Discover the Flavorful World of Big Dog Sauce!

A Conversation About BBQ, Community, and All-Natural Flavor

In this episode of the Pit Life BBQ Podcast, host Johnny Mags welcomes Dan Lloyd, co-founder of Big Dog Sauce Company. They dive deep into how a passion for flavor transformed into one of New England’s fastest-growing BBQ brands.

Big Dog Sauce Company, based in Hillsborough, New Hampshire, is on a mission. They create clean, all-natural sauces and seasonings that bring people together. Each product is made without high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners, or preservatives.

Dan shares that the inspiration came from a personal need. He and his wife are both diabetic and struggled to find sauces that were flavorful and healthy. What started as one homemade recipe quickly blossomed into a growing product line found in over 45 retail locations across Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

The Big Dog Sauce Lineup

Dan and Johnny explore the six signature sauces, each crafted to be versatile and balanced. Here’s a quick look at what’s on the menu:

• Mango Habanero – A sweet-heat favorite with the seeds and veins removed for a gentler spice kick.

• Dark Cherry Bourbon – Deep, rich cherry flavor layered with smooth bourbon notes.

• Maple BBQ – A smoky-sweet classic with garlic, onion, and a touch of New England maple syrup.

• Cranberry Spice – Inspired by holiday flavors, blending fresh cranberries with chai spices, nutmeg, and cloves.

• Green Chile Verde – Fresh, bright, and mild with nine vegetables and a hint of honey to balance bitterness.

• Blackberry – Tangy, slightly sweet, and excellent on chicken, pork, seafood, or even as a salad dressing.

  
  

The company also offers Dog House Seasoning, an all-purpose rub with a balanced blend of cayenne, red pepper flake, cinnamon, and other spices.

Giving Back Through BBQ

Every year, Big Dog Sauce Company donates part of its proceeds to a chosen cause. For 2024, they partnered with the New Hampshire Animal Rescue League, supporting the furry friends that inspired the brand’s name.

Dan explains, “We want our products to bring families together — two-legged and four-legged alike. This is our way of giving back to the community that supports us.”

From Backyard Cooking to BBQ Festivals

Dan’s journey is inspiring! He started by selling sauces out of the back of a car and cooking at charity events in Denver. Now, he competes in BBQ competitions and food festivals across New England. The Green Chile Verde pays homage to his Denver roots, while the Maple BBQ celebrates his new home in New England.

Word-of-mouth has fueled much of Big Dog Sauce’s retail growth. Fans recommend their favorite stores, and Dan personally reaches out to owners to get the products on shelves.

Taste Testing Live

During the episode, Johnny and the crew sample each sauce and the Dog House Seasoning live on air. Here are some of their tasty reactions:

• Blackberry: “Almost like a vinaigrette — bright, clean, and perfect for fish or salads.”

• Cranberry Spice: “Like Thanksgiving on a spoon. I could put this on turkey, ham, or just serve it on the holiday table.”

• Dark Cherry Bourbon: “Sweet without being overpowering, with bourbon that sneaks in at the end.”

• Green Chile Verde: “The flavor I wish I got every time I tried a verde sauce — bright, fresh, and not overpoweringly hot.”

• Maple BBQ: “Umami at the start, maple on the finish. I can see this on BBQ nachos in a heartbeat.”

• Mango Habanero: “Flavor first, then a manageable heat that’s even better when paired with the Dog House Seasoning.”

  
  

Where to Find Big Dog Sauce

You can grab Big Dog Sauce in several places:

• Online: www.BigDogSauce.com

• In-Store: Available at New Hampshire co-ops, Osborne’s in Hooksett, Chester’s Country Store, and more than 45 stores across New England.

• Restaurants: Featured at The Flying Goose (New London, NH), The Twisted Goat (CT), and several others.

  
  

The company is also in talks with larger retailers, including Hannaford, with hopes of expanding distribution by the end of the year.

Join the Flavor Revolution!

Big Dog Sauce is more than just a brand; it's a community of flavor enthusiasts! With their commitment to clean ingredients and bold taste, they are on a mission to become your go-to for award-winning, all-natural BBQ sauces and seasonings.

So, whether you're grilling in the backyard or whipping up a feast for friends, remember that Big Dog Sauce has your flavor needs covered! Let's elevate our BBQ game together! 🍖🔥