Best Ingredients in Freeze-Dried Food for Digestion

Kristina Voltin
Sep 16
12 min read

When it comes to improving your dog's digestion, freeze-dried food can be a game-changer. The key is choosing products with the right ingredients. Here's what to look for:

Single-Source Proteins: Helps reduce digestive stress by avoiding mixed protein sources that can trigger allergies. Options like venison, duck, rabbit, and lamb are great for sensitive stomachs.
Limited Ingredients: Simplified recipes with 3-7 high-quality components minimize allergens and make it easier to pinpoint sensitivities.
Digestive Enzymes & Probiotics: Support nutrient absorption and balance gut bacteria, reducing bloating and irregular stools.
Fiber-Rich Produce: Ingredients like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, and blueberries promote regularity and soothe digestion.
Natural Preservation: Freeze-drying retains nutrients without artificial additives, ensuring clean, safe, and long-lasting food.

Freeze-dried food is ideal for dogs with sensitive stomachs because it prioritizes natural, nutrient-dense ingredients while avoiding unnecessary fillers or synthetic additives. Always introduce new food gradually and consult your vet if issues persist.

Single-Source Animal Proteins: Reducing Digestive Stress

If your dog has a sensitive stomach, keeping things simple can make all the difference. That’s where single-source animal proteins come in. These proteins form the backbone of digestive-friendly freeze-dried foods by focusing on just one high-quality protein. By eliminating the mix of multiple protein sources, these formulas create a straightforward and predictable option that helps your dog’s system adjust more easily.

The freeze-drying process plays a big role here. It preserves proteins in their natural state, keeping essential amino acids and the protein structure intact. This gentle method ensures the protein remains easy to digest, putting less strain on your dog’s digestive system.

Why Single Proteins Work

Using a single protein source reduces the chance of allergen exposure and helps your dog’s digestive system process the food more efficiently. When multiple proteins are involved, it’s much harder to pinpoint which one might be causing digestive trouble.

Single proteins are especially helpful for elimination diets. If your dog starts experiencing digestive issues, it’s easier to determine if the protein source is the problem. This clarity speeds up the process of finding the right food for your pup’s specific needs.

Nutritionally, freeze-dried single-source proteins often include premium cuts of muscle, organs, and bone. This combination provides a complete amino acid profile without relying on synthetic supplements, which can sometimes irritate sensitive stomachs.

Exploring Novel Proteins

For dogs that react poorly to common proteins like chicken or beef, novel proteins offer a great alternative. These are less common protein sources that are ideal for dogs who haven’t been exposed to them before.

Venison: A standout choice, venison is naturally lean and nutrient-rich. Wild deer consume a diverse diet of grasses and herbs, making their meat a unique option that’s less likely to trigger allergies compared to farm-raised meats.
Duck: If your dog struggles with poultry allergies, duck can be a helpful solution. It has a higher fat content, which can actually aid digestion by slowing gastric emptying and reducing stomach upset.
Rabbit: Known for being one of the most hypoallergenic proteins, rabbit is lean, easy to digest, and rarely causes allergic reactions. Many freeze-dried rabbit formulas include the whole prey animal - muscle meat, organs, and bone - offering a natural balance similar to what dogs would eat in the wild.
Lamb: For dogs in areas where lamb isn’t commonly part of their diet, this protein can be a good novel option. Lamb sourced from New Zealand and Australia is often preferred for its grass-fed quality and minimal processing.

When choosing a novel protein, it’s important to consider your dog’s dietary history. A protein is only "novel" if your dog hasn’t been regularly exposed to it. Brands like Loyal Saints ensure their freeze-dried formulas use carefully sourced single-source proteins, prioritizing purity and digestibility for sensitive dogs.

Limited Ingredient Formulations: Simplicity for Digestive Health

When your dog’s stomach is giving them trouble, keeping it simple can make all the difference. Limited ingredient diets strip away unnecessary components, focusing on the essentials to help pinpoint what works for your pup - and what doesn’t. These streamlined recipes are designed to minimize the risk of digestive issues by cutting out potential irritants.

The beauty of limited ingredient freeze-dried foods is their straightforwardness. Instead of wading through a laundry list of additives you can’t pronounce, you’ll find just a few high-quality, recognizable ingredients. This approach not only reduces the chance of triggering sensitivities but also gives you peace of mind about what you’re feeding your dog.

For dogs with sensitive stomachs, fewer ingredients make it easier to identify and eliminate allergens.

Another plus? Freeze-drying locks in the natural goodness of each ingredient without relying on preservatives. This means fewer synthetic additives, which could otherwise irritate your dog’s digestive system.

What Makes an Ideal Limited Ingredient Diet

The foundation of a great limited ingredient freeze-dried food is a single, clearly identified protein source. Look for labels that specify the protein - like duck, venison, or salmon - instead of vague terms like "poultry meal" or "meat by-products." Proteins like these are often chosen because they’re less likely to cause reactions in dogs with sensitivities.

Carbohydrates in the recipe should also be simple and easy to digest. Ingredients like sweet potatoes, pumpkin, or peas not only provide energy but also add natural fiber to support digestion without overwhelming your dog’s system.

High-quality limited ingredient diets avoid common allergens. According to 2024 industry data, ingredients like beef, dairy, wheat, eggs, chicken, lamb, soy, and artificial preservatives such as BHA are among the most frequently excluded [1]. Some premium brands even go a step further by leaving out extras like corn to reduce the risk of digestive upset [2].

For simplicity, aim for ingredient lists with just three to seven items.

Top-tier limited ingredient freeze-dried foods also steer clear of unnecessary processing aids and artificial additives, such as synthetic colors, artificial flavors, and chemical preservatives. Brands like Loyal Saints stand out for their use of human-grade, all-natural ingredients, avoiding fillers that could irritate sensitive stomachs.

When choosing a limited ingredient diet, pay close attention to the quality and sourcing of each ingredient. Even the simplest recipe won’t help if it’s made with subpar components. The freeze-drying process should preserve the natural nutrients of the ingredients without relying on synthetic vitamin and mineral premixes that could disrupt digestion. Up next, we’ll explore how digestive enzymes and probiotics can take gut health to the next level.

Digestive Enzymes and Probiotics: Supporting Gut Health

Your dog's digestive system relies on enzymes to break down food and probiotics to maintain a balanced gut environment. Digestive enzymes help convert food into nutrients your dog can absorb, while probiotics keep the gut healthy and balanced. When freeze-dried dog foods include these components, they provide extra support for smoother, more efficient digestion.

The natural enzymes and probiotics found in freeze-dried foods work seamlessly with your dog's digestive system. Dogs with sensitive stomachs often face issues because their bodies struggle to fully break down food or because their gut bacteria are out of balance. By incorporating foods rich in these helpful ingredients, you can promote better digestion, reduce bloating, and minimize irregular bowel movements.

Now, let’s dive into the key enzymes that play a crucial role in digestion.

Key Digestive Enzymes

Protease is responsible for breaking down proteins, such as those found in chicken, beef, or fish. Adequate levels of protease allow your dog to digest these proteins more thoroughly, reducing the chance of undigested food fermenting in the gut and causing discomfort. This enzyme is particularly beneficial for senior dogs or those with pancreatic challenges.

Amylase focuses on carbohydrates, converting starches into simple sugars that are easier to absorb. Without enough amylase, carbs can remain undigested, potentially leading to loose stools or gas. Dogs transitioning from grain-heavy kibble to freeze-dried diets often benefit greatly from this enzyme.

Lipase is essential for breaking down fats, especially for dogs that struggle with rich or fatty foods. It helps digest the healthy fats found in quality freeze-dried options, ensuring your dog can enjoy the benefits of omega fatty acids without digestive upset. Dogs with sensitive stomachs often show noticeable improvements when their diet includes sufficient lipase.

Freeze-dried foods naturally deliver these enzymes alongside the nutrients they help process, creating a digestion experience that mirrors what dogs would encounter in the wild.

In addition to enzymes, probiotics play a vital role in maintaining gut health by supporting beneficial bacteria.

Helpful Probiotic Strains

Lactobacillus acidophilus is a well-researched probiotic for dogs, known for its ability to reduce harmful bacteria in the small intestine. It helps maintain a slightly acidic environment that supports digestion and prevents bad bacteria from thriving. Dogs recovering from antibiotics or dealing with recurring digestive problems often benefit from regular intake of this strain.

Bifidobacterium animalis works in the large intestine, promoting healthy stool formation and supporting immune health. It also aids in producing certain B vitamins that contribute to your dog’s overall well-being.

Enterococcus faecium stands out for its resilience, as it can survive the freeze-drying process better than many other strains. This hardy probiotic helps strengthen the intestinal barrier, preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream and triggering inflammation.

One major advantage of probiotics in freeze-dried food is their stability and gradual release. Unlike supplements that deliver a single large dose, probiotics in food offer steady support throughout the day, helping maintain a consistent balance of gut bacteria.

Brands like Loyal Saints often combine multiple probiotic strains in their freeze-dried foods for a well-rounded approach to gut health. This multi-strain strategy targets different parts of the digestive system, ensuring comprehensive support and contributing to a more resilient and balanced digestive tract.

Fiber-Rich Fruits and Vegetables: Promoting Regularity

Building on the importance of proteins and enzymes, fiber plays a crucial role in keeping your dog's digestive system running smoothly. Freeze-dried fruits and vegetables are an excellent way to provide this essential nutrient. They deliver a balanced mix of soluble and insoluble fiber, both of which are key for healthy digestion.

The freeze-drying process locks in fiber and nutrients, offering the same digestive benefits as fresh produce but in a convenient, shelf-stable form. This is particularly helpful for dogs with sensitive stomachs, as natural fiber from fruits and vegetables can be gentle yet effective.

Let’s take a closer look at the two types of fiber and how they contribute to your dog's digestive health.

Soluble vs. Insoluble Fiber

Soluble fiber dissolves in water, forming a gel-like substance that slows digestion. This helps regulate blood sugar levels and can be especially beneficial for dogs with loose stools. By absorbing excess water in the intestines, soluble fiber adds bulk to stool and promotes smoother bowel movements. It also nourishes beneficial gut bacteria, supporting a healthy microbiome.

Insoluble fiber, on the other hand, does not dissolve in water. Instead, it adds bulk to stool and helps food move efficiently through the digestive tract. This type of fiber is particularly useful for dogs prone to constipation, as it encourages regular bowel movements and prevents waste from lingering in the colon.

High-quality freeze-dried dog foods often include ingredients that provide both types of fiber, ensuring balanced support for dogs dealing with loose stools, constipation, or general digestive maintenance.

Here are some prime examples of fiber-rich produce that promote digestive health.

Examples of Digestive-Friendly Produce

Sweet Potatoes are a standout ingredient in freeze-dried dog foods. Packed with fiber, they help regulate bowel movements and soothe sensitive stomachs. Sweet potatoes are also low in fat, easy to digest, and loaded with vitamins and minerals that contribute to gut health.

"Sweet potatoes are a fantastic source of essential vitamins for your dog. ... Fiber is another key benefit of sweet potatoes. A diet high in fiber aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, fiber can make meals easier to digest." – OLK9 Iowa [3]

Their natural sweetness and fiber content make sweet potatoes an excellent choice for promoting digestive regularity.

Pumpkin is another powerhouse ingredient, known for its ability to balance digestion. Rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber, pumpkin helps alleviate diarrhea, relieve constipation, and regulate overall digestion. Its high water content also helps hydrate the intestines, making it especially useful for dogs experiencing digestive upset.

"Pumpkin is not just a fall favorite; it's also packed with nutrients that can benefit your dog. Rich in fiber, pumpkin aids in digestion, making it a great addition to your dog's diet. If your dog is experiencing loose stools or constipation, pumpkin can help regulate their digestive system. It's gentle on their stomach and easy to digest." – OLK9 Iowa [3]

Pumpkin’s versatility allows it to address a wide range of digestive concerns, from loose stools to constipation.

Blueberries may be small, but they deliver big benefits. These fiber-rich berries help reduce inflammation and regulate bowel movements, making them a great option for digestive health. Plus, their low-calorie content makes them suitable for dogs managing their weight.

"Blueberries are tiny but mighty when it comes to their health benefits. ... Another advantage of blueberries is their fiber content. Fiber aids in digestion and can help regulate your dog's bowel movements. This makes them a great snack for dogs with sensitive stomachs." – OLK9 Iowa [3]

When choosing freeze-dried dog foods, look for options that include a variety of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables instead of relying on just one source. Brands like Loyal Saints incorporate multiple digestive-friendly ingredients into their recipes, ensuring dogs receive a well-rounded blend of fiber, proteins, and enzymes for optimal gut health.

Natural Preservation: Avoiding Artificial Additives

When it comes to freeze-dried dog food, the way it's preserved plays a huge role in its quality. Many traditional pet foods rely on synthetic preservatives, artificial colors, and flavors to extend shelf life. While this might seem convenient, these additives can be a problem for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Freeze-dried food takes a different approach, using natural preservation methods that skip the chemicals entirely.

Here’s how it works: freeze-drying involves rapidly freezing the food at very low temperatures and then using a vacuum to remove ice by turning it directly into vapor. This process does more than just extend shelf life - it locks in flavor, nutrients, and even the food's natural structure. By reducing moisture to levels between 0.08 and 0.33 water activity[4], freeze-dried food becomes highly resistant to bacteria and spoilage. The best part? It retains up to 97% of its original nutrients[6], so your dog gets the benefits of fresh food without the need for synthetic preservatives.

Research backs this up. Freeze-dried foods can hold onto as much as 63% of their vitamin C content and even double the phenolic compounds compared to heat-based preservation methods[5]. That’s a big win for maintaining the nutritional integrity of the food.

Stored properly in airtight containers, freeze-dried food can stay safe and nutritious for over 25 years[4][6]. This impressive shelf life depends entirely on natural preservation techniques, not artificial additives.

Loyal Saints takes this process to the next level by using advanced freeze-drying technology to preserve human-grade, all-natural ingredients. The result? Clean, balanced nutrition for dogs at every stage of life, without compromising on quality or digestive health.

Conclusion: Choosing the Best Ingredients for Your Dog's Digestion

When it comes to selecting the right freeze-dried food for your dog, it all starts with the ingredients. Prioritize options that include single-source proteins, limited ingredient formulations, enzymes, probiotics, and fiber-rich produce to support smooth and effective digestion tailored to your pet's needs.

Freeze-drying stands out as a natural preservation method because it keeps the food's nutrients intact while avoiding heavy processing. This approach creates a shelf-stable product without relying on artificial additives, which can sometimes upset your dog’s digestive system.

As you explore freeze-dried food options, focus on products that align with these digestion-friendly principles. Look for those made with human-grade ingredients and free from artificial additives, offering a clean and wholesome nutritional base. The freeze-drying process ensures that the food retains its natural nutrients, making it a great choice for your dog’s overall health. For example, Loyal Saints provides veterinarian-approved freeze-dried raw dog food, crafted with all-natural, high-protein ingredients to support dogs of all ages while promoting digestive health and vitality.

When introducing new foods, take it slow to help your dog adjust, and always consult your veterinarian if digestive issues persist.

FAQs

How can I tell if my dog might benefit from a novel protein diet?

If your dog is experiencing constant itching, ear infections, digestive troubles like diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive gas, a lackluster coat, skin problems, unexpected weight changes, or low energy, these could be signs of a food sensitivity or allergy. One potential solution is a novel protein diet, which involves feeding your dog a protein source they haven’t had before. This approach may help alleviate these symptoms.

Make sure to consult your veterinarian first to determine if a novel protein diet is suitable for your dog and to ensure their diet remains balanced and nutritious.

How do probiotics and digestive enzymes in freeze-dried dog food benefit my dog’s digestion?

Freeze-dried dog food often includes probiotics and digestive enzymes, which can work wonders for your dog's digestion and gut health. Probiotics help keep a healthy balance of good bacteria in the gut, which supports the immune system, soothes inflammation, and can even help with issues like diarrhea. On the other hand, digestive enzymes make it easier for dogs to break down their food, leading to better nutrient absorption and less stomach upset.

When combined, these two components can lead to smoother digestion, improved nutrient intake, and a healthier, more content pup.

What makes freeze-drying better than other methods for preserving nutrients and extending shelf life?

Freeze-drying stands out as one of the most effective ways to preserve nutrients in food. This method retains up to 97% of essential nutrients, including vitamins and antioxidants, thanks to its use of low temperatures and sublimation. These conditions significantly reduce nutrient loss, making freeze-dried dog food an excellent option for maintaining its nutritional value.

Another major advantage of freeze-dried food is its impressive shelf life - lasting 25 to 30 years when stored correctly. By removing nearly all moisture, freeze-drying prevents microbial growth and spoilage. In comparison, dehydration methods typically preserve only 35-65% of nutrients and offer a shorter shelf life of about 10-15 years. With freeze-drying, your pet benefits from nutrient-rich meals that stay fresh for decades.