WITH FOUNDER DEBBIE THOMAS
What was the inspiration behind Wasatch Pup?
After breeding dogs for over a decade, I noticed that many of the products available just weren’t meeting the needs of our puppies or their families. I wanted to create products that truly elevate the experience of canine companionship—giving puppies comfort, parents confidence, and both the sense of luxury they deserve.
How does your brand differ from other industry brands in the same category? What gives you the competitive edge?
Every product we launch is shaped by our first-hand experience in the pet world. We combine premium quality with thoughtful design and competitive pricing. Our focus on both luxury and practicality sets us apart, and our branding reflects the high standards we hold for everything that carries the Wasatch Pup name.
Describe the ingredients you look for in the products you use.
We use clean, simple, and transparent ingredients. That means no fillers—just single-ingredient, nutrient-dense options you can trust.
"As a luxury brand, it is important for us to include something as natural and majestic as the Wasatch Mountains, because we believe their beauty and strength are both natural and luxurious, and it is important to think of them that way. They reflect a dog’s primal needs, the beauty of the outdoors, and the elevated lifestyle we strive to bring into every product."
Walk us through your development process — from ideation to the product we see on the shelf.
Each product begins with an experienced problem and our solution. From there, our team refines the concept through research, testing, and real-world use with dogs. We balance beauty and practicality with cost efficiency, making sure every item delivers luxury and quality without compromise.
What are some things you take into consideration during the creation of new products?
We focus on health and wellbeing, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. A product must be good for the dog, practical for the parent, and beautiful enough to be part of the home. Beyond that, we always make sure each product has a clear purpose, something we are doing differently and better, with a story behind it that justifies its place in our line.
Other than Wasatch Pup, what is something you are passionate about?
I’m passionate about building connections—whether it’s with family, friends, or community. I also love health and fitness, the outdoors, live music, and creating spaces where all beings feel loved and included.
What is one major lesson you learned about running a business?
It takes far more work, dedication, and sacrifice than I had previously realized. Choosing the right people, treating them well, and staying courageous through the climb are the foundations of lasting success.
What are some challenges you have overcome with Wasatch Pup?
Sourcing has been one of our biggest challenges. Finding partners that meet our high standards while maintaining affordability has been a journey, but overcoming it has made us stronger and more resilient.
What would you say is your most effective marketing channel?
In the beginning, local events and community outreach helped us build trust and spread the word. Today, we’re reaching more people online through Google, Meta, and organic word-of-mouth, but we’ll always value the strong foundation of local support.
"We combine premium quality with thoughtful design and competitive pricing. Our focus on both luxury and practicality sets us apart, and our branding reflects the high standards we hold for everything that carries the Wasatch Pup name."
Give us the backstory of your brand’s name.
We are named after our local mountain range, the Wasatch Mountains. We are deeply rooted along the Wasatch Front, as proud members of our community we love honoring the Wasatch name as part of our brand. As a luxury brand, it is important for us to include something as natural and majestic as the Wasatch Mountains, because we believe their beauty and strength are both natural and luxurious, and it is important to think of them that way. They reflect a dog’s primal needs, the beauty of the outdoors, and the elevated lifestyle we strive to bring into every product.
What would you like to see for Wasatch Pup's future?
We aim to become one of the most recognized names in the pet industry. To be known for uncompromising quality, trusted customer service, and products that truly improve the lives of dogs and their owners.
What do you think is the most prominent concern in the pet industry?
The health and wellbeing of pets is always at the forefront. Too many products still cut corners on ingredients and materials. We believe the industry must prioritize transparency, quality, and safety above all else.