Freeze-Dried vs. Homemade Diets for Skin Conditions

Kristina Voltin
3 days ago
12 min read

When it comes to helping your dog with chronic skin issues like itching or redness, diet plays a key role. Two popular options are freeze-dried raw diets and homemade diets, each with its pros and cons:

Freeze-dried diets: Convenient, nutritionally balanced, and long-lasting. These are professionally formulated to support skin health with omega fatty acids, vitamins, and high-quality proteins.
Homemade diets: Fully customizable and ideal for dogs with multiple allergies. However, they require careful planning to meet nutritional needs and avoid deficiencies.

Quick Comparison

Factor	Freeze-Dried Raw Diets	Homemade Diets
Nutrition	Balanced, meets standards	Needs vet guidance to balance
Convenience	Easy to serve, long shelf life	Time-intensive, requires effort
Cost	$20–$40 per pound	Variable, depends on ingredients
Ingredient Control	Transparent ingredient lists	Full control but labor-intensive
Safety	Low contamination risk	Higher risk without strict hygiene

If your dog has skin sensitivities, freeze-dried diets are often easier and safer, while homemade diets allow more control but require vet supervision. Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes.

Freeze-Dried Raw Diets for Skin Health

What Is Freeze-Dried Raw Food?

Freeze-dried raw dog food is made using a process called sublimation. This low-temperature method removes moisture by turning ice directly into vapor, skipping the liquid phase entirely [4]. The result? A lightweight, shelf-stable product that keeps the nutritional value of fresh raw ingredients intact while being much more convenient for pet owners.

To put it in perspective, freeze-dried food has a final moisture content of just 5–7%, compared to over 70% in frozen raw food [4].

Skin Health Benefits

The freeze-drying process preserves key nutrients that are essential for supporting healthy skin and coats, especially in dogs with chronic skin issues. These diets are rich in high-quality animal proteins and omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which promote skin cell repair and help reduce inflammation. Additionally, vitamins like A, E, and B-complex, along with natural antioxidants and probiotics, strengthen the skin's barrier and overall health [2][4].

For dogs with sensitive skin, freeze-dried diets are often a game-changer. They usually avoid fillers, artificial additives, and unnecessary starches, all of which can trigger allergies or irritate the skin. By sticking to clean, simple ingredient lists, these diets lower the risk of food-related skin reactions [2][8]. This streamlined approach not only supports the immune system but can also help manage chronic skin problems [7].

Convenience and Safety Advantages

Freeze-dried raw diets also come with practical perks that make them easier to manage than traditional raw feeding. Their long shelf life - often lasting months or even years when stored properly - means fewer trips to the store and no need for bulky freezer storage [3][9]. The lightweight packaging is great for storage and travel, and preparing the food is as simple as adding water to rehydrate it [3][5].

When it comes to safety, freeze-drying naturally reduces the risk of pathogens. Pairing this process with High-Pressure Pasteurization (HPP) takes it a step further by eliminating harmful bacteria while keeping the nutrients intact [3][4][6].

While handling freeze-dried raw food still requires good hygiene practices, its low moisture content slows bacterial growth during storage [3][4]. Dogs generally handle bacteria better than humans, but households with immunocompromised pets or vulnerable individuals should take extra precautions [4].

With these practical and safety benefits, freeze-dried diets are an excellent choice for managing skin conditions while simplifying pet care.

Loyal Saints: Premium Freeze-Dried Raw Food

Loyal Saints takes these benefits to the next level with their premium freeze-dried raw food, specially designed for dogs with skin sensitivities. Made in the USA with human-grade, all-natural ingredients, their recipes focus on high protein and nutrient-rich produce, avoiding additives and fillers entirely.

Formulated under veterinarian guidance, Loyal Saints' diets meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, ensuring complete nutritional support. By prioritizing whole, natural ingredients, they minimize common allergens that often contribute to chronic skin issues. The freeze-drying process locks in nutrients and flavor, making it easy to provide the benefits of raw nutrition without the hassle of preparing fresh meals.

Loyal Saints also emphasizes digestive health with nature-based nutrients and wholesome fibers. This focus on gut health plays a crucial role in improving skin conditions, as a healthy gut often leads to better skin and reduced inflammation. Their approach aligns perfectly with dietary strategies aimed at managing chronic skin issues, offering a holistic solution for dogs in need.

Homemade Diets for Skin Conditions

Custom Diets for Individual Dogs

Homemade diets give you complete control over what goes into your dog's bowl. This level of precision can be a game-changer for dogs struggling with chronic skin issues, especially when allergies are suspected. By carefully selecting ingredients, you can create meals tailored to your dog's specific needs.

For example, elimination diets are a popular approach. These diets typically consist of a single protein, like turkey or venison, paired with one carbohydrate, such as sweet potatoes. This simplicity makes it much easier to pinpoint allergens that might be triggering skin flare-ups. In contrast, many commercial dog foods include a mix of proteins, grains, and additives, which can make identifying the problem nearly impossible.

Homemade meals also let you choose top-quality ingredients. Whether it’s organic vegetables or grass-fed meats, you can prioritize the best options for your dog's health. This is particularly helpful for dogs with multiple sensitivities, as controlling every ingredient can lead to healthier, clearer skin after prolonged issues.

Another advantage? Tracking your dog's diet becomes far easier. With homemade meals, you know exactly what your dog is eating every day, making it simpler to connect specific ingredients to skin reactions. Keeping a detailed food diary can help you refine their diet over time. However, while this control is appealing, it doesn’t come without its challenges.

Risks and Difficulties

As appealing as homemade diets are, they come with significant hurdles. One of the biggest concerns is achieving proper nutrition. A 2013 study revealed that 95% of homemade dog food recipes lacked at least one essential nutrient, and 83% were deficient in multiple areas. Out of 200 recipes, only nine met all minimum nutritional requirements.

These deficiencies can actually make skin conditions worse. For example, dogs need the right balance of calcium and phosphorus, sufficient zinc, vitamin E, and the correct fatty acid ratios to maintain healthy skin. Without professional guidance, even the most well-intentioned pet owners can create diets that fall short.

Food safety is another major issue. Preparing meals at home requires strict hygiene practices to avoid contamination. Poultry, for instance, must be cooked to at least 165°F to kill harmful bacteria. Improper handling of raw or undercooked ingredients can expose both dogs and their families to pathogens like Salmonella or E. coli.

Then there’s the time and effort involved. Homemade diets require sourcing quality ingredients, careful preparation, proper storage, and ongoing monitoring to ensure your dog gets all the nutrients they need. Many owners start with good intentions but find it challenging to stay consistent, which can lead to nutritional gaps that may worsen skin problems.

Both the American College of Veterinary Nutrition and the American Veterinary Medical Association caution that most homemade recipes found online or in books are not nutritionally complete. Without professional input, these diets could do more harm than good.

Helpful Ingredients for Skin Problems

When done right, homemade diets can help improve skin conditions. With veterinary guidance, you can include ingredients that specifically support skin health. One standout addition is fish oil, which provides omega-3 fatty acids like EPA and DHA. These healthy fats reduce inflammation and strengthen the skin’s natural barrier.

For dogs with protein sensitivities, lean protein sources like turkey, venison, or rabbit are excellent choices. These proteins are less likely to trigger allergies compared to more common options like beef or chicken, which many dogs have been exposed to repeatedly.

Vegetables also play an important role in skin health. Sweet potatoes and carrots, for instance, are rich in vitamin A, which helps with skin cell renewal. Green beans are another great option, offering fiber and essential vitamins while being gentle on sensitive stomachs.

Coconut oil can be a helpful addition for dogs with dry skin, though it should be introduced slowly and in small amounts. Eggs, when tolerated, are another excellent source of protein and biotin, both of which support healthy skin and a shiny coat.

Supplements like vitamin E, a powerful antioxidant, and zinc can also benefit dogs with certain skin conditions. However, these should only be added under the guidance of a veterinarian to avoid toxicity or imbalances.

To ensure your dog’s homemade diet is both safe and effective, work closely with a board-certified veterinary nutritionist. They can help you create a balanced plan that supports your dog's overall health while addressing their specific skin issues.

TOP #71: How Diet Affects Your Dog's Skin and Coat

Freeze-Dried vs. Homemade: Side-by-Side Comparison

After exploring both diet options, here’s a straightforward comparison to help you decide what’s best for managing your dog’s chronic skin condition.

Key Factors to Consider

When weighing freeze-dried raw diets against homemade options, a few critical aspects stand out:

Nutritional Completeness: Freeze-dried raw diets are designed to meet AAFCO standards, offering balanced nutrition with essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals that promote skin health. Homemade diets can be tailored to your dog’s specific needs but may fall short on nutrients unless formulated with veterinary input.
Convenience: Freeze-dried diets are a breeze - shelf-stable, easy to store, and require minimal prep (just add water). Homemade diets, on the other hand, demand significant effort, from sourcing ingredients to cooking and portioning.
Ingredient Transparency: Many reputable freeze-dried brands provide detailed ingredient lists, making it easier to steer clear of allergens. Homemade diets give you full control over what goes into your dog’s meals, but maintaining quality requires diligence.
Safety: Freeze-dried options are generally safer due to processing methods that reduce bacteria, though proper handling is still necessary. Homemade diets, particularly those involving raw ingredients, bring a higher risk of contamination if hygiene isn’t strictly maintained.
Cost: Freeze-dried diets can be pricey, ranging from $20–$40 per pound in the U.S. Homemade diets may seem cheaper at first glance, but the time and effort involved often offset the savings.
Impact on Skin Health: Freeze-dried diets are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for healthy skin. Homemade diets can deliver similar benefits but only if carefully balanced - imbalanced meals could worsen skin issues.

For a quick overview, check out the table below.

Quick Reference Table

Factor	Freeze-Dried Raw Diets	Homemade Diets
Nutritional Completeness	Formulated to meet AAFCO standards; balanced nutrients for skin health	Can be customized but may lack nutrients without expert input
Convenience	Easy to serve; shelf-stable; minimal prep	Time-consuming; requires sourcing, cooking, and portioning
Ingredient Control	Transparent ingredient lists from trusted brands	Full control but requires rigorous quality checks
Safety	Generally safe due to pathogen-reducing processes	Higher contamination risk without strict hygiene
Cost	Higher upfront cost ($20–$40/lb)	Variable costs; lower on ingredients but higher in effort
Skin Health Impact	Balanced omega fatty acids for skin support	Can support skin health if properly balanced
Shelf Life	Long shelf life; low moisture (~5–7%)	Short shelf life; high moisture (~70%+)
Professional Guidance	Often veterinarian-approved formulations	Needs veterinary nutritionist for proper balance

How to Choose the Right Diet

Selecting the right diet for your dog means taking into account their skin condition, your lifestyle, and your budget.

What to Consider

Start by evaluating your dog's skin health. If they suffer from chronic dermatitis or persistent itching, it’s essential to rule out specific food sensitivities. Dogs with allergies or sensitivities often do well on diets featuring limited, novel, or single-source proteins and minimal additives.

Allergy profiles are a major factor in this decision. Freeze-dried options, like those from Loyal Saints, use natural ingredients and are designed to reduce common allergens. Their clear ingredient lists make it easier to avoid triggers. Alternatively, homemade diets allow you to control every ingredient, but they demand careful planning and attention to quality.

Your budget also plays a role. Freeze-dried diets in the U.S. typically cost between $20 and $40 per pound [3][4]. While homemade meals might seem cheaper at first, you’ll need to account for the cost of high-quality ingredients, supplements, and possibly consultations with a veterinary nutritionist. A poorly balanced homemade diet could lead to health issues - and expensive vet bills.

Lifestyle factors are equally important. Freeze-dried diets are convenient, requiring minimal prep - just add water - which is ideal for busy pet owners or frequent travelers. Homemade diets, on the other hand, require significant time for planning, sourcing ingredients, preparation, and proper storage.

Think about your ability to handle food preparation safely. Homemade diets demand a solid understanding of canine nutrition and food safety practices. In contrast, freeze-dried options simplify the process. Brands like Loyal Saints are veterinarian-approved and meet AAFCO standards, providing complete nutrition without the need for extensive expertise.

Keep in mind that dietary changes often take 6–12 weeks to show results for skin conditions. Whether you choose a freeze-dried or homemade diet, consistency is key. Professional advice can help ensure your dog’s nutritional needs are fully met.

Working with Your Veterinarian

Expert guidance is essential when tailoring a diet to your dog’s specific needs. Start by consulting your veterinarian to diagnose the root cause of the issue. What seems like a food allergy could actually stem from environmental factors, parasites, or infections. Without a proper diagnosis, even the best dietary changes might not solve the problem.

If food allergies are suspected, your vet may recommend an elimination diet. This could involve a limited-ingredient freeze-dried food with a novel protein or a carefully designed homemade recipe. These diets often include supplements like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E, which support skin health.

Monitoring progress is another area where your veterinarian can help. They’ll look for signs of improvement, such as less itching, fewer lesions, a shinier coat, and reduced inflammation. At the same time, they’ll watch for any signs of worsening, like increased scratching, hair loss, new rashes, or digestive issues that need immediate attention.

For homemade diets, professional input ensures your recipes meet all nutritional standards. A veterinary nutritionist can confirm that your dog is getting the right balance of essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals to avoid nutritional gaps that might worsen their condition or cause new problems.

Finally, your vet can guide you through the transition process. Typically, they’ll suggest gradually mixing the new diet with the old over 7–10 days to minimize digestive upset. Keeping detailed notes on your dog’s skin and overall health during this time can provide valuable insights for any necessary adjustments.

Finding the Right Diet for Your Dog's Skin

When it comes to managing chronic skin issues in dogs, finding the right diet is all about balancing effectiveness, safety, and practicality. Both freeze-dried raw diets and homemade meals can be excellent choices, but the better option depends on your dog's specific needs and your lifestyle.

Let’s break it down. Freeze-dried raw diets are a great choice for their convenience and consistent nutrition. These diets undergo minimal processing, which helps preserve natural nutrients like essential fatty acids and proteins - key players in promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat[2][7]. For instance, brands like Loyal Saints create veterinarian-approved recipes that meet AAFCO standards. Their products are designed with "natural, wholesome ingredients to minimize common allergens and sensitivities"[1], making them a reliable option for dogs with skin sensitivities.

On the other hand, homemade diets shine when your dog has unique dietary needs, such as multiple food allergies. Preparing meals at home gives you complete control over every ingredient, allowing you to tailor the diet specifically to your dog’s requirements. However, this approach demands time, effort, and regular input from a veterinarian to ensure the meals are nutritionally balanced.

The decision often comes down to what’s practical for you. Freeze-dried diets are typically more expensive but offer the benefits of long shelf life and consistent nutrition. It's important to note that improvements in your dog’s skin health might take weeks to show, so sticking to a routine is more important than aiming for perfection.

Regardless of the route you choose, professional guidance is crucial. Your veterinarian can help determine whether your dog’s skin problems are linked to food allergies, environmental triggers, or other health conditions.

Ultimately, success lies in combining quality nutrition with realistic expectations. Whether you opt for the convenience of freeze-dried food or the flexibility of homemade meals, focus on using high-quality ingredients, maintaining proper nutritional balance, and monitoring your dog’s progress closely.

FAQs

How can I tell if my dog's skin issues are caused by food allergies, and what should I do about it?

If you think your dog’s skin issues might be tied to food allergies, your first move should be to talk to your veterinarian. They can help pinpoint possible allergens and guide you on the best steps to take.

Switching your dog’s diet to one with straightforward, high-quality ingredients can minimize exposure to common allergens. Freeze-dried raw food made with natural, human-grade ingredients is an excellent choice. It not only promotes healthier skin but also provides balanced nutrition for your furry friend.

What nutrients should I prioritize in a freeze-dried diet to support my dog’s skin health?

To keep your dog’s skin healthy, choose a freeze-dried diet packed with high-quality protein from sources such as beef, chicken, or fish. Protein plays a key role in repairing skin and keeping their coat strong and shiny. Also, look for foods that include omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help reduce inflammation and keep your dog’s skin well-hydrated.

Adding ingredients like fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants - think blueberries, spinach, or sweet potatoes - can give their immune system a boost, which supports overall skin health. Steer clear of foods with fillers or artificial additives, as these can irritate sensitive skin and cause more harm than good.

What mistakes should I avoid when preparing homemade meals for a dog with skin sensitivities?

When making homemade meals for a dog with skin sensitivities, there are some common mistakes you’ll want to avoid to keep your furry friend healthy. One of the biggest missteps is not providing a well-rounded diet. Dogs need a variety of nutrients, including essential vitamins and minerals, which can be tricky to get right without expert advice. Skipping these can not only worsen skin problems but also cause other health issues.

Another pitfall is using ingredients that could trigger allergies or sensitivities. It’s always a good idea to consult your veterinarian to pinpoint potential allergens and confirm that the ingredients you’re using are safe. Also, don’t stick to just one protein source - introducing some variety can help lower the chance of your dog developing new sensitivities over time.

Lastly, be mindful of how you prepare and store the food. Poor handling or storage can lead to contamination, which might aggravate your dog’s skin condition. If you’re unsure about balancing your dog’s diet at home, you might want to explore high-quality, vet-approved options like freeze-dried raw diets. These can offer a convenient and nutritionally complete solution.