Global Pet Expo Preview: Dog Chews

There’s a lot to chew on at this year’s Global Pet Expo when it comes to the dog chew category. With companies featuring everything from natural ingredients to functional wellness benefits that aim to keep anxious pups calm, teeth clean, and minds stimulated.

What innovations can attendees expect? “Our latest and greatest set features Barknola Bars—a doggy granola bar,” shared Laura Jones Wells, President of Jones Natural Chews. “They are awesome because the first ingredient is real meat, meaning protein, that is mixed in with rolled oats and fruit or veggies. This treat is perfect for refueling a pup after a big adventure, and great for on-the-go treat situations.”

Scott Pet has been focused on streamlining their dog treats product portfolio as they prepare for packaging and product innovation in late 2026. 

Jill Tucker, Marketing Coordinator, explained, “We will be showcasing these updates at pet shows later this year. Our innovation focus for the Global Pet Show will be on our ultra-premium pet food brand—Because It’s Better.”

The Expo is filled with companies offering long-lasting and simple-ingredient chews. Buck Bone Organics has expanded its line beyond premium Antler Chews to include biscuits, dental and chews. Coucour will be in attendance with their 100 percent natural and long-lasting treat. Tuesday’s Natural Dog Company—a go-to source for premium natural dog treats and chews will also be on the show floor amidst countless more including: Beefeaters, Rush Direct, Chewmate, Dogginstix, Earth Animal, Lennox, CollaChews, NPIC and Pet Center.

And while healthy and high-quality is always trending in pets, here’s what exhibitors think will be a hot topic at this year’s Expo. 

“We’re seeing a lot of growth in pet ownership among younger consumers, specifically Gen Z. They are looking for high-quality ingredients, more natural and sustainable products and packaging, and availability in convenient locations for shopping, whether that’s in-store or online,” revealed Tucker of Scott Pet. “Because pet parents are skewing younger, we’re seeing brands adapt through packaging refreshes and product innovation that better position their products and brands for that consumer segment.”

Jones Wells of Jones Natural Chews believes value will be on everyone’s mind.

“Dog parents are continually trading in and up to find healthy, safe options for their pups. They are looking for value in bundles, committing to more wholesome ingredients.”

The Expo floor is sure to be filled with conversation and connection. It’s the honest discussions and relationship-building that have kept Jones Natural Chews coming back for more than 20 years. Jones Wells articulated why the Expo is so critical to business. 

“It is important to show up for your industry, in person. Global offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with our customers, vendors, and other industry peers. We greatly enjoy the chance to brainstorm on innovation in person and to grow our business through new connections.”

She looks forward to talking about sourcing quality, natural ingredients within the USA—a cornerstone and source of pride for Jones Natural Chews. 

“It has helped us maintain a lower carbon footprint and we are proud to support our farmers and ranchers in the USA. We are always happy to discuss our commitment to quality and how staying true to our original mission and vision has offered our company a path to success.”

Scott Pet has been in business since 1975. It only took one visit to Global to know they’d be returning every year because of the value it delivers. 

“The show brings together retailers, distributors, manufacturers, and industry leaders for face-to-face conversations that strengthen partnerships, surface emerging trends, and provide real-time feedback,” said Tucker. “Just as important, collaborative energy reinforces our shared focus on innovation, growth, and improving the lives of pets and their people.”

Tucker looks forward to many conversations around expansion. “Scott Pet is very much in growth mode for our dog chews brands. Our focus will be on new distribution opportunities to continue the strong growth we’ve seen within this portfolio in the past year.”

For many pet companies, Global is an opportunity that begins months in advance. “Showcasing our newest products as well as our best-selling classics, on a large stage like Global, requires a lot of prep work,” concurred Jones Wells. “Our team meets regularly, all year, to ensure that we have our best foot forward. It all begins with evaluating our prior show performance, looking for growth opportunities and developing implementation plans. Show work is an important way to connect with the industry, and it does require a time commitment and consistent effort to maintain relationships.”

Preparation starts long before the show for Scott Pet. Tucker revealed, “Our team sets clear goals, aligns key messages and product priorities, and schedules meetings in advance to maximize time on the floor.”

From protein-packed innovation to purposeful conversations—the dog chew category will be hard to miss on the Global show floor. The category continues to evolve to meet the expectations of today’s pet parents and what dogs crave.