Your dog’s tail starts wagging the second you reach for the treat jar—so why not make every reward count? Freeze-dried dog treats have exploded in popularity because they lock in raw nutrition without the mess of fresh food, and Stella & Chewy’s remains the brand most pet parents trust when they want a convenient, shelf-stable “boost” of protein, probiotics, and superfoods. Whether you’re training a puppy, coaxing a picky senior, or simply looking for cleaner ingredient panels, this guide walks you through everything you should evaluate before clicking “add to cart” in 2025.
Below, you’ll learn how to decode labels, match treat formats to your dog’s lifestyle, and avoid the most common shopping pitfalls—no rankings, no fluff, just the expertise you need to choose confidently.
Top 10 Stella And Chewy Dog Treats
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Wild Weenies Dog Treats – High-Protein Training Treats for Dogs & Puppies – All-Natural Grass-Fed Beef Recipe with 97% Meat & Organs – USA Made – 3.25 oz Bag
Overview:
Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Wild Weenies are coin-sized nuggets of 97 % grass-fed beef and organs, freeze-dried into a lightweight, non-greasy training reward that smells like jerky yet crumbles with two fingers. Designed for high-value reinforcement, each 3.25 oz pouch delivers roughly 90 treats that stay shelf-stable without refrigeration.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The organ-heavy formula mirrors ancestral prey ratios, giving dogs a surge of natural B-vitamins, iron, and taurine in a package small enough to hide in a hoodie pocket. They rehydrate in seconds, doubling as a meal topper for picky eaters.
Value for Money:
At $73.80/lb the sticker shock is real—until you realize you’re paying for meat, not water. A single nugget can be halved for small dogs, stretching the bag through weeks of daily sessions; compared to fresh raw, it’s actually cheaper per calorie.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: explosive canine enthusiasm; zero grain/fillers; USA-made in audited kitchens; easy to snap without knife crumbs.
Cons: pricey upfront; strong barn-yard aroma off-puts some humans; fragile pieces can powder if the bag gets crushed in a backpack.
Bottom Line:
If you compete in agility, foster reactive dogs, or simply want guilt-free bribery, Wild Weenies are worth the splurge. Budget-minded owners can reserve them for jackpot rewards and stretch value further.
2. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Chicken Breast Dog Treats – Single Ingredient, No Additives – Premium Training Treats – Perfect For Picky Eaters – 2.75oz Bag
Overview:
This 2.75 oz pouch contains nothing but cubes of chicken breast that have been freeze-dried into airy, chalk-white blocks. Each piece can be snapped into training morsels or served whole as a protein boost for dogs recovering from stomach upset.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Single-ingredient purity means you can count allergens on one finger; the 87 % protein-to-calorie ratio keeps lean agility dogs fueled without expanding waistlines. The texture flosses teeth as dogs crunch, giving a dental perk missing from softer rolls.
Value for Money:
At $87.21/lb it’s among the most expensive treats on the market, but you’re literally buying wholesale breast meat minus water weight. Used judiciously—five cubes per session—the pouch lasts an eight-week class sequence.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: ultra-minimal for elimination diets; virtually no odor for human noses; dissolves quickly for puppies or seniors; resealable.myjooh pouch keeps moisture out.
Cons: turns spongy if you forget to seal it; dust at bottom is too sharp for tiny breeds; price deters bulk use for multi-dog households.
Bottom Line:
For dogs with IBD, pancreatitis, or mysterious itchies, these treats are medicine disguised as chicken. Healthy mutts with no allergies will love them too, but rotate in cheaper biscuits to keep your wallet intact.
3. Stella & Chewy’s Wild Red Jerky Nuggets – 90% Protein-Rich Beef & Lamb Dog Treats – Grain-Free Training Rewards for All Breeds – Made in USA – 6 oz Bag
Overview:
Wild Red Jerky Nuggets mash 90 % beef & lamb into soft, 4-calorie squares that resemble miniature Slim Jims minus the salt. The 6 oz bag yields about 150 squares—enough to coat a month of daily clicker sessions for a 45-lb dog.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Dual-protein novelty keeps adolescent dogs guessing, preventing the “bored of chicken” blues. Jerky finish means no crumb shrapnel in treat pouches, while the gentle 4-calorie count lets big and tiny breeds earn dozens of reps without caloric overload.
Value for Money:
$39.97/lb puts these mid-range: cheaper than airline-cut breast, pricier than baked biscuits. You buy once and portion liberally—no cutting, no sticky fridge container—saving hidden labor costs.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: stays pliable in cold weather; no garlic/onion seasoning; small-batch USA sourcing; bag zipper actually reseals.
Cons: lamb scent can linger on hands; squares stick together in humid climates; 6 oz sounds big but empties fast in multi-pet homes.
Bottom Line:
A near-perfect everyday training wage. Keep a bag in the car, one in the jacket, and you’ll never face a distracted dog again—unless you forget to click.
4. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dog Treats – Carnivore Crunch for Training – Natural Limited Ingredient, Grain-Free – Perfect for Picky Eaters – Chicken Recipe – 3.25 oz Bag
Overview:
Carnivore Crunch kibblettes are 98 % cage-free chicken, ground with bone and organs, then freeze-dried into cereal-like clusters. The 3.25 oz bag tips in at roughly 120 teaspoon-sized pieces ideal for scatter feeding or stuffing puzzle toys.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Bone-in formula delivers natural calcium and phosphorus in food, not supplement, form—great for growing large-breed puppies. Clusters soften instantly in goat milk, morphing into a gravy that converts kibble haters overnight.
Value for Money:
Matching Wild Weenies at $73.80/lb, the inclusion of bone ups mineral density so you feed less. One tablespoon crumbled across dinner replaces a quarter-can of wet food, diluting cost per meal.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: multi-use (treat, topper, travel meal); lightweight for hiking; no synthetic vitamin premix needed thanks to organs; shelf life 18 months.
Cons: bone particles can feel gritty to sensitive gums; aroma intensifies once rehydrated; clusters fracture, leaving 20 % bag dust.
Bottom Line:
A smarter pick than plain breast treats if you raw-feed part-time or camp with dogs. Accept the dusty dregs as gourmet food topper and your value—and dog—will wag.
5. Stella & Chewy’s Premium Salmon Jerky Dog Treats – 95% Real Fish Bites for Sensitive Stomachs – Natural Limited Ingredient Treats for Small and Large Dogs – No Grain, Wheat or Soy – 6 oz Bag
Overview:
These 6 oz jerky slabs flaunt 95 % wild-caught salmon, including skin and organ bits, slow-smoked then air-dried into tear-away strips. Rich in omega-3, each 6-calorie shard doubles as an anti-inflammatory reward for athletic or arthritic dogs.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Single-fish protein solves poultry and beef allergy loops; skin-on slices provide collagen that supports gut lining and coat sheen. The jerky is naturally preserved without salt, relying instead on low-water activity—rare in fish treats.
Value for Money:
At $39.97/lb you’re paying less than fresh sushi-grade salmon and getting shelf-stable convenience. One bag seasons 200+ sits and downs, beating freeze-dried fish that powders on contact.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Pros: irresistible “cat-food” aroma for dogs; strips rip cleanly without knife; supports hip joints via EPA/DHA; minimal ocean smell to human noses once dried.
Cons: oil spots can stain light fabric; overfeeding can loosen stools in omega-3 novices; jerky toughens if left open.
Bottom Line:
Excellent high-value reinforcer for scent-work, conformation showing, or medication wrapping. Feed sparingly at first, then watch your dog’s coat glow like a show-seal.
6. Stella & Chewy’s Training Dog Treats – Crav’n Bac’n Soft Bacon & Beef Bites – Premium USA Made – Low Calorie Rewards – 8.25oz
Overview: Stella & Chewy’s Training Dog Treats deliver premium, USA-made bacon and beef bites designed specifically for effective training sessions. These soft, chewy morsels pack irresistible flavor into just 3 calories per piece, making frequent rewarding guilt-free and productive.
What Makes It Stand Out: Real bacon leads the ingredient list, creating an authentic taste that drives dogs wild during training. The thoughtful recipe excludes common irritants like potatoes, peas, and lentils while maintaining a soft texture perfect for quick consumption between commands. The small-batch production ensures consistent quality and freshness that mass-produced treats can’t match.
Value for Money: At $19.37 per pound, these treats sit in the premium range, but the concentrated flavor means you’ll use fewer per session. The 8.25oz bag contains approximately 275 treats, providing excellent longevity for daily training routines. When you factor in the USA-sourced ingredients and specialized formulation, the price reflects genuine quality.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The irresistible bacon flavor and soft texture make these ideal for puppies and senior dogs with dental issues. The low-calorie count supports extensive training without weight gain concerns. However, the premium price might stretch budgets for multi-dog households, and some dogs might find them too rich if overfed during initial introductions.
Bottom Line: These treats excel for serious training endeavors where high-value rewards make the difference between success and frustration. While pricier than grocery store options, their effectiveness and quality ingredients justify the investment for dedicated pet parents focused on positive reinforcement training.
7. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Chicken Meal Mixers- Dog Food Topper and Mixer – Made with 95% Cage-Free Chicken, Organs & Bone – Perfect for Picky Eaters – Grain-Free – 3.5oz
Overview: Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Chicken Meal Mixers transform ordinary kibble into a gourmet, nutrient-dense experience. These versatile crumbles contain 95% cage-free chicken with organs and bone, delivering raw nutrition’s benefits without refrigeration hassles or preparation time.
What Makes It Stand Out: The freeze-dried technology preserves raw nutrition while creating an intensely aromatic topper that picky eaters can’t resist. Each 3.5oz bag rehydrates to nearly triple its weight, making it surprisingly economical. The inclusion of probiotics supports digestive health, while the whole-prey approach provides natural vitamins and minerals often missing from processed foods.
Value for Money: Though small, this concentrated mixer’s rehydration ability means a little goes far. For topping meals, one bag can enhance 15-20 meals for medium dogs. The price point reflects premium ingredients and specialized processing, but the transformation in mealtime enthusiasm and nutritional benefits provide clear value for struggling pet parents.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The dramatic improvement in picky eaters’ appetites makes this invaluable for frustrated owners. The convenience factor eliminates raw feeding’s typical mess and storage concerns. However, the small bag size might surprise first-time buyers, and some dogs need gradual introduction to prevent digestive upset from the rich protein content.
Bottom Line: This product shines as a meal enhancer for selective eaters or as a nutritional boost for any dog. While not budget-friendly as a sole diet, its effectiveness in solving mealtime battles and providing raw nutrition benefits makes it essential for households with finicky furry family members.
8. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dog Biscuits – Cage-Free Chicken Recipe – Protein Rich, Grain Free Dog & Puppy Treat – Great Snack for Training & Rewarding – 9 oz Bag
Overview: Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Coated Dog Biscuits combine traditional biscuit crunch with modern raw nutrition. These oven-baked treats feature a revolutionary freeze-dried raw coating that delivers concentrated flavor and nutrition in a familiar, satisfying biscuit format dogs instinctively love.
What Makes It Stand Out: The dual-texture experience merges crunchy biscuit satisfaction with the intense flavor of raw coating containing whole prey ingredients like chicken liver and gizzards. The grain-free, gluten-free recipe accommodates sensitive systems while maintaining structural integrity for training rewards. Each biscuit delivers protein-rich nutrition in a portable, non-greasy format perfect for pockets and treat bags.
Value for Money: At $17.76 per pound, these biscuits offer middle-ground pricing between basic treats and premium freeze-dried options. The 9oz bag provides approximately 40-50 biscuits, depending on size variation. The coating’s flavor concentration means dogs find these highly rewarding, reducing the quantity needed for training effectiveness.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The biscuit format travels exceptionally well without crumbling or leaving residue in pockets. The raw coating elevates these beyond typical biscuits, making them valuable for high-distraction environments. However, the crunchy texture might not suit very young puppies or senior dogs with dental issues, and some dogs might initially hesitate at the unusual coating texture.
Bottom Line: These biscuits excel for everyday training and treating, offering more nutritional value than standard options while maintaining convenience and portability. They’re particularly valuable for pet parents seeking to incorporate raw benefits without completely changing their dog’s diet or dealing with freeze-dried mess.
9. Stella & Chewy’s – Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost – Grass-Fed Lamb & Wild-Caught Salmon Dinner Morsels – Freeze-Dried Raw, Protein Rich, Grain Free Dog Food – 4.25 oz Bag
Overview: Stella’s Solutions Skin & Coat Boost targets specific dermatological needs through a specialized blend of grass-fed lamb and wild-caught salmon enhanced with targeted supplements. This therapeutic formula addresses common issues like itching, inflammation, and coat dullness through natural, bioavailable ingredients.
What Makes It Stand Out: This isn’t just another protein-rich treat – it’s a functional supplement disguised as a delicious meal mixer. The inclusion of bromelain from pineapple stems provides natural anti-inflammatory benefits, while biotin strengthens keratin structures. Omega fatty acids from multiple sources including salmon and coconut flour create a comprehensive approach to skin and coat health from the inside out.
Value for Money: At $41.37 per pound, this premium product targets specific health concerns rather than general nutrition. The 4.25oz bag contains approximately 45-50 morsels that rehydrate to double their weight. When compared to veterinary supplements or medicated shampoos, this food-based approach often delivers comparable results at lower overall cost.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The palatability ensures dogs actually consume their skin-supporting supplements, eliminating pill-fighting battles. Many users report visible coat improvements within 2-3 weeks of regular use. However, the high price point requires commitment, and results vary based on underlying causes of skin issues. Dogs with severe allergies might need additional interventions beyond dietary support.
Bottom Line: This specialized mixer proves invaluable for dogs suffering from skin and coat issues, particularly those triggered by inflammation or nutritional deficiencies. While expensive, the convenience of combining treatment with mealtime and the high-quality ingredients justify the investment for pet parents seeking natural solutions to dermatological concerns.
10. Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties – Beef Recipe – High Protein Grain-Free Puppy & Dog Food – Perfect For Picky Eaters – 25 oz
Overview: Stella & Chewy’s Freeze-Dried Raw Dinner Patties represent the gold standard in convenient raw feeding, offering complete nutrition in an irresistible beef recipe. These substantial 25oz of freeze-dried patties serve as complete meals, enticing toppers, or high-value training rewards, providing exceptional versatility for households with varying feeding needs.
What Makes It Stand Out: The generous 25oz offering includes approximately 30 patties that rehydrate to nearly one pound of fresh food each. The 95% grass-fed beef and organs formula delivers whole-prey nutrition with organic fruits and vegetables, creating a biologically appropriate diet that mirrors ancestral eating patterns. The complete and balanced formulation works for all life stages, from growing puppies to senior dogs.
Value for Money: At $38.39 per pound (freeze-dried weight), this represents significant value in the premium pet food market. When rehydrated, the cost per pound drops dramatically, making it competitive with high-end canned foods while delivering superior nutrition. The versatility as complete meals, toppers, or treats maximizes utility across multiple feeding scenarios.
Strengths and Weaknesses: The dramatic improvement in picky eaters’ enthusiasm makes this invaluable for mealtime battles. The nutrient density means smaller serving sizes satisfy nutritional needs, often reducing overall food consumption. However, the initial investment challenges budget-conscious shoppers, and the rehydration requirement adds preparation time some busy schedules can’t accommodate.
Bottom Line: These patties excel as a problem-solver for selective eaters while providing premium nutrition that supports optimal health. Though expensive upfront, the concentrated nutrition, versatility, and visible health improvements make this a worthwhile investment for pet parents prioritizing their dog’s long-term wellness and mealtime satisfaction.
Understanding the Freeze-Drying Process and Why It Matters
Freeze-drying removes moisture at sub-zero temperatures, preserving cellular structure and nutrient density better than baking or dehydrating. For dogs, that means amino acids stay intact, aromas stay irresistible, and you avoid artificial preservatives without sacrificing shelf life.
Key Nutritional Advantages of Stella & Chewy’s Treats
Grass-fed meats, cage-free poultry, and wild-caught fish deliver complete amino acid profiles. Added organic fruits and veggies contribute polyphenol antioxidants, while chelated minerals boost absorption. The net result is a treat that functions like a micronutrient-dense supplement—perfect for filling gaps in kibble-based diets.
How to Read the Ingredient Panel Like a Nutritionist
Look for named proteins first (e.g., “turkey liver” versus “poultry meal”), avoid generic “flavor” additives, and scan for unnecessary starches or sweeteners. Stella & Chewy’s lists every primary ingredient in descending order by weight; if the first three slots are premium animal parts, you’re on the right track.
Protein Sources: Single vs. Multiple Animal Proteins
Single-protein options simplify elimination diets and help pinpoint allergies. Multi-protein blends diversify the amino spectrum and can reduce the risk of developing new sensitivities—useful for healthy, adventurous eaters.
Allergen-Friendly Formulas for Sensitive Dogs
Limited-ingredient strips and nuggets exclude common triggers like chicken, grains, and dairy. Instead, you’ll see novel proteins—rabbit, venison, or wild boar—paired with coconut flour or pumpkin for binder-free, hypoallergenic rewards.
Grain-Free vs. Grain-Inclusive: Making the Right Choice
Grain-free doesn’t automatically equal “low carb.” Peas, lentils, or tapioca often replace cereals, sometimes raising glycemic load. If your vet has ruled out grain allergies, whole oats or quinoa can provide soluble fiber for satiety and gut health.
Training Treats vs. Meal Toppers: Matching Form to Function
Tiny, rapidly dissolving morsels keep training sessions fluid and calorie-controlled. Larger nuggets or patties double as meal toppers when crumbled over kibble, instantly upgrading commercial diets with raw nutrition.
Calorie Density and Portion Control Guidelines
Freeze-dried pieces shrink by 70 % when moisture leaves, so 100 g of treats equals 300–350 kcal—roughly half a day’s ration for a 25 lb dog. Use a kitchen scale, not your eyes, and subtract treat calories from daily meals to avoid “creeping weight gain.”
Probiotics and Functional Add-Ins: Do They Survive the Bag?
Stella & Chewy’s adds guaranteed levels of GanedenBC³⁰ and other spore-forming probiotics after the freeze-dry step. These strains remain dormant until rehydrated in saliva or water, delivering at least 10⁷ CFU per gram—enough to support micro-flora if fed consistently.
Sustainability and Sourcing: What the Packaging Tells You
Flip the bag: QR codes now link to lot-specific farm audits and third-party welfare scores. Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) logos confirm sustainable fish stocks, while “Made in Milwaukee, WI” plants reduce transportation miles versus overseas extrusion.
Price Per Serving: Calculating True Value Beyond the Bag Size
Divide bag cost by the number of 5 g “training bites” you can break out. A $15 pouch yielding 60 bites costs $0.25 per reward—on par with premium baked biscuits but with triple the protein bio-availability.
Storage and Freshness Tips to Maximize Nutrient Retention
Reseal promptly, keep oxygen absorbers inside, and store under 75 °F. Once opened, aim to finish within 30 days or vacuum-seal half the bag and freeze it; lipid oxidation accelerates after the seal is broken.
Transitioning Safely: Introducing Freeze-Dried Treats Without Tummy Upset
Start with one bite per 10 lb body weight on day one, double on day three, and hold there for five days. Mix with a splash of warm water to slow gulpers and reduce the risk of post-prandial vomiting.
Vet-Approved Red Flags: When to Choose a Different Brand
Recalled lots, vague labeling (“meat and animal derivatives”), or fat content above 45 % on a dry-matter basis should prompt a hard pass. Also avoid any brand that won’t share complete nutrient analyses—transparency is non-negotiable.
2025 Label Changes & Regulatory Updates You Should Know
New AAFCO guidelines require calorie counts per gram on front-of-pack and expanded guaranteed analyses for taurine, methionine, and omega-3s. Stella & Chewy’s adopted the standards early; if another brand hasn’t updated by mid-2025, consider it behind the curve.
Conclusion: Investing in Tiny Treats That Deliver Monumental Health Returns
A treat isn’t just a bribe—it’s a daily opportunity toLayer functional nutrition onto your dog’s plate. By scrutinizing proteins, portions, and provenance, you turn a 5-second reward into a long-term investment in joint health, skin luster, and immune resilience. Freeze-dried technology makes that investment effortless, and Stella & Chewy’s 2025 lineup gives you more single-source, vet-validated, planet-friendly options than ever before. Choose wisely, measure carefully, and watch your best friend thrive—one irresistible bite at a time.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are Stella & Chewy’s freeze-dried treats safe for puppies under six months?
Yes, provided you rehydrate small pieces and keep total daily calories under 10 % of the puppy’s ration.
2. Can I feed only freeze-dried treats and skip kibble altogether?
No—treats are not formulated to meet AAFCO complete-and-balanced standards. Use them as toppers or rewards, not meals.
3. How do I compare protein percentages between freeze-dried and baked treats?
Convert both to dry-matter basis: divide the stated protein % by (100 – moisture %) and multiply by 100.
4. Do these treats expire, or just lose flavor?
They expire; rancid fats can cause diarrhea. Smell the bag—any paint-like odor means it’s time to toss.
5. Are the probiotics killed if I microwave the treats?
Yes, heat above 120 °F destroys live cultures. Serve at room temperature or lightly rehydrated with warm—not hot—water.
6. What’s the max number of treats I can give during a 10-minute training session?
For a 30 lb dog, aim for 25–30 tiny 1-kcal pieces; adjust up or down based on your dog’s daily calorie allowance.
7. Is rabbit really better for allergies than chicken?
Not inherently; it’s “novel” for most North American dogs, so immune systems haven’t been sensitized—making reactions less likely.
8. Why do some bags have more crumb dust than others?
Freeze-dried items are fragile; altitude pressure during shipping can create powder. Save the dust as a food topper—nothing is wasted.
9. Can cats eat Stella & Chewy’s dog treats?
Occasionally, yes, but feline treats have added taurine. Dog varieties shouldn’t exceed 10 % of a cat’s diet long-term.
10. Where can I find the latest lot-specific test results?
Scan the QR code on the back panel; it links to a third-party lab certificate showing pathogen screening and nutrient verification.