistency of the product.

Price range: $15-22

Pros:

• Popular best-seller with strong customer loyalty
• Made in the USA with quality protein sources
• Good balance of premium quality and reasonable pricing
• Consistent product quality across batches
• Suitable for dogs of all sizes and breeds

Cons:

• Mid-range pricing may not appeal to strict budget shoppers
• Less variety in protein options compared to some competitors
• Can sell out quickly due to popularity

Freeze-Dried Dog Treats Comparison Table  

Frequently Asked Questions  

What makes freeze-dried treats different from regular dog treats?  

Freeze-dried treats are made by removing moisture from raw ingredients through a freeze-drying process, which preserves the original nutritional content, flavor, and enzymes far better than cooking or baking. Regular treats are typically cooked or extruded, which can destroy heat-sensitive nutrients. Freeze-dried treats are also lighter, shelf-stable, and usually have shorter, cleaner ingredient lists.

Are freeze-dried dog treats safe?  

Yes, freeze-dried dog treats are safe when produced by reputable manufacturers. The freeze-drying process effectively removes moisture, which inhibits bacterial growth. However, as with any raw-based product, there is a theoretical risk of pathogen contamination. Buying from brands that follow strict quality control and testing protocols minimizes this risk.

Can I use freeze-dried treats for training?  

Absolutely. Freeze-dried treats are one of the best options for training because they are high-value, meaning most dogs find them extremely motivating. They are easy to break into small pieces for frequent rewards, and options like PureBites Chicken Breast at just 3 calories per treat allow you to reward generously without overfeeding.

Are freeze-dried treats good for dogs with allergies?  

Single-ingredient freeze-dried treats are excellent for dogs with food allergies or sensitivities because you know exactly what protein your dog is eating. If your dog is allergic to chicken, you can choose beef liver or another novel protein. The absence of fillers, additives, and multi-ingredient formulas makes it easy to identify and avoid allergens. For more options, see our guide on best single-ingredient dog treats.

How should I store freeze-dried treats?  

Store freeze-dried treats in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Once opened, reseal the bag tightly or transfer the treats to an airtight container. Properly stored freeze-dried treats can maintain their quality for months after opening. Avoid exposing them to moisture, which can rehydrate the treats and reduce their shelf life.

How many freeze-dried treats can I give my dog per day?  

The number depends on the calorie content of the treats and your dog’s daily caloric needs. As a general guideline, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. For a low-calorie treat like PureBites Chicken Breast at 3 calories each, a medium-sized dog could safely have 15 to 20 per day. For richer treats like beef liver at 5 calories each, adjust accordingly. For more guidance on calorie management, visit our guide on best low-calorie dog treats.

Can puppies eat freeze-dried treats?  

Yes, most freeze-dried treats are safe for puppies, especially single-ingredient options. Their soft, crumbly texture is easy for puppies to chew and digest. Start with small pieces and monitor for any digestive reactions when introducing a new protein. Freeze-dried treats make excellent training rewards for puppies learning basic commands.

Conclusion  

Freeze-dried dog treats represent the intersection of convenience and quality nutrition. They give your dog the benefits of raw feeding without the hassle of handling, storing, and thawing raw meat. For the premium experience, Stella & Chewy’s Carnivore Crunch Turkey delivers top-tier raw nutrition from a brand that has earned its reputation. For the best low-calorie training treat, PureBites Chicken Breast at just 3 calories per treat is unbeatable.

If you want maximum nutritional density, the beef liver options from PureBites, Vital Essentials, and Whole Life all deliver outstanding nutrition from a single ingredient. Budget shoppers will appreciate Wag Freeze-Dried Raw for bringing freeze-dried quality to an accessible price point, while Shepherd Boy Farms offers a reliable middle ground that has earned its best-seller status.

Whichever product you choose, freeze-dried treats are one of the healthiest, simplest, and most versatile options you can give your dog. Your pup will thank you for it, one crunchy bite at a time.