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ESSENTIAL FOODS Reviews 

1,190
TrustScore 5 out of 5

4.8

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Review summary

Created with AI, based on recent reviews

Considering 50 reviews, reviewers overwhelmingly had a great experience with this company. Customers consistently report that their dogs thrive on the food, showing improvements in health, energy levels, and developing shiny coats. Many people praise the high quality of the products, noting its positive impact on their pets' well-being and appearance. The food is often credited for resolving various health issues and maintaining excellent condition. Reviewers frequently highlight the excellent service, with an easy and efficient ordering process. The delivery service is consistently described as fast and reliable, often including appreciated extra treats with orders. Many consumers also value the helpful customer support and the overall positive experience of dealing with the company.

What people talk about most

Product

People report positive experiences with the product, with many customers praising the food quality and its... See more

Quality

Users describe positive interactions with quality, consistently praising the high quality of the food and... See more

Delivery service

Customers consistently note positive experiences with delivery service, frequently highlighting its speed and... See more

Service

Reviewers highlight positive aspects of service, consistently praising its excellence and efficiency.... See more

Order

Customers had positive experiences with order, praising the easy and efficient ordering process, often noting... See more

Reviews shaping this summary

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Essential foods nautical living has proven to be a perfect match with my dogs well being. After meeting Essential foods at a dog show over 3 years ago I have only given the dogs nautical living. They... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

We have used Essential Foods for our dog for some time now. We’ve found the service excellent, and the free treats enjoyed by our cairn terrier Brodie. The recommended food is tailored to the size an... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

I'm so pleased I was recommended Essential, and moved away from supermarket dog food. I thought our dog had simply mellowed as she'd gotten older, but the difference after starting this food was almo... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Our breeder did their research and chose Essential, we stuck with it and 3 years later have a very happy, healthy golden retriever. The ordering process is easy and efficient and love the fact you get... See more

Company replied


Company details

  1. Animal feed shop
  2. Feed manufacturer
  3. Food Manufacturer
  4. Food products supplier

Written by the company

Why choose ESSENTIAL FOODS? There are many advantages to choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS. Our grain-free meal is crafted from high-quality ingredients – and guaranteed filler-free. In addition to our delectable line of tasty meals, you’ll find a large selection of irresistible treats prepared and packaged to the same high standard as the rest of the ESSENTIALS assortment. Our mission is to make a difference and help the dog get a healthier and better life through its eating habits. We simply feel committed to it. That's why we don't produce dog or cat food either; we produce meals. Meals packed with nutrition which keep a stable blood sugar level and which only contain ingredients that benefit and strengthen your best friend's health. Nutrition is essential for the dog's or cat's overall wellbeing. Explore our delicate meals, pâté, and treats at essentialfoods.com

Why choose ESSENTIAL FOODS?

Written by the company

With the first bag of ESSENTIALS, a new lifestyle awaits
ESSENTIAL FOODS grain-free meals are crafted from high-quality ingredients, with a high percentage of fresh meat and a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Some of the benefits include improved digestion, a glossier coat, more balanced behaviour, and a healthier body weight.
BOF-approved
All meals are prepared using the BOF principle (Behavioural Optimizing Foods), meaning a meal should mirror the dog's natural diet and eating habits while helping to stabilize blood sugar.
Grain-free meals, pâté and treats
A grain-free diet helps sensitive digestion Although most dogs can digest grains without any problems, there are still some that struggle and are prone to digestive problems such as constipation. All our products are of highest quality and specially formulated using the right balance of key nutrients – just without the grains.

90 days guarentee

Very simple - It's a total satisfaction guarantee

Very simple - It's a total satisfaction guarantee
Should there be anything that you're not happy with, simply get in touch and we'll arrange for a FULL refund. Our guarantee covers all meal products bought online with us, up to 3 months from date of purchases. Just our very own confident way of saying: Give ESSENTIALS a go, you won't regret it!

Contact info

Promotion box for ESSENTIAL FOODS

One mission

To improve and prolong the lives of dogs and cats

4.8

Excellent

TrustScore 5 out of 5

1k reviews

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Asks customers to review

This company invites their customers to review, whether positive or negative

Replied to 83% of negative reviews

Typically replies within 1 week

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4.8

All reviews

(1,190)

509 reviews in the last 12 months

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Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent customer service

Excellent customer service - we started buying direct when our local pet shop did not have stock. Despatch and delivery is super fast. On the last occasion, we were ordering a bag to be delivered to where we were staying on holiday. Auto-fill took over and the delivery address was part our usual address and part the address we wanted it to go to - I could see from the tracking info that the order could not be delivered, I called Essentials as soon as I realised and they immediately re-despatched the order so that we were not left short. They were so helpful.
The food has been great for our puppy - she loves it and her coat gleams.

22 August 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hi Lucy,

Thank you so much for the five starts and your kind words! It warms our pet-loving hearts to see that you have had such a great experience with us!

Every day, we strive to provide quality in both our products and services, and it is a pleasure to see we have succeeded. Having happy customers with happy and healthy pets is what we are here for, and if you ever need help with anything regarding our services, feel free to reach out.

Give your puppy some love and some scratches from us!


Sincerely,

The Essential Foods Team

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent food options

Excellent food options, great service, amazing delivery - just all round exceptional quality.

10 September 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

First of all, thank you for taking the time to write such a wonderful review here on Trust Pilot.
We are delighted that you like our selection of meals and are satisfied with our service and delivery.
Every day, we strive to deliver both meals and service of the ABSOLUTE highest quality.
Your review confirms that we are doing the right thing.

REMEMBER that we are always ready to offer advice and guidance should you need it.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The best kibble around

My puppy (he is one) has two types of food.
His kibble comes from Essential food.
We have used them from the very start (over a year) and I’m over the moon.
Delivery is super speedy (DPD) and ordering is is so very simple.
Great company and my pooch loves his kibble.

10 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Hvor er det fantastisk at høre, at du og din hund er så tilfredse med Essentials, og du skal have tusind tak for at tage dig tid til at dele din oplevelse med os herinde. Det er skønt, at din hun spiser med stor glæde hver gang, og at hun har en stabil mave. Det viser bare, hvor vigtigt det er at finde det rette foder. Og så er det jo også et stort plus med god service, hurtig levering. Husk at vi til voksne hunde har 5 varianter du kan skifte imellem som du har lyst, helt uden en overgangsperiode imellem dem. Vi står altid til rådighed for gode råd og tips 😊 Endnu engang tusind tak for at du deler din positive oplevelse.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent quality cat food that doesn't cost the earth

Excellent quality cat food that does not cost a fortune. Far more cost effective than other premium brands for example Acana and Orijen. Very good ingredients if you look up on pet food expert. We have 6 cats. 3 Bengals, a Savannah, Siamese and a Garfield. They all love this food and will not change it

24 August 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

First of all, thank you so much for taking the time to write this wonderful Trustpilot review.
It's fantastic to read about the huge difference our meals have made to your cats.
We have received a lot of positive feedback from cat owners over the years, which has led us to expand our range to include cat food.
This has resulted in LYNX becoming our first dedicated cat treat, as well as the launch of The PANTHER as a new meal for cats, and there will be more treats and other products from us in the future.
So keep an eye on the webshop, something good may be on its way in the near future ;)

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Ive found this company great very…

Ive found this company great very helpful when an order was undelivered they promptly answered my email and re sent another.
Ive been using this product for over 2 years my dog loves it and recently acquired a puppy and he loves it also.
They always give free deliveries and a bonus bag of treats which is a lovely treat and extra thing for my pooches.
Im happy also with the selections and different ranges and high percentage of the good things they need.
Both border terrier mixes so they use alot of energy.

21 August 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this wonderful review.
We strive to deliver exceptional meals for dogs and cats that bring joy to homes for both two- and four-legged friends. Of course, this also means that we must deliver a level of service that is second to none.
Your review here confirms that we are doing the right thing, so thank you very much. If there is anything else we can do, please feel free to contact us by phone or email. We are committed to providing exceptional service every time.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent food and service

Excellent delivery service. Free bag of treats or can of food with each order! Dogs love it (all flavours but nautical is favourite) . Price may be higher than some brands but feed far less per day making it far more affordable.

18 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Thank you so much for taking the time to write such a lovely review here.
We are delighted to hear that your dogs are thriving and enjoying our meals.
Fast delivery and an extra little gift included in the delivery are definitely just an added bonus.

REMEMBER, we are always ready to offer advice and guidance if needed.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Essentials Contour for small dogs

My dogs absolutely love the essentials contour for small dogs .
They always eat it all up.
It's full of nutrition but also helps to maintain their weight with them both having been spayed .
Would definately recommend it.

28 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

First of all, thank you for taking the time to write a review here on Trust Pilot.

It warms our hearts to hear that your dog is thriving and wagging his tail a little extra when you serve Contour in his food bowl.

Finding the right meal for a spayed dog can be difficult. But with Contour, you get a meal that is packed with good, healthy nutrition.
After all, who says you have to ‘settle’ just because you're spayed? ;)

Once again, thank you for sharing your positive experience

Dear Mrs Paula,

By way of introduction I am the Founder of ESSENTIAL FOODS, and I just wanted to personally thank you for your review.

We are here for you in every way possible.

Sincerely yours
Christian Degner-Elsner

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great support

It's a pleasure dealing with this company. Delivery is very prompt. The food is excellent according to our 2yr old lab. She is thriving on the Nautical Living range and gets many compliments on her condition. Kevin, one of the nutritionists gave some valuable help a few months back and we have introduced some Stamina food to encourage some weight gain.
It feels that this company really care and nothing is too much trouble.

22 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

It's fantastic to hear that you and your dog are so happy with Essentials, and thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us here.

It's wonderful that your dog eats with such enthusiasm every time and gets compliments on his daily walks.

It just goes to show how important it is to find the right food. And of course, good service and fast delivery are also a big plus.
We are always available to offer advice and tips to anyone who needs it😊 .
I will share your experience with the rest of the team, so that a good day becomes even better.

__

Dear Jason,

By way of introduction I am the Founder of ESSENTIAL FOODS, and I wanted to personally thank you for your review.
Absolutely correct, providing authentic 5 star service is onbe of our 3 core values, and I am very pleased every time this is highlighted from our beloved customers.
NAUTICAL LIVING is also a solid favourite with our Aussie girl.

Anything and all, we are always just a call/mail away from making whatever it takes to keep you both fully pleased having chosen ESSENTIALS.

Sincerely yours
Christian Degner-Elsner

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Coat quality - constant comments

The quality of our dogs coat is commented on so often by both dog lovers and general members of the public. It has to be down to the quality of the ingredients in the food

16 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

First of all, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts with us.

We are delighted to hear that your dog is thriving and enjoying his meals.
The compliments on his beautiful coat from people you meet on your walks are just an added bonus.

Your review here confirms that we are doing the right thing, so thank you very much. If there is anything else, you are always welcome to contact us by phone or email. We want to provide exceptional service every time.

___
Dear Jacob,

By way of introduction I am the Founder of ESSENTIAL FOODS, and I wanted to personally thank you for this review.
I can absolutely second that it DOES come down to the quality of our ingredients and our 100% dedicated focus to being the difference for dogs whom are fortunate to have us served.
Anything and all, we are always just a call/mail away from making whatever it takes to keep you all fully pleased having chosen ESSENTIALS.

Sincerely yours
Christian Degner-Elsner

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Best of the Best!

Firstly, and most importantly, the Essentials food is just the very best. From small delicious treats to big bags of kibble. It is not often you tip out a bag of kibble and find not one speck of dust or one broken biscuit in the bottom, but with Essentials this is always the case. The range of Pate is also top notch and I use a big spoonful on all meals. My young labrador loves it all. She is super healthy, very athletic and as a life long owner of labs, she is the first one who does not have bottom burps! Other than that, the staff are just as good as the product. More than once I have asked for advice and they really do care. I recommend them to all my friends without reservation.

28 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

First of all, thank you very much for choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS and for taking the time to write this wonderful review.
At ESSENTIAL FOODS, we always put quality, healthy and proper nutrition first. This means that you can always be sure that you are getting meals and treats of the highest quality every time you choose one of our products.

With meals of the highest quality comes the obligation to provide top-notch customer service and guidance; anything less is simply not an option in our book.
And it is precisely this top-class quality and service that is part of our DNA.

We simply cannot help ourselves ;)

___

Dear Christine,

By way of introduction I am the Founder of ESSENTIAL FOODS, and I wanted to personally thank you for your review. The level of details that you have noted and appreciated means a lot to our team and myself personally.

Anything and all, we are always just a call/mail away from making whatever it takes to keep you both fully pleased having chosen ESSENTIALS.

Sincerely yours
Christian Degner-Elsner

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great service, quality product

Very quick response and arrives promptly. Many different foods to choose from. Our golden retriever doesn't suffer from stomach upsets and eats his food with gusto. It always smells nice. Great value. Was recommended to us by the breeder and we have stayed with it as it is a quality product.

28 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Dear Mary,
By way of introduction I am the Founder of ESSENTIALS, and I just wanted to say a warm thank you for taking the time.
It is my promise that we keep our quality and important details like the smell of our meals stems from uncompromising attention to the ingredients, more than an eye on making a penny more.

We would be delighted to keep serving you both in the many years to come,
Sincerely yours
Christian Degner-Elsner

__

It's fantastic to hear that you and your dog are so happy with Essentials, and thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us here.
It's wonderful that your dog enjoys eating every meal and that he has a stable stomach. It just goes to show how important it is to find the right food. And of course, good service and fast delivery are also a big plus.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Excellent food

Our two black labs have eaten this food since pups, they absolutely love it! I think they eat better than us!
I love the fact we get 10% off when buying more than one bag and a free gift!
Excellent value and will continue to buy.
Thank You 😊

17 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Thank you for taking the time to drop us a line here at trust Pilot.

We're delighted to hear that your two lovely Labradors love their meals.
And who says you shouldn't eat well "just" because you're a dog ;)
A 10% discount and an extra little free gift is only a plus.

We look forward to delivering even more meals to these two lovely dogs in the future.

Katja Holst

Nutritional and servicemanager
ESSENTIAL FOODS

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

My Hounds Favourite

My hounds love Estate Living kibble
and have thrived on it for the past 8 years. It is the only kibble I would ever buy as it is so pure and highly nutricious. Very reasonably priced and always a quick and reliable delivery with an unexpected treat inside. Polite and efficient staff who readily answer any questions. We love Essential Foods ❤️. Christina Allen.

2 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this great review.
It's great to see that our long-time customers continue to be enthusiastic.
We can promise you that we will never compromise on the quality of our meals and snacks, so you can always be sure of what you get in a bag from ESSENTIAL FOODS.

Thank you once again from the entire ESSENTIALS TEAM.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Very good food that my dog loves

Very good food that my dog loves, she’s on Contour kibble but has also tried and liked Nautical Living. I like the comprehensive ingredient list and delivery is incredibly quick (next day). I also like the fact that there is a little treat for my dog with each order. I would recommend this food to everyone.

2 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

First of all, thank you so much for choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS and for taking the time to write this great review. At ESSENTIAL FOODS, we always put quality, health and proper nutrition first. This means that you can always be sure that you're getting meals and treats of the absolute highest class every time you choose one of our products.

If you need help or guidance, our customer service is always ready to provide you with the right advice.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Good quality kitten & cat food and…

Good quality kitten & cat food and great service

2 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

First of all, thank you so much for taking the time to write this great Trustpilot review.
It's great to read that your cats are thriving and enjoying their meals.

We have received a lot of positive feedback from cat owners over the years, which has also meant that we are now working to expand our range for cats.
This has led to the launch of LYNX, our first dedicated cat treat, The PANTHER, a new meal for cats, and Little Lion for cute kittens.
Keep an eye on the website, who knows, maybe there will be more treats and more from our side. :)

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Good range of products

Good range of products, excellent customer service team when queries raised with orders. Free gift with orders and discount applied when ordering two bags, Food storage tubs very useful.

2 July 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

What a lovely review, it is much appreciated and certainly not something we take for granted. I can guarantee you that we will always keep the standard at all costs, not chasing the last penny at the expense of quality, so that your experience remains at the same high level now and in the future.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

THE BEST BY FAR

I sent a friend to the store for some butter,but they brought your brand,I tried it and now no more butter for me,I'm hooked thanks for my change.what ever you are doing please don't stop!!!!

26 June 2025
Unprompted review
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

First of all, thank you for choosing to switch to ESSENTIAL FOODS, and not least for sharing it here.
I am delighted to read about your experience with your first contact with our products and not least your and your dog's enjoyment of our meals.
We take pride in providing an extraordinary service every time, and not least guiding everyone who wants it in our range of meals and treats. So don't hesitate to contact us if you need help or guidance, we're always available by email or phone.
I'll share your experience with the rest of the team to make a good day even better.

NB: also a thank you to your friend who was kind enough to bring you a bag of Essential instead of Butter ;)

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Lively, happy pup…

My puppy is doing very well on The beginning- good growth, sleek coat, happy and energetic.
My query was dealt with very quickly, even over a weekend.
Delivery is very quick and the food is well packaged in a box.
I like the presentation and packaging of the products like puppy treats.

20 June 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

First of all, thank you so much for choosing ESSENTIAL FOODS and for taking the time to write this great review. At ESSENTIAL FOODS, we always put quality, health and proper nutrition first. This means that you can always be sure that you're getting meals and treats of the absolute highest class every time you choose one of our products.

And then there's the added bonus of great service and fast delivery.

If you need help or guidance, our customer service is always ready with the right advice.

Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Incredible

This dog food is amazing! My dogs love it they look incredible and there we are going to try your cat food too. I wouldn’t choose any other brand now. Packaged perfectly, we’ve even had free gifts with our orders which is also such a bonus and very thoughtful. Highly recommend anyone considering this brand to try it. You will not be disappointed

10 June 2025
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this great review.

We endeavour to deliver top-quality meals for dogs and cats that create joy in the home for both 2 and 4 legged creatures.
Of course, this also means that we must deliver a level of service that is top notch. Your review here confirms that we're doing the right thing, so thank you very much.
If you have any questions, you are always welcome to contact us by phone or email, we want to provide extraordinary service every time.

Service og nutrionmanager
Katja Holst
ESSENTIAL FOODS.

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Good quality food and treats

Good quality food and treats. Initially had an issue with my order but it was recitified by customer service.

15 May 2025
Unprompted review
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Reply from ESSENTIAL FOODS

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this great review. We endeavour to deliver top-quality meals for dogs and cats that create joy in the home for both 2 and 4 legged creatures. Of course, this also means that we must deliver a level of service that is top notch.

It also means that our customer service advisors are always ready to help with any questions or problems that may arise.
And your order was well taken care of.

Service and nutritionmanager
Katja Holst
ESSENTIAL FOODS.

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