How To Sell Dog Treats – Locally vs Online

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Where do you want to sell your dog treats? The grocery store, pet store, or online? How will you market them and who will buy them from you? This post is designed to help answer all those questions.

Table of Contents

How Do You Package Dog Treats for Sale?

There are a few different ways to package dog treats. It depends on whether your dog treats are dry or wet. Dry dog treats are the easiest to package. You don’t need any special kinds of packaging to ship it.

However, you do need to include a few things on the packaging for it to be legal. One of the most important parts of packaging dog treats is the ingredients. Like humans, dogs can suffer from allergies. Pet owners need to know what ingredients are in their dog treat.

The packaging should clearly state all of the ingredients used in the treats. It should also show that the treat was analyzed for safety standards.

Other pieces of information you need to include are the name of your dog treat company and its business address. The packaging also needs to include the words “dog treat” somewhere on the package.

Otherwise, your dog treats are ready to be shipped and enjoyed.

Do Dog Treats Have to Be FDA Approved?

There is no set regulation for pet food or treats by the FDA. They do ask that you use the best ingredients possible, however, and that the ingredients are regularly tested for problems.

That being said, you don’t need any paperwork or proof that shows that the FDA approves of your treats.

How Do You Sell Dog Treats Legally?

Here are the steps you need to take to sell your dog treats legally.

Step 1: Get a Feed License

Depending on the state in which you reside, you may need a license to sell pet food. Treats fall under the category of pet food. In Michigan, for example, you need a feed license before you can start selling pet treats.

Step 2: Research and Purchase Ingredients

One of the biggest concerns for governmental bodies is the ingredients used in the pet treat. Those ingredients need to be safe for the animal to consume. While the ingredients don’t need to be human-grade, they do need to be at an acceptable level for dogs.

You can find plenty of resources that go into finding ingredients that you can safely use to make healthy dog treats.

Step 3: Configure Labeling

The next step is to write down all of the ingredients used in your dog treat. Not providing the ingredients could place you in hot water.

Step 4: Register Your Business

Once you’re ready to open your business, you’ll need to register with your local government. You may also need to register to sell to other states. Some states may have other regulatory measures that need to be met. A common one is that the treats need to be created in a commercial kitchen.

Where Can You Sell Dog Treats?

Once your business is approved, you can sell treats almost anywhere. You’ll have to consider your local regulations to find out if you’re able to sell out of your state or not. Otherwise, you can sell to local pet stores, to downtown events, flea markets, or even on your website.

Your reach could even be global with the right shipping strategy.

How Do You Sell Dog Treats at Farmer’s Markets?

Selling your dog treats at farmer’s markets is all about presentation. For dry dog treats, you can place them on eye-catching displays. You’ll also want to include the ingredients right next to them.

For dog treats that are wet or iced, you can keep them cool by keeping them in an insulated cake dome. This will also keep people from touching them.

How Do You Sell Dog Treats to Local Pet Stores?

You’ll need to be licensed before you’re able to sell to local pet stores. They’ll expect that you have your packaging ready to go and that your ingredients fall within acceptable FDA-approved levels.

You’ll also need to come to an agreed price point with the store. They’ll want a cut of the profits for storing and selling your treats.

Before a pet store will agree to work with you, you’ll need to be able to produce a high number of products for them to sell daily. This may not be ideal for those who are just making treats out of their kitchens.

How Do You Sell Dog Treats Through Etsy?

Getting started on Etsy is relatively easy. You’ll want to set up your store first. Then start taking detailed and high-quality pictures of your dog treats. They need to capture the interest of those perusing the site.

You may even want to include a video that shows your dog enjoying the treat to entirely sell it.

On your Etsy store, the ingredients for the treats should be easy to locate and understand.

You can also usually sell things of different sizes. This allows you to create custom treats for your customers.

Finally, you’ll want to market your dog treats to bring attention to your shop and stand out from competitors.

How Do You Sell Dog Treats Through Your Website?

There are plenty of providers where you can make your website. You’ll want to think about the kind of store that you want to have. Are your dog treats able to be bought after a single click to buy? Or do you want to use a subscription service instead?

Once you’ve decided on your business model, your website should reflect that. It should also be clear with the ingredients that the treat uses and any benefits it might give their dog.

Most websites use a third-party transaction company like Stripe to handle purchases. You’ll need to make a Stripe account to start taking in purchases.

How Do You Get Customers to Your Etsy Page or Your Website?

Marketing is what will bring customers to your Etsy page or your website. One of the best ways to market your dog treats initially is to use social media. Instagram and Twitter can help you spread the word about your treats. You can also issue challenges on social media to further bring attention to your brand.

How To Sell Dog Treats Online (Etsy or Amazon for Beginners)

Do you want to sell your handmade dog treats online? This blog post will teach you how to set up an account on Etsy or Amazon. It will also show you how to rank your dog treat listings to the first page or results.

You may be hesitant to sell online versus just selling locally. Sales tax can be a real hassle for instance. This article is sure to give you some ideas about why it’s worth selling online and how to avoid the pitfalls.

How to Setup Your Etsy Store

Here’s how you can easily set up your Etsy store to sell dog treats online.

Step 1: Make Your Account

You’ll need to make an account first. You can do this by linking your Google account, Twitter account, or other social media accounts. You also can sign up with a normal email and password.

Step 2: Set Up Shop Preferences

You’ll need to tell Etsy a few things about yourself and your store to get started. One of those is to tell them how you intend to use Etsy. Are you depending on your products to be a full income? Or is this a part-time job for you?

You’ll also need to select your country, language, and the method in which you prefer to receive payment.

Step 3: Name Your Etsy Store

You’ll be prompted to name your store next. Naming your business should be personal but also defined. It should tell your customers what they can expect at your store. Check the availability to ensure your store’s name is one of a kind.

Step 4: Create Listings

Etsy suggests that you have at least 10 listings, but you only need one. They’ll provide you with an easy process where you can upload digital products or allow you to upload pictures of your physical goods.

Photos are required for your product. You’ll also need to fill out other information like what the product is called and any other details that consumers should know about your product.

Use keywords to make your Etsy shop stand out.

Step 5: Create Product Description

Within the listing portion, you’ll need to describe your dog’s treat. Use keywords to help users find your treats. Ensure that you include all of the ingredients used in the making of the treat if a particular dog has a specific allergy.

Discuss benefits that your treat may provide their dogs.

Step 6: List Price

Once you know what price you want to sell your treats at, place them in the appropriate field. Keep in mind that you’ll need to pay associated fees with using Etsy to sell your items.

Step 7: Add Payment Information

You have to include your credit card information to list it on Etsy. Any time you list a new treat, you’ll need to pay them 20 cents. They also charge shipping fees and selling fees. There’s also a payment processing fee.

Step 8: Edit Shop

To encourage customers to buy from you, you need to ensure your shop looks great. Adding photographs and personal stories can help customers feel connected to you. Use your storefront as the basis of your brand and grow your brand.

How To Rank Your Dog Treat on Page 1

Here’s how to make your Etsy store rank on page 1 for your dog treats.

Step 1: Sign Up for eRank

eRank is a useful tool that helps you understand what you’re doing right and wrong with your SEO. It gives you helpful suggestions on how to improve your SEO score. You’ll want to create an account with eRank and link your Etsy store to it.

Step 2: Choose Less Competitive Keywords

In the tag section, you’ll find a list of tags, or keywords, that other person in your market use. Red tags are highly competitive. It’s difficult for your product to be found amidst the others based on those tags.

Using less competitive keywords, or tags brings your store to the forefront.

Once you know the tags you need to use, implement those keywords in your product descriptions and other places in your store.

Step 3: Log in as a Guest

Another method is to log in as a guest on Etsy. Then find your listing and click on your store. This tells Etsy that your store is interesting. The more often you do this, Etsy will believe that your store has something people want. It will push your store in front of others who may not be receiving as many views.

How To Setup an Amazon Seller Account

You can list your dog treats on Amazon by following these steps.

Step 1: Sign Up for an Account

You’ll need to sign up for a seller account with Amazon. You’ll have two different models from which to choose. An individual seller pays less every month, but they’re not allowed access to some of the implements Amazon has that can make growing their business easier and faster.

The other account is for larger businesses and is more expensive to run every month. However, you’re allowed access to PPC which is Amazon’s brand of advertising.

Step 2: File Your Business Information

Amazon will want your business address. If you make and sell your treats at home, then your home address is the one to use.

Filing as an LLC will allow you to create a business address.

You’ll also need to put in a contact address.

Step 3: Put in a Credit Card

You’ll need to attach a credit card to the account. It cannot be a debit card. Using a debit card will suspend your account.

Step 4: Proof of Identity

You also need to prove who you are. You’ll need either a passport or a driver’s license. You’ll also need a bank statement or utility bill.

Step 5: Submit

Once you have all the information and documents they need, you can submit your seller account. They may require more information. It takes a couple of weeks to approve your store.

Step 6: Prepare Your Seller Store

After you’re approved, you’ll want to use SEO keywords and tags in your product descriptions to start selling your dog treats.

How To Rank Your Dog Treats on Page 1 On Amazon

Here’s how to bring your dog treats to the first page on Amazon.

Step 1: Focus on Sales

One of the best ways to get your product to the first page is to make sales. That might mean paying for advertising, that might mean being present on social media, but you need to make sales. The more sales that you have, the more Amazon is going to push your store to the front.

Step 2: Choosing Amazon for Fulfillment

You may have your method of storing and shipping your products. Choosing Amazon can give you benefits. One of those is making your treats available on Prime. Amazon likes stores that use its fulfillment program and is more likely to push them ahead of others.

Step 3: Improving Click-Through Rate

A higher click-through rate also means your store will be pushed to the front page. You can improve your click-through rate by implementing SEO in your product and store descriptions. You can also advertise on another website with blog posts using keywords and re-directing traffic to your Amazon store.

Step 4: Encourage Reviews

People who read positive reviews are more likely to buy the product. You should make it easy for your customers to review the product. If they have any problems, then you need to address them to ensure they still leave a positive review.

FAQ

What About Sales Tax?

If you’re using Etsy, they have a policy in which they cover the state’s tax for you. It doesn’t cover all of the states, however, and not all products may be covered either. You’ll be responsible for paying those taxes.

You can track how much sales tax you owe every year through software like Taxjar.

Do Dog Treats Have to Be FDA Approved?

Dog treats do not have to be FDA-approved. They do need to be made from human-grade ingredients. They also need to list all of their ingredients on the packaging.

Can You Sell Dog Treats Online to Every State?

You can only sell dog treats within your state. To sell to other states, you need a license. There is no single license that covers every state.

Can You Sell Dog Treats Online Internationally?

It’s difficult to sell dog treats online internationally because you need to follow their laws and regulations. They often require paperwork and microbes to prove that the treat is safe to consume. It’s better to open a business in the country and sell from there.

Should You Wholesale Online or Sell Retail?

Wholesale is a great option for those who don’t want to make the treat themselves and prefer to resell wholesale supplies. Selling your retail may earn you more profit, but it does quire more work.

Can I Make Dog Treats and Sell Them? (+Easy Steps How)

Yes, you can make sell dog treats! You can sell them at local farmer’s markets, online through Etsy, on Amazon, or through your website. However, dog treats are federally and locally regulated so check your state’s regulations. In most states, you need a business license to sell dog treats.

Online sales require you to get a sales tax license for the states you sell to and submit the proper reports and sales taxes to each jurisdiction you sell to.

Dog treats don’t have to be FDA approved but the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) require that they be safe to eat, produced in sanitary conditions, and labeled truthfully.

How to Start a Pet Treats Business in 6 Easy Steps

Starting a pet treats business can be a fun and profitable way to turn your love of animals into a career. Here are six easy steps to help get you started.

Step 1: Determine the Type of Pet Treat Business You Want to Start

The first step is to determine what type of pet treat business you want to start. For example, do you want to make and sell pet treats online, at local farmer’s markets, pet stores, or through a website?

Step 2: Choose a Name for Your Business

The second step is to choose a name for your business. Be sure to check with your state’s Secretary of State website to make sure the name is available and not trademarked.

Step 3: Register Your Business with the State

The third step is to register your business with the state. This process varies from state to state, but in most cases, you can register your business online. Be sure to have all of the required information and documentation ready, such as your business name, address, contact information, and tax ID number.

Step 4: Get a Business License

The fourth step is to get a business license. In most states, you need a business license to sell pet treats. The process for getting a business license varies from state to state, but you can typically apply online.

Step 5: Create Your Pet Treats

The fifth step is to create your pet treats! There are many recipes available online, or you can come up with your own. Be sure to use only high-quality ingredients and to follow all safety guidelines.

Step 6: Market and Sell Your Pet Treats

The sixth and final step is to market and sell your pet treats. Start by creating a marketing plan and budget. Then, start spreading the word about your business through social media, online directories, local newspapers and magazines, and word-of-mouth.

Do You Need FDA or State Approval to Sell Dog Treats?

There is no FDA approval required to sell dog treats, but the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) require that they must be safe to eat, produced in sanitary conditions, and labeled truthfully. Some states may have their regulations regarding pet treats, so be sure to check with your state’s Department of Agriculture or their governing agency concerning pet food products.

What Does FFDCA Sanitary Conditions Mean?

The term “sanitary conditions” means that the manufacturing process and ingredients used in the pet treats are not contaminated with harmful bacteria or other substances. The food must be stored and handled in a way that prevents contamination.

Do You Need a Commercial Kitchen for Dog Treats?

In most cases, you do not need a commercial kitchen to make and sell dog treats. However, there may be some states that require you to have a commercial kitchen to produce pet food products. Be sure to check with your state’s Department of Agriculture or their governing agency concerning pet food products.

Are Dog Treats Taxable?

The sale of pet treats is generally taxable, but there may be some states that exempt these products from sales tax. Be sure to check with your state’s Department of Revenue or their governing agency concerning the taxation of pet treats.

How Do You “truthfully” Label Pet Treats per The Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA)?

When you “truthfully” label pet treats, you need to include the following information on the product packaging:

  • Product name and proper ID of the product
  • Net quantity statement: The number of treats in the package
  • Ingredients: All ingredients in the product, listed from most to least, based on weight
  • Manufacturer or distributor name and address

What Licenses Do You Need to Sell Dog Treats?

To sell dog treats, you typically need a business license and in some states, you need a pet food handler’s license. The process for getting these licenses varies from state to state, so be sure to check with your state’s Department of Agriculture or their governing agency concerning pet food products.

Can I Sell Homemade Dog Treats on Etsy?

Etsy allows you to sell home-cooked dog snacks, but you must adhere to all safety guidelines and legal requirements. You’ll also need a company license and/or a pet food handler’s license. To prepare any type of edible intending to sell it, Etsy and several states demand that you use a licensed kitchen.

Can You Sell Homemade Dog Treats on Amazon?

Yes, you can sell homemade dog treats on Amazon. You’ll need to create a seller’s account and list your product according to Amazon’s guidelines. You’ll also need to get a business license and/or a pet food handler’s license, depending on your state’s requirements.

The Bottom Line

You can make and sell pet treats without FDA approval, but be sure to follow all safety guidelines and state regulations. Start by creating a marketing plan and budget, and then start spreading the word about your business. You’ll need a business license and/or a pet food handler’s license in most states.


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