Want to provide your dog with nutritious, preservative-free meals? Learn how to make air-dried dog food at home with simple ingredients and easy steps. This guide will help you create a balanced, long-lasting food option your furry friend will love!
As Luna’s devoted mom, I’ve always been picky about what goes into her bowl. The more I learned about traditional dog food (and its fillers and additives), the more I knew I needed something better for her. That’s when I discovered dehydrated dog food—a healthier, nutrient-packed option that’s changed the way I feed Luna. If you’re curious about making the switch for your pup, here’s what I’ve learned.
What Is Dehydrated Dog Food Anyway?
Dehydrated dog food is like the perfect middle ground between raw and kibble. It’s made from fresh, whole ingredients that are dehydrated at low temperatures to lock in nutrients. Unlike regular kibble, it skips the high-heat cooking process, which can strip food of its natural goodness. Think of it as real food—just with the water taken out.
Why Luna Loves It (And Why I Do Too!)
I’ve seen so many benefits for Luna since making the switch:
- Packed with nutrients: The dehydration process keeps all those vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants intact.
- Gentle on her tummy: With fewer ingredients, it’s easier to avoid allergy triggers.
- Customizable: I can tailor her meals to exactly what she needs, whether it’s extra protein or more veggies.
- Long shelf life: It stays fresh much longer than homemade cooked meals, so there’s less waste.
- Easy digestion: Wholesome, simple ingredients mean fewer tummy troubles (and better poop!).
Two Ways to Prep Dehydrated Dog Food
The best part? Dehydrated food is super easy to prepare. Here are two approaches I’ve tried:
Method 1: Store-Bought Options
- Look for reputable brands that focus on high-quality, balanced recipes.
- Just add water, wait a few minutes, and voilà—it’s ready to serve!
- Sometimes, I mix it with cooked chicken or fresh veggies to give it an extra boost.
Method 2: Homemade (for the DIY Pet Parents)
- Choose fresh ingredients: I use chicken, fish, sweet potatoes, and berries for Luna.
- Prep them: Chop or blend everything into bite-sized pieces.
- Dehydrate: Spread the mixture on dehydrator trays and let it dry at 135°F–150°F (57°C–65°C) for a few hours.
- Store: Once dried, I store the food in airtight containers for up to a few weeks.
Luna’s Favorite Dehydrated Recipes
Here are a few of her all-time favorite meals:
Chicken & Sweet Potato Delight
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast
- 1 large sweet potato, thinly sliced
- 1 cup mixed veggies (carrots, green beans)
- Dehydrate and serve!
Salmon & Pumpkin Feast
- 1 lb salmon fillets (boneless and skinless)
- 1 cup canned pumpkin (unsweetened)
- 1 cup blueberries
- Dehydrate and mix it all together for a nutrient-rich treat.
Veggie Bites (Perfect for Snacks)
- 1 cup mixed veggies (broccoli, cauliflower)
- ½ cup whole wheat flour
- 1 egg (as a binder)
- Form into small bites and dehydrate. These make great training treats!
A Few Lessons I’ve Learned Along the Way
- Talk to your vet first: Before making any major changes to Luna’s diet, I checked in with her vet to make sure it was the right fit.
- Slow and steady: Transitioning to dehydrated food gradually helped avoid digestive upsets.
- Safe food practices matter: I always handle raw ingredients carefully and keep her dehydrated food stored properly.
- Keep an eye on your pup: I monitor Luna’s energy levels, coat, and overall health to make sure the food is working for her.
Why It’s Worth It
Switching to dehydrated food has been one of the best decisions I’ve made for Luna. Not only is she thriving on her new diet, but I also feel good knowing exactly what’s in her meals. It’s more than food—it’s love in every bite.
If you’re considering dehydrated food for your pup, I can’t recommend it enough. Give it a try, experiment with recipes, and watch your dog enjoy healthier, happier meals. Luna and I are rooting for you!
