Choosing the Right Treat: Freeze-Dried vs. Dehydrated vs. Natural Hide Rolls
Rooted in the principles of evolutionary nutrition, our philosophy at Raw + reWild is simple: if we’re going to feed our dogs in a biologically appropriate way, that standard should extend to their treats and chews, too.
Whether you’re training, treating, or trying to support your dog’s dental health, not all treats are created equal. Let’s break down three of the most common types and explore which options support not just your dog’s enjoyment, but also their health, digestion, and overall wellness.
🧊 Freeze-Dried Single-Ingredient Treats
How They're Made:
Freeze-drying involves freezing raw ingredients and then using a vacuum to sublimate the ice (turning it directly into vapor). This method preserves nutrients without cooking the food.
Pros:
Nutrient-rich, raw, and preserved without pathogens (when sourced and handled properly)
Light, non-messy, and convenient—perfect for training
Extremely long shelf life
Typically contains just one single ingredient
Cons:
Very dry and can contribute to acid reflux in some dogs
Not ideal for dental health—breaks apart easily, offering no abrasion
Doesn’t offer real mental enrichment or chewing satisfaction
Best For:
Training sessions, picky eaters, light snacking
Not Ideal For:
Dogs prone to reflux or those in need of dental or chewing stimulation
🌞 Dehydrated Single-Ingredient Treats
How They're Made:
Dehydration slowly removes moisture using low heat. While it alters the food structure slightly, most nutrients are retained.
Pros:
Offers more “chew” than freeze-dried—mild dental benefits
Often easier to digest than freeze-dried treats
Great for moderate enrichment
Still minimally processed if sourced and dried correctly
Cons:
Nutrient loss is slightly higher than freeze-dried (due to heat)
Can still be dry and irritating to dogs with reflux if not paired with moisture-rich food
Best For:
Mild chewers, dogs with sensitive digestion, or for medium-level enrichment
Supervision Still Needed:
Always monitor to prevent gulping or blockage
🦴 Natural Hide Rolls (Not Rawhide!)
How They're Made:
Unlike conventional rawhide—which is highly processed and often chemically treated—natural hide rolls are made from whole hides that are cleaned, rolled, and air-dried or gently dehydrated without harsh chemicals.
Pros:
Long-lasting and mentally stimulating
Great for dental health—helps reduce plaque and tartar through natural abrasion
Offers deep satisfaction and fulfills the natural urge to chew
Safer and better tolerated than commercial rawhide, especially when ethically sourced
Cons:
Can be too rich or tough for some dogs
Risk of choking or blockage if large pieces are swallowed
Should always be given under supervision, especially for aggressive chewers
Best For:
Dogs needing dental support and enrichment through long chewing sessions
Not Ideal For:
Dogs with digestive issues or a tendency to gulp
🔍 A Quick Word on Freeze-Dried Treats & Acid Reflux
If your dog suffers from acid reflux, freeze-dried treats might not be the best option—at least not without a strategy.
Because they’re extremely dry and lightweight, dogs often eat them too quickly, which can aggravate the digestive tract. To reduce the risk:
Offer them with or after a moisture-rich meal (raw food is ideal)
Always provide access to clean water
Watch for signs of discomfort after consumption
✅ Final Reminders from Raw + reWild:
Always supervise your dog with any treat or chew
Rotate treat types to promote varied enrichment and nutrition
Observe your dog’s chewing habits, stool, energy, and breath—these offer clues about what’s working
Prioritize quality: single-ingredient, clean, species-appropriate treats are always best
Why It Matters
Treats should do more than fill time between meals—they should nourish, stimulate, and support your dog’s ancestral instincts.
At Raw + reWild, we believe your dog’s wellness is shaped by everything they eat—not just their meals. When you choose treats aligned with evolutionary nutrition, you’re reinforcing the foundation of a long, thriving, vibrant life.