Toll Free: 800-637-7338
Our customer experience team services independent pet specialty retailers from Washington State to Maine.
Ask a question, express a concern, or just say hi! We’re more than happy to hear from you.
Our customer experience team services independent pet specialty retailers from Washington State to Maine.
Ask a question, express a concern, or just say hi! We’re more than happy to hear from you.
Pet Food Experts
April 9, 2025
Curious about the biggest 2025 pet industry trends? Each spring, Global Pet Expo offers a front-row seat to the future of the pet space, and this year's event delivered in a big way. From next-level nutrition and interactive dog toys for enrichment to pet wellness grooming products, today's pet parents want more than just food and fun — they're looking for holistic, functional, and convenient solutions for their furry companions.
Missed the show? We've got you covered. Whether you're an independent retailer, vendor partner, or pet industry pro, this recap spotlights the best new pet products Global Pet Expo had to offer — from buzz-worthy launches to shelf-ready opportunities.
As part of the growing movement toward health-conscious feeding, many brands showcased top freeze-dried pet foods and other nutrient-dense formats designed to satisfy today's ingredient-savvy shoppers.
Primal introduced Kibble in the Raw for Cats — a revolutionary freeze-dried format designed to "Serve like Kibble. Nourish like Raw." This new offering delivers Primal's raw nutrition in an easy, scoop-and-serve style that's as convenient as kibble but crafted to support the benefits of raw feeding.
Open Farm launched Epic Blend Baked Kibble, a layered formula featuring oven-baked kibble with air-dried morsels and organ meats for rich, bioavailable nutrients and a unique texture that supports whole-body health.
Vital Essentials expanded its popular Crunchy Nibs line with an entirely new offering: Soft Nibs for dogs and cats. These innovative formulas bring raw nutrition in a softer, chewier format with new protein options, perfect for training or picky pets.
Orijen showcased Wild Reserve Cat Food, featuring wild-caught proteins and omega-rich ingredients for premium feline diets.
Fussie Cat rolled out Market Fresh Tuna Kibble, a seafood-forward option with high palatability and clean ingredients.
FirstMate expanded the Limited Ingredient Line with new sizes and formulas — ideal for retailers seeking allergen-friendly, trial-ready options.
NutriSource introduced eight new kibble formulas under its Choice Line, a balanced and nutritious diet that prioritizes animal protein as the #1 ingredient, offered at an affordable price point. The launch also included complementary Grillers Treats and Cans designed for rotational feeding and dietary variety.
SmallBatch launched its new Perfectly Cooked Line for Cats, offering lightly cooked frozen sliders prepared sous-vide style. These are full and complete meals, mirroring the brand's existing lightly cooked offerings for dogs — perfect for cat parents seeking a gently prepared, whole-food diet.
Ziwi launched Air-Dried Trial Packs and new Variety Packs of Cans for Dogs and Cats, offering premium, bite-sized nutrition and convenient feeding variety at an accessible price point.
💡 Retailer tip: These formulations meet the demand for elevated nutrition, while offering flexible formats for trial, rotation, and long-term feeding plans.
Beyond basic treats, pet parents are seeking options that enhance hydration, add functional value, and elevate mealtime — a trend highlighted by many of the best new pet products at Global Pet Expo.
Stella & Chewy's new Marie's Magical Breakfast Sprinkles are designed to add flavor and morning nutrition, while Stella's Shredrs in Beef deliver protein-packed texture.
Petcurean introduced Now Fresh Good Gravy, a versatile topper that can be served dry or mixed with water to encourage hydration.
OC Raw added Bold Builders, Bulk Boxes, and new frozen treats, ideal for raw feeders looking for convenient, high-protein options.
Green Juju expanded with Freeze-Dried Veggie Blends and Whole-Food Probiotics, tapping into the the growing interest in whole-food wellness.
💡 Retailer tip: These products are ideal for upselling, offering pet parents a way to enhance everyday meals and boost their pets' health in convenient, trial-friendly formats.
Interactive dog toys and enrichment tools were a major highlight at 2025 Global Pet Expo. These innovations support both mental stimulation and wellness — a growing priority for today's pet parents.
Woof is excited to introduce Lick Mats, designed with suction bases and a mixing bowl center—perfect for pairing with Lick Mixes and keeping dogs engaged longer.
Tall Tails announced new additions to its existing Foraging Mat collection in fun, trending patterns such as Succulent Garden, Busy Bee, and the colorful Wildflower option. Also new are Enrichment 2-Packs in fun nature-themed shapes and crafted from natural rubber, and Jointed Toys in summer-ready shapes, to support active play.
Redbarn revealed fresh packaging and expanded product lines for puppies, small breeds, and skin & coat support — plus new DuraBulls chews made for serious gnawers that come in a variety of shapes to satisfy any pup's preferences.
💡 Retailer tip: These items are not only eye-catching on the shelf — they cater to wellness-focused shoppers looking for enrichment products with purpose.
With a rising focus on pet wellness grooming products, more pet parents are choosing clean, gentle care routines that support their animals' overall health.
Earth Rated expanded their grooming line, which features wipes in a variety of fragrances, coat-specific shampoos, and bath solutions crafted with clean ingredients — perfect for sensitive pets and eco-conscious households. Whether you prefer a gentle unscented product or need a spray for in-between baths to touch up the freshness, Earth Rated has options for all grooming needs.
💡 Retailer tip: Don't overlook the grooming aisle! A curated selection of natural, high-performance grooming products helps complete a total wellness offering in-store.
From functional foods to smarter playtime, these 2025 pet industry trends are reshaping what pet parents want and what savvy retailers need to stock.
Consumers want whole-food nutrition without the prep. Brands are meeting demand with top freeze-dried pet foods, air-dried kibble, and raw-infused options that blend convenience with clean labels.
Forget boring chew toys — 2025 is all about interactive dog toys and enrichment tools that engage pets' minds. Think puzzle mats, lick-based play, and toys that promote calm, focus, and active fun.
Pet parents are upgrading their grooming routines. The latest pet wellness grooming products feature gentle, plant-based formulas that support skin health and align with total wellness trends.
The treat aisle is evolving. Today's toppers and treats are all about added benefits — from hydration support to gut health and mealtime flavor boosts. These are high-impact upsells.
Across every category, the best new pet products from Global Pet Expo balance performance, sustainability, and transparency — all values that resonate with today’s mindful pet parent.
💡 Retailer tip: Stocking these trends now sets your shelves apart — and shows customers you understand what pet care looks like in 2025.
From forward-thinking nutrition to enrichment and wellness, the best new pet products from Global Pet Expo reflect the values of today’s pet parents. Staying ahead of 2025 pet industry trends gives independent retailers the edge.
👉 Shop now at orders.petfoodexperts.com
📞 Or contact your PFX rep for recommendations and support
Here's to fuller bowls, happier pets, and smarter shelves.
Pet Food Experts is the #1 pet specialty distributor in the U.S., proudly serving over 10,000 pet retail locations nationwide. With decades of experience, we're not just a distributor—we're a trusted partner, driving innovation and building meaningful relationships. Our industry-leading logistics network, which includes the largest cold-chain service in the industry, powers fresh and frozen deliveries to pet superstores, regional chains, farm & feed stores, independent pet shops, and 3PL direct-to-consumer and veterinary clinic channels. We are dedicated to nurturing a healthy, vibrant pet ecosystem that supports the well-being of pets and the communities they call home.
With a history spanning over 80 years, Pet Food Experts has evolved into a premier distributor of pet food, treats, toys, and supplies. Renowned for its award-winning approach, it thrives on relationships, innovation in service, and providing an unparalleled customer experience. Pet Food Experts is committed to fostering enduring success for its partners and serving as a thought-leader, lighting a transformative impact for the entire pet ecosystem. Discover more at www.petfoodexperts.com.