Greenport to Center Moriches: The Story Behind Life Is Gruff’s Unique Dog Treats

What began as a personal hobby baking dog treats for family and friends — inspired by a beloved dog’s allergies — has grown into a thriving business for Kim Loper. In 2004, she turned her passion into Life Is Gruff, which started in Greenport and now operates out of a commercial kitchen in Center Moriches.

What sets one of her treats apart is that they are made with spent grains from breweries, mostly sourced now from Ubergeek Brewing in Riverhead. Spent grains are the byproduct of the brewing process, specifically barley and oats, from which starches and sugars have been extracted through steeping in hot water. The remaining “mash” is rich in protein and fiber. For seven years, Loper’s dog treats were made exclusively with spent grains from Greenport Harbor Brewery.

Years ago, at a municipal meeting, Loper ran into the owner of Greenport Harbor Brewery and mentioned the idea of using spent grains in baked products. Although he said it had been tried before without much success, Loper was undeterred. She has since perfected a recipe that turns what would be a waste product into a viable commodity.

Her very first recipe was based on one created by her family’s dog trainer, but soon she developed her own spin on the treat, creating various lines, including the “Grrowler” — see what she did there? — made from brewery grains.

Initially, the spent grains were incorporated as a slurry into the treats. Through ongoing experimentation, the process evolved: The wet spent grains are now dehydrated into a dry form, then milled into a flour that is combined with oat flour to create the dog treats.

Loper first sold her unique dog treats at farmers markets and through wholesale channels. Recognizing the need for dedicated wholesale production closer to home, the business recently opened a new bakery in Center Moriches. This strategic move supports continued growth and streamlined operations, allowing the company to expand its wholesale distribution while maintaining its commitment to local pet owners.

In addition to the Grrowler line, available in many flavors, Life Is Gruff also offers a “Liverlicious” treat.

The products can be purchased online, at Harbor Pet, and other local retailers.