Overview
If you’re wondering, “How do I prototype and manufacture a new pet product?”, you’re tapping into one of the fastest-growing consumer categories. From high-end accessories to interactive toys and smart feeders, innovation in the pet sector is booming. But turning a great idea into a safe, durable and market-ready product takes more than enthusiasm.
At D2M (Design 2 Market), we’ve helped UK entrepreneurs develop, prototype and manufacture pet products that are now being sold online and in stores. Here’s what you need to know to make your product stand out and succeed.
How Do You Prototype and Test Pet Products?
At D2M, we take a staged approach that ensures safety, usability and manufacturability:
- Concept Development & Feasibility
We explore what makes your idea unique, how pets and owners will use it, and what challenges we need to solve.
- Design & CAD
Our team develops ergonomic shapes, strong connection points, and user-friendly interaction features.
- Prototyping
Using a mix of 3D printing, fabric development, and hand assembly, we create robust models to test durability and fit.
- Real-World Testing
We help you gather feedback from pet owners — and pets themselves — to refine before final tooling.
- Compliance Guidance
We advise on safety testing (e.g. EN 71 for toy-like products or REACH for materials) and help prepare technical files.
From Prototype to Pet Product Manufacturing
When it’s time to scale, we help you:
- Select pet-safe, durable materials for production
- Prepare manufacturing drawings, patterns and spec sheets
- Choose the right factory in the UK, Europe or Asia
- Source batch testing if needed (especially for electrical or ingestible components)
We’ve helped clients manufacture both soft goods and chewable plastic items, supporting small batch production and retail-scale readiness.
Learn about our manufacturing support:
Product Manufacturing Services – From Prototype to Production
What Makes Pet Product Development Uniquely Challenging?
Designing for pets involves considerations you may not face in other consumer categories:
- Durability– Products must handle chewing, biting, scratching or outdoor use
- Safety– Materials must be non-toxic and designed to avoid choking hazards
- Dual User Design– Both human and animal usability must be considered
- Material Choice– Needs to be pet-safe, easy to clean and hard-wearing
- Compliance– Some items may fall under toy or electrical safety regulations
Success Story
D2M has supported the development of many innovative pet products, including these two:
🐾 Tatty Head
TattyHead, a visionary UK Pet Brand, approached D2M with a unique concept: the Twist ‘N’ Treat dog biscuit dispenser. This innovative product was designed to provide dog owners with a convenient way to carry treats while serving as a training aid and recall tool for dogs in public spaces.
👜 Mutt Clutch
This all-in-one travel accessory includes space for treats, bags, toys and wipes. D2M developed the bag layout, soft goods prototyping and helped prepare it for manufacture.
Both projects involved materials testing, design iteration and prototyping with real users both human and animal.
Why Pet Product Innovation Is a Growing Opportunity
The global pet care market is expected to exceed £250 billion by 2030, with pet owners spending more than ever on:
- Toys that are safe and tough enough to withstand chewing
- Walking accessories and travel gear
- Smart feeding, training, or treat-dispensing products
- Customisable or premium items that reflect owner preferences
But pets are not people and that creates unique development challenges.
How D2M can help with Prototype and Manufacture Pet Product
With D2M, you don’t just get design, you get a full product development partner:
- Expert guidance from concept through to manufacture
- Deep experience in soft goods, plastic parts, and accessory design
- Honest feedback to reduce risk and avoid over-investment
- Transparent staged process with defined deliverables
- Network of trusted manufacturing contacts
We work with startups, SMEs and growing brands to bring pet ideas to market with confidence and commercial clarity.
Prototype and Manufacture Pet Product FAQs
What are the steps to prototype a new pet product?
Start with concept development, then create CAD designs, build a working prototype, test with real users and refine based on feedback before moving to manufacture.
Who can help manufacture pet accessories in the UK?
D2M can connect you with UK and overseas manufacturers we’ve worked with including those experienced with soft goods and pet-safe plastics.
How do I ensure pet product safety and durability?
Use non-toxic materials, design with chew-resistance or washability in mind, and test extensively. D2M helps guide safety and durability testing.
Can I crowdfund a dog toy or pet accessory?
Yes crowdfunding is popular in the pet sector. D2M can help develop a prototype and visuals strong enough to support a successful campaign.
What kind of testing is needed for pet product compliance?
Depending on the type of product, you may need to test for choking hazards (EN 71), chemical safety (REACH), or durability. We guide you through all of this.
Conclusion
Whether you’re launching a chew toy, travel accessory or grooming tool, D2M can help you build a prototype that’s ready for testing and a business that’s ready for launch.
See our full pet product development services:
Pet & Equestrian – Design 2 Market
