Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Bunderson.
Hi Emily, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I have always been hesitant to give my dog store bought treats. Many of them have so many ingredients and preservatives. I wanted to create a business where I can make dog treats that are super safe, limited in ingredients, but also aesthetically pleasing. I’ve always love to bake, so one day I decided I’d like to start a dog bakery. At the end of October 2024, I had my first vendor event, and I’ve been going pretty much nonstop since.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
There’s been a massive learning curve. It’s hard to know which markets are going to be good for you, or which events you’ll sell well. I’ve had to establish a name and reputation in my area, and really put in a lot of physical, mental, and emotional effort. It has been difficult, but so very fun and worth every effort. I’ve met a lot of other small business owners along the way that helped me out so much, and made a load of great friends along the way. The hardest part for me is transitioning to more online presence. That’s my next phase.
As you know, we’re big fans of The Fuzzy Muzzle Bakery. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I have a small dog bakery, the currently operates out of my home. I specialize in handcrafted, dog treats, and iced dog cookies. What sets me apart, is the artistry I put into every treat, especially my iced dog cookies. I’m very proud of the progress and growth that I have made over the past year. It has been a rocky road at times, but I couldn’t ask for better first year. I offer a number of different flavors of dog treats, all made with high-quality, limited ingredients. Most of my treats have 3 to 4 ingredients in them. In the iced cookies, I use icing that’s made specifically for dogs with zero sugar or salt, and high-quality, human grade, dog safe food coloring in limited quantities. I can do custom cookie designs or colors. I can also do bulk orders with the treats. I don’t have a website that’s operating right now, but you can go onto my Instagram or Facebook and order through direct message there. I’m hoping to get a website soon!
Before we go, is there anything else you can share with us?
One of the things that I have learned through this whole process, is there more restrictions and rules and regulations for dog treats than there are for cottage law bakers. I’m fine with it, of course, it was just a little shocking at first! For instance every recipe that I have has to be analyzed by a chemist before I can put that information on a label and send it to the state for approval. It’s been a fascinating learning curve, to be sure!
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefuzzymuzzlebakery?igsh=MWYzM2d2MHhjZ242cg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/197ZhhghrW/?mibextid=wwXIfr
