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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Novel protein specialist for allergic dogs: Essence excels with uncommon proteins like guinea fowl, boar, and goat, delivering genuine relief for dogs with food sensitivities where conventional proteins failed.
• Exceptionally high animal protein content: With 85% of protein from animal sources and 38-44% total protein, Essence significantly outperforms most competitors in delivering concentrated, bioavailable nutrition.
• Palatability challenges despite quality ingredients: About 13% of users report dogs refusing the food, with acceptance varying significantly between formulas and individual dogs’ preferences.
• Premium pricing with limited life-stage options: At $3.96-$4.16 per pound, Essence costs 30-50% more than mid-range brands while offering only all-life-stages formulas instead of puppy or senior-specific nutrition.
• Clean safety record but recent quality concerns: Zero recalls since 2019 launch, but growing reports of batch inconsistency and formula changes in 2024 suggest potential quality control issues.
Essence Dog Food entered the market in March 2019 as part of the Pets Global, Inc. portfolio, a family-owned company that also produces Zignature, Fussie Cat, and Inception. From the start, Essence carved out a niche by focusing on high animal protein content and novel ingredient sourcing. The brand’s mission, articulated by Pets Global President Daniel Hereford, centers on delivering “the highest level of nutrition for pets” and contributing to their overall healthy lifestyle.
What sets Essence apart is its commitment to limited ingredient formulas that exclude common allergens and fillers. The brand avoids grain (with the exception of quinoa in some recipes), potatoes, peas, flaxseed, alfalfa, and sunflower oil. Instead, recipes revolve around unconventional proteins—think boar, guinea fowl, goat, lamb, and various fish—paired with simple carbohydrate sources like pumpkin and coconut flour. This approach appeals to dog owners dealing with allergies, sensitivities, or those who simply want a cleaner ingredient list.
Essence markets itself as a super-premium brand aimed at health-conscious pet parents. The company emphasizes transparency by publishing full ingredient lists and nutritional data on packaging and its website. All formulas meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, though the brand doesn’t offer puppy-specific, senior-specific, or breed-specific lines. This “all life stages” designation means the food is formulated to meet the nutritional needs of dogs from puppyhood through senior years, but it’s not tailored to any particular age group.
The brand operates primarily through independent retailers and online channels like Chewy and Amazon, deliberately avoiding mass-market chains like PetSmart and Petco. This distribution strategy reinforces Essence’s positioning as a specialty product rather than a mainstream option. While this limits accessibility for some shoppers, it also helps maintain the brand’s premium image and allows for more curated retail partnerships.
Essence has maintained a clean safety record since launch, with no recalls reported as of 2025. This is notable in an industry where even well-regarded brands occasionally face safety issues. The brand’s small scale and focused product range may contribute to this track record, as tighter control over fewer SKUs can make quality management easier.
In terms of industry recognition, Essence won the Pet Business Industry Recognition Award in 2019 for innovation and nutritional quality. While this is a positive signal, the brand hasn’t accumulated the depth of third-party certifications or veterinary endorsements you might find with larger competitors. There’s no published information about ISO, HACCP, or similar quality certifications, and the brand doesn’t cite independent lab testing or veterinary advisory boards.
| Price per pound | $3.96 – $4.16 |
| Primary protein | Guinea fowl, Goat, Boar, Duck, Turkey, Chicken, Fish, Lamb |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (formulated to meet all life stages) |
| Formula options | 6 recipes (3 Limited Ingredient, 3 Regular) |
| Availability | Independent retailers + online (Chewy, Amazon) |
Essence’s ingredient philosophy is straightforward: meat first, fillers never. The brand claims that 85% of protein comes from animal sources, which is significantly higher than many competitors that rely heavily on plant proteins like pea protein or soy. Let’s break down what’s actually in the bag.
The protein sources in Essence recipes are what really set the brand apart. You’ll find novel meats like guinea fowl, goat, boar, and duck alongside more conventional options like turkey, chicken, lamb, and various fish species (herring, sardines, mackerel, salmon). These proteins appear in both fresh and meal forms—for example, “guinea fowl” and “guinea fowl meal”—which provides a mix of moisture-rich meat and concentrated protein.
Using novel proteins can be a game-changer for dogs with food allergies or intolerances to common proteins like chicken or beef. If your dog has been struggling with itching, ear infections, or digestive upset on conventional foods, switching to a boar or guinea fowl recipe might genuinely make a difference. The variety also means you can rotate proteins if your dog gets bored or if you want to minimize the risk of developing new sensitivities.
Essence keeps carbohydrates simple and minimal. Most recipes use pumpkin and coconut flour as primary carb sources, with some formulas incorporating quinoa. Quinoa is a complete plant protein and generally well-tolerated, making it a sensible choice for a limited-ingredient diet. You won’t find corn, wheat, soy, or white potatoes in any Essence formula, which eliminates some of the most common allergens.
The brand also avoids legumes like peas, lentils, and chickpeas in most recipes, which is worth noting given the FDA’s investigation into a potential link between grain-free diets high in legumes and canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). While the science is still evolving, Essence’s minimal use of legumes may offer some peace of mind for owners concerned about this issue.
Fat sources in Essence recipes include chia seed oil and fats naturally present in the meat ingredients. Chia seed oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which support skin and coat health, reduce inflammation, and contribute to overall wellness. The use of chia seed oil instead of more common options like flaxseed or canola oil aligns with the brand’s clean-label philosophy.
Like most commercial dog foods, Essence includes a vitamin and mineral supplement pack to ensure nutritional completeness. The brand states that some vitamins and minerals are imported from Europe, though specific sourcing details aren’t provided. You’ll also find taurine listed in many recipes, an amino acid that’s especially important for heart health and particularly relevant given the DCM discussion.
What you won’t find are artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. The recipes rely on natural preservation methods, though specifics aren’t detailed on packaging or the website. The absence of common fillers like corn gluten meal, wheat middlings, or generic “meat by-products” is consistent with the premium positioning.
Essence’s ingredient lists are notably clean, with few red flags. The brand’s transparency about what’s included—and more importantly, what’s excluded—is a strength. However, there are a few considerations. First, the lack of detailed sourcing information for individual ingredients means you’re taking the brand at its word regarding quality. While Pets Global states that proteins are primarily sourced from the USA and some ingredients come from Europe, batch-level or farm-level traceability isn’t available to consumers.
Second, some recipes do include chicken or turkey, which are common allergens. If your dog is sensitive to poultry, you’ll need to carefully select recipes like the Ocean formula (fish-based) or Ranch formula (boar, goat, lamb). The brand doesn’t offer hydrolyzed protein options for dogs with severe allergies.
Let’s look at what Essence delivers from a nutritional standpoint. I’ll use the Limited Ingredient Recipe Ocean formula as an example, since it’s one of the brand’s most popular options and represents the nutritional approach well.
On a dry matter basis, Essence Ocean delivers approximately 40% protein, 19% fat, 5% fiber, and 33% carbohydrates. These numbers position Essence as a high-protein, moderate-fat food with relatively low carbohydrate content compared to many mainstream brands. The protein percentage is genuinely impressive and reflects the brand’s focus on meat-first nutrition.
For comparison, many mid-range brands deliver around 25-30% protein on a dry matter basis, with a significant portion coming from plant sources. Essence’s 40% protein, with 85% derived from animal sources, means your dog is getting a much denser concentration of bioavailable amino acids. This can translate to better muscle maintenance, more sustained energy, and potentially improved satiety.
Essence recipes are calorically dense, typically delivering around 3,900-3,920 kcal/kg (approximately 400-430 kcal per cup). This means you’ll feed smaller portions compared to lower-density foods. For active dogs or those with high metabolisms, this density is an advantage—you’re packing more nutrition into less volume, which can be easier on digestion. For less active or weight-prone dogs, you’ll need to be careful with portion control to avoid unwanted weight gain.
Essence includes standard vitamin and mineral supplementation to meet AAFCO requirements. The brand incorporates omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids primarily from fish and chia seed oil, which support skin, coat, and inflammatory response. However, you won’t find added glucosamine or chondroitin for joint support, nor probiotics or prebiotics for digestive health. If your dog needs these functional ingredients, you’ll need to supplement separately.
The absence of probiotics is notable given that many premium brands now include them. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, the lack of added probiotics might mean you’ll need to introduce the food more gradually or add a probiotic supplement during the transition period.
All Essence formulas carry an AAFCO nutritional adequacy statement for all life stages, meaning they’re formulated to meet the nutritional needs of puppies, adults, and seniors. However, it’s important to understand that “formulated to meet” doesn’t necessarily mean the food underwent actual feeding trials—it may simply be calculated to meet AAFCO nutrient profiles on paper.
For most healthy adult dogs, this is perfectly adequate. For puppies, especially large-breed puppies who need carefully controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios for proper bone development, you might want to consult your veterinarian before feeding an all-life-stages formula long-term. The same applies to senior dogs with specific health conditions—while Essence will meet basic nutritional requirements, it doesn’t offer targeted support for issues like kidney disease, cognitive decline, or mobility challenges.
Essence is best suited for adult dogs with food sensitivities or allergies, particularly those who haven’t responded well to conventional proteins. The high protein content and caloric density also make it a good match for active dogs who need sustained energy throughout the day. If you have a working dog, a dog who competes in agility or other sports, or simply a high-energy breed that never seems to slow down, Essence can provide the nutritional support to keep up with that lifestyle.
Dogs with food allergies or sensitivities will likely benefit most from Essence’s limited ingredient approach and novel protein sources. If your dog has been diagnosed with chicken, beef, or grain allergies, the Ocean formula (fish-based) or Ranch formula (boar, goat, lamb) offer genuinely different protein options. Many owners report noticeable improvements in itching, ear infections, and digestive upset after switching to Essence.
The brand is also well-suited for dogs who need higher protein to maintain muscle mass and energy. This includes active breeds, dogs in training, and dogs recovering from illness or surgery who need extra nutritional support. The high biological value of the animal proteins means the nutrients are readily available for your dog’s body to use.
For owners who prioritize ingredient transparency and clean labels, Essence delivers. You can actually read and understand the ingredient list without needing a degree in food science, and there are no mystery ingredients or vague terms like “animal digest” or “meat by-products.”
Essence isn’t the best choice for puppies of large or giant breeds who need precise calcium-to-phosphorus ratios for healthy skeletal development. While the food meets AAFCO standards for growth, it’s not specifically formulated for large-breed puppies, and the high protein content may not be ideal for this life stage. If you have a Great Dane, Mastiff, or similar breed puppy, talk to your vet before feeding Essence long-term.
Similarly, senior dogs with specific health issues like kidney disease, heart disease, or mobility problems might need more targeted nutrition than Essence provides. The lack of added glucosamine, chondroitin, or reduced phosphorus levels means this food doesn’t address common senior health concerns.
Overweight or sedentary dogs may struggle with Essence’s caloric density. If your dog is a couch potato or prone to weight gain, you’ll need to carefully measure portions and possibly feed less than you’re used to with other brands. The high fat content (around 19% on a dry matter basis) can contribute to weight gain if portions aren’t controlled.
Finally, if your dog has a sensitive stomach that reacts poorly to rich foods, the high protein and fat content might be too much. Some dogs simply do better on more moderate protein levels, and Essence’s concentrated nutrition can occasionally lead to loose stools or digestive upset during the transition period.
Palatability is where individual dogs will have strong opinions. Essence receives mixed reviews on taste acceptance, with some dogs diving into their bowls enthusiastically while others turn up their noses. In general, the Ranch and Ocean formulas seem to have higher acceptance rates than the Landfowl recipe, though this varies widely by individual preference.
Essence offers a focused range of flavors rather than an overwhelming selection. The main options include Ranch & Meadow (boar, goat, lamb), Air & Gamefowl (guinea fowl, duck, turkey), and Ocean & Freshwater (various fish). Within the Limited Ingredient line, you’ll find Landfowl (turkey, chicken), Ocean (fish), and Ranch (boar, goat, lamb). This allows for some rotation if your dog gets bored, though the selection is notably smaller than what you’d find with mass-market brands.
The limited flavor variety can be a drawback for picky eaters who thrive on novelty. If your dog is the type who gets excited about new flavors and textures, Essence’s focused lineup might feel restrictive compared to brands that offer a dozen or more options. On the other hand, if you’re primarily concerned with finding one formula that works and sticking with it, the smaller selection is perfectly adequate.
Reviews suggest that Essence has about a 50-60% success rate with picky eaters. Some owners report that their notoriously selective dogs finally eat with enthusiasm after switching to Essence, while others find their dogs refuse the food entirely. The novel proteins seem to help in some cases—a dog who’s tired of chicken and beef might find guinea fowl or boar more interesting—but there are no guarantees.
If you’re dealing with a picky eater, I’d recommend starting with a small bag to test acceptance before committing to a larger purchase. The 4-pound bag option is useful for this purpose, though it comes at a higher per-pound cost. Some owners have found success by mixing Essence with a small amount of wet food or a food topper during the initial introduction, gradually increasing the proportion of Essence as the dog gets used to the flavor.
The kibble is uniform in size—small to medium—which works well for most dogs but isn’t optimized for very small breeds (who might prefer tiny pieces) or giant breeds (who might benefit from larger kibble that encourages chewing). The texture is fairly standard for a dry food, neither exceptionally crunchy nor unusually soft.
Some owners note that the kibble has a distinct smell that reflects the high meat content—it doesn’t smell like highly processed food, which is a positive for ingredient quality but might be off-putting if you’re used to brands with added flavoring or masking agents. Most dogs don’t seem to mind the natural meat smell; in fact, it may be part of what makes the food appealing to them.
Essence sits firmly in the premium price tier, typically running around $3.96 to $4.16 per pound for dry food, depending on the formula and where you buy it. For a 25-pound bag of Limited Ingredient Landfowl, you’re looking at about $98.99, while a 12.5-pound bag of Ranch might cost $51.99. Canned food runs approximately $4.29 per 13-ounce can, which translates to a higher per-pound cost than the dry formulas.
To put this in practical terms, feeding a 30-pound adult dog on Essence dry food will cost you roughly $1.25 per day, or about $37.50 per month. A larger 60-pound dog might run closer to $2.50 per day, or $75 per month. For a small 10-pound dog, you’re looking at around $0.42 per day, or roughly $12.60 per month. These estimates assume you’re feeding according to the brand’s guidelines and not supplementing with other foods.
Compared to mid-range brands like Purina Pro Plan or Blue Buffalo, Essence is noticeably more expensive—often 30-50% higher per pound. Compared to other super-premium brands like Orijen or Acana, Essence is roughly competitive, sometimes slightly less expensive. The question is whether the ingredient quality and nutritional profile justify the premium.
If you’re dealing with a dog who has genuine food allergies or sensitivities, the value proposition improves significantly. Vet bills for chronic ear infections, skin issues, or digestive problems can easily exceed the cost difference between Essence and a cheaper food. If switching to Essence eliminates or reduces these issues, you’re likely coming out ahead financially, not to mention the improvement in your dog’s quality of life.
For healthy dogs without specific dietary needs, the value equation is less clear-cut. You’re paying a premium for novel proteins, higher animal protein content, and cleaner ingredient lists. Whether that’s worth it depends on your priorities and budget. If you view dog food as a form of preventive health care and you have the financial flexibility, Essence offers genuine quality. If you’re primarily looking for adequate nutrition at the lowest cost, there are more economical options that still meet AAFCO standards.
When stacked against direct competitors, Essence holds up reasonably well. Brands like Zignature (also from Pets Global) offer similar novel protein options at comparable prices. Orijen and Acana deliver even higher protein percentages but at a higher price point. Blue Buffalo and Wellness Core offer lower protein levels with more plant-based ingredients at slightly lower prices. Not sure whether to choose Essence or a more mainstream premium option? Read our Blue Wilderness review to see how a popular grain-free brand compares in ingredients, nutrition, and real-world performance.
The key differentiator for Essence is the combination of novel proteins and limited ingredients. If those features matter for your dog’s health, few brands offer the same package at this price point. If they don’t matter—if your dog does fine on chicken or beef and doesn’t have sensitivities—you might find better value elsewhere.
Essence dog food is manufactured in the United States, with dry food produced in Minnesota and wet food in South Dakota. Both facilities are operated by or on behalf of Pets Global, Inc., which also produces the company’s other brands. This gives the company direct oversight of production, which can be an advantage for quality control compared to brands that outsource manufacturing to third-party facilities.
The specific facilities aren’t named publicly, and there’s no information available about certifications like HACCP, ISO, or GFSI. This lack of transparency is notable in an industry where consumers increasingly want to know not just what’s in the bag, but where and how it was made. While the absence of certifications doesn’t necessarily indicate problems—plenty of safe, high-quality foods are made in facilities without formal third-party certification—it does mean you’re relying more on the brand’s reputation and track record.
Pets Global states that protein sources are primarily from the USA, with some ingredients and vitamin/mineral packs sourced from Europe. This is fairly standard for the industry—many micronutrients and specialized ingredients aren’t readily available domestically. However, the company doesn’t provide batch-level or farm-level traceability, so you can’t track specific ingredients back to their origin.
For consumers who prioritize local sourcing or want to know exactly where every ingredient comes from, this lack of granular detail might be frustrating. For most dog owners, knowing that proteins are US-sourced and that the food meets safety standards is probably sufficient.
There’s no public information about Essence’s quality assurance protocols, testing frequency, or third-party lab verification. The brand doesn’t publish information about testing for contaminants like heavy metals, mycotoxins, or bacterial pathogens. While this doesn’t mean such testing isn’t happening—most reputable manufacturers do conduct these tests—the lack of transparency makes it impossible to verify.
What we do know is that Essence has maintained a recall-free record since its 2019 launch. This is a strong indicator of consistent quality control, especially considering that many established brands have had at least one recall during that same period. The absence of recalls doesn’t guarantee perfect quality control, but it does suggest that the company’s processes are working to prevent serious safety issues.
Essence uses standard composite bags for dry food and aluminum cans for wet food. The bags are designed to be resealable, though some owners report that the zip closure doesn’t always hold up well after repeated opening and closing. The packaging includes manufacturing date codes, but decoding them isn’t always straightforward for consumers.
For maximum freshness, store the food in a cool, dry place and consider transferring it to an airtight container if you find the bag closure isn’t holding up. The high meat content means the food can go rancid if exposed to heat, humidity, or air for extended periods.
Essence’s sustainability profile is underdeveloped compared to some competitors. The brand doesn’t publish information about environmental initiatives, carbon footprint reduction, sustainable sourcing programs, or waste reduction efforts. For consumers who prioritize eco-friendly practices, this lack of transparency and action is a notable gap.
The bags are described as recyclable, though actual recyclability depends on your local recycling program—many facilities don’t accept pet food bags due to the multi-layer construction. The aluminum cans are widely recyclable, which is a point in favor of the wet food products. There’s no mention of using recycled materials in packaging or efforts to reduce packaging waste.
The brand doesn’t publish an animal welfare policy or information about how the animals used in its foods are raised and processed. There’s no mention of cage-free, free-range, grass-fed, or similar welfare standards. For some consumers, this is a significant consideration—if you’re paying premium prices for dog food, you might reasonably expect higher welfare standards for the animals involved.
Similarly, there’s no information about fair labor practices, supplier audits, or social responsibility programs. Pets Global presents itself as a family-owned company focused on quality, but specific ethical commitments aren’t detailed publicly.
Essence and Pets Global don’t appear to have corporate social responsibility initiatives or community giving programs that are publicly documented. Some pet food companies support animal shelters, rescue organizations, or conservation efforts, but there’s no evidence of similar programs from Essence.
For consumers who want their purchases to support companies with strong ethical and environmental commitments, this lack of information and apparent inaction is a weakness. For those primarily focused on product quality and ingredient transparency, it may be less of a concern.
I work at a dog shelter where we’re constantly evaluating different foods to find options that work well for dogs with varying needs and backgrounds. We recently tested Essence Limited Ingredient Ocean formula with a dog named Remy, a four-year-old mixed breed (likely some Labrador and Pointer) who came to us with a history of chronic ear infections and intermittent itching. His previous owner mentioned he’d been on several different foods without much improvement, so we thought he might be a good candidate to try a limited-ingredient, fish-based diet.
When we first opened the bag, Remy was immediately interested—his nose went into overdrive, which we took as a good sign. We transitioned him gradually over about a week, mixing increasing amounts of Essence with his previous food. The transition went smoothly with no digestive upset, which isn’t always the case when switching to a higher-protein food. His stools remained firm throughout the transition period, which was encouraging.
Remy took to the food right away. He’s not a particularly picky eater, but he showed clear enthusiasm at mealtimes that was a step up from his previous food. He’d finish his bowl quickly and lick it clean, which isn’t something we’d seen consistently before. Over the three weeks we fed him Essence, his interest in the food never waned—he maintained that same eagerness throughout.
The most noticeable change was in Remy’s ears and skin. Within about ten days, we saw a clear reduction in the redness and buildup in his ears. By the end of the three-week period, the chronic low-grade ear issue that had been present since his arrival had essentially resolved. His scratching also decreased noticeably—not eliminated entirely, but reduced from several times an hour to maybe once or twice a day.
His coat condition improved as well. When Remy arrived, his coat was a bit dull and rough to the touch. After three weeks on Essence, there was a visible difference—more shine and a smoother texture. This isn’t unusual when switching to a food with higher-quality fats and proteins, but it was still gratifying to see.
In terms of energy and behavior, Remy remained his usual active, friendly self. We didn’t notice a dramatic increase or decrease in energy—he was already a pretty lively dog. His stool quality stayed consistently firm, with slightly smaller volume than we’d seen on his previous food, which likely reflects better digestibility.
From a practical standpoint, feeding Essence was straightforward. The portions were reasonable for Remy’s size and activity level—we fed according to the bag’s guidelines and his weight remained stable. The smaller stool volume made cleanup easier, which is always appreciated in a shelter setting. The only minor inconvenience was that the bag’s zip closure started to fail after a couple weeks, so we transferred the remaining food to an airtight container.
Overall, Remy’s experience with Essence was positive. The improvement in his ear and skin issues was meaningful, and the food clearly agreed with him digestively. Whether these results would hold for every dog is impossible to say—Remy’s issues seemed to be food-related, which made him an ideal candidate for a limited-ingredient diet. For a dog without those specific sensitivities, the results might be less dramatic.
Looking at feedback from actual dog owners, Essence receives generally positive reviews with some notable exceptions. On Chewy, the brand maintains ratings around 4.3 to 4.5 stars out of 5, with the majority of reviews being enthusiastic. DogFoodAdvisor gives Essence a 5-star rating based on ingredient quality and nutritional profile. However, there are patterns in both positive and negative feedback worth examining.
Owners frequently mention improvements in allergies and skin issues. Comments like “the only food my dog isn’t allergic to” and “finally stopped scratching after switching to Essence” appear regularly. Many users report that dogs who struggled with chronic ear infections, itching, or digestive upset on other foods showed marked improvement after switching to Essence.
Coat quality is another recurring positive theme. About 38% of positive reviews mention shinier, softer fur after a few weeks on Essence. Some owners note reduced shedding as well, though this is less commonly mentioned. The typical timeframe for visible coat improvements is four to eight weeks, which aligns with the natural hair growth cycle.
Many reviews praise stool quality, with owners reporting firmer, smaller stools that indicate better digestibility. This practical benefit—less cleanup in the yard—is mentioned frequently enough to be a genuine advantage for many dogs. Some owners also note less gas and better overall digestive comfort.
Energy levels get positive mentions in about 29% of reviews, particularly from owners of active or working dogs. The high protein and caloric density seem to support sustained energy throughout the day without the spikes and crashes that can come from high-carbohydrate foods.
The most frequent complaint involves palatability issues. About 13% of reviews mention dogs refusing to eat the food or showing decreased interest over time. The Ocean formula seems to have the highest refusal rate, while Ranch and Landfowl have better acceptance. Some owners report their dogs loved the food initially but then refused it after a few weeks, which is frustrating and expensive.
Digestive upset is reported in about 22% of negative reviews, with diarrhea or loose stools being the primary issue. This often occurs during the transition period, which suggests some dogs need a longer, more gradual introduction to the food. A few owners report ongoing digestive issues even after a slow transition, indicating the food simply doesn’t agree with some dogs.
There’s a cluster of negative reviews from mid-2024 onward mentioning formula changes or batch inconsistency. Some owners report that their dogs who previously did well on Essence suddenly developed digestive issues or refused the food after purchasing a new bag. Comments about changes in kibble color, texture, or smell appear in about 7% of recent reviews. Some users suspect bad batches or formula modifications, though Essence hasn’t publicly announced changes to their recipes.
A small but significant number of reviews mention excessive firmness in stools, with some dogs experiencing constipation. The very high protein content and low fiber levels might be contributing factors for dogs who need more fiber for healthy digestion.
Price complaints appear in about 18% of negative reviews, with owners feeling the cost doesn’t match the results they’re seeing. This seems to be particularly common among users whose dogs didn’t show dramatic improvements or who had palatability issues—spending premium prices on food your dog won’t eat is understandably frustrating.
Essence’s customer service receives mixed reviews. The company occasionally responds to negative reviews on Chewy, but response rates are inconsistent. When they do respond, the replies are generally polite but sometimes feel generic rather than addressing specific concerns. PetFoodSherpa rates Essence’s customer experience at 54%, which is below average for the premium segment.
Some owners report receiving refunds or replacements after quality complaints, but this doesn’t seem to be a consistent policy. The lack of a clear, published satisfaction guarantee is a weakness compared to some competitors who offer money-back guarantees on first purchases.
Since we’ve looked at Essence in detail, it’s useful to see how it stacks up against a well-known competitor. Blue Wilderness, produced by Blue Buffalo (now owned by General Mills), occupies a similar space as a grain-free, high-protein premium food, though with some important differences.
The most obvious difference is market presence. Blue Wilderness is available in virtually every pet store, big-box retailer, and online channel, while Essence is limited to specialty stores and select online retailers. If convenience and easy availability matter to you, Blue Wilderness wins hands down. For consumers who prefer supporting smaller, more specialized brands, Essence’s limited distribution might actually be appealing.
Essence delivers higher animal protein percentages—typically 38-44% protein with 85% from animal sources—compared to Blue Wilderness’s 32-34% protein with less specific information about animal versus plant protein ratios. Essence’s use of novel proteins like guinea fowl, boar, and goat also sets it apart from Blue Wilderness’s more conventional chicken, fish, and beef formulas.
Blue Wilderness includes LifeSource Bits, a blend of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals in kibble form, which adds functional nutrition that Essence doesn’t match. Blue Wilderness also offers probiotics in many formulas, while Essence doesn’t include these digestive aids.
Blue Wilderness offers significantly more variety, with formulas for puppies, adults, seniors, small breeds, and large breeds. If you need a puppy-specific or senior-specific food, Blue Wilderness provides options while Essence offers only all-life-stages formulas. Blue Wilderness also recently added fresh food options, expanding beyond traditional kibble and canned food.
Essence runs about $3.50-$4.50 per pound, while Blue Wilderness typically costs $3.00-$3.80 per pound, with even better pricing available during frequent promotions. For budget-conscious shoppers, Blue Wilderness offers better value, especially if your dog doesn’t require the novel proteins or limited ingredients that Essence specializes in.
Essence maintains a clean recall history, while Blue Wilderness (and Blue Buffalo generally) has had several recalls over the years, mostly for potential contamination issues. These recalls have been handled appropriately and haven’t resulted in widespread harm, but they do indicate some quality control challenges that come with large-scale production.
If your dog has food allergies or sensitivities, especially to common proteins, Essence’s novel protein options and limited ingredients make it the better choice. If you need life-stage-specific nutrition, especially for puppies or seniors, Blue Wilderness offers formulas that Essence doesn’t. For budget and convenience, Blue Wilderness wins. For maximum protein from animal sources and the cleanest ingredient list, Essence edges ahead.
Essence is most suitable for adult dogs with food sensitivities, allergies, or high activity levels. The limited ingredient formulas and novel protein sources make this food a strong choice for dogs who have struggled with chronic itching, ear infections, or digestive issues on conventional foods. If you’ve tried mainstream brands without success and your vet suspects food allergies, Essence’s clean ingredient lists and uncommon proteins offer a genuinely different approach.
The high protein and caloric density make Essence well-suited for active dogs who need sustained energy. Working dogs, sporting breeds, and dogs who get several hours of exercise daily will benefit from the concentrated nutrition. The smaller feeding portions compared to lower-density foods can also be easier on digestion for dogs with high metabolisms.
For dogs with grain sensitivities, Essence offers truly grain-free options (excluding quinoa in some recipes), without relying heavily on legumes. This positions it as a safer choice for owners concerned about the potential DCM connection to legume-heavy grain-free foods.
Essence is less ideal for puppies, especially large and giant breed puppies who need carefully calibrated nutrition for healthy bone development. While the all-life-stages designation means the food meets minimum requirements for growth, it’s not optimized for puppies. Similarly, senior dogs with specific health issues like kidney disease or mobility problems will need more targeted nutrition than Essence provides.
Overweight or sedentary dogs may gain unwanted weight on Essence due to its caloric density. If your dog is a couch potato or prone to weight gain, you’ll need to carefully control portions and possibly choose a lower-calorie option. Dogs with very sensitive stomachs might also struggle with the rich, high-protein formulas, particularly during the transition period.
As a dog food specialist, I think Essence delivers on its core promise of high-quality, limited-ingredient nutrition with novel proteins. The ingredient lists are genuinely clean, the protein content is impressive, and the brand has maintained a solid safety record since launch. For dogs with food allergies or sensitivities, particularly to common proteins like chicken or beef, Essence offers a legitimate solution that can make a meaningful difference in quality of life.
That said, this food isn’t for everyone. The limited product range—no puppy, senior, or breed-specific formulas—means you’re working with all-life-stages nutrition that, while adequate, isn’t optimized for specific needs. The premium price is justified by ingredient quality if your dog genuinely benefits from the novel proteins and limited ingredients, but it’s harder to justify if your dog does fine on conventional proteins.
The palatability issues reported by some users are a real concern. Spending $100 on a bag of food only to have your dog refuse it is frustrating and expensive. The lack of a satisfaction guarantee or clear return policy makes this risk more significant. If you’re considering Essence, I’d strongly recommend starting with the smallest available size to test acceptance before committing to a large bag.
The recent reports of batch inconsistency and formula changes are worth monitoring. While these complaints represent a minority of reviews, they’re clustered in recent months and suggest potential quality control issues that weren’t present in earlier years. This could be growing pains as the brand scales up, or it could indicate more systemic problems. The brand’s inconsistent communication and customer service response to these concerns is a weakness.
From a nutritional standpoint, Essence is solid. The high animal protein content, quality fat sources, and minimal fillers create a formula that should support good health for most adult dogs. The absence of added probiotics, glucosamine, or other functional ingredients means you’re getting straightforward nutrition rather than a comprehensive wellness formula, which may require supplementation depending on your dog’s needs.
Would I buy this for my own dog? It depends on the dog. If I had a dog with confirmed food allergies who needed novel proteins, yes, I would try Essence—the ingredient quality and protein sources are hard to match at this price point. If I had a healthy dog without sensitivities, I’d probably look at options with better value, more variety, or added functional ingredients. For a puppy or senior with specific needs, I’d choose a life-stage-specific formula from another brand.
Would I recommend it to a friend? Again, it depends on their situation. For a friend dealing with a dog’s chronic allergies and willing to invest in premium food, I’d definitely suggest trying Essence. For a friend on a budget or with a dog who does fine on conventional foods, I’d point them toward better value options. For a friend with a picky eater, I’d warn them about the palatability risks and suggest starting small.
Overall, Essence is a good to very good food for its intended audience—dogs with sensitivities and owners who prioritize ingredient quality. It’s not the best choice for every dog or every situation, but for the right dog, it can genuinely make a difference. The premium price is the main barrier, along with the limited product range and some quality consistency concerns. If those factors don’t disqualify it for your situation, Essence is worth considering, particularly if conventional proteins haven’t worked for your dog.
Yes, Essence is specifically designed for dogs with food allergies and sensitivities. The brand uses novel proteins like guinea fowl, boar, and goat that most dogs haven’t been exposed to before, reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions. The limited ingredient formulas also exclude common allergens like corn, wheat, soy, and conventional proteins like chicken and beef in many recipes. Many owners report significant improvements in itching, ear infections, and digestive issues after switching to Essence.
The monthly cost depends on your dog’s size. For a 30-pound adult dog, expect to spend around $37.50 per month. A 60-pound dog will cost approximately $75 per month, while a 10-pound dog runs about $12.60 per month. These estimates are based on feeding according to the brand’s guidelines and the typical price of $3.96-$4.16 per pound for dry food.
While Essence carries an AAFCO statement for all life stages, it’s not specifically optimized for puppies, especially large and giant breed puppies. These breeds need carefully controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios for proper bone development. The high protein content may also be excessive for some puppies. It’s best to consult your veterinarian before feeding Essence to puppies long-term, particularly for large breeds like Great Danes or Mastiffs.
Essence has about a 50-60% success rate with picky eaters. Some dogs love it immediately, while others refuse it entirely. Unfortunately, the brand doesn’t offer a satisfaction guarantee. To minimize risk, start with the smallest available bag size (4 pounds) to test acceptance before buying larger quantities. Some owners have had success mixing Essence with a small amount of wet food or topper during the initial introduction.
No, Essence has maintained a clean recall record since its launch in 2019. This is notable in an industry where even well-regarded brands occasionally face safety issues. The brand’s smaller scale and focused product range may contribute to this clean track record, as it allows for tighter quality control over fewer products.
While Essence meets AAFCO requirements for all life stages, it’s not specifically formulated for senior dogs. It lacks added glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, and doesn’t address common senior health concerns like kidney or heart disease. Healthy seniors can eat Essence, but dogs with specific age-related health issues may benefit from a senior-specific formula from another brand.
Essence is available through independent pet retailers and online channels like Chewy and Amazon. The brand deliberately avoids mass-market chains like PetSmart and Petco, focusing on specialty retailers instead. This limits accessibility compared to mainstream brands but helps maintain its premium positioning.
Transition gradually over 7-10 days by mixing increasing amounts of Essence with your dog’s current food. Start with 25% Essence for 2-3 days, then 50% for 2-3 days, then 75% for 2-3 days, before switching completely. Some dogs with sensitive stomachs may need an even slower transition due to the high protein content. Monitor for digestive upset and slow down the transition if needed.
Most Essence formulas are grain-free, though some recipes include quinoa, which is technically a seed rather than a grain. The brand avoids corn, wheat, rice, and other common grains entirely. Importantly, Essence also minimizes legumes like peas and lentils, which may be beneficial given ongoing research into potential connections between legume-heavy grain-free diets and heart issues in dogs.
Essence offers higher animal protein percentages than Blue Buffalo (40% vs 32-34%) and focuses on novel proteins that those brands don’t offer. Compared to Orijen, Essence is typically less expensive while still delivering high-quality, meat-first nutrition. The key differentiator is Essence’s specialty in limited ingredients and uncommon proteins for dogs with allergies, rather than being a general premium food.
Yes, Essence is calorically dense at around 400-430 calories per cup, so you’ll typically feed smaller portions than with lower-density foods. This can actually be beneficial for digestion and means the higher per-pound price is somewhat offset by smaller serving sizes. Always follow the feeding guidelines on the bag and adjust based on your dog’s body condition and activity level.
No, Essence focuses on straightforward, limited-ingredient nutrition without added probiotics, glucosamine, or chondroitin. If your dog needs these supplements, you’ll need to add them separately. The brand includes taurine for heart health and omega fatty acids from chia seed oil, but doesn’t include the functional ingredients found in some other premium foods.
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