Attention dog owners: next time you visit a farmers market or festival in the US, keep your eyes peeled for food trucks that cater to canines. From Seattle to Colorado to Texas, food trucks designed specifically for pups are becoming increasingly popular. And if you’re lucky, there might even be one within barking distance of your house. Tail wags and joyful barks will certainly ensue.
Winnie Lou, The Canine Co – Boulder, Colorado
Your dog really hasn’t lived until it has wolfed down bison burger jerky from Winnie Lou, a dog-treat truck based in Boulder. It’s made with only three ingredients: bison, organic flax seed, and cranberries. Other options include a pumpkin spice cookie or peanut butter sorbet.
Winston, a German short-haired pointer, and Louis, a vizsla, are the inspiration, taste-testers, and faces of Winnie Lou. Both energetic dogs are fanatics for their Winnie Lou treats. The owners emphasize using only human-grade ingredients sourced from local Colorado farms, without added sugar, preservatives, salt, wheat, soy, corn, or dairy. Consequently, you can feel good about what you’re feeding your dog.
The Seattle Barkery – Seattle, Washington
Cheese donuts, turkey nuggets, and pumpkin pretzels are just the beginning at the Seattle Barkery. This food truck, a converted 1968 Chevy Step Van, specializes in delectable treats for dogs. Additionally, you can find peanut butter cookies and ice-cream sundaes topped with bacon served in edible bowls.
The truck also offers doggie bow ties and crowns, as well as pre-orders for dog birthday cakes (starting at $38) served on frisbees—perfect for any yappy hour, barkday party, or barkmitzvah. Not to be overlooked, humans can enjoy their choice of coffee, tea, sodas, or delicious bites like banana bread and scones. Common spots for the truck include Marymoor Park, dog-friendly breweries, and Seattle events.
“Dogs are your most honest customers; if they don’t like something, they won’t eat it,” says Dawn Ford, owner of The Seattle Barkery. This philosophy is exemplified by her particular pekingese, Sherman, who serves as the official treat tester. If he rejected a treat, it was removed from the menu. Cats have their moment too, as treats for felines include chicken hearts and cod skins.
Treats Unleashed Treat Waggin’ – St Louis, Missouri
The Treats Unleashed Treat Waggin’, adorned with cheerful painted paw prints, has been elating dogs since summer 2015. Owner Teresa Miller initially created the mobile treat truck to engage her community. Today, she runs 13 pet bakeries across St Louis, alongside her food truck operations.
In summer, peanut butter or blueberry frozen yogurt “pup cups” are instant favorites. Throughout the year, soft bites in cheeseburger and peanut butter flavors remain popular. Importantly, every pup that visits the Treat Truck receives a complimentary snack. Canola oil is used instead of butter, and honey replaces refined sugar, while salt is entirely omitted.
Smart Cookie Cart – Denver, Colorado
Prepare for a challenge: your dog may refuse to leave the Smart Cookie Cart without a treat. Have your furry friend sample the Hip + Joint Treats made with chicken, oats, glucosamine, green beans, and blueberries, followed perhaps by rabbit jerky.
Fun options include regional flavors such as Rocky Mountain trout and apple, or Texas Hill Country wild boar and sweet potato. For a personalized touch, choose the ‘protein, fiber, fruit and veggie combo’ from a menu with 18 combinations. Lastly, don’t forget to pick up Food Toppers to sprinkle on your dog’s regular meals.
Fido to Go – Chicago, Illinois
Donna Santucci, owner of Fido to Go in Chicago, likens her “gourmutt” dog-food truck to what the Good Humor ice-cream truck represented for kids across America in the 1920s. With her education in animal nutrition, she understands dog taste buds better than most.
“The dogs chase after our trucks or cry when they have to leave,” she says. “All dogs and humans are invited to jump in the truck, and it’s a pup party every day.” Since its inception in 2011, the business has expanded significantly. Now, the truck even offers cat treats, and if both owner and dog want a snack together, the Peanut Butter Rice Crisp is a hit. Remember to ask about daily specials for doggy frozen yogurts.
The Snackin’ Waggin’ – Dallas, Texas
It’s hard to miss the Snackin’ Waggin’ with its distinctive 3ft-long metal bone on top. Head straight for it to discover chicken jerky, donuts, and ice-cream sandwiches made with a cottage cheese blend. Don’t miss their Bones Filled with Awesome—naturally dried beef bones filled with delicious options like peanut butter or pumpkin, which you can refill later.
“All of our food and treat recipes are made with human-grade ingredients, free of corn, wheat, soy, and sweeteners,” says Melanie Fox, owner of Homegrown Hounds, which operates The Snackin’ Waggin’ in Dallas. “So, technically, you can eat them. And while most people try them, they quickly realize how addictive salt and sugar can be!”
