US dog food market led by Nestlé Purina PetCare with 28% of sales

Having reached a value of $12.6 million during 2012, the US dog food market has been forecast to see sales increase by 4% annually in constant value terms between 2012 and 2017. In volume terms, dry dog food sales are predicted to increase by 1% annually over the next five years , while wet dog food will arrest the declines seen since 2007, with volume sales growing slightly between through to 2017.

The rise in the US dog population expected in 2012 should lead to a 2% increase in dog food volumes, reversing the 1% annual average decline seen over the last five years.

Dog food refers to food specifically intended for consumption by dogs. Technically carnivorous, dogs have sharp, pointy teeth, and have short gastrointestinal tracts better suited for the consumption of meat. In spite of this natural carnivorous design, dogs have still managed to evolve over thousands of years to survive on the meat and non-meat scraps and leftovers of human existence and thrive on a variety of foods.

Retail grocery chains dominate the distribution and marketing space. Smaller specialists and pet superstores also hold a moderate share, with the remainder accounted for by independent grocers.

Global giants Nestlé, Mars Inc, Procter & Gamble, Colgate-Palmolive and Del Monte Foods have collectively accounted for almost three quarters of dog food value sales over the past five years. Large marketing budgets, nationwide distribution partnerships and strong consumer awareness will keep the national brands controlled by these companies in control of the US market for the foreseeable future.

Nestlé Purina PetCare Co occupies the top spot in the dog food company rankings, with 28% of value sales. The company's strong performance can be attributed to a broad portfolio of brands at different price tiers, including Purina Beneful, Dog Chow, Alpo and Beggin' Strips dog treats. Mars Inc, Iams (Procter & Gamble), Hill's (Colgate-Palmolive) and Del-Monte are in second to fifth place, respectively. Iams brand dog food is the largest single brand, accounting for 10% of value sales.

For more information on the US dog food market, see the latest research: US Dog Food Market

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