In the dog toy market, there are different varieties available, such as stuffed toys, balls, rope and tug toys, squeaky toys, chew toys, and others. These toys are made of a variety of materials, including fabric, plastic, wood, rubber, and others.
Market Trends and Growth
According to OMR Research, the global dog toy market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period (2023–2029). The increase in dog pet owners and increased expenditure on their health, wellbeing, cleanliness, and care are the primary factors driving market growth. Dog owners are also focused on providing their dogs with things that can make them exercise and move, which is also accelerating the market’s growth.
According to the American Pet Products Association, Inc., 70% of US households owned a pet in 2021–2022, up from 67% in 2019–2020. Pet expenditure climbed in 2021, with 35% of pet owners reporting that they would spend more on their pet/pet supplies, including food, wellness products, and other pet care goods. According to the same report, millennials have the highest percentage of pet owners (32%), followed by boomers (27%), and Gen X (24%).
Considering this craze for pet toys, companies are aiming for sustainable options and dog health as well. They are offering products that are free from harmful chemicals such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC or vinyl), bisphenol A (BPA), and lead. Moreover, companies are also offering a variety of dog toys in the market with new innovation and creativity on a regular basis. Nowadays, the trend of using puzzle toys, especially food-dispensing puzzle toys, to train dogs or increase their physical and mental activity is also increasing. For this reason, companies are launching such toys on the market. For instance, in May 2023, Outward Hound launched its two new food-dispensing puzzle games, Lickin’ Layers Puzzle Game and A-maze Ball. Lickin’ Layers is a level 2 food puzzle for dogs. It encourages dogs to exercise their problem-solving abilities by spinning each layer around to uncover the concealed rewards. Moreover, the A-maze Ball game is an interactive ball puzzle that includes a tennis ball, a treat ball, and a maze ball.
Another factor that is proliferating the market’s growth is the availability of a number of distribution channels, such as online platforms, offline supermarkets, specialty stores, pet care stores, and others. At present, sales are mostly driven by e-commerce platforms due to the ease and convenience that they offer. According to the ITA (International Trade Administration), the toys, hobby, and DIY segment was valued at $636.4 billion in 2020, increased to $802.6 billion in 2022, and is expected to be valued at $946.4 billion in 2025. These trends show that in the coming years, online platforms will be the key factor in the dog toy market’s growth.
Recent Developments
The key companies in the market include Benebone LLC, Central Garden & Pet Co., Chuckit!, Coastal Pet Products, Inc., Doskocil Manufacturing Co., Inc., Jolly Pets, KONG Co., Mammoth Pet Products, Multipet Inc., PAWS AND PALS, Inc., Petsport USA, Inc., Starmark Pet Products, The Kyjen Co., LLC, and ZippyPaws, among others. These companies are assisting in the market’s growth through their new product launches, partnerships, and market expansions. Some of the recent developments in the market include-
• In January 2023, Fisher-Price, an educational toy company for newborns, preschoolers, and toddlers, announced the launch of its new range of dog toys, which are available in stores and on PetSmart’s website as well. The toys include Sound Bites, Attack-A-Attack Chase & Toss Toy, and Pull Along Rocket. These toys are aimed at the developmental needs of growing pups, such as teething, calming, and others.
• In November 2022, Snoop Dog, an American rapper, launched a pet line, Snoop Doggie Doggs. Under this line, pet owners can find dog accessories, apparel, plush toys, leashes, collars, and bowls, among others.
• In October 2022, Brightkins, a new brand of interactive pet toys and training equipment, was introduced by Learning Resources. Brightkins toys and equipment help teach new habits, pique pets' curiosity, and engage the entire family while giving pets colorful ways to play. Brightkins debuted with a complete product range that includes amusing training activity kits, engaging treat puzzles, and unique treat dispensing tools.