Pet treats are more than just snacks for dogs and cats—they are a booming industry driven by pet owners’ desire to give their furry companions the best. For online and offline wholesalers, such as Amazon vendors, large supermarkets, and pet treat distributors, there’s an increasing opportunity to tap into this lucrative market. This blog will provide you with an in-depth, well-researched guide to wholesale pet treats and how you can navigate this market to attract buyers and increase your website traffic.
The Growing Demand for Pet Treats
The pet treat market is experiencing exponential growth. According to recent industry data, the global pet treat market was valued at $22.1 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach $34.4 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4%. The rising trend of pet humanization—where pets are treated as family members—is driving pet owners to seek premium and healthy treats for their pets.
More specifically, dog treats dominate the market, accounting for over 60% of the total sales, with cat treats catching up at a notable pace. This is a clear indicator that there’s massive potential in tapping into wholesale dog and cat treats, especially as pet owners look for niche, organic, and freeze-dried options.
Understanding the Types of Pet Treats
When it comes to wholesale pet treats, there’s no one-size-fits-all. Pet treats come in a variety of forms, each catering to different consumer preferences. Knowing these types can help you source and sell the right products to meet demand:
- Dry Dog Treats: These are the most common and affordable type of pet treats. They include biscuits, crunchy snacks, and kibble-like treats that are shelf-stable and easy to store. Dry dog treats are often fortified with vitamins and minerals, making them popular among health-conscious pet owners.
- Freeze-Dried Pet Treats: These are gaining traction as one of the healthiest options. Freeze-dried dog treats, for example, retain most of their nutrients and natural flavors, making them attractive to pet owners who prioritize organic and raw ingredients. Freeze-dried cat treats are also in demand due to their convenience and high nutritional value.
- Natural and Organic Treats: With growing concerns over pet health, many pet owners are gravitating towards all-natural and organic pet treats. These treats often boast minimal ingredients, free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives, and are made from human-grade meats, fruits, and vegetables.
- Functional Treats: These treats are formulated with added health benefits in mind, such as dental health, skin and coat enhancement, or joint support. Pet owners are increasingly looking for treats that provide not only a snack but also a health boost to their pets.
Key Factors to Consider When Wholesaling Pet Treats
Wholesalers need to focus on several factors when sourcing and selling pet treats to retailers and distributors. Here are some critical considerations:
1. Quality and Ingredients
Pet owners are increasingly scrutinizing product labels for transparency and high-quality ingredients. Treats that include natural ingredients, single protein sources, and are free from artificial additives are highly sought after. When selecting products to wholesale, ensure that they meet these criteria to attract premium buyers.
2. Packaging and Branding
Packaging plays a significant role in a pet owner’s decision-making process. Eco-friendly packaging is particularly trendy, with consumers seeking to minimize their environmental footprint. For wholesalers, offering customizable packaging and private label options can help retailers differentiate their brands.
3. Pricing and Margins
One of the most important factors for wholesalers is to offer competitive pricing that still allows room for profit margins. Bulk purchasing and long-term partnerships with manufacturers can lead to cost savings, which can then be passed down to retailers.
4. Compliance with Regulations
The pet treat industry is regulated, and it’s crucial to ensure that the treats you wholesale meet all safety and nutritional guidelines. In the U.S., the FDA oversees pet food and treats, while the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) provides guidelines on ingredients and labeling. Similarly, Europe has its regulations for pet food safety.
5. Popular Trends
Stay ahead of industry trends to offer products that are in demand. As of 2024, the following trends are worth considering:
- Limited-ingredient diets for pets with allergies or sensitivities
- Freeze-dried and dehydrated treats for health-conscious owners
- Sustainable sourcing of proteins, including novel sources like insects
- CBD-infused treats for anxiety and pain relief
How to Stand Out in the Wholesale Pet Treat Market
The wholesale pet treat market is competitive, but there are several strategies that can help you stand out and gain an edge:
1. Offer Customization Options
Customization is a powerful tool for differentiating your business. Offering private-label or white-label options for pet treat retailers allows them to build their brand. Providing flexibility in ingredients, packaging, and branding will make your wholesale business more attractive to large supermarkets or niche retailers looking for unique products.
2. Focus on Eco-Friendly Options
Eco-consciousness is on the rise, and more consumers are looking for sustainable options, not just in the products they buy but also in the packaging. Consider offering biodegradable or recyclable packaging options to align with the values of environmentally conscious consumers.
3. Leverage E-commerce Platforms
Platforms like Amazon, Chewy, and other large online retailers dominate the pet treat market. Ensuring your products are listed on these sites or that your wholesale clients have a streamlined process for e-commerce sales can boost your reach.
4. Provide Value-Added Services
Beyond just selling treats, consider offering value-added services to your wholesale clients. This could include marketing support, display solutions, or logistical support such as drop-shipping. By making the sales process easier for your clients, you add value and differentiate yourself from other wholesalers.
Why Freeze-Dried Dog Treats Are in High Demand
Among the various types of pet treats, freeze-dried dog treats are currently one of the hottest trends. They offer the nutritional benefits of raw feeding without the mess or spoilage concerns associated with fresh ingredients. Freeze-dried treats are made by removing all moisture while preserving the nutrients, flavor, and texture of the ingredients.
These treats appeal to health-conscious pet owners who are looking for minimally processed, high-protein snacks. Freeze-dried treats also cater to pets with food sensitivities since they often contain only one or two ingredients, making it easier to avoid allergens.
Where to Source Wholesale Pet Treats
Sourcing wholesale pet treats from reputable manufacturers is key to ensuring quality and compliance with regulations. As a wholesaler, partnering with trusted pet treat manufacturers like Pack’n Pride (packnpride.com) provides assurance that the products are of high quality, made with natural ingredients, and customizable to meet retailer needs.
When sourcing from international manufacturers, such as those in China, it’s crucial to verify compliance with international standards and certifications like Sedex or SCAN anti-terrorism, as these ensure ethical practices and safety.
Final Thoughts: The Future of Pet Treats
As the pet treat market continues to grow, wholesalers who stay on top of trends, prioritize quality, and offer customized solutions are poised for success. By focusing on consumer preferences like natural ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, and functional benefits, you can attract more buyers and build long-term partnerships.
Whether you’re a wholesaler selling to large supermarket chains or small boutique pet stores, the demand for premium, healthy, and unique pet treats is not slowing down. Leverage the opportunities in this booming industry to provide products that meet both the needs of pet owners and the demands of your wholesale clients.
