Freeze Dried vs. Dehydrated Bones for Pets
As devoted pet owners, we all want the best for our furry companions, especially regarding what they’re eating. Dehydrated bones have generally been deemed safe in the pet community, and most don’t understand what freeze dried means. Gathering the correct information can be overwhelming and confusing. In this article, we aim to shed light on the subject, presenting information that is not only informative but also relatable.
Understanding the Basics
Raw bones are always considered the safest. Unfortunately, they are not always an option depending on living situations, feeding situations, seasonal changes, etc. It’s crucial to steer clear of weight-bearing bones from large animals and always supervise your pet during feeding, regardless of the bone type. Some dogs may do better with specific types of bones and you must feed at your own risk.
Freeze Dried Bones
Freeze dried bones are gaining popularity for good reasons. With freeze drying, the bones undergo a process of removing moisture through freezing and air pressure. This method makes them less likely to splinter compared to their dehydrated or air-dried counterparts because they are never treated with any heat. The freeze drying process preserves a remarkable 97% of nutrients, thanks to the sublimation process employed.
Dehydrated Bones
On the other hand, dehydrated or air-dried bones go through a slower drying process, involving some heat, making more caution necessary. This method only preserves around 60% of nutrients, making them a viable option for some owners, but with some drawbacks. We are not comfortable offering dehydrated bones due to their likeness to splintering because of the heat treatment. “Heat” can be perceived differently among individuals but most dehydrators have a temperature range of roughly 125 degrees to 160 degrees.
Benefits of Feeding Bones
All acceptable bones offer benefits such as cleaning teeth and gums, satisfying a dog’s chew drive, and providing essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins. Additionally, freeze dried bones are less messy than raw bones, making them a convenient choice for pet owners.
The Safer Option - Freeze Dried Bones
While both options have their merits, freeze dried bones stand out as a safer alternative. The flash freezing followed by the vacuum process ensures that the bones are not heated, reducing the risk of splintering. Though freeze dried bones cannot be considered entirely risk-free, they are undoubtedly a step towards safer treats and chews for your furry friends.
Video Insight
To get a visual grasp of the differences between freeze-dried and dehydrated bones, check out this informative video.
Supervision is Key
Regardless of the bone choice, it is crucial to emphasize the importance of supervision during feeding. Dogs should never be left alone with any type of treat or chew. Even good chewers can make mistakes that can cause issues without intervention.
Freeze dried bones emerge as the safer option than dehydrated or air-dried. They preserve a significantly higher percentage of nutrients while minimizing risks associated with splintering. However, it’s essential to remember that we are not veterinary professionals, and individual dogs may have unique preferences, habits, and needs.
Sources:
