Dog bakeries are becoming a popular trend in Los Angeles County, where the pet industry is thriving. With over five million dogs in the area, more pet owners are indulging their furry friends with special treats like cakes and cookies. The rise in demand has led to the opening of nearly a dozen dog bakeries across the region.
One standout is La Pawnedaria, a new Mexican-inspired dog bakery that opened in Downey just last weekend. Owner Adriana Montoya, who transitioned from baking in her home kitchen to a brick-and-mortar store, reported overwhelming demand. “We had a line wrapped around the building,” Montoya said, adding that her churro cupcakes, inspired by popular Mexican treats, are among the best-sellers.
Montoya’s focus on simple, healthy ingredients—using just three core components in all her treats—ensures that the bakery’s offerings are both delicious and easy for dogs to digest. Her bakery’s success is part of a growing trend as pet owners increasingly pamper their dogs with specialty products.
The pet treats market, valued at $21 billion, is projected to grow to $31 billion by 2031, according to Allied Market Research. As part of this expansion, bakeries catering specifically to dogs are seeing a surge in popularity. The Dog Bakery, which has three locations in the county, is one such example.
For pet owners like Rocía Contreras and her husband, treating their puppy to gourmet dog treats is part of their family tradition. “We don’t have children, but we have fur babies,” Contreras explained, reflecting the shift in American households where 70% now own pets, compared to just 40% with children, according to the 2020 U.S. Census.
With this growing pet-loving demographic, Montoya is optimistic about the future of her bakery. She plans to expand her business to host dog birthday parties and events. “I think people realize how much dogs mean to them,” she said. “It’s a place where we can give them a thank-you, and I think that’s what’s going to keep my business growing.”
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