Franck Wang 
A Fresh Look at Freeze-Dried and Dehydrated Dog Food in Canada
Freeze-dried dog food has quickly become a favourite among Canadian pet owners who want the benefits of raw nutrition without the hassle. This style of food is crafted using methods that protect naturally occurring enzymes, proteins, and nutrients—offering a feeding experience that’s more biologically appropriate than most traditional kibble. If you’ve been researching freeze-dried dog food in Canada, you’ve likely come across two major names: Dr. Marty and Badlands Ranch. Both have earned strong reputations for quality and transparency.
This guide takes a closer look at these brands and the broader world of freeze-dried, air-dried, and dehydrated foods so you can decide which option is the best match for your dog’s diet and lifestyle.
What Makes Freeze-Dried Dog Food Different?
Pet parents who want whole-food nutrition without diving into full raw diets often turn to freeze-dried food. It’s one of the simplest ways to feed minimally processed meals, especially for dogs with picky appetites or sensitive stomachs.
Before choosing a formula, it’s helpful to understand the differences between the three main preservation methods: freeze-dried, air-dried, and dehydrated.
Freeze-Dried Dog Food: Raw Nutrition in a Convenient Format
Freeze-drying involves freezing raw ingredients and then removing moisture through a gentle vacuum process. Because there’s no heat involved, delicate nutrients stay intact.
Freeze-dried food typically retains:
- High levels of heat-sensitive vitamins
- Natural flavour and aroma
- Real meat texture dogs love
The end product is lightweight, nutrient-dense, and can be served as-is or mixed with water. Many consider it the closest option to raw feeding without refrigeration.
Why dog owners choose freeze-dried:
- Up to 98% nutrient retention
- Shelf-stable and travel-friendly
- Highly digestible — great for dogs with digestive issues
- Excellent for training, toppers, or full meals
Popular freeze-dried brands include Dr. Marty, Primal, and Stella & Chewy’s.
Air-Dried Dog Food: Gently Heated, Naturally Nutritious
Air-dried formulas are slowly dried at low temperatures, which partially cooks the food while keeping it far less processed than kibble. The result is a chewy, jerky-like texture many dogs enjoy.
Advantages of air-dried food:
- No rehydration required
- More shelf-stable than freeze-dried
- Great for dogs who like a hearty chew
- A clean ingredient list with high meat inclusion
Top options include Ziwi Peak, Red Dog Blue Kat, and Badlands Ranch’s Superfood Complete.
Dehydrated Dog Food: Gently Cooked and Easy to Prepare
Dehydrated foods use higher heat than air-dried or freeze-dried methods. These products often come as flakes or crumbles that need water before serving.
Why some owners choose dehydrated diets:
- Easy to scoop and store
- Usually more budget-friendly than freeze-dried
- Supportive of digestion for many sensitive dogs
- A good bridge between kibble and raw
Well-known dehydrated brands include Carna4 and Hurraw.
Quick Comparison: Freeze-Dried vs. Air-Dried vs. Dehydrated
| Feature | Freeze-Dried | Air-Dried | Dehydrated |
| Processing Method | Frozen + vacuum dried | Low heat | Moderate heat |
| Raw Status | Raw | Partially raw | Cooked |
| Texture | Light, crumbly | Chewy | Firm until rehydrated |
| Preparation | Optional | None | Must add water |
| Nutrient Retention | Very high | High | Moderate |
| Best For | Raw feeders, picky eaters | Busy owners, dental benefits | Budget-conscious + sensitive dogs |
Spotlight on Dr. Marty: Vet-Designed Freeze-Dried Diets
Dr. Marty Goldstein, a well-known holistic veterinarian, developed his freeze-dried line to support digestion, immunity, and overall vitality using whole-food ingredients.
Philosophy & Formulas
The brand focuses heavily on high-quality meats, organ meat for natural micronutrients, and fibre-rich produce. Each recipe is crafted to promote gut health and balanced nutrition.
Key features:
- Turkey, beef, duck, and salmon proteins
- Organ meats such as liver and heart
- Fruits + vegetables like carrots and apples
- Probiotics + natural digestive support
- Grain-free and made in the USA
Popular items include Nature’s Blend, Small Breed, and freeze-dried treats like Cod Crispies and Salmon Bites.
Why people choose Dr. Marty:
- Excellent for sensitive digestion
- Holistic veterinary backing
- Simple, consistent ingredient lists
Considerations
- Premium price point
- Limited variety in core meal formulas
Spotlight on Badlands Ranch: Superfood-Focused, Air-Dried Nutrition
Badlands Ranch was created by actress Katherine Heigl with a focus on responsibly sourced ingredients and nutrient-dense superfoods. While often discussed alongside freeze-dried diets, its main line, Superfood Complete, is actually air-dried.
Philosophy & Formulas
Badlands Ranch prioritizes ethical sourcing, clean ingredient panels, and antioxidant-rich additions.
Key features:
- Beef, chicken, salmon, lamb, and venison options
- Ingredients like turmeric, quinoa, chia seeds, and blueberries
- No artificial fillers or preservatives
- Grain-free and formulated for whole-body wellness
Why people choose Badlands Ranch:
- Multiple flavours to rotate
- Strong focus on skin, coat, and joint health
- Highly palatable for picky dogs
Considerations
- Newer company with a shorter track record
- No breed- or age-specific versions yet
Product Line Highlights (Canadian Availability)
Dr. Marty
- Nature’s Blend Essential Wellness – 16oz / 46oz
- Nature’s Blend Small Breed – 16oz / 48oz
- Treats: Cod Crispies, Cod Cracklers, Salmon Bites
Badlands Ranch
- Superfood Complete (Beef, Chicken, Lamb/Venison) – 11.5oz, 24oz, 64oz
- Freeze-Dried Treats: Salmon and Chicken 4oz bags
Pros & Cons Overview
| Feature | Dr. Marty | Badlands Ranch |
| Background | Created by veterinarian | Nutritionist + celebrity founder |
| Recipe Variety | Simple, consistent | Multiple proteins |
| Superfoods | Moderate | Extensive |
| Best For | Digestion, sensitivities | Skin, coat, picky eaters |
| Price Tier | Premium | Slightly more accessible |
| Raw Status | Fully freeze-dried raw | Air-dried (not raw) |
How to Decide Which Brand Is Best for Your Dog
Choose Dr. Marty if your dog:
- Has digestive sensitivities
- Prefers simpler ingredient lists
- Needs small breed-specific or puppy-friendly options
Choose Badlands Ranch if your dog:
- Is picky or prefers variety
- Needs extra support for joints/skin
- Likes air-dried, jerky-style textures
Many Owners Use Both
Some pet parents alternate between both brands to give their dogs a wider nutritional range without upsetting digestion.
Transition Tips for Freeze-Dried or Air-Dried Diets
- Start with a slow 7-day mixing schedule
- Rehydrate freeze-dried pieces if your dog prefers softer meals
- Use crumbs as meal toppers for picky eaters
- Store bags in dry, cool conditions for freshness
Why These Brands Stand Out in Canada
Both Dr. Marty and Badlands Ranch offer premium, minimally processed options that fit the growing demand for whole-food nutrition. Whether you choose veterinary-inspired formulas or superfood-heavy blends, your dog benefits from high-quality ingredients and excellent digestibility.
Final Thoughts
Freeze-dried and air-dried diets are reshaping how Canadians approach canine nutrition. Dr. Marty offers science-driven recipes ideal for sensitive dogs, while Badlands Ranch delivers flavourful, superfood-packed meals with strong palatability. Many pet parents choose one as their main diet and the other for rotation, treats, or toppers.
