1. Register Your Business
- ✅ Choose a business name (make sure it’s unique & available)
- ✅ Register your business structure (sole proprietorship, LLC, etc.)
- ✅ Obtain a business license from your city or county
- ✅ Apply for an EIN (Employer Identification Number) with the IRS (free)
Tip: An LLC offers personal liability protection, which is recommended for small food businesses.
2. Comply with Cottage Food Laws
- ✅ Research your state’s cottage food laws (rules for selling homemade food)
- ✅ Verify if dog treats are allowed under cottage food regulations in your state
- ✅ Understand where you can sell (farmers markets, online, retail shops, etc.)
- ✅ Follow home kitchen inspection requirements (if applicable)
Resource: Check your state’s Department of Agriculture or Health Department website.
3. Food Safety & Handling Certifications
- ✅ Complete a Food Handler’s Certification (if required)
- ✅ Follow safe food handling & sanitation practices
- ✅ Use pet-safe, approved ingredients only (no xylitol, chocolate, grapes, etc.)
4. Labeling Requirements
- ✅ Include a clear product name (e.g., Peanut Butter Pup Bites)
- ✅ List all ingredients in descending order by weight
- ✅ Include a “Not for human consumption” disclaimer
- ✅ Add net weight (oz or grams) of the product
- ✅ Provide your business name & contact information
- ✅ Check if a Guaranteed Analysis is required (protein, fat, fiber, moisture)
Tip: Each state may have different labeling rules for pet treats. Check with your State Feed Control Official.
5. Product Liability Insurance
- ✅ Obtain home-based business insurance that covers product liability
- ✅ Consider adding coverage for markets, events, and online sales
- ✅ Some farmers markets or pet boutiques require proof of insurance
6. Trademarks & Intellectual Property
- ✅ Check if your business name & logo are available for trademark registration
- ✅ Consider trademarking your brand name or signature product names for protection
Tip: You can search trademarks via the USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office).
7. Sales Tax & Business Finances
- ✅ Register for a sales tax permit if required in your state
- ✅ Collect & remit sales tax on applicable sales
- ✅ Open a business bank account to separate personal & business finances
- ✅ Track all business expenses and income for tax reporting
8. E-Commerce Compliance (if selling online)
- ✅ Ensure your website includes:
- Privacy Policy
- Terms & Conditions
- Return/Refund Policy
- ✅ Comply with platform-specific rules (Etsy, Shopify, etc.)
- ✅ Clearly state shipping times & policies
9. Animal Feed Laws (Optional for Large Scale)
- ✅ If expanding to wholesale or national sales, check with:
- AAFCO (Association of American Feed Control Officials)
- FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine (CVM) for compliance with pet food regulations
10. Record Keeping & Updates
- ✅ Maintain records of:
- Ingredient sourcing
- Batch production logs
- Customer feedback or complaints
- Licensing renewals & insurance documents
- ✅ Stay updated on changes to local/state pet treat regulations