Best Air Dried Food for Dogs: Top Picks for Optimal Nutrition and Health

Air-dried dog food has been gaining popularity in recent years as a healthier alternative to traditional kibble. Air-drying is a process that removes moisture from the food without the use of high heat, which helps to retain more of the nutrients and flavor. This makes air-dried dog food a great option for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with a more natural and nutritious diet.

When it comes to choosing the best air-dried dog food, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, it’s important to look for a product that uses high-quality ingredients. This means avoiding fillers and by-products and opting for whole foods like meat, vegetables, and fruits.

Another key consideration is the nutritional content of the food. Look for a product that provides a balanced blend of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. It’s also a good idea to pay attention to any special dietary needs your dog may have, such as allergies or sensitivities.

After researching and testing various products, we have identified the top air-dried dog foods on the market. These products stand out for their high-quality ingredients, balanced nutrition, and overall value. In the following sections, we will provide a detailed overview of each product and what makes it a great choice for your furry friend.

Best Air Dried Food for Dogs

As dog owners, we understand the importance of feeding our furry friends with the best possible food. Air-dried food is a great option for pet parents who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and convenient meal. Air-dried food is made by removing moisture from raw ingredients, preserving the nutrients and flavor. It’s a great alternative to traditional kibble or canned food, and it’s easy to store and serve. In this article, we’ve rounded up the best air-dried food for dogs, based on ingredients, quality, and customer reviews. Whether you have a puppy or a senior dog, you’ll find a product that suits your pet’s needs and preferences.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef

If you are looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that is both grain-free and made in the USA, then Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef might be the perfect choice for your furry friend.

Pros

• The slow oven-roasting process of Pawstruck’s air-dried food retains maximum nutrition and flavor, making it a great alternative to highly-processed kibble.
• Made with real beef as the #1 ingredient, this single-protein, grain-free, gluten-free, and paleo-inspired recipe is perfect for satisfying your pup’s carnivore cravings.
• Pawstruck’s all-natural ingredients are sourced from around the globe and are entirely free from fillers, and preservatives, making it a safe and nutritious meal for your furry friend.

Cons

• Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is a bit expensive compared to other dog food options on the market.
• Some dogs might not like the crunchy texture of this air-dried food.
• If your dog is allergic to beef, this product might not be the best option for them.

We’ve been using Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef for our dog for a few months now, and we’re really impressed with the quality of this product. The slow oven-roasting process gives the food a crunchy texture that our dog loves, and the real beef flavor makes it a great alternative to highly-processed kibble. We also appreciate that this dog food is made with all-natural ingredients and is entirely free from fillers, and preservatives, making it a safe and nutritious meal for our furry friend.

One thing to note is that Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is a bit more expensive compared to other dog food options on the market. However, we believe that the high-quality ingredients and the slow oven-roasting process are worth the price. Additionally, some dogs might not like the crunchy texture of this air-dried food, so it might not be the best option for all dogs. Finally, if your dog is allergic to beef, this product might not be the best option for them.

Overall, we highly recommend Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef for pet owners who are looking for a high-quality, natural dog food that is both grain-free and made in the USA. Your furry friend will love the taste, and you’ll love the peace of mind that comes with feeding them a safe and nutritious meal.

ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality air-dried dog food, ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is a great option. We highly recommend this product for any dog owner looking for a grain-free, limited ingredient dog food that is packed with superfoods.

Pros

• ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is made with authentic whole-prey ratios, featuring 96% free-range chicken, organs, bone, and New Zealand green mussels. This makes it a nutrient-dense, high-protein food that delivers peak nutrition and mouth-watering taste for even the pickiest dogs.
• The food is grain-free and low-carb, making it ideal for food-sensitive dogs. It doesn’t contain any cheap fillers such as grain, potato, or peas, which are linked to obesity, food allergies, and other health concerns.
• ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food includes a 10% superfood boost, with poultry heart, New Zealand green mussels, and organic kelp. These holistic ingredients support digestion, healthy skin and coat, joint health, reduce inflammation, and promote heart and brain health.

Cons

• ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is more expensive than some other dog foods on the market, so it may not be the best option for those on a tight budget.
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this food, so it may take some time to transition them to it.
• The packaging of this product may not be as convenient as other dog foods, as it comes in a resealable bag rather than a can or pouch.

Overall, we believe that ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food is an excellent choice for any dog owner looking for a high-quality, nutrient-dense dog food. It’s perfect as a topper for a nutrition and flavor boost, and ideal as a complete meal for peak nutrition and health. We highly recommend giving it a try if you’re looking for a premium dog food that is both healthy and delicious.

ZIWI Peak Steam -amp; Dried Dog Food – Grass-fed Beef -amp; Pumpkin Recipe

We highly recommend ZIWI Peak Steam -amp; Dried Dog Food – Grass-fed Beef -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for dogs of all life stages who require a nutritious, raw alternative dry dog food. The product is made with high-quality ingredients that are gentle on a dog’s stomach and promote natural nutrient absorption.

Pros

• The single protein recipe includes ethically sourced animal ingredients, including raw high protein grass-fed beef, organs, and ground bone, which meets the needs of a dog’s whole prey diet.
• The product contains nutrient-rich inclusions of pumpkin, beets, carrots, and chicory root to provide natural fiber and prebiotics to aid digestion.
• The innovative two-step process of delicate steam and gently air-dried raw ingredients creates a unique aerated texture that is superior to highly processed kibble.

Cons

• The product is on the expensive side compared to other dog foods.
• Some dogs may not like the taste of the product.
• The product may not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or dietary restrictions.

ZIWI Peak Steam -amp; Dried Dog Food is a great option for dogs who require a healthy, functional diet. The product is suitable for dogs of all life stages and can be fed as a complete and balanced meal or served as a nutritious base, mixer, or topper. The packaging is appealing and user-friendly, making it easy to portion out the right amount for your dog.

The product’s nutrient-rich inclusions of pumpkin, beets, carrots, and chicory root provide natural fiber and prebiotics to aid digestion, promoting a healthy gut for all dogs, including those with sensitive stomachs or digestion issues. The product’s delicate steam and gently air-dried raw ingredients create a unique aerated texture that is superior to highly processed kibble, making it an ideal choice for dogs who require a nutritious, raw alternative dry dog food.

While the product is on the expensive side compared to other dog foods, it is worth the investment for dogs who require a healthy, functional diet. Some dogs may not like the taste of the product, but this is not uncommon with any type of dog food. It is important to note that the product may not be suitable for dogs with certain allergies or dietary restrictions, so it is always best to consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog’s diet.

Overall, ZIWI Peak Steam -amp; Dried Dog Food – Grass-fed Beef -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a great choice for dogs who require a nutritious, raw alternative dry dog food. The product is made with high-quality ingredients that are gentle on a dog’s stomach and promote natural nutrient absorption.

Nature’s Recipe Dry Dog Food, Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe, 24 lb. Bag Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin 24 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a delicious and nutritious meal. This dog food is formulated with wholesome ingredients that dogs love, and it comes at a price that you’ll love too.

Pros

• Real chicken is the number one ingredient, providing a quality protein source that helps maintain optimal muscle strength.
• Made with nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources like sweet potato and pumpkin instead of added corn or wheat, which helps support healthy digestion and immune system health.
• Contains added vitamins, minerals, and nutrients for maintenance of adult dogs, including omega-6 fatty acids from chicken and chicken fat that help support skin and coat health.

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of this dog food.
• The kibble size may not be ideal for all dog sizes and breeds.
• This dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or health issues.

Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe is a delicious and nutritious dog food that we have used for our own furry friends. The real chicken and nutrient-dense carbohydrate sources provide our dogs with the protein, fiber, and vitamins they need to stay healthy and happy. We have noticed improvements in their digestion, skin and coat health, and overall energy levels since switching to this dog food.

The only downside we have experienced is that some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the kibble. Additionally, the kibble size may not be ideal for all dog sizes and breeds. We recommend consulting with your veterinarian before switching to this dog food if your dog has any dietary restrictions or health issues.

Overall, we highly recommend Nature’s Recipe Grain Free Chicken, Sweet Potato -amp; Pumpkin Recipe for dog owners who want to provide their furry friends with a high-quality, nutritious meal.

Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters

We highly recommend the Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters. This product is a great option for pet owners who are looking for a healthy and nutritious treat for their furry friends.

Pros

• Gently Air Dried -amp; Craveably Delicious! – Solid Gold Air Dried dog food flavor topper recipe is a dog meal topper, holiday dog treat, freeze dried, and kibble alternative made with high protein that is gently air dried to preserve nutrients and flavor.
• Powered by Nutrientboost – Keep your dog feeling nourished with this dog food topping natural protein source that supports canine digestive health, immune system function, and nutrient absorption for your pet – get your dog gifts for Christmas that support their health!
• Made with Real Beef Protein – At 91% protein from animal sources, these fresh dog food dog snacks provide a healthy source of premium beef to give small, medium, and large sized dogs dog food add ins with protein support – they make for nutritious stocking stuffers for dogs.

Cons

• May be too hard for some dogs to chew.
• May be a bit pricey compared to other dog food toppers.
• Some customers may not like the strong beef smell.

The Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters are a great option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and nutritious treat. The product is made with high-quality ingredients and is gently air-dried to preserve the nutrients and flavor. It is also a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and overall health.

One of the best things about this product is that it is powered by Nutrientboost, which supports canine digestive health, immune system function, and nutrient absorption. This makes it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs or other health issues.

Another great thing about the Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers is that they are easy to use and great for picky eaters. Whether you’re using it as a complete meal, dog treats, or as dog food additives for taste picky eaters will love this air-dried recipe that is easy to add to their favorite wet or dry food.

However, there are a few potential downsides to this product. Some dogs may find it difficult to chew, and it may be a bit pricey compared to other dog food toppers. Additionally, some customers may not like the strong beef smell.

Overall, we highly recommend the Solid Gold Air Dried Dog Food Toppers for Picky Eaters. It is a great option for pet owners who want to provide their dogs with a healthy and nutritious treat that supports their overall health and wellbeing.

Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef – Grain Free, Made in USA, Non-GMO -amp; Vet Recommended – High Protein Limited Ingredient Wholesome Full-Feed – for All Breeds -amp; Ages – 2lb Bag Beef 2 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality air dried dog food, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is an excellent option that you should consider. This dog food is packed with nutrients and is made with real beef as the main ingredient, making it a great choice for dogs with sensitive stomachs or picky eaters.

Pros

• Upgrade to Air Dried for More Nutrients: This dog food is slowly oven-roasted at a low temperature, which helps it retain maximum nutrition and a crunchy texture that dogs love.
• Real Beef is the #1 Ingredient: Pawstruck’s air dried dog food is made with 96% beef, which means that your dog will be getting plenty of protein and other essential nutrients.
• Vet Recommended Complete Nutrition for All Life Stages: This dog food is AAFCO compliant and is made in an SQF (Safe Quality Food) certified facility, so you can feel confident that your dog is getting a safe and nutritious meal.

Cons

• Expensive: This dog food is more expensive than some other options on the market, which could be a dealbreaker for some pet owners.
• Can Crumble Easily: Some customers have reported that this dog food can crumble easily, which could be an issue if you have a messy eater.
• Limited Availability: This dog food is only available in a 2lb bag, which means that you’ll need to order it frequently if you have a larger dog.

Overall, we highly recommend Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef. This dog food is packed with nutrients and is made with high-quality ingredients that you can feel good about feeding your dog. While it is more expensive than some other options on the market, we believe that the benefits of this dog food make it well worth the investment.

If you’re looking for a dog food that is made with real beef, is grain-free, and is packed with nutrients, Pawstruck All Natural Air Dried Dog Food w/Real Beef is definitely worth considering. With its high-quality ingredients and commitment to excellence, this dog food is sure to keep your furry friend happy and healthy for years to come.

Healthybud Raw Dog Food, Freeze Dried Turkey Bites

If you’re looking for a high-quality, human-grade air-dried dog food, Healthybud’s Turkey Meal Bites are a great option. With 85% real pure meat, liver, heart, and bones, and 15% fruits, veggies, and superfoods, this grain-free food is a complete and balanced meal that’s perfect for dogs of all life stages.

Pros

• Made with high-quality, human-grade ingredients sourced from the USA
• Supports healthy digestion and oral health
• Suitable for use as a complete meal, nutritional food topper, or high-reward training treat

Cons

• More expensive than some other dog foods on the market
• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture
• Not suitable for dogs with certain dietary restrictions or allergies

We’ve been using Healthybud’s Turkey Meal Bites for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with the quality of the product. The kibble-shaped bites are easy to serve and provide natural scrubbing for clean teeth, fresh breath, and healthy gums. We’ve noticed an improvement in our dog’s digestion since switching to this food, and he seems to love the taste.

One thing to keep in mind is that this food is more expensive than some other options on the market. However, we feel that the quality of the ingredients justifies the higher price. Additionally, some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, so it may not be the best choice for picky eaters.

Overall, we would recommend Healthybud’s Turkey Meal Bites to anyone looking for a high-quality, human-grade air-dried dog food. It’s a great option for dogs of all life stages, and can be used as a complete meal, nutritional food topper, or high-reward training treat.

Herz Air-Dried Dog Food – New Zealand Venison Recipe 2 lb, Single Pure-Meat, Grain Free, All Natural, High Protein, Limited Ingredients New Zealand Venison 2 Pound (Pack of 1)

We highly recommend purchasing Herz Air-Dried Dog Food – New Zealand Venison Recipe for your furry friend. This dog food is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients that your dog needs to maintain a healthy and happy life.

Pros

• The formula is co-developed with veterinarians to provide a comprehensive balance of nutrition for every life stage.
• The dog food emphasizes a single animal protein source, which streamlines digestion and minimizes allergenic risks.
• The formula meets AAFCO Nutritional Standards and is low-temperature air-dried to preserve complete natural ingredients such as DHA and EPA.

Cons

• The product is relatively expensive compared to other dog food options.
• The packaging is not resealable, which may cause the dog food to lose its freshness.
• The dog food may not be suitable for dogs with certain food allergies.

Herz Air-Dried Dog Food – New Zealand Venison Recipe is a great option for dog owners looking for a high-quality air-dried dog food. The formula is co-developed with veterinarians to provide a comprehensive balance of nutrition for every life stage, making it an excellent choice for puppies, adult dogs, and senior dogs.

In addition to being nutritious, the dog food emphasizes a single animal protein source, which streamlines digestion and minimizes allergenic risks. This is particularly important for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies. The formula meets AAFCO Nutritional Standards and is low-temperature air-dried to preserve complete natural ingredients such as DHA and EPA, which are essential for your dog’s overall well-being.

One potential downside of this product is that it is relatively expensive compared to other dog food options. However, the high-quality ingredients and nutritional benefits make it worth the investment. Another thing to note is that the packaging is not resealable, which may cause the dog food to lose its freshness over time.

Overall, Herz Air-Dried Dog Food – New Zealand Venison Recipe is an excellent choice for dog owners who want to provide their furry friend with a nutritious and delicious meal.

Real Meat Air Dried Dog Food w/ Real Lamb -amp; Fish – 2lb Bag of Grain-Free Real Meat Dog Food Sourced from Free-Range Lamb -amp; Ocean-Caught Fish – Digestible, All-Natural, -amp; High-Protein Lamb and Fish Lamb -amp; Fish 2 Pound (Pack of 1)

If you’re looking for a high-quality, all-natural, and protein-rich dog food, then Real Meat Air Dried Dog Food w/ Real Lamb -amp; Fish is an excellent option to consider.

Pros

• Crafted with real human-grade quality lamb -amp; fish that’s high in protein and delicious for your pup’s taste buds.
• Made without any grains or artificial additives, making it gentle on the tummy and perfect for dogs with allergies and sensitivities.
• Gently air-dried to seal in the goodness, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition.

Cons

• Some may find the price to be a bit steep for regular feeding.
• The texture of the food may be too hard for some dogs to chew.
• The strong smell may be unpleasant to some pet owners.

As pet owners who have tried this product, we highly recommend it for its high-quality ingredients and delicious taste. The real human-grade quality lamb -amp; fish are a great source of protein, and our pups absolutely love it.

One of the best things about this dog food is that it’s made without any grains or artificial additives, making it gentle on the tummy and perfect for dogs with allergies and sensitivities. Plus, the gentle air-drying process seals in the goodness, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition.

While the price may be a bit steep for regular feeding, we think it’s worth it for the quality of the product. However, some dogs may find the texture of the food to be too hard to chew, so it’s important to monitor your pup’s eating habits. Additionally, the strong smell of the food may be unpleasant to some pet owners, so keep that in mind when feeding your pup.

Overall, Real Meat Air Dried Dog Food w/ Real Lamb -amp; Fish is a great option for pet owners looking for a high-quality, all-natural, and protein-rich dog food.

Grandma Mae’s RawTernative Air Dried Dog Food

If you’re looking for a high-quality air-dried dog food that’s packed with nutrients and real meat, then Grandma Mae’s RawTernative Air Dried Dog Food is an excellent choice.

Pros

• Made with 93% real grass-fed beef and beef organs raised ethically in New Zealand, with no added hormones or antibiotics
• Gently air-dried using a small batch technique that maintains the nutrients and natural taste of the raw ingredients
• An all-natural, complete diet that’s enhanced with prebiotics, vitamins, and minerals

Cons

• Some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the moist, chunky food
• The cost may be higher than some other dog food options on the market
• The packaging may not be as convenient for some pet owners

We recently tried Grandma Mae’s RawTernative Air Dried Dog Food for our furry friend and were impressed with the quality of the ingredients and the overall nutritional value. The real meat first approach is a big plus, and we appreciated that the beef and beef organs were raised ethically in New Zealand.

The gentle air-drying process maintained the nutrients and natural taste of the raw ingredients, and we found that our dog enjoyed the moist, chunky texture of the food. The fact that no defrosting or rehydrating is required made it easy to serve, and we liked that it’s a 100% complete and balanced diet that can also be used as a treat or meal topper.

While some dogs may not like the taste or texture of the food, we found that our dog was a big fan. However, the cost may be higher than some other dog food options on the market, and the packaging may not be as convenient for some pet owners. Overall, we highly recommend Grandma Mae’s RawTernative Air Dried Dog Food for its high-quality ingredients and excellent nutritional value.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best air-dried food for your dog, there are several factors to consider. Here are some important features to look for:

Ingredients

The first thing to check when selecting an air-dried dog food is the ingredients list. Look for high-quality, whole-food ingredients like real meat, vegetables, and fruits. Avoid products that contain by-products, fillers, or artificial preservatives. It’s also a good idea to choose a product that is free from common allergens like wheat, corn, and soy.

Nutritional Value

Make sure the air-dried food you choose meets your dog’s nutritional needs. Look for a product that provides a balanced ratio of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Check the guaranteed analysis on the label to ensure it meets the minimum requirements for crude protein and fat.

Flavor and Texture

Dogs are picky eaters, so it’s important to choose an air-dried food with a flavor and texture that your dog will enjoy. Look for products that come in a variety of flavors and textures to keep your dog interested in mealtime.

Price

Air-dried dog food can be more expensive than traditional kibble, so it’s important to consider the price when making your selection. Look for products that offer good value for money and compare prices across different brands.

By taking these factors into consideration, you can choose an air-dried dog food that meets your dog’s nutritional needs and tastes great too.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of feeding dogs air-dried food?

Air-dried dog food is a great option for pet owners who are looking for a convenient and healthy way to feed their dogs. The benefits of air-dried dog food include:

• Retaining more nutrients than traditional kibble due to the gentle drying process
• Being free from harmful preservatives and additives
• Being highly digestible, which can lead to improved gut health and reduced digestive issues
• Providing a convenient and easy-to-store feeding option for busy pet owners

How does air-dried dog food compare to traditional kibble?

Air-dried dog food is a great alternative to traditional kibble because it is minimally processed and retains more nutrients. The gentle drying process used in air-dried dog food production helps to preserve the nutritional value of the ingredients, resulting in a more nutrient-dense food for your dog. Additionally, air-dried dog food is often free from harmful preservatives and additives that are commonly found in traditional kibble.

What should I look for when choosing an air-dried dog food brand?

When choosing an air-dried dog food brand, it is important to look for a product that uses high-quality ingredients and is free from harmful preservatives and additives. Look for brands that use whole food ingredients, such as high-quality meats, fruits, and vegetables, and avoid products that contain fillers or artificial ingredients. Additionally, it is important to choose a brand that meets your dog’s specific nutritional needs.

Are there any risks associated with feeding dogs air-dried food?

While air-dried dog food is generally considered safe and healthy for dogs, there are some potential risks to be aware of. Some dogs may be allergic or sensitive to certain ingredients in air-dried dog food, so it is important to monitor your dog’s reaction when introducing a new food. Additionally, because air-dried dog food is minimally processed, it may not be suitable for dogs with compromised immune systems or other health issues.

How do air-dried dog food costs compare to other premium dog food options?

Air-dried dog food is generally more expensive than traditional kibble, but it is often more affordable than other premium dog food options, such as raw or freeze-dried dog food. While the upfront cost may be higher, air-dried dog food can be a cost-effective option in the long run because it is highly digestible and may lead to reduced veterinary bills due to improved gut health.

Can air-dried dog food meet the nutritional needs of my dog?

Yes, air-dried dog food can meet the nutritional needs of most dogs. However, it is important to choose a brand that is formulated to meet your dog’s specific nutritional needs, such as age, activity level, and health status. Additionally, it is important to monitor your dog’s weight and overall health when feeding air-dried dog food to ensure that they are receiving all of the necessary nutrients.