9 out of 10 dog owners are feeding their dog the wrong food
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Shelter manager, certified canine nutritionist, and lifelong dog lover
• Family-owned transparency with proven safety record: Third-generation family business manufacturing in New York with zero recalls in 10 years, emphasizing ingredient sourcing and small-batch production quality.
• Strong palatability for picky eaters and sensitive stomachs: 50-60% of users report dogs “love it,” with particularly high success rates for small breeds and digestive issues.
• Mid-premium pricing delivers solid ingredient quality: At $2.20-$2.50 per pound, offers real meat, functional superfoods, and clean label without artificial additives or common fillers.
• Limited testing transparency despite marketing claims: No third-party lab verification for contaminants or detailed micronutrient disclosure, undermining the brand’s transparency positioning in premium market.
• Moderate nutrition profile suits average pets best: 24-27% protein and 3,600-3,800 kcal/kg works well for typical house dogs but may not meet high-energy working dog requirements.
Health Extension started in 1963 as Vets Choice, a family-run pet food company in New York. More than 60 years later, it’s still 100% family-owned by the Gruber family—now in its third generation under Brad Gruber. That’s rare in today’s pet food industry, where most brands have been absorbed by massive conglomerates. In 2015, the company rebranded from Vets Choice to Health Extension, refining its mission to emphasize holistic nutrition and ingredient transparency.
The brand manufactures all its products in small batches at a single facility in Hauppauge, New York, using locally sourced U.S. ingredients whenever possible. Health Extension’s core philosophy centers on natural, holistic ingredients—no corn, wheat, soy, by-products, or artificial preservatives. They claim to include over 30 superfoods in their recipes, from turmeric and kelp to coconut oil and New Zealand green-lipped mussel.
In terms of market positioning, Health Extension sits in the mid-premium segment. It’s more expensive than mainstream brands like Purina or Pedigree, but not quite at the ultra-premium level of Orijen or Acana. The brand targets health-conscious dog owners who want quality ingredients and transparent sourcing but aren’t necessarily willing to pay $4+ per pound.
The company’s reputation is solid. There have been no recalls in the past 10 years, which is a strong indicator of consistent quality control. With annual revenue around $6 million and fewer than 30 employees, Health Extension is a boutique operation—not a powerhouse, but stable and focused on maintaining nutritional integrity without investor-driven cost-cutting.
Health Extension’s protein sources are a clear strength. The Original Chicken & Brown Rice formula leads with organic chicken, supplemented by lamb. The Grain-Free Salmon & Herring line offers a novel protein option for dogs with sensitivities. Other formulas feature duck (sourced from France), venison, beef, and turkey. Importantly, these are real, named meats—not generic “poultry meal” or “meat by-products.”
Most recipes include both fresh meat and meat meal, which is a concentrated protein source. This dual approach provides a solid protein foundation without relying too heavily on plant-based fillers. The brand also includes chelated minerals for better absorption, which is a step above many competitors in this price range.
For grain-inclusive lines, Health Extension uses brown rice as the primary carbohydrate—a digestible, whole grain with a low glycemic index. For grain-free formulas, the brand substitutes chickpeas, peas, and sweet potatoes. While legumes have been linked to potential DCM (dilated cardiomyopathy) concerns in some studies, the FDA has not definitively established causation, and Health Extension includes taurine supplementation in grain-free recipes as a precaution.
One thing I appreciate is the absence of corn, wheat, and soy—common allergens and cheap fillers. The carbohydrate sources used are functional and digestible, not just there to bulk up the bag.
The brand uses chicken fat, flaxseed, and coconut oil as primary fat sources. Flaxseed provides omega-3 fatty acids for skin and coat health, while coconut oil is marketed for cognitive function and immune support. The omega-6 to omega-3 ratio isn’t explicitly stated, but the inclusion of fish-based proteins in some formulas helps balance fatty acid profiles.
Health Extension heavily markets its 30+ superfoods, including turmeric (anti-inflammatory), kelp (thyroid support), New Zealand green-lipped mussel (joint health), and colostrum (immune support). While these ingredients sound impressive, the dosages are often not disclosed. Without knowing the exact amounts, it’s hard to say whether they’re present in therapeutically relevant quantities or just sprinkled in for marketing appeal.
That said, the inclusion of prebiotics and probiotics is a genuine plus for gut health, and glucosamine/chondroitin in senior formulas supports joint function—though again, dosages aren’t always specified.
Health Extension avoids several common red flags: no artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives; no ethoxyquin; no meat by-products; and no GMO ingredients. This aligns with the brand’s holistic positioning and adds to its credibility.
| Price per pound | $2.20 – $3.30 (Air-Dried: $8-$10) |
| Primary protein | Chicken, Lamb, Salmon, Herring, Duck, Venison, Beef, Turkey |
| By-products | None |
| AAFCO compliance | Yes (all life stages) |
| Formula options | Multiple lines (Original, Grain-Free, Little Bites, Large Bites, Lite, Air-Dried) |
| Availability | Chewy, Amazon, brand website + subscription options |
Let’s get into the numbers. Health Extension’s dry food lines average around 27% protein, 16% fat, and 43% carbohydrates (on a dry matter basis). For comparison, AAFCO minimum standards for adult maintenance are 18% protein and 5.5% fat, so Health Extension exceeds these comfortably.
The Original Chicken & Brown Rice formula sits at 24% protein and 15% fat, which is solid for an all-life-stages food. The Grain-Free Salmon & Herring bumps this up to 27% protein and 17% fat, reflecting the higher protein density of fish-based recipes. The Lite (Weight Management) formula drops to 18% protein and 7% fat, with added L-carnitine to support metabolism.
Caloric density ranges from around 3,500 to 3,800 kcal/kg for most formulas, with the Lite version coming in at 2,900 kcal/kg. This is in line with mid-premium brands and should work well for moderately active dogs. High-energy working dogs might need a fattier formula, but for the average pet, these numbers are appropriate.
One area where Health Extension falls short is transparency around micronutrients. The brand doesn’t publish detailed omega-3/omega-6 ratios, glucosamine levels per serving, or full vitamin/mineral breakdowns. For a brand that emphasizes transparency, this is a missed opportunity.
Health Extension works well for a wide range of dogs, but it particularly shines for:
There are some scenarios where Health Extension might not be the best fit:
One of Health Extension’s standout features is palatability. Across Chewy, Amazon, and Dog Food Advisor reviews, 50-60% of users mention their dogs “love it” or “gobble it up.” The Little Bites formula, designed for small and toy breeds, gets particularly high marks for picky eaters.
Flavor variety is decent: chicken, lamb, salmon, duck, venison, beef, and turkey options cover most preferences. The Original Chicken & Brown Rice is the most popular, followed by the Grain-Free Salmon & Herring. Some dogs do better with one protein over another—duck and venison tend to be well-tolerated by dogs with sensitivities, while chicken is the crowd favorite for general appeal.
The kibble size varies by formula. Little Bites has smaller, disk-shaped pieces ideal for small mouths, while Large Bites offers larger, flatter ovals for bigger dogs. This attention to kibble size is a practical touch that improves the feeding experience.
That said, not every dog is a fan. About 5-8% of reviews mention refusal or lack of enthusiasm, and a handful of users report their dogs loved it initially but then lost interest. This could be due to formula changes (which the brand doesn’t always announce) or just individual preference. Still, the overall acceptance rate is well above average.
Health Extension’s pricing falls in the mid-premium range. A 30-pound bag of Original Chicken & Brown Rice costs around $65-$75, or roughly $2.20 to $2.50 per pound. Grain-free options like Salmon & Herring run higher, at $2.75 to $3.10 per pound. The Air-Dried line is significantly more expensive at $8-$10 per pound, positioning it as a premium topper or occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
For a medium-sized dog (30 pounds), feeding Health Extension Original costs about $1.10 per day, or roughly $33 per month. That’s noticeably more than mainstream brands like Purina Pro Plan ($2.00-$2.25/lb) but comparable to other natural brands like Blue Buffalo ($2.25-$2.65/lb). If you’re already in the premium segment, Health Extension offers solid value for the ingredient quality.
The bigger question is whether the price premium is justified. In my opinion, it is—if you value ingredient transparency, U.S. manufacturing, and a clean label. The protein levels are above average, the carbohydrate sources are functional, and the absence of fillers and artificial additives is a genuine benefit. However, if you’re on a tight budget or feeding a large dog, the cost can add up quickly.
One way to stretch your dollar is to use the subscription model on Chewy or the brand’s website, which typically saves 5-10%. You can also consider mixing Health Extension with a more affordable kibble to reduce costs while still providing some of the nutritional benefits.
Considering other options? If you’re weighing Health Extension against similar mid-premium brands, check out our Blackwood review for a detailed comparison of another family-owned, natural dog food brand.
Health Extension manufactures all its products at a single facility in Hauppauge, New York. This centralized production model makes it easier to maintain consistent quality control compared to brands that outsource to multiple co-packers. The company upgraded to a new, 55,000-square-foot facility in 2019, tripling capacity and installing state-of-the-art equipment.
The brand emphasizes small-batch production, which theoretically allows for more attention to detail and fresher ingredients. Ingredients are sourced from the U.S. whenever possible, though specific country-of-origin details for each ingredient aren’t published.
Health Extension claims to conduct over 140 quality checkpoints per batch, covering microbiological testing, nutritional analysis, and contaminant screening. However, there’s no third-party lab verification published for heavy metals, mycotoxins, or pesticide residues. For a brand that markets transparency, this is a notable gap. Independent testing from organizations like Clean Label Project or ConsumerLab would strengthen credibility.
On the positive side, Health Extension has a spotless safety record. No recalls in the past 10 years, no FDA warnings, and no significant contamination incidents. That’s a strong indicator of effective quality control and safe manufacturing practices.
Health Extension is a member of the Pet Industry Sustainability Coalition, signaling a commitment to environmental responsibility. However, specific sustainability goals, targets, or achievements aren’t publicly documented. The brand uses recyclable packaging (polyethylene bags, aluminum cans), but there’s no mention of compostable or biodegradable options.
The company’s family-owned structure allows it to prioritize long-term values over short-term profit, which is a plus for ethical considerations. There’s no evidence of animal testing for dog food, and the brand’s focus on natural, whole-food ingredients aligns with a more sustainable approach to pet nutrition.
That said, sustainability reporting is minimal. For a brand that emphasizes ethical sourcing, more transparency around carbon footprint, water usage, and supply chain practices would be valuable.
I work at a dog shelter, and we recently tested Health Extension Original Chicken & Brown Rice with one of our residents, a seven-year-old mixed-breed named Benny. Benny came to us as a stray with a history of digestive issues—his previous foster reported frequent soft stools and occasional vomiting after meals. He’s a medium-sized dog, around 45 pounds, with a calm temperament and moderate activity level.
We transitioned Benny to Health Extension over five days, mixing it gradually with his previous food (a mid-range grocery store brand). The first thing I noticed was that Benny seemed more interested in his meals. He’s not typically a picky eater, but he’d often leave a few kibbles in his bowl. With Health Extension, he cleaned his bowl every time.
Within about two weeks, we saw a noticeable improvement in his stool quality. The stools were firmer and more consistent, with less odor. He also had fewer episodes of soft stools, which had been a recurring issue. His coat didn’t change dramatically, but it did look a bit shinier and felt softer to the touch.
Energy-wise, Benny stayed pretty much the same—he’s a laid-back dog by nature, so we didn’t expect a big shift there. He did seem a bit more engaged during walks, but that could also be attributed to him settling into shelter life. Overall, the experience was positive but not transformative. Benny tolerated the food well, his digestion improved, and he seemed to enjoy eating it. For a dog with his history, that’s a solid outcome.
Health Extension maintains an average rating of 4.5 to 4.6 out of 5 stars across major platforms like Chewy, Amazon, and Dog Food Advisor. That’s well above average for the category and reflects strong overall satisfaction.
The most frequently mentioned benefits in user reviews include:
On the flip side, common complaints include:
One recurring theme is that Health Extension works particularly well for dogs with sensitive stomachs or skin issues. Multiple reviewers mention switching from prescription diets and seeing similar or better results at a lower cost.
How does Health Extension stack up against similar brands? Let’s compare it to a few key competitors in the mid-premium segment.
Wellness is a well-known natural brand with a slightly higher price point. Both brands emphasize real meat, no artificial additives, and holistic ingredients. Wellness offers more variety in product lines (including raw boosters and wet food toppers), but Health Extension has a stronger focus on superfoods. Nutritionally, they’re similar, but Wellness has a broader retail presence and stronger brand recognition.
Blue Buffalo is more widely available and slightly cheaper, but it’s also been the subject of multiple recalls over the years. Health Extension’s clean safety record is a significant advantage. Blue Buffalo’s LifeSource Bits (vitamin-enriched kibble pieces) are a unique feature, but Health Extension’s superfood blend offers a different approach to functional nutrition. If you prioritize safety and ingredient transparency, Health Extension edges out Blue Buffalo.
Purina Pro Plan is a more affordable option with strong veterinary backing and extensive research. However, it includes corn, wheat, and soy—ingredients Health Extension avoids. Pro Plan is a solid choice for budget-conscious owners or those who trust Purina’s scientific approach, but Health Extension offers cleaner ingredients for a modest price increase.
Orijen is significantly more expensive ($3.50-$4.50/lb) and markets itself as “biologically appropriate” with extremely high protein content (38-42%). Health Extension’s protein levels (24-27%) are more moderate and better suited for average pet dogs. If you have a working dog or want maximum protein, Orijen is the better choice. For most dogs, Health Extension offers better value without sacrificing quality.
Health Extension is designed for all life stages, meaning it meets AAFCO standards for puppies, adults, and seniors. The Little Bites formula is particularly well-suited for small breeds, toy breeds, and puppies due to its smaller kibble size and higher calorie density. The Large Bites formula works well for medium to large breeds, offering larger kibble that encourages chewing.
For active adult dogs, the Original Chicken & Brown Rice or Grain-Free Salmon & Herring formulas provide solid protein and fat levels to support energy needs. The moderate caloric density (3,600-3,800 kcal/kg) is appropriate for dogs with average activity levels, though highly active or working dogs may benefit from a fattier formula.
For senior dogs, the Lite (Weight Management) formula is a good choice if your dog is less active and prone to weight gain. The inclusion of glucosamine and chondroitin in some formulas supports joint health, which is important for aging dogs. The moderate protein content (18-24%) is also appropriate for older dogs with reduced kidney function.
For dogs with sensitivities, the grain-free lines (Duck, Venison, Salmon) offer novel proteins that are less likely to trigger allergies. However, if your dog has multiple food sensitivities, you may need a more specialized limited-ingredient diet.
So, is Health Extension worth the money? In my opinion, yes—for most dogs. The ingredient quality is genuinely solid, with real meat, functional carbohydrates, and a clean label free of fillers and artificial additives. The brand’s safety record is spotless, and user feedback is overwhelmingly positive, particularly for dogs with sensitive stomachs or picky eaters.
The price point is fair for what you’re getting. At $2.20 to $2.50 per pound for the Original line, it’s more expensive than mainstream brands but comparable to other natural options like Wellness or Blue Buffalo. The inclusion of 30+ superfoods is a nice touch, though I wish the brand would disclose exact dosages to back up its functional claims.
Where Health Extension falls short is in transparency around testing. For a brand that emphasizes ingredient quality, the lack of third-party lab results for heavy metals, mycotoxins, and contaminants is a missed opportunity. Additionally, the limited information on micronutrient levels (omega-3/6 ratios, glucosamine content) makes it harder to assess the food’s true nutritional value.
That said, I’d recommend Health Extension for owners who value ingredient transparency, U.S. manufacturing, and a clean label. If your dog has digestive issues, skin problems, or is a picky eater, this brand is worth trying. The Little Bites formula, in particular, is excellent for small breeds and puppies.
Would I buy this for my own dog? If I had a medium-sized dog with a sensitive stomach or a small breed with picky eating habits, absolutely. For a large, highly active dog, I might look for a higher-fat formula, and for a dog with multiple allergies, I’d consider a more specialized limited-ingredient diet. But for the average pet dog, Health Extension is a reliable, high-quality choice that delivers on its promises.
Yes, all Health Extension dog food is manufactured at a single facility in Hauppauge, New York. The company uses locally sourced U.S. ingredients whenever possible and produces all their products in small batches. This centralized manufacturing approach helps maintain consistent quality control compared to brands that outsource to multiple co-packers.
No, Health Extension has maintained a spotless safety record with no recalls in the past 10 years. There have been no FDA warnings or significant contamination incidents, which is a strong indicator of effective quality control and safe manufacturing practices.
Health Extension is still 100% family-owned by the Gruber family (now in its third generation), which is rare in today’s pet food industry. The brand emphasizes over 30 superfoods in their recipes, avoids corn, wheat, soy, and artificial preservatives, and maintains complete manufacturing control at their New York facility. This combination of family ownership, ingredient transparency, and U.S. manufacturing sets them apart from corporate-owned competitors.
Health Extension falls in the mid-premium price range at approximately $2.20 to $2.50 per pound for the Original line and $2.75 to $3.10 per pound for grain-free options. For a 30-pound dog, feeding costs average around $1.10 per day or roughly $33 per month. While more expensive than mainstream brands, it’s comparable to other natural brands like Blue Buffalo or Wellness.
Yes, Health Extension works particularly well for dogs with digestive sensitivities. The brand includes prebiotics and probiotics for gut health, uses digestible carbohydrates like brown rice or chickpeas, and avoids common allergens like corn, wheat, and soy. User reviews consistently mention improved stool quality and fewer digestive issues after switching to Health Extension.
The grain-inclusive formulas use brown rice as the primary carbohydrate source, while grain-free options substitute chickpeas, peas, and sweet potatoes. Health Extension includes taurine supplementation in grain-free recipes as a precaution against potential DCM concerns. Both lines offer similar protein levels (24-27%) and maintain the same superfood blend and quality standards.
Yes, most Health Extension formulas meet AAFCO standards for all life stages, making them suitable for puppies, adults, and seniors. The Little Bites formula is particularly good for puppies and small breeds due to its smaller kibble size. For seniors, some formulas include glucosamine and chondroitin for joint support, and the Lite formula offers reduced calories for less active older dogs.
Health Extension includes ingredients like turmeric (anti-inflammatory), kelp (thyroid support), New Zealand green-lipped mussel (joint health), coconut oil, colostrum (immune support), and various fruits and vegetables. However, the brand doesn’t always disclose exact dosages, making it difficult to determine whether these ingredients are present in therapeutically relevant quantities or mainly for marketing appeal.
Health Extension is available through online retailers like Chewy and Amazon, as well as independent pet stores. The brand offers subscription services on Chewy and their website, which typically saves 5-10% on regular orders. However, it’s not as widely available in big-box stores compared to mainstream brands like Purina or Blue Buffalo.
Like any dog food transition, you should gradually introduce Health Extension over 5-7 days. Start by mixing 25% Health Extension with 75% of your current food for the first two days, then move to 50/50 for days 3-4, then 75% Health Extension for days 5-6, and finally 100% Health Extension by day 7. This gradual approach helps prevent digestive upset during the transition period.
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