Is freeze dried dog food better than kibble?

Freeze dried dog food retains more nutrients, enzymes, and natural flavors than kibble because it's minimally processed. It's closer to a raw diet while offering the convenience of dry food.

How long does freeze dried dog food last?

Unopened freeze dried dog food typically lasts 12-24 months. Once opened and rehydrated, it should be used within 24 hours. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Do you need to rehydrate freeze dried dog food?

Most freeze dried complete and balanced foods require rehydration. Add warm water (about 1:1 ratio) and let sit for 5-10 minutes before serving. Freeze dried treats can be fed dry.

Is freeze dried dog food safe for puppies?

Yes, many freeze dried formulas are specifically designed for puppies with higher protein and fat content. Always check the product label for AAFCO puppy nutrient profiles and consult your veterinarian.

How do I transition my dog to freeze dried food?

Gradually mix freeze dried food with current food over 7-10 days. Start with 25% new food, increase to 50% after 3-4 days, then 75%, and finally 100% freeze dried. Watch for digestive issues during transition.

Honest Kitchen vs Stella & Chewy's — Which Freeze Dried Dog Food is Better?

Quick Verdict

Choose Honest Kitchen if: You want human-grade ingredients, better variety in recipes, and more affordable pricing.

Choose Stella & Chewy's if: You prioritize single-protein options, very high protein content, and don't mind paying a premium.

Price Comparison

At a glance, here's how the two brands compare on price:

Product	Honest Kitchen	Stella & Chewy's
Freeze Dried Beef (10oz)	$24.99	$32.99
Freeze Dried Chicken (10oz)	$22.99	$29.99
Daily Patties Beef (14oz)	$38.99	$45.99

*Prices as of July 2026. Compare across retailers to find the best deal.

Ingredients & Quality

Honest Kitchen

Honest Kitchen prides itself on using "human-grade" ingredients. This means their ingredients meet the same standards as food meant for human consumption. Key features:

USDA certified organic options available
No artificial preservatives, colors, or flavors
Grain-free recipes available
Whole food ingredients you'd recognize from your own kitchen

Stella & Chewy's

Stella & Chewy's focuses on minimally processed, raw nutrition. Key features:

95% meat, organs, and bone
No grains or fillers
Fortified with vitamins and minerals
Single-protein options available

Guaranteed Analysis

Nutrient	Honest Kitchen	Stella & Chewy's
Crude Protein	32-38%	45-48%
Crude Fat	15-20%	25-30%
Moisture	5-8%	3-5%

Pros & Cons

Honest Kitchen

Pros:

More affordable pricing
Human-grade ingredients
Wider recipe variety
Better for dogs with sensitive stomachs

Cons:

Lower protein content than Stella & Chewy's
Some recipes contain grains
Fewer single-protein options

Stella & Chewy's

Pros:

Very high protein content
All single-protein options
Closer to ancestral diet
Excellent for picky eaters

Cons:

More expensive
Higher fat content (not ideal for all dogs)
Limited recipe variety

Where to Buy & Compare Prices

Both brands are available through multiple retailers. Use FreezeDryPaw to compare prices across Chewy, Amazon, PetSmart, and Petco to find the best deal.

View Honest Kitchen Products

Compare all Honest Kitchen prices

View Stella & Chewy's Products

Compare all Stella & Chewy's prices

Frequently Asked Questions

Which brand is better for puppies?

Both brands offer puppy-friendly formulas. Honest Kitchen's lower protein content may be easier for growing puppies, but consult your vet.

Can I rotate between Honest Kitchen and Stella & Chewy's?

Yes, but do it gradually over 7-10 days to avoid digestive upset.

Which brand is more eco-friendly?

Honest Kitchen has a stronger focus on sustainable sourcing and organic ingredients.