Pet Nutrition Guide & Frequently Asked Questions
Trusted advice on freeze-dried nutrition, natural treats, food allergies and species-appropriate feeding for dogs, cats, reptiles, hedgehogs and other small pets.
Are freeze-dried dog treats the same as fresh or frozen raw food?
Not exactly. Freeze-dried treats start as fresh raw meat, organs or fish. During the freeze-drying process, only the moisture is removed, helping to preserve the natural nutrients, flavour and texture without the need for artificial preservatives.
Unlike frozen raw food, freeze-dried treats can be stored at room temperature, are easy to take on walks or while travelling, and are ready to feed straight from the bag. They can also be rehydrated with lukewarm water if preferred.
At Lecker Bites, our treats are made from 100% natural, single ingredients with no fillers, grains, artificial colours or preservatives.
What are the best freeze-dried dog treats for dogs with food allergies and sensitive stomachs?
Single-ingredient freeze-dried treats are one of the best choices for dogs with food allergies and sensitive stomachs. By offering just one protein source, they make it easier to avoid unnecessary ingredients that may trigger sensitivities.
At Lecker Bites, our treats contain 100% natural meat, organs or fish with no grains, fillers, artificial colours or preservatives. They are gently freeze-dried to preserve natural flavour and nutrients, making them a healthy, high-value reward for even the most sensitive dogs.
Are freeze-dried dog treats healthier than air-dried treats?
Both freeze-dried and air-dried treats can be excellent choices, but they are produced differently. Freeze-drying is a low-temperature process that helps preserve the natural nutrients, flavour and texture of raw meat while removing the moisture.
At Lecker Bites, we specialise in freeze-dried treats because they provide a natural, high-protein reward with no artificial preservatives, fillers or grains. They are lightweight, convenient to store and loved by dogs, cats and many exotic pets.
How do I choose natural dog treats without preservatives, fillers or artificial additives?
The best natural dog treats contain just one clearly identified ingredient. Avoid products with artificial preservatives, colours, flavours, grains or unnecessary fillers, especially if your dog has allergies or a sensitive stomach.
At Lecker Bites, we believe in complete transparency. Our freeze-dried treats are made from 100% natural single ingredients, so you always know exactly what you're feeding your pet.
Can freeze-dried treats help picky eaters enjoy their food?
Yes. Many picky dogs and cats are attracted to the natural aroma and flavour of freeze-dried meat. Freeze-dried treats can be offered as a reward or crumbled over meals as a natural topper to make food more appealing.
At Lecker Bites, many customers use our freeze-dried treats to encourage fussy eaters without adding artificial flavours or unnecessary ingredients.
Can freeze-dried treats be rehydrated with water?
Absolutely. Freeze-dried treats can be broken into smaller pieces or crumbled over your pet's regular food to add natural flavour and variety. They are an excellent way to encourage picky eaters while providing high-quality protein without unnecessary additives.
For an even richer natural aroma, you can hot water instead. Just make sure the treats have cooled completely before feeding them to your pet.
For extra hydration, the treats can also be rehydrated with lukewarm water before serving if preferred.
How should freeze-dried dog and cat treats be stored after opening?
Freeze-dried treats should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Always reseal the bag carefully after each use to help keep the treats fresh and crunchy.
There is no need to refrigerate them. As long as moisture is kept out and the bag is properly sealed, your treats will stay in excellent condition until the best-before date.
Are freeze-dried treats suitable for puppies, kittens and senior pets?
Yes. Freeze-dried treats are suitable for pets of all ages when fed in appropriate sizes and as part of a balanced diet. They are especially popular for puppies, kittens and senior pets because they are made from natural, high-quality ingredients without unnecessary additives.
For very young, elderly or small pets, the treats can easily be broken into smaller pieces or rehydrated with warm water to create a softer texture.
Are freeze-dried treats suitable for reptiles, hedgehogs and other exotic pets?
Many freeze-dried products are suitable for reptiles, hedgehogs and other exotic or small animals, depending on their natural dietary requirements. Pure meat, fish and shrimp can provide a convenient, high-protein food source without artificial additives or preservatives.
For most reptiles, freeze-dried food should always be rehydrated before feeding to help provide moisture and improve palatability. However, freeze-dried food is generally not recommended as a staple diet for geckos, as many species rely on live prey or specialised diets to meet their nutritional and behavioural needs.
Always choose species-appropriate foods and feed according to your pet's individual nutritional requirements. If you're unsure which product is best, I'm always happy to help you choose the most suitable option.
Why are single-ingredient treats better for dogs and cats with food allergies?
Single-ingredient treats contain just one clearly identified protein source, making it much easier to avoid ingredients that may trigger allergic reactions or digestive upset in dogs and cats. They are also ideal during elimination diets, where introducing only one protein at a time is recommended.
At Lecker Bites, our freeze-dried treats contain 100% natural meat, fish or organs with no grains, fillers, artificial colours or preservatives, giving you complete confidence in what you're feeding your pet.
Which freeze-dried treats are best for training dogs and puppies?
Freeze-dried treats are ideal for training because they are lightweight, easy to carry and naturally irresistible. Their rich aroma and high meat content make them a high-value reward that helps keep dogs motivated during training sessions.
Choose small, single-ingredient treats that can be fed frequently without unnecessary fillers or artificial additives. They are perfect for puppies, adult dogs and even fussy eaters.
Are freeze-dried treats suitable for dogs and cats with sensitive digestion?
Yes. Freeze-dried single-ingredient treats are often an excellent choice for dogs and cats with sensitive digestion because they contain no grains, fillers or artificial additives. Using just one clearly identified protein source also makes it easier to identify and avoid ingredients that may cause digestive upset.
Every pet is different, so introduce new treats gradually and always seek veterinary advice if your pet has a diagnosed medical condition or ongoing digestive problems.
Can I feed freeze-dried treats every day?
Yes. Freeze-dried treats can be given daily as part of a balanced diet. They are an excellent reward for training, a healthy snack between meals or a natural meal topper.
Freeze-dried treats are highly concentrated because only the water has been removed. As a general guide, 100 g of freeze-dried food is equivalent to approximately 400 g of fresh raw food. If you feed larger amounts of freeze-dried treats, reduce your pet's regular food accordingly to help maintain a healthy body weight.
Fresh drinking water should always be available.
Can freeze-dried treats help encourage pets to drink more water?
Yes. While freeze-dried treats can be fed straight from the bag, they can also be rehydrated with water before serving. This is an easy way to increase your pet's moisture intake, which may be especially beneficial for cats, senior pets and animals that naturally drink very little.
For an even richer natural aroma, you can use warm or hot water. Just allow the food to cool completely before serving.
Food preparation and handling
Can I switch my dog or cat to freeze-dried treats straight away?
Yes. Most dogs and cats can start enjoying freeze-dried treats straight away because they are fed as treats rather than as a complete diet. If your pet has a very sensitive stomach or a history of food allergies, introduce a small amount first and gradually increase the quantity over a few days.
Choosing single-ingredient freeze-dried treats also makes it easier to monitor how your pet responds to a new protein.
Can freeze-dried treats be mixed with wet food, dry food or a raw diet?
Yes. Freeze-dried treats can be mixed with wet food, dry food or a raw diet. They can be fed whole, broken into smaller pieces or crumbled over meals as a natural topper to add flavour, variety and high-quality protein.
They're an easy way to make meals more appealing, especially for picky eaters, without adding artificial ingredients.
Can I take freeze-dried treats when travelling with my pet?
Absolutely. Freeze-dried treats are lightweight, easy to carry and don't require refrigeration, making them ideal for walks, holidays, training sessions and days out.
Because they are made from 100% natural ingredients with no messy preparation, they are a convenient and healthy reward wherever you and your pet go.
Can freeze-dried treats be frozen after rehydration?
Yes. Once rehydrated, freeze-dried treats can be frozen to make a refreshing snack on warm days. Many dogs enjoy them as a cooling treat during the summer.
Freeze only freshly rehydrated treats and serve them straight from the freezer. Always supervise your pet while feeding and make sure the pieces are an appropriate size.
Can freeze-dried treats be warmed before feeding?
Yes. Freeze-dried treats can be rehydrated with warm or hot water before feeding. Warm water helps release the natural aroma, making the treats even more appealing for many dogs and cats.
Always allow the treats to cool to a safe temperature before serving.
Do freeze-dried treats need the same hygiene precautions as raw food?
Yes. Freeze-dried treats are raw food with only the moisture removed, so the same basic hygiene rules apply. Always wash your hands after handling the treats, keep preparation surfaces and bowls clean, and store the products in a cool, dry place.
Following good hygiene practices helps keep both you and your pet safe while enjoying the natural benefits of freeze-dried raw nutrition.
PET HEALTH & NUTRITION
What are novel proteins and why are they beneficial for dogs and cats?
Novel proteins are meat sources that your dog or cat has rarely or never eaten before, such as rabbit, venison or ostrich. Because the immune system is less likely to recognise these proteins, they can be an excellent option for pets with food sensitivities or allergies.
Novel proteins also add variety to your pet's diet and provide high-quality nutrition while helping to reduce the risk of reactions to commonly fed proteins such as chicken or beef.
Why are organ meats beneficial for dogs and cats?
Organ meats are among the most nutrient-rich foods in a natural diet. They are packed with essential vitamins, minerals and high-quality protein that help support your dog or cat's overall health and wellbeing.
At Lecker Bites, we offer a variety of freeze-dried organ treats, including liver, hearts and other nutritious organs, giving your pet all the natural goodness without artificial additives, fillers or preservatives.
What makes Lecker Bites different from other freeze-dried pet treat brands?
Yes. Freeze-dried treats can be part of a healthy weight management plan when fed in moderation. Because they are made from 100% meat, fish or organs with no unnecessary fillers, they provide high-quality protein in a naturally concentrated form.
As with all treats, remember to include them in your pet's daily food allowance and adjust regular meals if larger quantities are fed to help maintain a healthy body weight.
Do I need to refrigerate freeze-dried dog food?
At Lecker Bites, we believe that less is more. That's why our freeze-dried treats are made from 100% natural single ingredients with no grains, fillers, artificial colours or preservatives.
We carefully select products for dogs, cats and exotic pets, with a special focus on food sensitivities, picky eaters and species-appropriate nutrition. As a small, independent UK business, we're also happy to offer personal advice to help you choose the most suitable treats for your pet.