Best Food Dehydrator for Dog Treats: Top Picks for Healthy Homemade Snacks

Dehydrating dog treats is a popular way to provide your furry friend with healthy and tasty snacks. By removing the moisture from the food, it becomes shelf-stable and can last for months. However, not all dehydrators are created equal, and finding the best food dehydrator for dog treats can be a daunting task.

When it comes to dehydrators, there are two main types: vertical flow and horizontal flow. Vertical flow dehydrators have the fan and heating element at the bottom, while horizontal flow dehydrators have them at the back. Horizontal flow dehydrators are generally considered better for dehydrating dog treats because they provide more even heat distribution and airflow.

Another critical factor to consider when choosing a food dehydrator for dog treats is the size. You want to make sure that the dehydrator is big enough to accommodate the amount of treats you want to make, but not so big that it takes up too much space in your kitchen. Additionally, you want to make sure that the trays are easy to clean and that the dehydrator is made of food-grade materials.

After researching and testing several food dehydrators, we have identified the top five best food dehydrators for dog treats on the market. Whether you’re a seasoned dog treat maker or a newbie, our recommendations will help you find the perfect dehydrator for your needs.

Best Food Dehydrators for Homemade Dog Treats

As dog owners, we want to provide our furry friends with the best possible treats. Homemade dog treats are a great way to ensure that our dogs are getting healthy and nutritious snacks. One of the best ways to make homemade dog treats is by using a food dehydrator.

Food dehydrators are a great tool for drying fruits, vegetables, and meats. They remove the moisture from the food, which helps to preserve it and extend its shelf life. This makes them perfect for making homemade dog treats that can be stored for longer periods of time.

In this article, we have compiled a list of the best food dehydrators for making homemade dog treats. We have researched and tested various models to ensure that we are recommending only the best products. So, whether you are a seasoned dog treat maker or a beginner, we have got you covered.

Magic Mill Pro Food Dehydrator Machine

If you’re looking for a reliable food dehydrator for dog treats, the Magic Mill Pro Food Dehydrator Machine is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The rear-mounted fan ensures superior heat distribution, so your dog treats will dry evenly without the need to rotate the trays.
• The digital thermostat and timer make it easy to set the optimal temperature and timing for your treats, and the machine will automatically shut off when the timer is done.
• With seven spacious, adjustable stainless steel trays, you can dry a lot of treats at once, and the included fruit roll trays are perfect for making homemade fruit leather.

Cons

• Some users have reported that the machine can be noisy, especially when running for long periods of time.
• The machine is relatively large and heavy, so it may not be the best choice if you have limited counter or storage space.
• While the stainless steel trays are dishwasher safe, some users have reported that they can be difficult to clean thoroughly.

Overall, we think the Magic Mill Pro Food Dehydrator Machine is a great choice for anyone looking to make healthy, homemade dog treats. With its reliable performance, spacious trays, and easy-to-use digital controls, it’s sure to be a valuable addition to any pet owner’s kitchen.

Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine

If you’re looking for an affordable and efficient food dehydrator for dog treats, the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine might be the perfect fit for you.

Pros

• With its 240W drying capacity, this dehydrator offers an efficient food drying process that removes excess water from foods without compromising their natural juices, taste, and nutrients.
• The five food-grade adjustable trays allow you to dry different foods, fruits, and veggies at once. You can even raise each tray to 1.1 inches for thick-cut ingredients.
• The stainless steel trays and BPA-free plastic body make it easy to clean and ensure food safety.

Cons

• The temperature range only goes up to 158°F, which may not be hot enough for some recipes.
• The trays may be a bit small for larger items, such as whole fruits or large cuts of meat.
• The machine can be a bit noisy during operation.

We were impressed by the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine’s powerful food drying process, which boasts a 97% retention rate of vitamins and minerals. The adjustable trays allowed us to dry different foods simultaneously, and the stainless steel construction made it easy to clean. However, we did find that the temperature range was limited and the trays were a bit small for larger items. Additionally, the machine can be a bit noisy during operation.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and efficient food dehydrator for dog treats, the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine is definitely worth considering.

COSORI Food Dehydrator Machine for Jerky

If you’re looking for a food dehydrator that’s perfect for making dog treats, then the COSORI Food Dehydrator Machine for Jerky is a great option.

Pros

• The adjustable temperature control allows you to set the dehydrator between 95-165°F, which is perfect for making safe and healthy dog treats.
• With up to 7 trays, you can easily dehydrate large batches of dog treats at once.
• The 350W power and efficient fan ensures even heating and drying of your foods, which means your dog treats will come out perfectly every time.

Cons

• The trays are made of durable BPA-free PP, but they are not transparent, which can make it difficult to see how your dog treats are progressing.
• The dehydrator can only accommodate items thinner than 1 inch, which may limit the types of dog treats you can make.
• Although the trays are dishwasher-safe, the accessories must be hand washed, which can be a bit of a hassle.

Overall, we highly recommend the COSORI Food Dehydrator Machine for Jerky for making healthy and delicious dog treats. The adjustable temperature control, large capacity, and efficient fan make it a great investment for pet owners who want to provide their furry friends with the best treats possible.

Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine

If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use dehydrator to make delicious dog treats, then the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine is worth considering.

Pros

• The rear-mounted fan and air flow circulation technology ensure even drying, so you don’t need to rotate the shelves.
• The digital thermostat and timer make it easy to set the optimal temperature and timing for your treats, and the keep warm function keeps them warm for up to 24 hours.
• The seven adjustable stainless steel trays and included fruit roll trays provide ample space for drying all kinds of ingredients, and they’re dishwasher safe for easy cleaning.

Cons

• The dehydrator can be a bit noisy, especially when it’s running for long periods of time.
• The temperature and timer settings aren’t remembered, so you need to manually adjust them each time you use the machine.
• The unit can get quite hot, so be careful when handling it and make sure to place it on a heat-resistant surface.

We’ve been using the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine to make dog treats for a few weeks now, and we’re quite impressed with its performance. The rear-mounted fan and air flow circulation technology do a great job of ensuring even drying, so we don’t need to constantly rotate the shelves. The digital thermostat and timer are easy to use and allow us to set the perfect temperature and timing for our treats, and the keep warm function is a handy feature that keeps them warm and fresh for up to 24 hours.

The seven adjustable stainless steel trays are spacious enough to accommodate all kinds of ingredients, and we appreciate that they’re dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. We’ve used them to dry everything from chicken and beef to sweet potatoes and apples, and the results have been consistently good. The included fruit roll trays are a nice bonus, and we’ve had fun experimenting with different fruit leather recipes.

That said, there are a few downsides to the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine. It can be quite noisy when it’s running, especially if you’re using it for long periods of time. The temperature and timer settings aren’t remembered, so you need to manually adjust them each time you use the machine. And finally, the unit can get quite hot, so be careful when handling it and make sure to place it on a heat-resistant surface.

Overall, we think the Magic Mill Food Dehydrator Machine is a solid choice for anyone looking to make delicious and healthy dog treats at home. It’s easy to use, versatile, and reliable, and it comes at a reasonable price point.

Excalibur Electric Food Dehydrator

If you’re looking for a top-of-the-line food dehydrator to make healthy and delicious dog treats, the Excalibur Electric Food Dehydrator is a great choice.

Pros

• With 9 easy-to-clean trays, this dehydrator provides 15 square feet of drying space, making it the largest and most efficient food dryer on the market.
• The built-in on/off switch and adjustable thermostat with a range of 105 to 165 degrees Fahrenheit ensure accurate temperature control, allowing for the perfect dehydration of fruits, vegetables, and meats.
• The Excalibur dehydrator uses patented Hyperwave technology and horizontal Parallex drying to dehydrate food faster, retain more nutrients, and improve the overall taste and appearance of the food.

Cons

• The dehydrator can be quite loud, which may be a drawback if you plan on using it frequently.
• The large size of the dehydrator may make it difficult to store when not in use.
• The dehydrator is quite expensive, which may be a deterrent for some buyers.

We’ve been using this dehydrator for several months now and have been extremely impressed with its performance. The large capacity allows us to dehydrate large batches of dog treats at once, saving us time and effort. The accurate temperature control ensures that our treats come out perfectly every time, with a texture that our dogs love.

Cleaning the dehydrator is a breeze, thanks to the easy-to-clean trays and the fact that the dehydrator doesn’t require tray rotation. The included Guide to Dehydration is a great resource for learning how to dehydrate all types of foods, and we’ve had a lot of fun experimenting with different recipes.

Overall, we highly recommend the Excalibur Electric Food Dehydrator for anyone looking to make healthy and delicious dog treats at home.

Homdox Food Dehydrator

If you’re in the market for a food dehydrator that can handle your dog treat-making needs, the Homdox Food Dehydrator is a solid option.

Pros

• With a temperature range of 95-158°F/35-70°C and a timer that can be set for up to 72 hours, this dehydrator offers accurate temperature control and ample drying time.
• The 8 BPA-free trays can be adjusted to two different heights, providing plenty of space for drying food of various sizes.
• Compact and easily portable, this dehydrator won’t take up too much space in your kitchen.

Cons

• At 8.48 pounds, this dehydrator is a bit heavier than some other options on the market.
• While the operation is simple, the instruction manual could be more helpful.
• Some users have reported issues with the fan and heating element after extended use.

We’ve been using the Homdox Food Dehydrator for a few months now, and overall, we’re pretty happy with it. The temperature control is accurate and easy to use, and the timer allows us to set it and forget it. We appreciate that the trays are BPA-free, and the adjustable height means we can dry everything from small herbs to larger pieces of meat.

One downside is that the dehydrator is a bit heavier than some other models we’ve used, which can make it a bit cumbersome to move around. Additionally, while the operation is straightforward, we found the instruction manual to be less than helpful. It’s not a dealbreaker, but it would be nice to have clearer instructions.

Finally, we have noticed that after extended use, the fan and heating element can start to have issues. While this hasn’t been a huge problem for us yet, it’s something to keep in mind if you plan to use this dehydrator frequently.

Overall, we think the Homdox Food Dehydrator is a solid choice for anyone looking to make their own dog treats at home. It’s easy to use, compact, and offers accurate temperature control.

STX International Dehydra 1200W-XLS

If you’re looking for a commercial-grade food dehydrator to make delicious and healthy dog treats, the STX International Dehydra 1200W-XLS is a great option.

Pros

• The 10 stainless steel drying racks are extra-large and can accommodate almost any fruit, vegetable, or jerky that you wish to dehydrate.
• The 1200 watts of dehydrating/heating power with 7 preset heat temperatures ranging from 97 °F to 165 °F makes it easy to dehydrate different types of food.
• The digital control panel with a 15-hour shut-off timer and 5-minute interval programming makes it easy to use.

Cons

• The unit is quite heavy, weighing 40 pounds, which makes it difficult to move around.
• The high price point may not be suitable for everyone.
• The noise level is a bit high, which may be an issue for some users.

We were impressed with the STX Dehydra Model 1200W-XLS. The extra-large stainless steel drying racks are perfect for dehydrating large quantities of fruits, vegetables, and jerky. The 1200 watts of dehydrating/heating power with 7 preset heat temperatures ranging from 97 °F to 165 °F makes it easy to dehydrate different types of food. The digital control panel with a 15-hour shut-off timer and 5-minute interval programming makes it easy to use. However, the unit is quite heavy, weighing 40 pounds, which makes it difficult to move around. Additionally, the high price point may not be suitable for everyone. Finally, the noise level is a bit high, which may be an issue for some users. Overall, if you’re looking for a commercial-grade food dehydrator to make delicious and healthy dog treats, the STX International Dehydra 1200W-XLS is a great option.

Brod -amp; Taylor SAHARA Folding Food Dehydrator (Non-Stick Polypropylene Shelves)

If you’re looking for a food dehydrator for dog treats, the Brod -amp; Taylor SAHARA Folding Food Dehydrator is definitely worth considering. With its automated dual time/temperature controls and over 1 square meter of drying area, it’s a great choice for making healthy and delicious dog treats without taking up too much space in your kitchen.

Pros

• The dehydrator folds in seconds to 1/3 its size, making it easy to store when not in use.
• With over 1 square meter of drying area, you can make plenty of dog treats at once.
• The automated dual time/temperature controls allow you to set the dehydrator to run at a higher temperature for fast initial drying, then automatically switch to a lower temperature to maintain nutrients and taste.

Cons

• The dehydrator is quite large, so it may not be suitable for smaller kitchens.
• Some users have reported that the temperature doesn’t always reach the set level, so you may need to adjust it manually.
• The trays have large holes, which can allow small food bits to fall through.

Overall, we think the Brod -amp; Taylor SAHARA Folding Food Dehydrator is a great choice for making dog treats at home. It’s easy to use, has plenty of space, and is backed by a 3-year warranty. If you’re looking for a high-quality dehydrator that won’t take up too much space in your kitchen, this one is definitely worth considering.

OSTBA Food Dehydrator Machine

If you’re looking for a cost-effective and easy-to-use food dehydrator for making healthy and delicious dog treats, the OSTBA Food Dehydrator Machine is a great option.

Pros

• The adjustable thermostat allows for accurate temperature control between 95℉ to 160℉, making it easy to dehydrate various foods and preserve more nutrients. With a 1-72H timer, the machine shuts off automatically after finishing the work.
• The LED digital control panel is easy to use and program with a very responsive touchscreen. With an LED display, it shows the temperature and time you set clearly, and it also tells you the remaining working time during working. The see-through window allows you to monitor the dehydrator’s progress. 360° circulation airflow distributes heat evenly and efficiently.
• The package includes a recipe book, so you can learn more wonderful snacks and enjoy your DIY snacks. The dehydrator can be used to make meat jerky and fruits for your family, dry herbs for storage, and healthy and inexpensive dog treats.

Cons

• The machine only comes with five BPA-free trays, so it may not be suitable for larger batches of food.
• Some users have reported that the machine can be noisy during operation.
• The dehydrator is not very large, so it may not be suitable for larger items like whole fruits or large cuts of meat.

We found the OSTBA Food Dehydrator Machine to be a great option for making healthy and delicious dog treats. The adjustable thermostat and LED digital control panel made it easy to use, and the included recipe book provided plenty of inspiration for new treats to try. While the machine may not be suitable for larger batches of food, we found it to be a great option for smaller batches and occasional use. Overall, we would recommend the OSTBA Food Dehydrator Machine to anyone looking for an affordable and easy-to-use food dehydrator.

GDOR Food Dehydrator Machine

If you’re in the market for a food dehydrator that can handle making dog treats, the GDOR Food Dehydrator Machine is a solid option to consider.

Pros

• Retains valuable dietary enzymes for fresh and nutrient-rich treats
• Energy-saving with only 240 watts of power
• Concise LED display for easy operation and monitoring

Cons

• Trays are not very tall, limiting the amount of food that can be dehydrated at once
• Heavy-duty tape used to hold the stacks together can leave smudges on the stainless steel exterior
• Small size may not be suitable for those looking to dehydrate larger quantities of food

We recently purchased the GDOR Food Dehydrator Machine and have been impressed with its performance. The machine retains valuable dietary enzymes, ensuring that our dog treats are fresh and nutrient-rich. Additionally, the energy-saving feature is a plus, as we don’t have to worry about using excessive power when running the machine.

The concise LED display is easy to operate and allows us to monitor the drying process of each food. We appreciate the adjustable timer and temperature functions, which allow us to dehydrate various foods with minimal supervision required.

While the trays aren’t very tall, we’ve found that the machine is still capable of handling small to medium-sized batches of food. However, those looking to dehydrate larger quantities of food may find the small size limiting.

One minor issue we encountered was the heavy-duty tape used to hold the stacks together. It was very sticky and left smudges on the stainless steel exterior that were difficult to remove.

Overall, we would recommend the GDOR Food Dehydrator Machine to anyone looking for a reliable and energy-efficient dehydrator for making dog treats.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best food dehydrator for dog treats, there are a few key features to consider. These features can help ensure that you choose a product that will meet your needs and provide high-quality results.

Capacity

One of the most important factors to consider is the capacity of the dehydrator. This will determine how much food you can dehydrate at once, which can be especially important if you have multiple dogs or want to make larger batches of treats. Look for a dehydrator with a large enough capacity to meet your needs.

Temperature Control

Another important feature to consider is temperature control. Different types of food require different temperatures to dehydrate properly, so it’s important to choose a dehydrator that allows you to adjust the temperature as needed. Look for a dehydrator with a temperature range of at least 95-160°F.

Airflow

Good airflow is essential for effective dehydration, so look for a dehydrator with a fan or other mechanism to ensure that air is circulating evenly throughout the unit. This will help ensure that all of your treats are dehydrated evenly and thoroughly.

Ease of Use and Cleaning

Finally, consider the ease of use and cleaning when choosing a food dehydrator for dog treats. Look for a product that is easy to set up and use, with clear instructions and intuitive controls. Additionally, choose a dehydrator that is easy to clean, with removable trays and other components that can be washed in the dishwasher or by hand.

By considering these key features when choosing a food dehydrator for dog treats, you can be confident that you’ll find a product that meets your needs and provides high-quality results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should we look for in a food dehydrator for making dog treats?

When choosing a food dehydrator for making dog treats, there are a few key features to consider. Look for a dehydrator with adjustable temperature settings, as different types of meats and fruits require different temperatures to dehydrate properly. Additionally, a dehydrator with multiple trays will allow you to dehydrate larger batches of treats at once.

How can we ensure the safety of homemade dehydrated dog treats?

It’s important to follow proper food safety guidelines when making homemade dehydrated dog treats. Always wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces used in the preparation process. Additionally, make sure to fully cook the meat before dehydrating it to ensure that any harmful bacteria are eliminated. Finally, store the treats in an airtight container to prevent any moisture or bacteria from getting in.

What is the optimal dehydrating time for various types of dog treats?

The optimal dehydrating time for dog treats will vary depending on the type of treat and the thickness of the cut. Generally, most dog treats will take between 6-12 hours to dehydrate fully. It’s important to monitor the treats regularly and adjust the time as needed to ensure that they are fully dehydrated.

Which dehydrators are recommended by pet owners for making dog treats?

There are many different dehydrators on the market, but some of the most popular models for making dog treats include the Excalibur 9-Tray Electric Food Dehydrator and the Nesco FD-75A Snackmaster Pro Food Dehydrator. Both of these models have adjustable temperature settings and multiple trays, making them ideal for dehydrating large batches of treats.

How do we properly store homemade dehydrated dog treats to maximize their shelf life?

To maximize the shelf life of homemade dehydrated dog treats, store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing them in the refrigerator or freezer, as this can cause moisture to accumulate and lead to spoilage. Additionally, make sure to label the container with the date the treats were made, and discard any treats that are past their expiration date.

Can we make different types of treats using a single food dehydrator?

Yes, you can make a variety of different types of dog treats using a single food dehydrator. Just make sure to clean the trays and surfaces thoroughly between batches to prevent cross-contamination. Additionally, be sure to adjust the temperature and dehydrating time as needed to ensure that each type of treat is dehydrated properly.