What are the best freeze-dried dog treats? While this question is often answered with a quick list of popular options, there’s much more to consider. The best freeze-dried dog treats aren’t just about flavor—they can play a key role in supporting your dog’s health, especially when used as “food as medicine” under Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine (TCVM) principles.
Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, the best freeze-dried dog treats are those tailored to your dog’s unique needs. By focusing on single-organ freeze-dried options like beef heart, liver, spleen, kidney, and lung, you can help nourish your dog’s organs and balance their elements. In this article, we’ll explore how these unique treats can transform your dog’s health and vitality according to TCVM, providing targeted benefits for everything from immune support to energy levels.
Understanding TCVM Principles
TCVM offers a holistic perspective on pet health, emphasizing the importance of energy balance (Qi) for optimal well-being.
The Five Element Theory
The Five Elements, each associated with specific organs and energetic qualities, are central to TCVM philosophy.
Here are the five elements, along with their corresponding organs:
- Water (Kidney and Bladder)
- Wood (Liver and Gallbladder)
- Fire (Heart, Small Intestine, Pericardium, and Triple Burner)
- Earth (Spleen and Stomach)
- Metal (Lung and Large Intestine)
By aligning your pet’s diet with these principles, you can promote harmony within the body and address underlying imbalances.
The Theory of “Like Treats Like”
The Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory of “like treats like” is a time-honored approach rooted in the idea that consuming specific foods, herbs, or organ meats can support the health of corresponding organs or systems in the body. This principle is closely tied to achieving balance and harmony within the body, a core goal of TCM practices.
According to the “like treats like” theory, a food or substance’s properties, functions, and energetic nature align with those of a particular organ. By consuming organ meats such as liver, kidney, or spleen, for example, you can directly support the health and function of these organs in your or your pet’s body. These foods are believed to transfer their vitality, nutrients, and energetics to the corresponding organ, helping to restore harmony, repair tissue, and address imbalances.
How to Apply the TCVM Theories to Freeze-Dried Dog Treats
The easiest way to apply the theories is to feed your dog single-organ freeze-dried treats.
PET | TAO Freeze-Dried Raw Treats contain a single ingredient: the specific organ from which they are sourced.
Freeze-drying food from a raw state offers several benefits:
- Preservation of nutrients: Freeze drying retains most of the food’s original nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, as it involves minimal heat processing.
- Extended shelf life: Freeze-drying inhibits the growth of bacteria, molds, and yeasts by removing moisture from the food, thereby extending the product’s shelf life without needing preservatives.
- Retention of flavor and texture: Unlike traditional dehydration methods, freeze-drying preserves the food’s natural flavor, aroma, and texture, resulting in a product that resembles its fresh counterpart.
- Lightweight and convenient: Freeze-dried food is lightweight and compact, making it convenient for storage, transportation, and travel. It can be easily rehydrated by adding water, providing a quick and nutritious meal or snack for pets.
- Reduced risk of spoilage: Since freeze-dried food is devoid of moisture, it is less susceptible to spoilage, making it an ideal option for pet owners who prefer to feed their pets raw or minimally processed diets.
Overall, freeze-drying preserves the nutritional integrity and quality of raw food while offering the convenience and versatility of a lightweight, shelf-stable product.
Beef Kidney Treats (Water Element)
In TCVM, beef kidneys are valued for strengthening and balancing the Water element, which is crucial for dogs’ overall vitality.
According to Chinese medicine theory, the Water element is associated with the kidney and urinary bladder organs, as well as the bones, ears, and reproductive system. The kidney is considered the source of life force, or “Qi,” and it governs growth, development, and aging. A healthy kidney system helps maintain strong bones, efficient reproduction, and good fluid balance in the body. The Water element also plays a crucial role in supporting the animal’s vitality and endurance. Water element imbalances can lead to fatigue, bone weakness, urinary problems, and even hearing loss, emphasizing the importance of maintaining harmony within the elemental system for overall health.
PET | TAO Freeze Dried Raw Beef Kidney treats are the best freeze-dried dog treats for:
- Cushing’s Disease: Beef kidneys nourish the kidneys, helping regulate hormonal imbalances associated with Cushing’s disease and promoting overall balance and vitality in the body.
- Age-related symptoms: As pets age, their kidney function may decline. Beef kidney supports kidney health, addressing age-related symptoms such as decreased energy, mobility issues, and cognitive decline.
- Arthritis and swelling: In TCVM, the kidneys are associated with the water element, which governs fluid balance and joint health. Beef kidney nourishes the kidneys, supporting joint lubrication and reducing arthritis-related inflammation.
- Incontinence: Weak Kidney Qi, often seen in cases of incontinence, can lead to issues with urinary control. Beef kidney strengthens the kidneys, helping to improve bladder control and reduce urinary accidents.
- Reproductive issues: In TCM, the kidneys play a crucial role in reproductive health. Beef kidney supports kidney function, addressing underlying imbalances that may contribute to reproductive problems such as infertility or hormonal imbalances.
- Kidney and bladder health challenges: Beef kidney provides targeted support for kidney and bladder health, addressing conditions such as urinary tract infections, kidney stones, and bladder inflammation.
Freeze-dried beef kidney treats are a nutrient-rich snack that supports kidney health and overall vitality. They help boost energy, promote proper fluid balance, and maintain strong bones with essential vitamins, minerals, and protein. Incorporating beef kidney treats into your pet’s diet aligns with the principles of TCVM. They utilize the Five Element Theory and the “like treats like” theory to support optimal kidney function and address conditions like urinary issues, fatigue, and weakened bones.
Beef Liver Treats (Wood Element)
In TCVM, beef liver treats are valued for nourishing and balancing the Blood and Qi, which are vital for a dog’s overall energy and health.
According to Chinese medicine theory, the liver is associated with the Wood element, which governs the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body and supports organ function, particularly the liver and gallbladder. The liver is key in maintaining the health of the Blood and ensuring the efficient circulation of nutrients and energy. A balanced liver promotes vitality, a healthy coat, and strong muscles, while imbalances can result in irritability, digestive issues, and fatigue. Beef liver treats provide nutrients that support this critical balance, helping to enhance your dog’s health and energy.
PET | TAO Freeze Dried Raw Beef Liver Treats are the best freeze-dried dog treats for:
- Cushing’s Disease: In Eastern medicine, Cushing’s disease is often associated with imbalances in the Water element, particularly affecting the kidneys. Beef liver, rich in nutrients like iron and B vitamins, can help support kidney function and balance the Water element, potentially alleviating symptoms associated with Cushing’s disease.
- Ligament Injury: Ligament injuries are often related to imbalances in the Wood element, which governs tendons and ligaments. Beef liver, associated with the Wood element in TCVM, can help strengthen the tendons and ligaments, supporting the body’s recovery from injury and promoting healing.
- Dandruff: According to TCVM, dandruff may arise from imbalances in the Blood and Yin elements. Beef liver is rich in nutrients like vitamin A and omega-3 fatty acids, which nourish the Blood and Yin, helping to moisturize the skin and reduce dandruff.
- Iron-Deficiency Anemia: Anemia in TCM is often associated with Blood deficiency. Beef liver is an excellent source of iron, which is essential for blood production. Feeding beef liver can help replenish iron stores in the body and support the production of healthy blood cells, addressing iron-deficiency anemia.
- Elevated Liver Enzymes: Elevated liver enzymes can indicate liver imbalances, often related to the Wood element in TCM. Beef liver contains nutrients like vitamin B12 and choline, which support liver function and help maintain healthy enzyme levels, potentially reducing elevated liver enzymes.
- Jaundice: Jaundice is a condition characterized by yellowing of the skin and eyes, often indicating liver dysfunction in TCVM. Beef liver contains compounds like glutathione, which support liver detoxification and bile production, helping to alleviate jaundice symptoms.
- Emotional Stress: According to TCVM, emotional stress can disrupt the flow of Qi and lead to imbalances in various organ systems. Beef liver, associated with the Wood element, can help nourish the Liver Qi and promote emotional balance, potentially reducing the effects of emotional stress on the body.
Freeze-dried beef liver treats are nutrient-rich snacks supporting liver health and overall vitality. They help detoxify the body, boost energy, promote healthy skin, and coat it with essential vitamins, minerals, and protein. Incorporating beef liver treats into your pet’s diet aligns with the principles of TCVM. They utilize the Five Element Theory and the theory of “like treats like” to support optimal liver function and address conditions such as sluggishness, poor digestion, irritability, and imbalances in the skin or coat.
Beef Heart Treats (Fire Element)
Since the heart is associated with the Fire element in TCVM, feeding heart treats helps strengthen and support the Fire element in your dog’s body. This, in turn, can promote heart health and proper function.
In TCVM, the heart houses the spirit (Shen) and is connected to emotional and mental well-being. Supporting and tonifying heart meridian promotes a balanced spirit, helping to stabilize emotions and improve overall mental health in dogs.
According to Chinese medicine theory, the heart is associated with the Fire element, which governs circulation, mental clarity, and emotional well-being. The heart is considered the source of vitality and consciousness, crucial in nourishing the Blood and circulating Qi throughout the body. A strong heart promotes good circulation, mental sharpness, and a balanced emotional state. Imbalances in the Fire element can lead to fatigue, poor circulation, or emotional instability. By providing freeze-dried heart treats, you help support your dog’s heart energy, enhancing vitality, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
PET | TAO Freeze Dried Beef Heart Treats are the best freeze-dried dog treats for:
- Anxiety, Depression, and Agitation: In TCVM, the heart corresponds to the fire element and governs the mind and emotions. According to the principle of “like treats like,” feeding beef heart nourishes the heart, promotes emotional balance, and reduces symptoms of anxiety, depression, and agitation. By harmonizing the Fire element, beef heart helps restore equilibrium to the mind and emotions, leading to a calmer and more centered state.
- Behavioral Issues: Imbalances in the heart’s energy can manifest as behavioral issues such as restlessness or hyperactivity. Beef heart, being rich in nutrients that support heart health, helps regulate the heart’s energy flow. This, in turn, can have a calming effect on behavior, promoting a more balanced and harmonious demeanor in pets.
- Dull Eyes: According to TCVM, the eyes are closely connected to the heart, reflecting its vitality and state of balance. By nourishing the heart with beef heart, pet owners can support optimal circulation and vitality. This can help alleviate dullness in the eyes, promoting brightness and clarity.
- Cardiac Issues: Beef heart is a powerhouse of nutrients like CoQ10 and taurine, vital for heart health. Feeding beef heart helps replenish these essential nutrients, supporting cardiovascular function and maintaining cardiac health. Through the principle of “like treats like,” beef heart nourishes the heart, addressing underlying imbalances and promoting overall cardiac well-being.
- Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, Dilated Cardiomyopathy, and Heart Failure involve structural or functional abnormalities of the heart. Beef heart can help mitigate the progression of these conditions by providing targeted support to the heart. Through its nourishing properties, beef heart supports cardiac muscle function, promotes circulation, and helps maintain optimal heart health, thus offering valuable support for pets with cardiac issues.
Freeze-dried beef heart treats provide a nutrient-rich snack that supports heart health and overall vitality. They help promote cardiovascular strength, boost energy, and enhance endurance with essential nutrients like CoQ10, protein, and vitamins. Incorporating beef heart treats into your pet’s diet aligns with the principles of TCVM, utilizing the Five Element Theory and the theory of “like treats like” to support optimal heart function and address conditions such as behavior issues, fatigue, circulatory imbalances, and low stamina.
Beef Spleen Treats (Earth Element)
Since the spleen is associated with the Earth element in TCVM, feeding spleen treats helps strengthen and support the Earth element in your dog’s body. This promotes healthy digestion, balanced energy, and overall vitality.
According to Chinese medicine theory, the spleen transforms food into Qi and Blood, nourishes the body, and supports immune function. A strong spleen aids in maintaining proper digestion, boosting energy levels, and supporting muscle strength. An Earth element imbalance can lead to digestive issues, fatigue, and a weakened immune system. By providing freeze-dried spleen treats, you help support your dog’s spleen energy, improving digestion, increasing energy, and fostering overall well-being.
PET | TAO Freeze Dried Beef Spleen Treats are the best freeze-dried dog treats for:
Our treats provide essential nutrients and harmonize the body’s energy flow, addressing imbalances and promoting holistic health.
By embracing TCVM principles and integrating freeze-dried dog treats tailored to the Five Elements and organs, you can nourish your dog from the inside out.
Together, let’s embark on a journey of vitality and longevity, ensuring our beloved companions lead vibrant and fulfilling lives.
