Freeze-dried pet treats from Butcher’s Bounty displayed with mascots and shop link

What Makes Freeze-Dried Pet Treats the Healthiest Option for Dogs & Cats?

When it comes to treating our pets, we all want the same thing: something that's healthy, safe, and downright delicious (at least by dog and cat standards). That’s where freeze-dried pet treats shine. But what exactly are they, and why are more pet parents switching over? Let’s break it down.


What Are Freeze-Dried Pet Treats?

Freeze-dried treats are made by removing moisture from raw ingredients through a low-temperature vacuum process. The result? Nutrient-rich snacks that retain their original flavor, color, and texture — with none of the need for preservatives or chemicals. It’s raw food made shelf-stable, perfect for pets on the go or pet parents who want the benefits of raw without the mess.


Freeze-Dried vs. Traditional Treats

Most commercial pet treats are cooked at high temperatures, which can destroy vital nutrients. They often include fillers, artificial flavors, and preservatives to extend shelf life. Freeze-dried treats skip all that. They start with fresh meat (or seafood), and that’s pretty much it. No cooking. No nonsense.

Feature Freeze-Dried Treats Traditional Treats
Cooking Method No heat; freeze-dried raw Baked or extruded at high temps
Nutrient Retention Excellent Moderate to low
Ingredients Single or limited-ingredient Often include fillers & additives
Shelf Life Long, without preservatives Long, but often due to chemicals

Benefits for Dogs & Cats

  • Better Nutrition: Freeze-dried treats preserve essential amino acids, fatty acids, and enzymes.
  • Great for Sensitive Stomachs: With fewer ingredients, they’re ideal for pets with food allergies.
  • Perfect for Training: Lightweight, crumb-free, and irresistible to even picky eaters.
  • Safe Raw Option: All the benefits of raw feeding, without the risk of bacteria from fresh raw meat.

Common Myths About Freeze-Dried Treats

  • "Aren’t they just expensive jerky?" Nope. Jerky is cooked and dried, often with added salt or sugar. Freeze-dried is raw and pure.
  • "They don’t last as long." False. Freeze-dried treats are shelf-stable for months (sometimes over a year) without preservatives.
  • "It’s just a trend." This "trend" has been a favorite among veterinarians, raw feeders, and pet nutritionists for years.

What to Look for in a Quality Freeze-Dried Pet Treat

  • Single Ingredient: The fewer ingredients, the better.
  • USA Sourced & Made: You want high-quality meat, not mystery scraps.
  • No Additives: No salt, sugar, flavoring, or preservatives.
  • Whole Cuts, Not Powdered: Look for real chunks of liver, hearts, or muscle meat.

Why Butcher’s Bounty Freeze-Dried Treats Are a Cut Above

At Butcher’s Bounty, we keep it simple. Real ingredients. Real butchers. Real flavor. Every bag is handcrafted in small batches with meats sourced right here in the USA. Whether it’s our Chicken Breast, Minnow Munchies, or Bison Liver, our treats are:

  • 100% single-ingredient
  • Freeze-dried raw to lock in nutrients
  • Free of fillers, grains, and anything artificial
  • Taste-tested and approved by Mutt and Chops (our furry mascots)

Our treats are made to spoil your pets the right way.


Ready to Make the Switch?

Ditch the additives. Ditch the filler. Give your pets the treats they deserve. Try Butcher’s Bounty freeze-dried pet treats such as our Freeze-Dried Beef Liver today and see the difference real food makes.

Shop Now at ButchersBounty.com

Back to blog