Pet ownership means something very different today than it did years ago. Modern pet owners don’t just look at pets as mere companions, but as cherished members of the family who deserve as much attention and care as any human member.
This shift is particularly evident among younger consumers, such as millennials and members of Generation Z. These pet owners want nothing more than to highlight their furry friends’ individuality and improve their wellbeing—and in many cases, they’re more than willing to pay a premium for products and services that help them achieve this.
Gen Z, in particular, brings a unique perspective to pet ownership. Typically tech-savvy and eco-conscious, they prioritize innovation, ethical business practices, and authentic, personalized experiences. This demographic tends to seek out products that reflect their own lifestyles and values. And it’s in pet entrepreneurs’ best interest to appeal directly to Gen Z if they’re aiming to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving market.
Knowing about this customer segment's preferences and behaviors can unlock significant opportunities for growth and innovation in the pet products industry. If your business is looking to design pet products that resonate with Gen Z customers, here’s some advice from PrideBites about how to meet the needs of this lucrative customer segment:
1) Offer Customizable or Limited-Edition Products
Gen Z pet owners love expressing their individuality and ensuring their pets stand out as well, so customizable products will take you far. Whether it’s a collar with the pet’s name or a collection of custom dog bow ties with eye-catching patterns, items that your customers can personalize will sate their desire for originality.
You might also consider occasionally putting out limited-edition products to create an atmosphere of exclusivity and urgency around these offerings. This is a proven effective way to get customers excited about your brand and encourage them to secure their products quickly.
2) Prioritize Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
More than just a buzzword, sustainability is a way of life for Gen Z’ers. This generation is deeply concerned about the environment, and many from this demographic will actively support products that align with their eco-friendly values.
Use recycled materials, biodegradable packaging, and ethically sourced ingredients to boost your products’ appeal in the eyes of Gen Z’ers. It will also benefit you to be transparent about your sourcing and manufacturing processes to encourage trust among these consumers. Biodegradable toys and organic treats, for instance, will not only meet the functional needs of pets, but also reassure their owners that they are making responsible choices for the planet.
3) Find Innovative Ways to Use Technology
Members of Gen Z are digital natives, so they’ll naturally appreciate smart solutions that make pet care more convenient and engaging. Products like smart collars with GPS tracking, automated feeders that can be controlled via a smartphone app, or even health monitoring devices that keep tabs on a pet's activity levels and overall wellbeing can set your brand apart from others and establish you as a forward-thinker.
4) Balance Fashion and Function
In the world of pet products, style and practicality are no longer mutually exclusive. Gen Z pet owners are looking for items that both look good and serve a functional purpose.
Fashionable pet apparel that combines fashion with comfort, like custom dog hoodies and dog jerseys that are both trendy and weather-resistant, can appeal to this demographic. You might also consider offering pet accessories with additional practical benefits, such as a stylish collar with built-in safety features like quick-release buckles or LED lights.
5) Provide Assurances of Comfort and Safety
Comfort and safety are top-of-mind concerns for Gen Z pet owners, who will generally be willing to spend on products that improve their pets’ well-being. Ergonomically designed custom dog beds that support joint health, non-toxic wholesale dog toys that are safe for chewing, and dog harnesses that reduce strain are examples of products that meet these needs.
You can further reassure pet owners that they’re making the right choice by displaying product certifications or proof of adherence to safety standards. Highlight these aspects in your product descriptions and marketing materials to communicate the care you put into each product.
6) Develop Interactive, Engaging Products
Many Gen Z pet owners on the hunt for new pet products will specifically be looking for items that can keep their pets entertained and stimulated. Consider developing interactive toys that challenge pets mentally and physically, such as puzzle toys that dispense treats or smart toys that respond to their movement.
You may also want to design toys that pets can play with both alongside their owner and on their own. That way, whether your Gen Z’er customer is looking for a way to keep their pet occupied on a busy workday or a new plaything to bond over, you’ll have them covered no matter what.
7) Design Compact and Portable Items
Portable pet products are highly desirable to Gen Z pet owners living in urban environments or leading busy, on-the-go lifestyles. Try designing products that are easy to transport and store without compromising on quality or functionality.
Items like collapsible travel cups, lightweight carriers, and foldable pet playpens cater to Gen Z’ers’ need for mobility and convenience. These products make it easier for pet owners to take their pets along on weekend getaways, visits to the park, and other adventures.
Gen Z is a dynamic demographic that’s likely to hold a lot of spending power for the long haul, so your business can only benefit from accommodating their values and ways of life. At PrideBites, we’re happy to help you put together products that will strike a major chord with your Gen Z customers. Explore our catalog today for ideas, and don’t hesitate to contact our team to start a design project for wholesale orders.