The pet treat industry is evolving fast, driven by changing consumer demands and advancements in pet nutrition. In 2025, pet treat trends reflect not just a love for our furry friends but also a keen eye on their health and the environment. Whether you’re a pet treat wholesaler, retailer, or distributor, staying on top of these trends will help you meet customer expectations and remain competitive. Let’s dive into the top 15 trends shaping the world of pet treats in 2025.
1. Functional Ingredients: Health-Boosting Treats
Pet owners are increasingly looking for treats that offer more than just a tasty bite. In 2025, functional ingredients such as probiotics, omega-3s, glucosamine, and turmeric are becoming mainstream in pet treats. These additives target specific health benefits, such as improved digestion, joint health, and a shinier coat, making functional treats more attractive to health-conscious pet parents.
2. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Packaging
As the world shifts toward greener living, so too does the pet treat industry. Expect to see a significant rise in sustainable packaging options made from biodegradable or recyclable materials. Brands that emphasize eco-friendly packaging will not only appeal to eco-conscious consumers but also enhance their brand reputation. Look for wholesale pet treats packaged in compostable materials or even plastic-free alternatives.
3. Freeze-Dried and Air-Dried Treats
Freeze-dried and air-dried pet treats are rapidly gaining popularity due to their ability to retain most of the original nutrients. These treats are perceived as more natural and less processed, which appeals to pet owners concerned about ingredient quality. The wholesale freeze-dried dog treats market is particularly booming, providing lightweight, nutrient-packed options that are convenient for both retailers and consumers.
4. Human-Grade Ingredients
In 2025, pet owners are scrutinizing ingredient lists more than ever. The demand for human-grade pet treats—those made with ingredients that meet the same safety standards as human food—is increasing. This trend is being driven by the humanization of pets, with many owners viewing their dogs and cats as family members deserving of high-quality nutrition.
5. Limited Ingredient Diets (LID)
Limited Ingredient Diet (LID) treats are designed for pets with food sensitivities or allergies. With minimal ingredients, these treats reduce the risk of allergic reactions while still offering pets something tasty. The demand for LID treats continues to grow as more pet owners adopt allergy-friendly and hypoallergenic diets for their pets.
6. Insect Protein: The New Sustainable Protein Source
Sustainability is a core theme for 2025, and insect protein is one of the most innovative trends hitting the pet treat scene. Insects like crickets and black soldier fly larvae offer a protein-packed and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional meat sources. As an eco-friendly protein source, insect-based treats are particularly appealing to pet owners seeking to reduce their environmental impact.
7. Customized Treats
Personalization has made its way into the pet treat industry. Consumers are now looking for treats tailored to their pet’s specific dietary needs, age, size, and health conditions. Customizable options, such as treats made for specific breeds or tailored to address unique health concerns, are predicted to surge in demand by 2025.
8. Vegan and Plant-Based Treats
Veganism and plant-based diets aren’t just for humans anymore! As more pet owners adopt plant-based lifestyles, they are seeking vegan pet treats that align with their values. Plant-based dog and cat treats—made from ingredients like sweet potatoes, lentils, and peas—are becoming a sought-after option in the wholesale pet treats market.
9. Transparency and Ethical Sourcing
Today’s consumers want to know where their pet’s food comes from. Ethical sourcing of ingredients, including the humane treatment of animals and fair labor practices, is becoming increasingly important. Brands that are transparent about their sourcing practices will stand out in 2025. Offering transparency reports on the origin of ingredients can boost consumer trust and loyalty.
10. Treats for Senior Pets
The aging pet population has led to a rise in treats formulated specifically for senior pets. These treats often contain added vitamins and minerals that promote joint health, cognitive function, and mobility. For wholesalers, focusing on senior pet treats can tap into a lucrative and growing market as pet owners seek to support their aging companions.
11. Single-Protein Treats
Single-protein treats cater to the growing number of pets with allergies and food intolerances. By focusing on one source of protein—like chicken, beef, or lamb—these treats minimize the risk of triggering allergic reactions. Expect to see more single-protein options in 2025, especially in the wholesale cat treats and dog treats markets.
12. Pet Treat Subscription Services
Subscription services are taking over various retail sectors, and pet treats are no exception. In 2025, expect to see more pet treat subscription boxes that allow pet owners to receive monthly deliveries of treats tailored to their pets’ preferences. This model encourages repeat purchases and fosters customer loyalty for businesses.
13. Grain-Free and Gluten-Free Options
While grain-free diets for pets have been around for a while, they continue to be a popular choice for pets with sensitive stomachs or food allergies. Gluten-free pet treats are also on the rise, catering to pet owners who prefer to eliminate common allergens from their pets’ diets. In 2025, expect to see more grain-free and gluten-free treats in stores and online.
14. CBD and Calming Treats
CBD treats for pets have been a game-changer in the pet industry. These treats, formulated to calm anxiety, ease pain, and improve overall well-being, are gaining significant traction. As more pet owners turn to natural solutions for managing their pets’ stress, the market for CBD and calming treats will continue to expand in 2025.
15. Treats as Training Tools
Training treats remain a key category in the pet treat market. In 2025, expect to see an increase in the demand for small, bite-sized, low-calorie treats designed specifically for training purposes. These treats are perfect for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding, making them a must-have for pet parents and professional trainers alike.
Conclusion
As we move into 2025, the pet treat industry is embracing sustainability, personalization, and wellness in ways that align with pet owners’ evolving expectations. Staying on top of these trends can help you cater to the demands of a growing market that values quality, transparency, and innovation.
For those interested in exploring wholesale pet treats that meet these emerging trends, visit Pack’n Pride for an extensive range of products that are both nutritious and delicious for pets.
Discover the top 15 pet treat trends for 2025, from sustainable packaging to functional ingredients, tailored for wholesalers, distributors, and retailers.
With these trends in mind, your business can thrive in the ever-changing pet treat landscape, meeting the needs of a discerning and health-conscious customer base. Make sure your offerings align with what today’s pet parents are looking for, and you’ll be well-positioned for success in 2025 and beyond.