If you’ve ever looked at the ingredient list on premium dog foods and wondered, “Could I make this at home?”, the answer is yes. Air-drying chicken is one way to prepare a nutrient-rich, shelf-stable food for your dog. While it takes patience, the process is simple once you understand the steps.
Why air-dry instead of cook?
Cooking meat at high heat can reduce some of the natural nutrients. Air-drying, on the other hand, gently removes moisture while keeping most of the proteins, vitamins and minerals intact. The result is food that’s closer to raw, but safer and longer lasting.
Step 1: Choose the right chicken
Start with fresh, high-quality chicken. Many owners use a mix of:
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Lean cuts (like breast or thigh)
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Organ meats (such as liver or heart, which provide vitamins A, B and iron)
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Ground bone or a calcium supplement for balance
Always avoid adding salt, seasoning or sauces as these can be harmful to dogs.
Step 2: Slice and prepare
Cut the chicken into small, even strips so it dries consistently. If you’re including organ meats, slice them thin too. Pat everything dry with a paper towel before drying.
Step 3: Dry slowly at low heat
There are a few methods to air-dry:
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Dehydrator: Set to around 60–70 °C and leave for 8–12 hours.
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Oven: Use the lowest setting, place the chicken on racks and keep the door slightly ajar to let moisture escape.
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Traditional air-drying: In cool, dry climates, thin strips can be hung in a well-ventilated, insect-free space, but this takes more care to avoid spoilage.
The goal is to remove moisture until the pieces are firm and chewy, not brittle.
Step 4: Store safely
Once dried, let the chicken cool before storing in airtight containers. Keep in the fridge if you plan to use it within a week, or freeze for longer storage. Always check for mould or off smells before feeding.
Is homemade always enough?
Making your own air-dried dog food can be rewarding, but it’s not always simple to get the balance right. Dogs need precise levels of protein, fat, calcium, vitamins and trace minerals. That’s why many pet parents prefer ready-made options that are carefully formulated and tested.
An easier alternative
If you love the idea of air-dried nutrition but don’t have the time (or equipment) to make it yourself, Ziwi Peak Air-Dried Chicken Recipe offers the same slow, gentle drying process with the right balance of meat, organs, seafood and superfoods. It’s nutrient-dense, shelf-stable and ready to scoop straight from the bag.
