Small Business Spotlight: The Barking Bakery

We’ve been told for years that shopping with local and independent brands has an array of benefits, and it seems that now more than ever, people are listening. People are opting for these unique businesses that often provide hand-made alternatives than the more prominent brands lovingly. And with the trend set to continue, we thought it was about time to throw the spotlight on some of these wonderful brands that people can’t get enough of. Without further ado, let us introduce the award-winning team at The Barking Bakery. You may already be familiar with this brand thanks to their appearance on Dragon’s Den, and if not, you’re probably taking a good guess as to what they’re all about from the title. Yes, The Barking Bakery is dedicated to creating hand-made, artisan treats that are both scrumptious and healthy. All of their products are human grade, DEFRA approved and have a shelf life of 9 – 12 months, not to mention, they’re also lower in calories than some other leading pet treats. They’re not only great for your dog’s tastebuds but the environment too. The Barking Bakery has tried to do things differently by making their packaging 100% recyclable and made of super-clean, food-grade plastic, plus the seal keeps the food lovely and fresh, reducing food waste.

And behind this great bakery is the dynamic duo Michelle and her dog Angus that, along with their team’s help, rustle up delicious doggy delicacies. From Doggy Woofins (cupcakes), Pawty Cakes, and Pupcorn to doggy cookies, yoghurt hearts and tasty cheesy biscuits, The Barking Bakery produce irresistible treats that have been made only with the highest quality ingredients and not only industry-approved but more importantly, Angus approved as well. The business was set up in 2012 by Michelle and inspired by her Border Collie, Spot. Michelle would wander up and down the supermarket aisles looking for an unusual and tasty baked treat for Spot to enjoy but was always left despondent when nothing seemed to fit the bill. She wanted something a bit special, and since she couldn’t find it, she made it. After the creation of her first Doggy Woofin, both Michelle and Spot knew they were onto something.

What followed was lots of research and testing before this manufacturer of high-end dog treats was launched onto the high street in 2014. Michelle and her team now supply to selected pet hotels, dog-friendly cafes and restaurants and pet stores and garden centres, with the likes of Pets at Home, The Range, Ocado and Booths being a few trusted stockists. Speaking to Michelle about the secret to her success, the owner explains that:

‘there has been a rise in trend towards upmarket and bespoke treats. Owners love to spoil their dogs, and as a society, we’re becoming increasingly aware of giving them the right treats.’

It seems that the words quality, unique and clean are the adjectives that really epitomise The Barking Bakery, and it’s no wonder owners and their dogs have gone so mad for these treats. But it’s also creativity as well. Allowing dogs to enjoy popcorn for film night, celebrating their birthday with a cake, or enjoying chocolates on Valentines Day adds a little more occasion into their lives. It allows owners and dogs to share in something special together. After all, the saying that a dog is a man’s best friend is so famous because it rings so true for many people.

Success doesn’t seem to be slowing down for this duo with recently expanding into the European market. Michelle set out to create something that was sorely lacking in the pet treat market, and we think she’s achieved this splendidly. There’s nobody out there delivering the products that The  Barking Bakery are blessing the canine world with, and it’s certainly worth checking this business out. They’re continuously releasing adorable seasonal specials for holidays including Halloween, Christmas, Easter and Valentines Day, and the regular favourites like the famous Doogy Woofins and Pawty Cakes. Have a browse of the doggy delicacies at thebarkingbakery.co.uk Your dog will indeed thank you for it, and you’ll feel great knowing you’ll be supporting British independent businesses while you do it.

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