By Natasha Lovato

Coloradans are known for loving their animal companions and local artisans and pet food producers are here to prove it. You’ve seen the pups that are geared up for a backcountry trail or just a walk in the park.

Denver consistently ranks atop cities that are most friendly to pets. Spending nationwide reportedly topped $1.2 billion in 2021 when it comes to all of the needs of pets, such as food, medicine, overall supplies and veterinary care.

For those who choose to support local small businesses, we’ve found some fantastic options.

These six Colorado companies make all the treats, toys, or accessories necessary to spoil, or possibly surprise your pet.

Boulder Dog Food Company
The Boulder Dog Food Company makes treats for every cat and dog’s needs. Look for allergen-free treats, weight control treats, training treats, and almost every meaty flavor their little hearts could desire. BDFC treat flavors range from seafood to bison and are available for purchase online or in select Boulder stores.

Rocky Mountain Hound
Rocky Mountain Hound creates stylish collars, leashes, bandanas, bow ties, and poop bag holders for dogs to match any given occasion from Halloween to the Fourth of July and beyond. Dog owners can purchase Rocky Mountain Hound products online or find them at select stores in Fruita, Montrose, Telluride, Norwood or Silverton.

Cool Beds 4 Pets
Created by a husband and wife team in Allenspark,
Cool Beds seeks to bring pet companions comfort in the summer months or after a big workout with beds made to prevent animals from overheating. Prices range from $30 to $45 for the hand-made beds.

Colorado Kitty Pot
Colorado Kitty Pot specializes in organic catnip and pet products. Profits are used to help Harley’s Hope, a nonprofit in Colorado Springs whose mission is to offer a variety of services designed to help keep pets in their existing homes when owners experience financial difficulties. Kitty Pot products and nearly everything a cat could dream of is available at the Just Cats Store in Denver.

Pooch Snoozer
Created in Golden, Pooch Snoozer beds are customized as one-of-a-kind with embroidered names, colors, materials and logos. The beds are water resistant and owner Lisa Mattingly ensures lifetime durability. Beds are available by emailing sales@poochsnoozer.com.

Paws and Co. Pet Treats
Paws and Co. creates dog chews out of antlers, specifically for heavy-chewing dogs. When elk or deer shed their antlers, the sheddings get a second life for dogs to enjoy. Paws and Co. purchases the antlers from collectors and in turn, process the antlers safely at their Centennial location to remove any sharp edges and turn them into delectable treats. Various flavors are available for purchase on the Paws and Co. website.