So you’re thinking of turning your homemade dog treats into a real business—amazing! 🐶 But before you preheat the oven and print your labels, there are a few common mistakes you’ll want to avoid. Starting a dog treat business from home can be incredibly rewarding, but skipping key steps early on can lead to wasted time, money, and missed opportunities.
In this post, we’re breaking down the 10 most common beginner mistakes in the dog bakery world—plus how to sidestep them like a pro.
🎁 Ready to skip the guesswork?
👉 Grab your Dog Bakery Starter Kit™ and get everything you need to launch your dog treat biz the smart way!
1. Skipping Market Research
Jumping in without knowing your target customer is a recipe for disappointment. You need to understand:
- What dog parents in your niche are looking for
- Popular treat types (grain-free, soft chews, novelty treats)
- Where they shop (Etsy? Instagram? Local markets?)
🛠 Avoid it by: Researching competitors and identifying a niche you can serve with love.
2. Using Unsafe Ingredients
Some ingredients that are safe for humans—like chocolate, raisins, or xylitol—can be toxic for dogs.
🛠 Avoid it by: Sticking to a pet-safe ingredient list. Always double-check before trying something new.
✔️ The Dog Bakery Starter Kit™ includes a Pet-Safe Ingredient Guide to help you stay compliant and confident.
3. Not Pricing for Profit
Many beginners undercharge or forget to factor in their time, packaging, and overhead.
🛠 Avoid it by: Using a simple formula:
(Ingredient + packaging + time) x 2 or 3 = Retail Price
✔️ The Treat Pricing Guide in our Starter Kit takes the guesswork out of setting prices that work!
4. Skipping Legal Requirements
Selling pet food is regulated in most states—even if it’s made at home. Ignoring local rules can result in fines or shutdowns.
🛠 Avoid it by: Researching your state’s pet treat laws and contacting the Department of Agriculture.
✔️ The Starter Kit includes a Business Setup Checklist to help you get legally compliant, fast.
5. Not Defining a Brand
Treats are everywhere—but your brand is what makes you memorable. Without a clear look, tone, and mission, it’s hard to stand out.
🛠 Avoid it by: Creating a brand identity—name, logo, colors, and packaging—that reflects your values and style.
6. Selling Everywhere (Without a Plan)
Trying to sell on Etsy, Facebook, local markets, and your own site all at once can lead to burnout.
🛠 Avoid it by: Choosing 1–2 focused sales channels to start. Master those before expanding.
✔️ The Dog Bakery Starter Kit™ helps you decide the best platform for your stage of business.
7. Not Collecting Reviews or Testimonials
Social proof is powerful. If you’re not asking happy customers to share feedback, you’re missing a major opportunity.
🛠 Avoid it by: Creating a simple follow-up message or card asking for reviews.
🐾 Pro Tip: Offer a discount on their next order in exchange for a testimonial!
8. Lacking Product Descriptions and Clear Labels
Treats may be cute, but customers also want to know what’s inside and how to store them.
🛠 Avoid it by: Including:
- A clear ingredient list
- Allergen info
- Storage instructions
- Your brand logo and contact info
✔️ The Starter Kit includes printable label templates and branding tips to help you package like a pro!
9. Underestimating Marketing
Your dog treats won’t sell if no one knows they exist! Don’t wait for customers to magically find you.
🛠 Avoid it by: Posting regularly on social media, starting an email list, and using Pinterest to drive traffic.
📲 The Social Media Promo Pack in the Starter Kit gives you ready-to-use content to save time and get noticed.
10. Trying to Do Everything Alone
From legal steps to marketing to packaging—it’s a lot. Many beginners burn out before they even launch.
🛠 Avoid it by: Leaning on proven tools, guides, and communities. You don’t have to figure it all out yourself.
Final Thoughts: Start Smart, Not Stressed
Every successful dog bakery you see today started somewhere—and probably made a few of these mistakes along the way. But now you don’t have to!
You can launch with clarity, confidence, and a tail-wagging brand that customers trust.
🎁 Want a Shortcut to Success
Grab your copy of the Dog Bakery Starter Kit™ and get everything you need to avoid these mistakes and build a profitable dog treat business from home.
✅ Step-by-Step Startup Guide✅ Pet-Safe Ingredient List
✅ Printable Packaging Templates
✅ Recipe Planner + Signature Treat Tracker
✅ Shopify Setup Guide
✅ Social Media Promo Pack
…and more!