Dog sales have drastically declined

2020 saw a huge uptick in puppy sales as “Pandemic Puppies” were sold all over the world.

Now, though, some three years after the pandemic, shelters and rescues are bracing for the backlash of puppy impulse buying.

Along with higher prices at the pump, grocery store, and other retail stores, dog sales and pet ownership in general has seen a major decline in recent years.

According to industry watch groups, dog sales and dog ownership have taken a major hit these last few years.

In October 2023, Petfoodindustry.com revealed, “Pet ownership declined in US from 70% to 66% in 2022.”

Retailwire.com states, “In 2023, pet adoptions have declined and the pet category has proven to be less resistant to macroeconomic pressures than predicted.”

Not only that, but inflation has greatly impacted dog retail sales and veterinary treatment.

Not to mention shrinkflation where less product remains at the same cost.

The Dire Wolf Project has felt the hit, as well.

Despite having quite a large waiting list, when puppies arrive fewer people on the waiting list choose to go active for our current puppies.

There are always lots of reasons why families choose to wait once they get on the waiting list, so we understand.

But we have seen quite a difference in demand since a steep rise in inflation has hit our nation.

In November 2019, Mike’s Feed and Pets sold a 28 lbs bag of Taste of the Wild for $39.99.

Five years later, that same 28 lbs bag of Taste of the Wild is $56.99.

That’s a 42.5% increase in dog food prices, folks!

In order to match this market slow-down, the Dire Wolf Project has planned fewer litters.

When demand decreases, we must respond in kind.

Our dogs are beautiful living beings that deserve loving homes with families who cherish them and can provide for their needs throughout their entire lives.

We will protect them by limiting our litters to match the number of families who desire them.

As Lois says, “I will only breed if people want my dogs.”

And so we continue that great standard set by our founder as we move into the economic structure we have now been given.

At the same time, Jay and I will increase our advertisement budget to reach the people who need our special dogs, but don’t yet know who we are.

It’s a delicate balance.

If you find you have a little extra income and a desire to help, we partner with a non-profit organization who donates 100% of the proceeds to our work.

The Dire Wolf Project is forever committed to doing everything we can for any DireWolf Dog in need, no matter what type of circumstance it may find itself.

But in these hard economic times, it helps to have friends.

Here is the link to guide you through the donation process.

https://direwolfdogs.com/dogs-for-sale/adults/

Jennifer Stoeckl is the co-founder of the Dire Wolf Project, founder of the DireWolf Guardians American Dirus Dog Training Program, and owner/operator of DireWolf Dogs of Vallecito. She lives in the beautiful inland northwest among the Ponderosa pine forests with her pack of American Dirus dogs.