25 JunThe Best Air Dried Dog Foods: Our Top Picks
Air-dried dog food is becoming a popular choice among pet owners. This type of food is created by removing moisture from the ingredients using a gentle drying process. It retains the raw ingredients’ natural nutrients and flavors without artificial preservatives. Many pet owners prefer air-dried dog food because it combines raw food’s benefits with dry kibble’s convenience. For this guide on best-air-dried dog foods, we are picking ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food as our best overall, it is an excellent choice promoting your dog’s overall health, it has amazing reviews and works wonders among picky eaters. Below are our other top picks;
Best Air-Dried Dog Foods (Our Top Picks)
| Image | Product | Features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | 9.9 | Check Price Now Read full review | |
Best for High-Quality Nutrition  | 9.8 | Check Price Now Read full review | |
Best for Sensitive Stomachs  | 9.7 | Check Price Now Read full review | |
Best for Picky Eaters  | 9.6 | Check Price Now Read full review | |
Best for Convenience  | 9.5 | Check Price Now Read full review | |
Best for Grain-Free Diet  | 9.4 | Check Price Now Read full review |
When choosing the best air-dried dog food, several important factors must be considered. The quality of the ingredients is crucial; look for options that list whole meats and vegetables as the primary ingredients. Additionally, check for any fillers or artificial additives, as these can harm your dog’s health. The packaging should also preserve freshness, ensuring the food maintains its nutritional value over time.
We researched and tested various air-dried dog food brands to find the best options for your furry companion.
Best Air Dried Dog Food
- Best Overall: ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food
- Best for High-Quality Nutrition: Pawstruck Air Dried Dog Food
- Best for Sensitive Stomachs: Earth Animal Wisdom Air Dried Dog Food
- Best for Picky Eaters: ZIWI Peak Beef Recipe
- Best for Convenience: Superfood Complete Dog Food
- Best for Grain-Free Diet: Real Meat Air Dried Dog Food
Here is our selection of the best air-dried dog food. These products are nutritious, easy to store, and great for your furry friends.
1. ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food – Chicken
- Rich in protein and nutrients
- Suitable for all life stages
- Made from ethically sourced ingredients
- Pricey
- Some dogs might find the taste unusual
If you’re looking for high-quality, nutrient-rich dog food, this option from ZIWI is worth considering.
We recently tried the ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food with our dogs and were genuinely pleased with the results. The first thing we noticed was the rich, meaty aroma; even our pickiest eater couldn’t resist. The texture does a good job replicating the benefits of a raw diet, making meal times a breeze with no mess.
The ingredient quality is another standout feature. Knowing that the chicken is free-range and ethically sourced gives us peace of mind. The addition of superfoods like New Zealand green mussels and organic kelp provides a nutritional boost, promoting overall health.
On the flip side, the cost is something to consider. It’s on the higher end, but we believe the quality justifies the price. Transitioning to this food should be done slowly to prevent any digestive issues, but patience pays off with healthier, happier dogs in the end.
2. Pawstruck Air Dried Dog Food
- Made with real beef as the main ingredient
- Aligned with various dietary needs
- Free from fillers and preservatives
- Some dogs might not like the texture
- Can crumble easily
This dog food is a great choice for providing high-quality nutrition while maintaining convenience.
We were highly impressed with the Pawstruck Air Dried Dog Food. The beef-rich formula immediately caught our attention, and it’s reassuring that the ingredients are all-natural with reliable processing standards. Our dogs seemed particularly excited during meal times, possibly because the food was so flavorful and crunchy.
However, the price is on the higher side, which might make it a challenging purchase for some. Although the food is nutrient-rich, its texture may be less appealing to some dogs, especially those not accustomed to air-dried varieties. We did notice that the food tends to crumble, which can cause a bit of a mess.
Despite these few minor drawbacks, the quality and care that went into making this dog food make it a worthwhile investment. It’s perfect for those who want to ensure their pets are getting the best possible nutrition. The vet-recommended status and the lack of fillers make it a product we can confidently stand behind.
3. Earth Animal Wisdom Air Dried Dog Food
- High-quality ingredients
- Dogs love the taste
- Great for sensitive stomachs
- Pricey for larger dogs
- Not ideal for small breeds
A great choice for pet owners looking for high-quality, digestible, and tasty dog food.
We found that the Earth Animal Wisdom Air Dried Dog Food is made with premium, antibiotic-free chicken and sustainably sourced sardines. This combination is not only healthy but also very appealing to dogs.
The holistic formula includes organic sprouted seeds, which help with gut health. It’s perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Every piece is gently air-dried to keep the nutrients in.
Dogs seem to love the jerky-like texture and taste. It’s convenient for us to use as a meal, topper, or even as a training treat. The only downside is the cost, especially for those with bigger dogs or multiple pets.
4. ZIWI Peak Air-Dried Dog Food
- High protein content
- Ethically sourced ingredients
- Grain-free and low in carbs
- Takes some dogs time to adjust
- Not available in large bags
A great choice for picky eaters who deserve high-quality nutrition.
We’ve tried ZIWI Peak with our dogs, and it’s a game-changer. The rich, meaty flavor of the air-dried beef recipe had even our pickiest pet wagging their tail in delight. This brand prides itself on ethical sourcing and high-quality ingredients, which adds to our peace of mind.
Made with 96% free-range beef, organs, and bone, ZIWI Peak ensures our pets are getting nutrient-dense food. We appreciate that it’s grain-free and low in carbohydrates. This makes it a suitable option for dogs with food sensitivities or allergies.
On the flip side, ZIWI Peak is quite expensive compared to other dog foods. It also took a bit of convincing for some dogs to take to the new food. Lastly, it’s not available in large bags, which means more frequent purchasing. Despite these issues, we believe the quality justifies the price.
Overall, for dog owners who are serious about providing the best for their pets, ZIWI Peak is worth considering.
5. Superfood Complete Dog Food
- Made from high-quality ingredients
- Easy to store and feed
- Supports overall dog health
- Not returnable
This air-dried dog food is a nutritious option that’s both easy to serve and loved by dogs.
I’ve tried the Superfood Complete Dog Food with my dogs and they seemed to thoroughly enjoy it. The pieces are air-dried, making them easy to measure and serve. Plus, the rich blend of chicken, vegetables, and superfoods is a big hit with our pups.
The air-drying process preserves the nutrients well, and we noticed better digestion and shinier coats in our dogs after switching to this food. It’s a relief that it doesn’t need refrigeration—just scoop and serve.
While the quality is undeniable, it’s on the pricier side. If you have a large dog, it might not be practical as a primary food source. Mixing it with more affordable options can help stretch it further without sacrificing too much quality.
6. Real Meat Air Dried Dog Food
- Made with high-quality beef
- Suitable for all dog breeds and ages
- Free from grains and additives
- Only available in beef flavor
- Needs gradual transition
This dog food is a wholesome choice for anyone looking to feed their dog high-quality, air-dried beef kibble.
Our dogs love Real Meat Air Dried Dog Food. The quality of the ingredients is immediately apparent when you open the bag, and even picky eaters seem to enjoy the flavor. We’ve noticed our dogs have shinier coats and more energy since we started using this food.
It’s grain-free, which is a huge plus for dogs with sensitive stomachs or allergies. The air-dried process locks in the nutrients, making it both nutritious and flavorful. The size of the bites is perfect for dogs of all sizes, from puppies to seniors.
While we think this food is worth the investment, it can be on the pricey side. Also, keep in mind to transition your dog slowly to avoid any digestive issues. Despite the cost, the benefits make it a top choice for our furry friends.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best-air-dried dog food, there are some key factors to consider.
Ingredients
We should look at the ingredient list. It’s important to choose foods with high-quality, natural ingredients. Avoid artificial additives, fillers, and preservatives.
Nutritional Value
Check the nutritional value. Our dog’s food should be balanced, providing all the necessary vitamins and minerals. Make sure it has a good mix of protein, fats, and carbs.
Protein Source
It’s crucial to know the source of protein. Look for named meat sources like chicken, beef, or fish. Stay away from vague terms like “meat meal” or “animal by-products.”
Feeding Guidelines
Examine the feeding guidelines. We need to know the recommended portion sizes based on our dog’s weight and activity level.
| Factor | What to Look For |
|---|---|
| Ingredients | Natural, high-quality |
| Nutritional Value | Balanced, complete |
| Protein Source | Named meats like chicken, beef, fish |
| Feeding Guidelines | Clear recommendations |
Packaging
Consider the packaging. Air-dried dog food often comes in resealable bags. Proper packaging helps keep the food fresh longer.
Price and Budget
Check the price. While we want the best for our pets, it’s also important to stay within our budget. Compare prices and ensure the cost matches the value provided.
Dog’s Preferences
Finally, consider our dog’s preferences and needs. Some dogs might have allergies or specific dietary requirements. Always pick food that suits their taste and health needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
We’ve gathered some key points to help you understand the benefits and options of air-dried dog food.
What are the benefits of feeding my dog air-dried food?
Air-dried dog food retains more nutrients since it undergoes minimal processing. It’s also easy to store and has a long shelf life.
How does air-dried dog food compare to traditional kibble in terms of nutrition?
Air-dried food often contains higher protein levels and fewer fillers than traditional kibble. It’s closer to a dog’s natural diet.
Which air-dried dog foods are recommended by veterinarians?
Veterinarians often recommend brands like Ziwi Peak, Real Meat, and Only Natural Pet for their high-quality ingredients and nutritional balance.
What are the top-rated air-dried dog foods for large-breed dogs?
Top-rated options for large breeds include the Ziwi Peak Beef Recipe and Real Meat Lamb Recipe, known for their high protein content and essential nutrients.
What are some affordable options for air-dried dog food?
Affordable options can include Only Natural Pet MaxMeat and Wellness CORE Air-Dried, offering quality nutrition without a high price.
Are there any particular brands of air-dried dog food that are considered the healthiest?
Brands like Ziwi Peak and Real Meat are often considered among the healthiest due to their whole-food ingredients and natural preservatives.
