K9 Natural Freeze Dried Dog Food Review (2025): Recipes, Benefits & Feeding Guide for Aussie Dogs
More Australian pet parents are moving away from heavily processed kibble and looking for freeze dried dog food that’s closer to a dog’s natural diet. K9 Natural – a premium New Zealand dog food brand – is one of the most searched names in this space, especially for pet owners looking for raw dog food alternatives, grain free dog food, and natural options for sensitive stomachs and allergies.
In this in-depth K9 Natural freeze dried dog food review, we’ll look at how freeze-drying works, what makes K9 Natural different, why the K9 Natural 3.6kg packs are so popular in Australia, and how to feed it safely and affordably as a complete meal or topper for Aussie dogs.
What Is Freeze Dried Dog Food – and Why Are Aussies Switching?
Freeze dried dog food is made using a low-temperature dehydration process that removes moisture while preserving the natural nutrients in raw meat, organs and bone. Compared with traditional dry dog food, which is cooked at high temperatures and often bulked out with starches, freeze dried dog food keeps more of the original texture, aroma and nutritional value of fresh ingredients.
If you're curious about how freeze-drying actually works, you can also explore our in-depth guide on the science behind the technology here: Freeze-Dried Pet Food Technology: Scientific Principles & Core Advantages .
The process is simple but powerful:
- Step 1 – Rapid freezing: Raw ingredients are quickly frozen to lock in freshness.
- Step 2 – Vacuum + sublimation: Water in the food turns directly from ice to vapour, bypassing the liquid stage.
- Step 3 – Shelf-stable raw: The result is a lightweight, low-moisture product that looks like raw pieces but stores like kibble.
Research on freeze-drying confirms that this method helps retain important bioactive compounds and minimises nutrient loss compared with many conventional heat-based preservation methods (study example).
Freeze Dried vs Raw vs Cooked Kibble
- Compared with raw: Both aim to be biologically appropriate, but freeze dried dog food is safer and easier to handle. Removing moisture and using additional safety steps (such as high-pressure processing in some brands) reduces the risk of pathogens like Salmonella.
- Compared with cooked kibble: High-heat extrusion can damage heat-sensitive nutrients and fats. Freeze drying keeps more of the natural enzymes, vitamins and amino acids intact.
- Compared with air-dried / dehydrated: Air drying often uses low heat over a longer time and can require extra binders or carbs. Freeze dried dog food usually stays closer in texture and nutrition to fresh raw meat.
For many Aussie dog owners, this makes freeze dried dog food the “gold standard” raw alternative: raw-style nutrition with kibble-style convenience.
Freeze Dried vs Air-Dried vs Raw: Which Is Better for Your Dog?
We’re often asked in-store whether freeze dried dog food, air-dried dog food or a fully raw diet is “best”. The truth is: each style has its pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your dog and your lifestyle.
| Type | How It’s Made | Main Benefits | Things to Consider |
|---|---|---|---|
| Freeze dried dog food (e.g. K9 Natural) | Frozen then moisture removed under vacuum (sublimation). | Excellent nutrient retention, light and portable, long shelf life, raw-like texture. | Usually higher cost per kg than kibble; must be stored dry and sealed. |
|
Air-dried dog food (e.g. Prime100) |
Slow-dried at low heat. | Dense energy, chewy texture some dogs love, often high meat inclusion. | Some nutrient loss from heat; formulas can include extra carbs or binders. |
| Fresh / raw food (e.g. Big Dog Pet Food) | Kept chilled or frozen, minimal processing. | Maximum freshness, moisture and palatability; great for enrichment. | Requires freezer space, strict hygiene, and careful handling and defrosting. |
If you love the idea of raw but need something safe, clean and travel-friendly, freeze dried dog food Australia options like K9 Natural are a very practical middle ground.
People Also Ask: K9 Natural & Freeze Dried Dog Food
Based on common questions we hear in-store and online, here are some quick answers Australian dog owners often search for:
1. Is K9 Natural healthier than regular kibble?
K9 Natural freeze dried dog food uses high-meat, low-carbohydrate recipes with fewer fillers than many supermarket kibbles. For many dogs, that means better digestibility, smaller poos and improved coat quality.
2. Is freeze dried dog food safe?
Freeze drying removes moisture and, combined with good manufacturing practices, helps reduce the risk of harmful bacteria. You still need to store the food correctly and follow the feeding instructions, but for many families it’s safer and easier than handling raw meat at home.
3. Is K9 Natural good for sensitive stomachs?
Many dogs with sensitive digestion do well on single protein, limited-ingredient recipes that keep carbohydrates low. K9 Natural’s high-meat, grain free dog food formulas are often a good starting point for these dogs (always transition slowly and speak with your vet if your dog has a medical condition).
Why Choose K9 Natural? A Freeze-Dried Pioneer from New Zealand
K9 Natural is a New Zealand dog food brand built around one simple idea: feed dogs as close as possible to their natural, ancestral diet using premium ingredients from New Zealand’s grass-fed farms and clean waters.
Key things that make K9 Natural freeze dried dog food stand out:
- Contain 94% meat, organs and bone in all recipes – ideal for high-meat, high-protein diets.
- Grain free dog food formulas with no wheat, corn, soy or cheap fillers.
- Real New Zealand ingredients like grass-fed beef, lamb, free-range chicken and hoki.
- Added New Zealand green-lipped mussels for natural joint support and anti-inflammatory benefits。
- No artificial preservatives, colours or flavour enhancers.
- Complete and balanced according to AAFCO nutritional standards for all life stages (check individual products).
You can browse the full range here: K9 Natural dog food collection at ADS Pet Store .
Why K9 Natural 3.6kg Bags Are So Popular in Australia
When we look at search data and in-store feedback, “K9 Natural 3.6kg” comes up again and again. Here’s why these bigger bags are often the first choice for Australian dog owners:
- Better value per meal: While the upfront cost is higher than small pouches, the per-day cost usually drops significantly.
- Perfect for medium to large dogs: Active dogs or multi-dog households go through smaller packs quickly.
- Ideal for full-time feeding: For dogs living fully on K9 Natural freeze dried dog food, 3.6kg packs are simply more practical.
- Easy to store: Resealable pouches keep food dry and fresh; no freezer required.
- Available in different flavours: Chicken, Hoki & Beef, Lamb & King Salmon, Lamb, Beef.
What Does K9 Natural Cost Per Day?
Freeze dried dog food is more nutrient-dense than kibble, so you generally feed less by volume. Below is a more accurate cost breakdown using the official K9 Natural feeding guide for Beef Feast Freeze-Dried 3.6kg (RRP $274.99).
At ADS Pet Store, our everyday price is $206.24–$214.49, which means K9 Natural can be significantly more affordable when purchased through us.
| Dog Weight | Daily Cups (Avg.) | Cost/Day (RRP $274.99) | Cost/Day (ADS Price $206.24–$214.49) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6–10kg | ~1.5 cups/day | $5.73/day | $4.30–$4.47/day |
| 10–15kg | ~2.25 cups/day | $8.59/day | $6.44–$6.70/day |
| 20–25kg | ~3.25 cups/day | $12.40/day | $9.30–$9.67/day |
| 30–35kg | ~4.25 cups/day | $16.24/day | $12.17–$12.67/day |
*Calculations based on 72 cups per 3.6kg bag (official K9 Natural bag yield). Actual daily needs vary depending on age, activity level and metabolism.
If you’re looking for the best freeze dried dog food with strong nutritional value and long-term affordability, the K9 Natural 3.6kg range—especially Beef Feast and Lamb Feast—offers excellent value, particularly when purchased from ADS Pet Store.
Inside the Bowl: Ingredients & Nutritional Benefits
K9 Natural freeze dried dog food recipes are built around a “whole prey” concept – using real meat, organs and bone to naturally deliver the nutrients dogs need.
High Meat, Low Carbs
- High protein: Many recipes reach crude protein levels well above typical kibble, supporting lean muscle and overall vitality.
- Low carbohydrates: Often only 5–15% carbs, making them suitable for weight management or dogs prone to insulin or blood sugar issues (under vet guidance).
- Better omega ratio: Ingredients like hoki, salmon oil and flaxseed support healthier skin, shiny coats and reduced inflammation.
Key Functional Ingredients in K9 Natural
- New Zealand green-lipped mussels: Natural source of omega-3s and joint-support nutrients.
- Organ meats (liver, heart, tripe): Provide naturally occurring vitamin A, B-vitamins, iron, zinc and taurine.
- Vegetables like pumpkin and broccoli: Add gentle fibre and micronutrients without unnecessary starch loading.
Which K9 Natural Recipe Is Best for Your Dog?
Different formulas suit different dogs. Here’s a quick guide based on common needs we see at ADS Pet Store:
- Beef or Chicken Feast Freeze Dried: A great all-rounder for most adult dogs with no specific protein sensitivities.
- Lamb Feast Freeze Dried: A popular single protein option for dogs with chicken sensitivities or those needing richer red-meat energy.
- Hoki & Beef or other fish-inclusive recipes: Helpful for skin and coat support thanks to added omega-3s.
- Green Tripe Booster: Typically used as a topper to support gut health, digestion and picky eaters.
Our Top 3 K9 Natural Recipes for Aussie Dogs (2025)
- Beef Feast Freeze Dried (3.6kg): Single protein, high meat, very versatile for everyday feeding.
- Lamb Feast Freeze Dried: Great for dogs that can’t tolerate chicken or need a richer red-meat energy source.
- Hoki & Beef Freeze Dried: A favourite for coat and skin health, thanks to the extra omega-3s from fish.
If you’re unsure where to start, many Melbourne dog owners begin with Beef Feast(Most popular option) or Lamb Feast and then rotate flavours once they know their dog tolerates freeze dried dog food well.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach or chronic allergies, K9 Natural’s single protein, limited-ingredient formulas can be a great starting point. Always transition slowly and work with your vet if your dog has a diagnosed medical condition.
How to Feed K9 Natural Freeze Dried Dog Food
When introducing K9 Natural freeze dried dog food to your dog's diet, it's essential to follow proper feeding guidelines. For detailed portion recommendations from the manufacturer, you can also refer to the official K9 Natural Feeding Guide.
K9 Natural freeze dried dog food can be fed as:
- A complete and balanced main meal (check the pack for AAFCO life-stage suitability).
- A topper over your dog’s current kibble or wet food to boost meat content and palatability.
- Treats or training rewards using the freeze dried dog treats range.
Transitioning from Kibble or Other Diets
To avoid tummy upsets, we usually recommend:
- Days 1–3: 25% K9 Natural + 75% current food.
- Days 4–6: 50% / 50%.
- Days 7–10: 75% K9 Natural + 25% old food.
- After Day 10: 100% K9 Natural (if tolerated well).
Rehydration & Portion Tips
- Rehydrate with warm water: Most dogs enjoy K9 Natural more when soaked for 2–5 minutes.
- Follow the feeding guide: Freeze dried dog food is calorie-dense; you generally feed less by volume than kibble.
- Always provide fresh water, especially if feeding dry pieces as toppers or treats.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Feeding Freeze Dried Dog Food
- Switching too quickly: Moving from kibble to a rich, high-meat diet overnight can upset sensitive stomachs. Gradual transitions are key.
- Not adding enough water: Freeze dried dog food is very dry. If you rarely rehydrate it, some dogs may drink less than they should and become constipated.
- Overfeeding: Because freeze dried food is nutrient- and calorie-dense, feeding “kibble-sized” portions can lead to weight gain.
- Ignoring existing health conditions: Dogs with pancreatitis, kidney disease or diabetes may need tailored diets. Always check with your vet before big changes.
If you’re unsure how much to feed for your dog’s weight and activity level, feel free to contact ADS Pet Store for a personalised suggestion based on the specific K9 Natural recipe you’re using.
Ready to try a biologically appropriate, meat-rich diet? Shop K9 Natural freeze dried dog food now .
Real-World Results: From Picky Eaters to Shiny Coats
User Feedback: Better Appetite, Better Poos, Better Coats
Many dog owners switch to K9 Natural because of issues with fussy eating, soft stools or itchy skin. Common feedback we hear in-store and online includes:
- Improved stool quality: Dogs that previously had loose or inconsistent stools start passing smaller, firmer and less smelly poos.
- Increased appetite: Picky eaters often become excited for meals due to the strong natural meat aroma.
- Shinier, softer coats: Owners report less shedding and a glossy coat after a few weeks on a high-meat, omega-rich diet.
One Border Collie owner, for example, noticed that after switching to K9 Natural freeze dried dog food, her dog’s shedding reduced and the coat became noticeably shinier. Another dog with a history of digestive sensitivity had more consistent, well-formed stools within days of gradually introducing the new diet.
In-Store Experience: What We See at ADS Pet Store
While every dog is different, our day-to-day experience at ADS Pet Store in Moorabbin shows that many dogs benefit from switching to a high-quality freeze dried dog food like K9 Natural. Over the years, we’ve seen great results in dogs who experience:
- Sensitive stomachs that don’t tolerate heavy grains or high-starch diets well. These dogs often do better on simple, meat-focused formulas with fewer fillers.
- Allergies or skin issues, where a short ingredient list and high-meat, grain free recipes help reduce common triggers.
- Low appetite or inconsistent eating habits, with freeze dried food providing a strong natural aroma that encourages better mealtime enthusiasm.
- Dogs recovering from illness or low energy, who often benefit from highly digestible, nutrient-dense meals that are easier on the digestive system.
Every dog responds differently, so slow transitions are always recommended. And if your dog has pancreatitis, diabetes or another chronic condition, we always suggest speaking with your veterinarian before making significant diet changes — even when switching to premium freeze dried dog food.
Where to Buy K9 Natural Freeze Dried Dog Food in Australia
At ADS Pet Store (Moorabbin, Melbourne), we stock a wide range of K9 Natural dog food, including popular 3.6kg freeze dried bags, smaller sizes, and freeze dried dog treats.
- Shop online: Convenient delivery across most areas, with fast shipping options.
- Click & Collect: Order online and pick up from our Moorabbin warehouse.
- Local advice: Our team can help you choose the best recipe and feeding plan for your dog.
If you’re comparing different natural dog food options – whether freeze dried, air-dried or raw – feel free to reach out. We also stock other grain free dog food and natural brands, so you can find the best fit for your dog and your budget.
Is K9 Natural Freeze Dried Dog Food Worth It?
For many Australian families, K9 Natural offers an ideal balance between raw-style nutrition and real-world convenience. You get high-meat, grain free formulas, natural ingredients sourced from New Zealand, and the flexibility to feed it as a complete meal, topper or high-value treat.
If you’re looking for natural dog food that supports better digestion, shinier coats and more enthusiastic eating, K9 Natural freeze dried dog food is absolutely worth considering – especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
Based in Melbourne or nearby? You can shop K9 Natural online with fast delivery, choose Click & Collect from our Moorabbin warehouse, or visit us in-store for tailored advice on the best recipe and feeding plan for your dog.
FAQs: K9 Natural & Freeze Dried Dog Food
1. Can K9 Natural freeze dried dog food be fed as a complete meal or only as a topper?
Most K9 Natural freeze dried dog food recipes are formulated as complete and balanced meals that meet AAFCO standards for specific life stages (check the label for “all life stages” or similar wording). You can feed them as your dog’s main diet, or use smaller amounts as a topper over kibble or wet food to boost meat content and flavour.
2. Is freeze dried dog food suitable for dogs with pancreatitis or diabetes?
Freeze dried dog food often has high protein and lower carbohydrate levels, which may suit some diabetic dogs by helping to avoid sharp blood sugar spikes. However, fat levels can vary between recipes. For dogs with pancreatitis or other chronic conditions, you should:
- Choose lower-fat recipes where possible.
- Introduce the new food very gradually.
- Always consult your vet before making major diet changes.
3. What’s the difference between freeze dried dog food and air-dried or dehydrated food?
Freeze dried dog food uses sublimation under vacuum, which removes moisture while keeping more of the original structure and nutrients. Air-dried and dehydrated foods are exposed to low heat for longer periods and may include extra binders or carbs. All three can be much closer to a natural, meat-rich diet than many kibbles, but freeze-drying is generally considered the closest to raw in terms of nutrient retention.
4. How long does K9 Natural freeze dried dog food last once opened?
Unopened, most bags have a shelf life of 12–24 months (check the best-before date). Once opened, K9 Natural should be kept in a cool, dry place with the bag resealed after each use. Avoid moisture and direct heat, and use within the timeframe suggested on the packaging for best freshness and palatability.
5. Is K9 Natural good for picky eaters?
Yes – the strong natural meat aroma of freeze dried dog food often appeals to fussy dogs who ignore dry kibble. You can start by using K9 Natural as a topper over their existing food, or by trying high-value options like freeze dried Healthy Bites or green tripe booster to build positive associations at mealtime.
