Storage and Safety
How to Thaw Raw Dog Food Safely
May 6, 2024
Thawing raw dog food safely is a key habit for raw feeders. The refrigerator method is safest, and thawed food should be used within 3 to 4 days.
Thawing raw dog food correctly is one of the most important habits to develop when you start raw feeding. It is straightforward once you have a routine, and it keeps both your dog and your household safe.
The safest method is to thaw raw dog food in the refrigerator. Move a tube or the appropriate portion from the freezer to the fridge the night before you plan to use it. Most 1LB tubes will be fully thawed within 12 to 24 hours at a normal refrigerator temperature.
This method is preferred because the food stays at a consistently safe temperature throughout the thawing process, minimizing bacterial growth.
Thawing raw dog food on the counter at room temperature is not recommended. As the outer layers of the food warm up while the centre is still frozen, the surface temperature can enter the range where bacteria multiply quickly. The refrigerator method avoids this entirely. See our post on raw dog food left out too long for what to do if this happens.
If you need to thaw food more quickly, placing the sealed tube in a bowl of cold water is an acceptable method. Change the water every 30 minutes to keep it cold. Do not use warm or hot water.
Never use the microwave to thaw raw dog food, as this can partially cook portions of the food and damage the integrity of the proteins and bone content.
Once thawed, raw dog food should be used within 3 to 4 days and kept in the refrigerator. Do not leave thawed raw food at room temperature for extended periods. Our post on how long raw dog food lasts in the fridge covers this in full detail. If you will not use it within that window, see our guide on can you refreeze raw dog food after thawing for what to do.
A simple approach is to keep one or two portions thawing in the fridge at all times, rotating from the freezer as needed. This way you always have food ready without thawing more than you need. For advice on how to store raw dog food in the freezer to keep your supply in good condition, see our dedicated guide.
This article is for general information only and is not veterinary advice. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet. Individual results may vary.