Guide to Supplies for Dogs

How to successfully sell dog supplies, general or specialty, to the large number of consumers who are dog owners

By Chris Perrin, Principal, Common Dialogue Enterprises, Inc.

1. dog training supplies
2. dog grooming supplies
3. dog restraint equipment
4. dog wedding services
5. dog statues
6. dog beds

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Decide which dog supplies you are going to sell

There are two broad business models for selling supplies for dogs, either of which work. The first is to be a general pet product distributor in which you sell all types of dog supplies. The other is to specialize in one type of dog supply.

I recommend: Research specialty dog product distributors before deciding to be a general pet product distributor. The reasons are purely economic. If you are a general seller of supplies for dogs, you are going to be competing against large retail chains. Niche products are easier to break into. Websites like Pet Gifts International offer a number of unique items for pet owners, which many dog owners will love. Porcelain by Rosalinde Inc. sells dog supplies made out of porcelain. These items are attractive; they are also a good way for pet owners to show they care for their animals.

Find a source of wholesale dog supplies

General or specific, you are going to need a place to buy your inventory. Because of the Internet, this is easier than ever.

I recommend: Do a little comparison-shopping. PetWholesaler.com and PetEdge, Inc. are two great resources for locating companies that do nothing but the wholesale of dog supplies. Look at these companies, and find a price and set of products that match your budget.

Remember that green means money in supplies for dogs

Many consumers are becoming more aware of health and environmental issues; they watch what they eat, and they watch what their dogs eat. Dogs have food allergies, just like people. This has put an emphasis on finding natural, organic, and healthy alternatives to mass-produced supplies for dog.

I recommend: Start by understanding what pet health products exist. A website like Only Natural Pet Store will have information about most of the types of dog supplies that health-conscious dog owners can buy for their pets. Native Remedies is another website where you can do research about natural remedies for sick animals. This website will have more information on hypoallergenic dog supplies. Once you have done the research, you can make the decision on whether you wish to provide these products at your store.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Avoid the pet medication business. There are legal ramifications to this business, which you should not take lightly.
• •  Never be surprised by the lengths people will go to for their pets. For many, no expense is too high and no product too outrageous. Stock a large variety of dog supplies to satisfy as many consumers as possible.
• •  Pet owners talk, especially if they are in the same city. If you do wrong by one, they are going to tell everyone else about it.