A developing trend in the baking industry is combining a love for dogs and dedication to the culinary arts. Entrepreneurs take these two passions and create their very own doggie bakeries.

This has many business owners saying bone appétit.

What is a dog bakery?

Dog bakeries are stores that make cakes, treats and other types of food that are nutritionally appropriate for dogs; from peanut butter bone treats to banana honey birthday cakes. These kinds of retailers are popping up all over the country.

The concept of a “doggie bakery” isn't necessarily a new invention since they have been around for a couple of decades now. However, they have become a lot more ubiquitous in recent years in cities throughout the United States.

With approximately 70 to 80 million Americans owning at least one dog and consumers spending about $60 billion a year on their pets, dog bakeries have become a successful venture for entrepreneurs everywhere.

Starting a dog baking business

It can be relatively simple building a dog baking venture because of its ability to maintain an online and mobile presence, which can help minimize initial capital costs. Dog bakery owners can sell their products at flea markets, pet-related events, farmer's markets and on the internet. Individuals can also partner with conventional bakeries and pet stores to sell these items.

It must be taken into consideration, however, that dog bakery owners are required by law to contact the health department located in their respective state or province before opening. This is to ensure that local regulations are followed, any required permits are completed, and to find out if pet-centric bakers are required to adhere to the same rules as traditional bakers.

With a budget in hand, owners will have to purchase wholesale ingredients and baking supplies.  These can be found on pet retail websites.

Once a menu is completed, the next logical move is to figure out where to sell these treats. There are a number of options including setting up a shopping center kiosk, selling wholesale to pet stores, opening a brick-and-mortar store or maintaining a regular farmer's or flea market kiosk. There’s also the option of purchasing a franchise. This type of investment will range from $15,000 to as high as $100,000 (possibly more depending on the franchise, location and market conditions).

Aside from dog treats, owners should consider the idea of also selling complimentary products such as leashes, collars, fashion accessories, specialized toys and a variety of other goods that pet owners may need.

Can bakeries sell dog treats, too? 

Due to the success of doggie baked goods, some bakeries are considering incorporating these types of treats into their operations. In order to find out if this is a logical step, there are a number of market research options that have to be taken- particularly if regular customers and near-by consumers have dogs.

Interested traditional bakers should consider if they are willing to renovate their store in order to accommodate additional space for baked goods for dogs - shelving units, inventory, staff members and marketing tools. The possibility of expanding operations by opening up a second store dedicated specifically for a doggie bakery might be a consideration. While these options may be costly upfront, they can be worthwhile investments.

In either situation, established bakeries already have a leg up on their newer entrants because they have years of experience, an established customer base and the tools to produce doggie baked goods. 

With pet owners spending billions of dollars a year on non-essential items for their animals, a dog bakery offers a fantastic small business opportunity as well as a great expansion option for an established bakery or pet-related business. Letting the dogs in just may increase your bakery profits.