PAWTALKS WITH PLANT DOG

What was the inspiration behind Plant Dog?

My dog, Gigi, inspired the creation of Plant Dog! As a new pet parent, I struggled to find crunchy, healthy treats she loved—without sugar, wheat, artificial colors, or smoky flavors. We believe pets deserve better, so we set out to create treats that are unique, nutrient-dense, delicious, and fun!

How does your brand differ from other industry brands in the same category? What gives you the competitive edge?

Compared to other plant-based brands, we stand out by using ingredients in their original form—without lab-grown molecules—while blending my Asian heritage with American ingredients for a truly unique approach! 

Describe the ingredients you look for in the products you use.

We approach every product with a fresh perspective: Has it been done before? How can we make it better? And most importantly, how does it enhance pet health while staying true to the integrity of its ingredients?

"The biggest lesson about paid ads is to make sure you are building your community first before doing any paid outreach!"

Walk us through your development process — from ideation to the product we see on the shelf.

Our process begins with researching key health concerns like skin and coat health, hip and joint support, and cancer prevention. We then identify beneficial ingredients from both Eastern and Western traditions to address these issues. Once we have our ingredient list, we explore unique product formats—whether lattes, biscuits, bars, or single-ingredient supplements.

Next, we gather feedback from our reps to refine the concept. Once we're confident in the idea, we move on to sourcing, packaging, and label design. When everything arrives, we shoot product photos and focus on the most crucial step—marketing through social media and wholesale channels.

What are some things you take into consideration during the creation of new products?

Quality and uniqueness—reflected in our packaging, design, and the product itself!

Other than Plant Dog, what is something you are passionate about?

Dogs, cooking, traveling, connecting with like-minded people, pilates, and k-pop!

What is one major lesson you learned about running a business?

Patience is key, keep believing in yourself, think creatively, work hard and take a break when you need it to prevent burnt out.

What are some challenges you have overcome with Plant Dog's?

Getting out to the marketplace is always the hardest, but we were able to do it because of our community. Timing to reorder ingredients, packaging and waiting. 

What would you say is your most effective marketing channel?

Instagram has definitely been our most effective marketing channel as well as paid Ads. The biggest lesson about paid ads is to make sure you are building your community first before doing any paid outreach!

"As a new pet parent, I struggled to find crunchy, healthy treats she loved—without sugar, wheat, artificial colors, or smoky flavors. We believe pets deserve better, so we set out to create treats that are unique, nutrient-dense, delicious, and fun!"

Give us the backstory of your brand’s name.

We always knew our brand would be plant-based. Initially, we considered the name "Good Dog," but it wasn’t available for trademarking. That led us to "Plant Dog"—a name that felt perfect because it’s simple, clear, and self-explanatory!

What would you like to see for Plant Dog's future?

Get into more boutique stores, have our own manufacture warehouse and a cute little store/cafe as well!

What do you think is the most prominent concern in the pet industry?

Big corporate companies purchasing smaller companies and downgrading the ingredients, which just costs more health issues for our pet.