Veterinarian Insights on Immune-Boosting Diets

Kristina Voltin
Jul 8
11 min read

Updated: Jul 9

Your dog's immune system relies heavily on their diet, with about 70% of immune function tied to gut health. Nutrient-rich foods, especially those with high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, help strengthen immune defenses. Freeze-dried raw food is becoming a popular choice among pet owners for its ability to retain nutrients that support immunity, digestion, and overall well-being. Unlike processed kibble, freeze-dried options preserve probiotics, antioxidants, and enzymes, offering a more natural, nutrient-dense alternative. Transitioning to this diet involves a gradual process to ensure your dog adjusts comfortably.

Key takeaways:

Gut health is critical: 70% of a dog’s immune system is in the gut.
Nutrient retention: Freeze-dried raw food retains essential vitamins, minerals, and probiotics lost in traditional kibble.
Immune support: Includes antioxidants, Omega-3s, and minerals like zinc and selenium.
Transition slowly: A 10–12 day process prevents digestive issues.

Freeze-dried raw food, like Loyal Saints, offers a convenient way to boost immune health while avoiding harmful additives. Always consult your vet before making dietary changes.

Raw food diet for dogs - Expert Dog Health & Nutrition Tips

How Freeze-Dried Raw Food Boosts Immune Function

Freeze-dried raw food offers a nutritional edge that supports your dog's immune system in ways traditional kibble simply can't. This unique preparation method preserves vital nutrients, ensuring your pet gets the best possible support for their overall health.

Nutrient Preservation in Freeze-Drying

Freeze-drying uses low temperatures to remove moisture while keeping the natural structure of the ingredients intact. This gentle process protects heat-sensitive vitamins, minerals, and other beneficial compounds that are often lost during high-temperature cooking. It also retains natural probiotics and prebiotics found in raw ingredients, which are essential for a healthy gut microbiome - a key player in immune function. By maintaining live cultures, freeze-dried food helps support gut health, which is directly linked to stronger immunity.

Natural enzymes are also preserved, improving nutrient absorption and providing the body with the tools it needs to fuel immune defenses effectively.

This careful preservation process ensures that the food maintains its high-quality proteins and immune-supporting nutrients, offering a diet that genuinely benefits your dog.

High-Quality Proteins and Natural Ingredients

Freeze-dried raw food is packed with high-quality proteins, which are crucial for maintaining and boosting immune health. It delivers up to three times the protein compared to traditional options [4]. These proteins come from premium sources like chicken, turkey, and beef, providing all the essential amino acids your dog needs to build and repair tissues [2].

"Freeze-dried raw dog food retains more nutrients and flavor, making it a desirable option for a balanced diet that even the pickiest eaters are sure to love. It is free of preservatives and artificial additives."– We Feed Raw [4]

Without artificial preservatives or additives, freeze-dried food supports a strong immune system naturally [2].

Important Nutrients for Strong Immunity

Beyond probiotics and enzymes, freeze-dried raw food is loaded with antioxidants and minerals that are essential for immune health. Vitamins like C, E, and beta-carotene act as antioxidants, protecting cells from damage caused by oxidative stress [2]. Omega-3 fatty acids, another key component, help reduce inflammation and support cellular health [2].

The mineral profile is equally impressive. Zinc, selenium, and iron play critical roles in developing immune cells and producing white blood cells and antibodies - your dog's first line of defense [2]. Additionally, B-vitamins preserved during freeze-drying keep energy metabolism running efficiently at the cellular level, ensuring the immune system can respond quickly when needed.

Together, this combination of nutrients creates a strong foundation for your dog's immune health, helping them thrive.

Health Benefits of Freeze-Dried Raw Food

Freeze-dried raw food isn't just about maintaining nutrients and delivering quality protein - it also offers clear health perks. Its nutrient-packed profile helps bolster immunity and contributes to overall well-being.

Better Digestion and Nutrient Absorption

Thanks to the low-temperature freeze-drying process, the structure of ingredients remains intact, making them easier to digest and absorb. This means the body can efficiently utilize immune-boosting vitamins, minerals, and proteins, ensuring your pet gets the most out of every meal[4].

Healthier Skin, Shinier Coat, and Higher Energy

A dog's skin, coat, and energy levels often reflect their internal health. Freeze-dried raw food, with its rich nutrient content, helps improve these visible signs. The high-quality proteins promote a glossy coat, healthy skin, and sustained energy, all of which point to a stronger immune system and better overall health[4].

Free from Harmful Additives and Fillers

One key advantage of freeze-dried raw food is the absence of preservatives and fillers. Brands like Loyal Saints focus on wholesome, nutrient-rich ingredients designed to support immune health. This makes veterinarian-approved diets an excellent choice for maintaining a strong and resilient immune system[4].

How to Feed Freeze-Dried Raw Diets

Switching your dog to a freeze-dried raw diet takes a bit of patience, but it’s well worth the effort. To ensure a smooth transition and avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach, a gradual shift over 10–12 days is recommended. This allows their digestive system to adjust comfortably.

Switching to Freeze-Dried Raw Food

The transition process involves gradually increasing the amount of freeze-dried food while reducing the current food. Here’s a breakdown of how to do it:

Day	Freeze-Dried Food	Current Food
1–3	25%	75%
4–6	50%	50%
7–9	75%	25%
10–12	100%	0%

Start by mixing 25% freeze-dried food with 75% of your dog’s current food for the first three days. Add warm water to rehydrate the freeze-dried portion for better texture and easier digestion [5]. From days 4–6, increase to a 50/50 mix, then move to 75% freeze-dried food by days 7–9. By days 10–12, your dog should be ready to eat freeze-dried food exclusively [5].

If your dog experiences any digestive upset during the transition, slow things down by extending each phase by a few days [6]. Adding warm water or broth not only helps with digestion but also makes the food more appealing [6].

"Transitioning to a new diet can take time, so be patient with your dog. Offer praise and positive reinforcement to make mealtime a positive experience. This will help your dog associate the new food with positive feelings." – James [5]

Keep an eye on your dog’s stool, energy levels, and overall health throughout the process to ensure everything is going smoothly [5]. Once the transition is complete, focus on accurate portioning and proper hydration to maintain their well-being.

Portion Sizes and Water Requirements

Proper hydration is key when feeding freeze-dried raw food. Mix equal parts of food and warm water - like 1 cup of food with 1 cup of water - and let it soak for 5–10 minutes before serving [7][9].

Portion sizes depend on your dog’s weight, age, activity level, and breed. Start with the feeding guidelines on the product packaging and adjust based on your dog’s body condition. For instance:

Dogs weighing 23–33 pounds typically need 2 to 2½ cups of rehydrated food daily.
Smaller dogs (8–13 pounds) might require ¾ to 1 cup per day.
Larger dogs (67–77 pounds) often need 4 to 4½ cups daily [7].

Puppies, as well as pregnant or nursing dogs, may need 2–3 times the adult portion [7]. If you’re using freeze-dried food as a topper rather than a full meal, much smaller amounts - between ¼ and 1 cup - are usually enough, depending on your dog’s size [7]. Some brands also recommend about ¼ cup of water for every 2 patties of freeze-dried food. If serving the food dry, always provide a bowl of fresh water [8].

Feeding Dogs with Allergies and Health Issues

For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, freeze-dried raw diets can be a great option. These foods often feature simplified ingredient lists and novel proteins like rabbit, venison, pork, duck, or fish, which are less likely to trigger allergic reactions [10]. Single-protein recipes are especially useful for elimination diets, helping you identify specific allergens while still providing balanced nutrition [10].

The gradual transition process is even more critical for dogs with allergies [10][11]. Rehydrating the food enhances its flavor and makes it easier to digest, which is particularly helpful for sensitive dogs [11]. Positive changes like improved digestion, less itching, and increased energy can signal that the new diet is working well. Once your dog has adapted to the diet, consider rotating proteins periodically to lower the risk of developing new sensitivities [10].

Always consult your veterinarian before making dietary changes, especially if your dog has severe allergies or other health concerns [11]. A vet’s guidance ensures the new diet meets your dog’s specific needs and supports their overall health.

Why Veterinarian-Approved Food Matters

When it comes to supporting your dog's immune system, not all freeze-dried raw foods are created equally. Choosing veterinarian-approved, AAFCO-compliant products ensures your pet gets complete and balanced nutrition tailored for optimal health.

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) sets strict guidelines for pet food ingredients, nutrient profiles, and labeling. These standards are the backbone of most state pet food regulations. For a dog food to earn the "complete and balanced" label, it must either pass an AAFCO-recognized feeding trial, meet the nutrient requirements outlined in the AAFCO Dog and Cat Food Nutrient Profiles, or closely resemble a product that has already met these criteria [13].

Here’s what AAFCO's standards mean in practice: "Complete" ensures the food contains all the necessary nutrients, while "balanced" refers to the correct ratios of those nutrients. AAFCO's nutrient profiles address both adult maintenance and growth/reproduction needs, specifying minimum (and sometimes maximum) levels of macronutrients like protein and fat, along with essential vitamins and minerals [13]. These benchmarks are essential for brands committed to delivering high-quality nutrition.

"Many commercial raw food options are made from human-quality ingredients [and] supplements and in plants that are under USDA inspection. Dogs eating that quality of food, rather than ultra-processed kibble from lesser-quality ingredients, are far more likely to be healthier."– Laurie S. Coger, DVM, Owner of Healthy Dog Workshop [15]

Foods that don’t meet AAFCO's standards must be labeled for intermittent or supplemental feeding only. That’s why checking for AAFCO approval on the packaging is a crucial step when selecting freeze-dried raw food [12].

Loyal Saints' Approach to Dog Health

Loyal Saints goes above and beyond these standards, combining veterinarian-approved recipes with human-grade, all-natural ingredients to provide a well-rounded approach to canine nutrition. Their freeze-dried raw dog food is specifically designed to support immune health by preserving critical nutrients.

Freeze-drying retains up to 95% of a food’s vitamin content, compared to cooking methods that can reduce vitamin levels by 30% or more. This method protects the structure of the ingredients while avoiding the high heat and chemical additives often used in other processing techniques [4]. Loyal Saints also incorporates natural prebiotics into their formulations, which help maintain a balanced gut microbiome - an essential factor in supporting a strong immune system. With a focus on high protein content and no fillers or additives, their products deliver concentrated nutrition that promotes both immune function and overall vitality.

Quality Standards and U.S.-Made Products

Loyal Saints takes their commitment to quality a step further by producing their food in the United States under strict manufacturing standards. These include regular microbial testing and adherence to FDA-approved safety protocols to ensure both safety and nutritional integrity [4]. Transparent ingredient lists allow pet owners to make informed decisions, clearly identifying all components and potential allergens [4].

"As much as we can influence the gene expressions of our dogs through nutrition, the better off they'll be."– James Pendergast, Pet food formulator [15]

Loyal Saints’ adherence to AAFCO standards guarantees complete and balanced nutrition for dogs at every stage of life. Research shows that dogs with sensitive digestive systems may experience up to a 25% improvement in nutrient absorption when switched to minimally processed diets like freeze-dried raw food. Additionally, observational data suggests these diets can lead to a 30% increase in daily activity levels and better exercise stamina [4]. With 15% to 25% of dogs now consuming some form of raw meat-based diet, including freeze-dried options [14], choosing a veterinarian-approved brand like Loyal Saints ensures your dog receives a diet rooted in safety, nutrition, and quality.

Conclusion: Freeze-Dried Raw Diets for Better Immunity

Freeze-dried raw food represents a leap forward in supporting canine health, particularly by enhancing the immune system. Packed with natural enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it helps strengthen your dog’s defenses against illnesses and infections [3].

"High-quality, nutrient-dense freeze-dried food supports robust immunity. Essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants help to strengthen the immune response, protecting your dog from illnesses and infections." - Columbus Boarding and Training [3]

To introduce this diet, start by mixing small portions of freeze-dried food with your dog’s current meals, gradually increasing the amount over 7–10 days. Rehydrating the food with warm water not only makes it more appealing but also ensures your dog stays hydrated [3]. Within weeks, you might notice improvements in their energy levels, coat quality, and digestion.

The growing popularity of raw feeding highlights its health benefits. Currently, about 15% to 25% of dogs consume some form of raw meat-based diet, including freeze-dried options [1]. Pet owners are embracing this trend, with raw pet food sales increasing by at least 15% annually [1], proving that what was once niche is now becoming mainstream.

Brands like Loyal Saints are leading the way in this space, offering veterinarian-approved, human-grade formulations made with all-natural ingredients. Their adherence to AAFCO standards ensures balanced nutrition for dogs at every stage of life, and their U.S.-based production maintains strict quality controls. By focusing on high protein content without fillers or additives, they align perfectly with the principles of immune-boosting nutrition.

For pet owners looking to improve their dog’s health, freeze-dried raw food provides a practical, nutrient-rich solution. It combines the benefits of raw feeding with everyday convenience, offering superior nutrient retention, better digestibility, and immune-supporting ingredients. This approach can enhance your dog’s vitality and overall well-being, setting them up for a healthier, more energetic life.

FAQs

What are the nutritional benefits of freeze-dried raw food for my dog's immune system compared to kibble?

Freeze-dried raw dog food stands out for its nutritional quality, as it keeps more of the natural nutrients, enzymes, and vitamins intact. Unlike kibble, which undergoes high-temperature cooking that can strip away essential nutrients, freeze-dried raw food is carefully dehydrated at low temperatures to maintain its nutritional integrity.

This type of food is also easier for dogs to digest, helping them absorb a higher amount of key vitamins and minerals. A diet packed with nutrients can play a big role in boosting your dog's immune system, contributing to better overall health and energy. For pet owners aiming to naturally support their dog's immunity, freeze-dried raw food is definitely worth considering.

How can I safely transition my dog to a freeze-dried raw diet without upsetting their stomach?

Transitioning your dog to a freeze-dried raw diet can be a smooth process if done gradually. Start by mixing a small amount of the new food - around 10-25% freeze-dried raw food - with their current diet. Over the course of 10-14 days, slowly increase the proportion of freeze-dried food while reducing the old food. This slow approach gives your dog’s digestive system time to adapt comfortably.

Don’t forget to rehydrate the freeze-dried food with water or broth before serving. This step not only makes the food easier to digest but also helps keep your dog hydrated. Keep a close eye on your pup during the transition. Watch for any signs of digestive upset, like loose stools or vomiting. If you notice any issues, take a step back, slow the process, and consult your vet for advice. A little patience and consistency can make all the difference!

Can a freeze-dried raw diet help with specific health issues in dogs, and should I talk to my vet before switching?

Yes, a freeze-dried raw diet can help dogs dealing with certain health challenges, like inflammation, digestive issues, or a weakened immune system. This approach retains key nutrients while reducing some of the concerns tied to traditional raw feeding. That said, it’s important to remember that raw food, even when freeze-dried, may still carry pathogens or parasites.

Always check with your veterinarian before switching your dog’s diet. They can evaluate whether this option suits your dog’s specific needs, advise on portion sizes, and ensure the change promotes your pet’s health and well-being.