The special diet pet food industry caters specifically to pets with unique health needs and dietary restrictions. This sector includes companies that offer a variety of nutritious food options tailored around medical conditions, allergies, and life stages for cats and dogs. There is a growing consumer awareness regarding pet nutrition, leading to an increased demand for specialized diets, including grain-free, organic, and veterinarian-formulated products. Notably, innovation in ingredient sourcing and a shift towards sustainable practices are prevalent as pet owners wish to provide their pets not just food, but solutions that improve overall health and wellness.

This list features 27 special diet pet food companies varying in size and geographic presence. Ranging from established giants like Royal Canin to niche producers like Chef Bob, these companies set benchmarks in nutritional quality. Founded between 1904 and 2015, they have built their reputations based on research-driven products that cater to specific health concerns. With headquarters spanning multiple countries, from the United States to the United Kingdom, their offerings reflect a commitment to tailored pet nutrition.

Discover the most prominent special diet pet food companies.

Top 27 Special Diet Pet Food Companies

1. Royal Canin

• Website: royalcanin.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Aimargues, Occitanie, France
• Employee distribution: France 21%, United States (USA) 15%, Brazil 7%, Other 57%
• Latest funding: December 2012
• Founded year: 1958
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: royal-canin

Royal Canin, founded in 1968 by a veterinarian, is a prominent pet food manufacturer based in Aimargues, Occitanie, France. The company is dedicated to providing tailored nutrition for cats and dogs, offering a wide array of products that cater to different life stages, breeds, and specific health requirements. Their product line includes both retail and veterinary diets, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in maintaining pet health and well-being. Royal Canin collaborates with veterinary and scientific experts to develop precise nutritional solutions, ensuring that their offerings are backed by research and tailored to the unique needs of pets. With a workforce of over 7,400 employees, the company operates in multiple countries, including significant markets in the United States and Brazil. Royal Canin has not reported any recent funding, indicating stability and a long-standing presence in the pet food industry.

2. Hill's Pet Nutrition

• Website: hillspet.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Overland Park, Kansas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 52%, Italy 5%, Netherlands 5%, Other 37%
• Founded year: 1907
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: hill%27s-pet-nutrition

Hill's Pet Nutrition, Inc. is a prominent player in the pet food industry, headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas. Founded in 1907, the company has built a reputation for its focus on pet nutrition, offering a range of products specifically designed to meet the health needs of dogs and cats. Their flagship brands, Science Diet and Prescription Diet, are formulated to address various health conditions, including digestive issues, urinary health, and weight management. Hill's emphasizes a scientific approach to pet nutrition, ensuring that their products are backed by research and veterinary expertise. The company operates primarily in the consumer market, providing pet owners with high-quality nutrition options. Hill's also engages in community support initiatives, such as their Food, Shelter & Love program, which demonstrates their commitment to animal welfare. With a workforce of over 3,400 employees, Hill's continues to be a significant contributor to the pet food sector, focusing on innovation and quality in their offerings.

3. Burns Pet Nutrition

• Website: burnspet.co.uk
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Kidwelly, Wales, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 100%
• Latest funding: December 2023
• Founded year: 1993
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: burns-pet-nutrition-ltd.

Burns Pet Nutrition, founded in 1993 by veterinary surgeon John Burns, is a pet food manufacturer based in Kidwelly, Wales. The company focuses on producing natural dog and cat food products, emphasizing health and nutrition. Burns offers a wide range of pet food options, including specialized diets tailored to address specific health concerns such as allergies, sensitivities, and weight management. Their products are available primarily through an online store, allowing direct access for pet owners. Burns is also known for its commitment to sustainability, having won awards for its eco-friendly practices. The company actively engages with pet owners through nutrition advice and support, showcasing their dedication to pet health and well-being.

4. Blue Buffalo

• Website: bluebuffalo.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Wilton, Connecticut, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Canada 4%
• Latest funding: $8.0B, February 2018
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: bluebuffalo

Blue Buffalo, founded in 2002 and based in Wilton, Connecticut, is a prominent pet food manufacturer focused on providing high-quality, nutritious food for dogs and cats. The company has carved out a significant presence in the pet food industry by offering a wide range of products, including dry and wet food, treats, and specialized nutrition formulas. Their offerings are designed to meet the needs of pet owners who prioritize their pets' health and well-being. Blue Buffalo has also received substantial funding, amounting to $8 billion, which underscores its growth and potential in the market. The company emphasizes the use of natural ingredients, with a promise to avoid poultry by-product meals and fillers like corn, wheat, or soy. This commitment to quality has resonated with pet owners, making Blue Buffalo a trusted name in pet nutrition.

5. Fromm Family Foods

• Website: frommfamily.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Mequon, Wisconsin, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 93%, Canada 7%
• Founded year: 1904
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: fromm-family-foods

Fromm Family Foods, based in Mequon, Wisconsin, is a family-owned pet food manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1904. The company specializes in producing high-quality food products for dogs and cats, offering a wide range of options that include dry and wet food, treats, and specialized diets. Their product lines cater to various dietary needs, such as grain-free options, weight control, and formulations for different life stages. Fromm operates its own manufacturing facilities in Wisconsin, which allows for stringent quality control and oversight of the production process. The company emphasizes the use of premium ingredients sourced from vetted suppliers, ensuring that their products meet high nutritional standards. Additionally, Fromm is actively involved in community outreach, supporting initiatives like Southeastern Guide Dogs and local pet shops. This commitment to quality and community engagement underscores their role in the pet food industry.

6. Lily's Kitchen

• Website: lilyskitchen.co.uk
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 98%, India 2%
• Latest funding: April 2020
• Founded year: 2008
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: lily%27s-kitchen

Lily's Kitchen, founded in 2008 and based in London, is a pet food manufacturer dedicated to creating natural and wholesome food for dogs and cats. The company has carved out a niche in the pet food industry by focusing on high-quality ingredients and complete nutrition. They offer a wide range of products, including wet and dry food, treats, and specialized diets that cater to pets with specific health needs. Their product line includes options for sensitive skin, sensitive stomachs, and hypoallergenic diets, showcasing their commitment to pet health. Lily's Kitchen operates primarily through an online store, making their products accessible to a broad audience. The company has also received recognition for its customer service, evidenced by numerous positive reviews. They have not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational model since their inception.

7. Terra Canis GmbH

• Website: terracanis.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Garching, Bavaria, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: April 2017
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: terra-canis-gmbh

Terra Canis GmbH, founded in 2005 and based in Garching, Bavaria, Germany, is a pet food manufacturer dedicated to producing high-quality dog food. The company prides itself on using 100% food-grade ingredients, ensuring that their products meet the highest standards of quality. Terra Canis offers a wide array of products, including wet and dry food, veterinary diets, and nutritional supplements, catering to the specific health and dietary needs of dogs. Their innovative approach began with the unique production of dog food in a genuine food processing facility, setting new quality benchmarks in the pet food industry. The company operates primarily through its online store, providing direct access to consumers and emphasizing customer service. Terra Canis is also committed to sustainability, implementing eco-friendly practices in their production processes. Their focus on specialized diets, such as low-fat and hypoallergenic options, further solidifies their position in the market as a provider of tailored nutrition for pets.

8. Mars

• Website: mars.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 24%, United Kingdom (UK) 9%, Brazil 8%, Other 59%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), March 2025
• Founded year: 1935
• Headcount: 10001+
• LinkedIn: mars

Mars, Incorporated, founded in 1935 and based in McLean, Virginia, is a family-owned company with a substantial workforce of over 63,000 employees. The company operates in various sectors, including pet care, food and nutrition, and snacking. Within the pet care segment, Mars Petcare is particularly noteworthy, as it serves the health and nutrition needs of pets globally. The company boasts a portfolio of over 50 brands, including well-respected names like PEDIGREE®, WHISKAS®, and ROYAL CANIN®. ROYAL CANIN® is especially recognized for its specialized pet food products designed to meet specific dietary needs, making Mars a relevant player in the special diet pet food market. Mars is also committed to sustainability and improving the quality of life for pets and their owners, which further underscores its role in the pet care industry.

9. Sunshine Mills, Inc.

• Website: sunshinemills.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Red Bay, Alabama, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1947
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: sunshine-mills-inc.

Sunshine Mills, Inc., based in Red Bay, Alabama, is a family-owned pet food manufacturer with a rich history dating back to 1947. Initially starting as a producer of animal feed, the company expanded into pet food in 1960. Over the decades, Sunshine Mills has developed a wide range of pet food products and treats, emphasizing quality and safety through rigorous manufacturing processes. The company operates multiple facilities across the United States, ensuring control over the quality of its offerings. Sunshine Mills markets its products under various brands, including Evolve, Triumph, and Veterinary Select, catering to both general and special dietary needs. Their commitment to quality assurance is evident through their SQF Certification, which aligns their manufacturing standards with those of human food production. This dedication to pet health and nutrition has allowed Sunshine Mills to maintain a strong presence in the pet food industry, serving customers both domestically and internationally.

10. Farmina

• Website: farmina.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: London, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: Brazil 33%, India 13%, Italy 12%, Other 42%
• Founded year: 1965
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: farmina-usa

Farmina Pet Foods, founded in 1965, is a private company based in London, England. It specializes in high-quality pet food and care solutions, catering primarily to dog and cat owners who prioritize nutrition. Farmina offers a variety of products, including their notable Vet Life line, which is designed for pets with specific health needs. The company operates through an online store and provides various support services, including nutritional consultations and pet care programs. With a workforce of over 1,000 employees distributed across several countries, including Brazil, India, and Italy, Farmina has established a significant presence in the pet food industry. Their commitment to scientific research and the use of quality ingredients further underscores their focus on pet health and nutrition.

11. Merrick Pet Care, Inc.

• Website: merrickpetcare.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Amarillo, Texas, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: July 2015
• Founded year: 1988
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: merrickpetcare

Merrick Pet Care, Inc., founded in 1988 and based in Amarillo, Texas, is a prominent player in the pet food manufacturing industry. The company is dedicated to providing high-quality nutrition for dogs and cats, with a product lineup that includes dry and wet food, treats, and toppers. Merrick's offerings are designed to meet the dietary needs of pets at various life stages, from puppies to seniors. They emphasize the use of real, whole ingredients and have developed specific lines such as grain-free and limited ingredient diets to cater to pets with unique dietary requirements. Merrick has built a reputation for quality and customer satisfaction, as evidenced by their substantial number of positive reviews. The company operates entirely within the United States and has maintained a consistent presence in the pet food market for over three decades.

12. Canidae

• Website: canidae.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Stamford, Connecticut, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: canidae

Canidae, founded in 1996 and based in Stamford, Connecticut, is a private pet food manufacturer dedicated to producing high-quality dog and cat food. The company operates its own manufacturing facility in Texas, which allows for stringent quality control and a commitment to nutritional excellence. Canidae emphasizes the use of premium ingredients, including responsibly sourced proteins and farm-grown vegetables, to create nutrient-rich recipes that support the health of pets. Their product offerings include options for all life stages, grain-free diets, and limited ingredient recipes, catering to the needs of pets with specific dietary requirements. Canidae is also actively involved in sustainability initiatives, investing in regenerative agriculture and eco-friendly packaging solutions. Their products are widely available through various retail channels, making them accessible to a broad audience of pet owners.

13. Nutriave Alimentos Ltda

• Website: nutriave.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Viana, Espírito Santo, Brazil
• Founded year: 1991
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: nutriave-alimentos-ltda

Nutriave Alimentos Ltda, founded in 1991 and based in Viana, Espírito Santo, Brazil, specializes in animal nutrition, particularly in the production of high-quality pet food and livestock feed. The company operates under the brand Alinutri and has developed a comprehensive portfolio that includes premium, super premium, and specialized pet food products. With a workforce of around 71 employees, Nutriave emphasizes innovation and quality, ensuring that their products meet the health and well-being needs of animals. They have established partnerships with research institutions to enhance their product offerings and maintain high standards in animal nutrition. Their commitment to environmental responsibility and social impact is also notable, as they engage in practices that promote sustainability. Nutriave's extensive experience in the industry positions them as a significant player in the pet food market, particularly in the special diet segment.

14. Natural Balance Pet Foods, Inc.

• Website: naturalbalanceinc.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: San Diego, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, Canada 11%
• Latest funding: December 2020
• Founded year: 1989
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: natural-balance-pet-foods-inc

Natural Balance Pet Foods, Inc., founded in 1989 and based in San Diego, California, is a private equity-owned company that specializes in the pet food industry. With a workforce of approximately 88 employees, the company focuses on providing nutritious food and treats for dogs and cats. Their product offerings are designed to meet the needs of pet owners who prioritize high-quality nutrition for their pets' health and well-being. Natural Balance operates primarily through online sales and retail partnerships, ensuring accessibility for consumers. The company is particularly noted for its limited ingredient diets, which cater to pets with specific dietary sensitivities, as well as its weight management formulas. This focus on specialized nutrition underscores their commitment to supporting the health of pets across various life stages.

15. Champion Petfoods

• Website: championpetfoods.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 60%, United States (USA) 27%, Netherlands 6%, Other 8%
• Latest funding: November 2022
• Founded year: 1985
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: champion-petfoods

Champion Petfoods, founded in 1985 and based in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, is a prominent pet food manufacturer dedicated to crafting premium nutrition for dogs and cats. The company operates under two well-known brands, ORIJEN and ACANA, which are recognized for their high-quality ingredients and biologically appropriate recipes. Champion Petfoods prides itself on sourcing the finest WholePrey animal ingredients, ensuring that their products meet the nutritional needs of pets. With a workforce of approximately 556 employees, the company has established a global footprint, distributing its products in over 90 countries. Champion Petfoods is committed to innovation, continuously introducing new products that reflect the latest advancements in pet nutrition science. Their focus on sustainability and community involvement further enhances their reputation within the industry, making them a noteworthy player in the premium pet food market.

16. Darwin's Natural Pet Products

• Website: darwinspet.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Tukwila, Washington, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2004
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: darwin%27s-natural-pet-products

Darwin's Natural Pet Products, founded in 2004 and based in Tukwila, Washington, is a private company that specializes in delivering raw pet food directly to consumers. The company offers a range of products for both dogs and cats, emphasizing species-appropriate meals that are formulated under the guidance of veterinary nutritionists. Their subscription model allows pet owners to receive customized meal plans tailored to their pets' specific dietary needs. Darwin's is committed to using high-quality, ethically sourced ingredients, including free-range and organic options, which are minimally processed to preserve vital nutrients. The company has established itself as a pioneer in the raw pet food market, having served millions of meals across the United States. Their focus on health and nutrition, along with their customer-centric approach, positions them as a relevant player in the special diet pet food industry.

17. Instinct

• Website: instinctpetfood.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: St. Louis, Missouri, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Canada 2%, China 2%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: nature%27s-variety

Instinct, founded in 2001 and based in St. Louis, Missouri, is a private pet food manufacturer under the Nature's Variety brand. The company focuses on providing natural and raw pet food products for both dogs and cats. Their product range includes frozen raw meals, freeze-dried meals, and various food toppers, all designed to meet the nutritional needs of pets. Instinct operates primarily through online sales, catering to pet owners who seek high-quality nutrition for their animals. The company has established a reputation for its commitment to minimally processed, protein-rich recipes that aim to enhance pet health and vitality. Instinct's products are made in the USA, using high-quality ingredients sourced from around the world, and they emphasize the benefits of raw feeding, including better digestion and increased energy levels for pets.

18. Special Dog Company

• Website: specialdog.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Santa Cruz Do Rio Pardo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: special-dog

Special Dog Company, founded in 2001 and based in Santa Cruz Do Rio Pardo, São Paulo, Brazil, is a prominent player in the pet food industry. With a workforce of over 1,200 employees, the company specializes in manufacturing high-quality nutrition products for dogs and cats. Their product range includes complete food and treats designed to meet the specific dietary needs of pets at various life stages. The company operates across Brazil, reaching over 38,000 points of sale and exporting to several countries in South America, Central America, North America, Africa, and Asia. Special Dog Company is recognized for its commitment to sustainability and quality, and it has been acknowledged as one of the best companies to work for in Brazil. Their initiatives include a program aimed at supporting animal shelters and NGOs, showcasing their dedication to social responsibility in addition to their business operations.

19. JustFoodForDogs

• Website: justfoodfordogs.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Tustin, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $8.5M, October 2018
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: justfoodfordogs

JustFoodForDogs, founded in 2010 and based in Tustin, California, is a private equity-backed company that specializes in providing fresh, whole food meals for dogs. The company offers a variety of products, including frozen meals, pantry fresh options, and custom diets designed to meet specific health needs. Their commitment to quality is evident in their use of human-grade ingredients and the involvement of a team of veterinarians and nutritionists in formulating their recipes. JustFoodForDogs has also received significant funding, with an amount of $8.5 million reported in 2018, which supports their growth and innovation in the pet food industry. They have established a strong presence in the market, with products available through various retail channels, including veterinary clinics and major pet supply stores.

20. Affinity Petcare

• Website: affinity-petcare.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
• Employee distribution: Spain 63%, France 16%, Italy 15%, Other 6%
• Latest funding: December 2018
• Founded year: 1963
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: affinity-petcare

Affinity Petcare, founded in 1963 and based in Barcelona, Spain, is a prominent player in the pet food industry, specializing in nutrition for dogs and cats. The company operates under several brands, including Ultima, Advance, Brekkies, and Libra, each offering a range of products designed to meet the specific dietary needs of pets. Affinity Petcare prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and maintaining rigorous quality standards, with its factories certified under ISO 9001 and ISO 22001. The company has been actively involved in research and development, particularly in creating specialized diets, such as those offered by Advance Veterinary Diets, which cater to pets with specific health requirements. With a workforce of over 1,200 employees and a presence in 36 countries, Affinity Petcare is dedicated to enhancing the health and well-being of pets through tailored nutrition. Their commitment to ethical practices and social responsibility is reflected in their Affinity Foundation, which promotes the bond between pets and people while supporting animal welfare initiatives.

21. Chef Bob

• Website: chefbob.com.br
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Centro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil
• Employee distribution: Brazil 100%
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: chefbob

Chef Bob is a private company based in Centro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, founded in 2015. The company specializes in natural food for pets, particularly dogs and cats, and has carved out a niche in the pet food industry by offering customized diets and functional snacks. With a workforce of 58 employees, Chef Bob operates primarily in Brazil, serving regions including Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Minas Gerais, Espírito Santo, Bahia, Distrito Federal, and Paraná. Their product offerings are designed to improve pet health and nutrition, featuring fresh ingredients and avoiding genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and chemical additives. Chef Bob also provides personalized meal plans developed by specialists, catering to pets with specific dietary requirements. Their approach to pet nutrition is complemented by a user-friendly purchasing system that allows customers to order via their website or WhatsApp, enhancing convenience and accessibility for pet owners.

22. Petcurean

• Website: petcurean.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada
• Employee distribution: Canada 93%, United States (USA) 6%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: January 2018
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: petcurean

Petcurean, founded in 1999 and based in Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada, is a private company that specializes in premium pet food for dogs and cats. With a workforce of approximately 109 employees, Petcurean has established itself as a trusted name in the pet food sector, offering products that cater to various dietary needs. The company operates under a philosophy that prioritizes the health and well-being of pets, which is reflected in their commitment to creating nutritionally superior recipes. Petcurean's product lines, including Go! Solutions, Now Fresh, Gather, and Summit, are designed to meet the specific dietary requirements of pets, showcasing their focus on specialized nutrition. Furthermore, Petcurean is dedicated to sustainability, utilizing recyclable packaging and striving for carbon neutrality. Their community involvement is notable, having donated over 4.7 million meals to pets in need, demonstrating their commitment to social responsibility within the pet food industry.

23. futalis GmbH

• Website: futalis.de
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Leipzig, Saxony, Germany
• Employee distribution: Germany 100%
• Latest funding: Seed, April 2012
• Founded year: 2011
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: futalis-gmbh

futalis GmbH, based in Leipzig, Saxony, Germany, is a company founded in 2011 that specializes in customized dog food and related products. The company offers a range of tailored nutrition options, including dry and wet food, supplements, and special diets designed to meet the unique dietary needs of dogs. With a focus on personalized solutions, futalis utilizes an online platform to provide dog owners with the ability to create individualized feeding plans based on their pets' specific requirements. Their product offerings include specialized diets for weight management, puppies, and kidney health, showcasing their commitment to addressing various health concerns in dogs. The company has garnered positive feedback from customers, indicating a strong market presence and customer satisfaction. As of now, futalis has not reported any recent funding, indicating a stable operational status since its last funding round in 2012.

24. Stella & Chewy's

• Website: stellaandchewys.com
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Oak Creek, Wisconsin, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 98%, Other 2%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $75.0M, March 2025
• Founded year: 2003
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: stella-%26-chewy%27s

Stella & Chewy's, founded in 2003 and based in Oak Creek, Wisconsin, is a pet food manufacturer that specializes in raw and freeze-dried food products for dogs and cats. The company is dedicated to providing high-quality nutrition, focusing on ingredients that mirror pets' ancestral diets. Their product offerings include a range of freeze-dried raw meals, meal mixers, and treats, all designed to support optimal health and well-being for pets. Stella & Chewy's operates primarily through direct-to-consumer sales via their online store, which allows them to connect directly with pet owners. The company has received significant funding, with a recent amount of $75 million reported in March 2025, indicating strong investor confidence in their business model and growth potential.

25. Nom Nom

• Website: nomnomnow.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 96%, France 2%, Indonesia 2%
• Latest funding: $1.0B, January 2022
• Founded year: 2015
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: nomnomnow

Nom Nom is a Nashville-based pet food company founded in 2015, specializing in fresh, nutritious meals for dogs. The company prides itself on using high-quality ingredients and recipes developed by veterinary nutritionists. Nom Nom's offerings include a variety of meal options tailored to meet the unique dietary needs of dogs, particularly those with sensitivities or specific health goals. They operate primarily through a subscription model, delivering meals directly to customers' doors. The company has gained significant traction in the market, evidenced by their substantial funding of $100 million received in January 2022. This financial backing supports their growth and innovation in the pet food industry, particularly in the fresh food segment.

26. Primal Pet Foods

• Website: primalpetfoods.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Fairfield, California, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Nigeria 2%, Canada 2%
• Latest funding: August 2021
• Founded year: 2001
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: primalpetfoods

Primal Pet Foods, founded in 2001 and based in Fairfield, California, is a private equity-owned pet food manufacturer that focuses on raw and natural nutrition for dogs and cats. The company offers a variety of products designed to enhance pet health, including balanced bases, treats, and hydration options. Primal Pet Foods aims to provide high-quality nutrition for pet owners who prioritize their pets' dietary needs. Their commitment to using whole food ingredients and thoughtful sourcing reflects their dedication to quality and safety in pet nutrition. The company operates through both retail and online channels, making their products accessible to a wide audience of pet owners. With a workforce of around 130 employees, Primal Pet Foods continues to be an active participant in the pet food industry, promoting the benefits of raw feeding and educating consumers on transitioning their pets to a raw diet.

27. Natures Menu Ltd

• Website: naturesmenu.co.uk
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Snetterton, England, United Kingdom (UK)
• Employee distribution: United Kingdom (UK) 92%, Germany 3%, United States (USA) 3%, Other 3%
• Founded year: 1981
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: natures-menu-ltd

Natures Menu Ltd, based in Snetterton, England, has been a family-owned pet food company since its establishment in 1981. The company is dedicated to providing nutritious raw and natural food options for dogs and cats. Their product range includes raw dog food, wet food, and treats, all crafted with a focus on high-quality ingredients. Natures Menu operates an online store, facilitating easy access for customers to order and subscribe for regular deliveries. With over 40 years of expertise in raw feeding, they have positioned themselves as a knowledgeable player in the pet food industry, offering tailored meal plans and expert advice on transitioning pets to a raw diet. Their commitment to quality is reflected in their rigorous ingredient sourcing and preparation processes, ensuring that their products meet the nutritional needs of pets while promoting overall health and well-being.

Special Diet Pet Food Insights: Key Companies

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
Royal Canin	Aimargues, Occitanie, France	5001-10000	1958	Corporate
Hill's Pet Nutrition	Overland Park, Kansas, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1907	Private
Burns Pet Nutrition	Kidwelly, Wales, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	1993	Corporate
Blue Buffalo	Wilton, Connecticut, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2002	Corporate
Fromm Family Foods	Mequon, Wisconsin, United States (USA)	51-200	1904	Family Owned
Lily's Kitchen	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	51-200	2008	Corporate
Terra Canis GmbH	Garching, Bavaria, Germany	51-200	2005	Corporate
Mars	Mclean, Virginia, United States (USA)	10001+	1935	Family Owned
Sunshine Mills, Inc.	Red Bay, Alabama, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1947	Family Owned
Farmina	London, England, United Kingdom (UK)	501-1000	1965	Private
Merrick Pet Care, Inc.	Amarillo, Texas, United States (USA)	501-1000	1988	Corporate
Canidae	Stamford, Connecticut, United States (USA)	51-200	1996	Private
Nutriave Alimentos Ltda	Viana, Espírito Santo, Brazil	201-500	1991	Private
Natural Balance Pet Foods, Inc.	San Diego, California, United States (USA)	51-200	1989	Private Equity
Champion Petfoods	Edmonton, Alberta, Canada	501-1000	1985	Corporate
Darwin's Natural Pet Products	Tukwila, Washington, United States (USA)	11-50	2004	Private
Instinct	St. Louis, Missouri, United States (USA)	201-500	2001	Private
Special Dog Company	Santa Cruz Do Rio Pardo, Sao Paulo, Brazil	1001-5000	2001	Private
JustFoodForDogs	Tustin, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2010	Private Equity
Affinity Petcare	Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain	1001-5000	1963	Corporate
Chef Bob	Centro, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil	51-200	2015	Private
Petcurean	Chilliwack, British Columbia, Canada	51-200	1999	Private
futalis GmbH	Leipzig, Saxony, Germany	51-200	2011	Venture Capital
Stella & Chewy's	Oak Creek, Wisconsin, United States (USA)	201-500	2003	Venture Capital
Nom Nom	Nashville, Tennessee, United States (USA)	201-500	2015	Corporate
Primal Pet Foods	Fairfield, California, United States (USA)	201-500	2001	Private Equity
Natures Menu Ltd	Snetterton, England, United Kingdom (UK)	201-500	1981	Family Owned

Want to Find More Special Diet Pet Food Companies?

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• Detailed Ownership: Who owns the company? Is it a public or private company? What is the ownership structure?
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...and a lot more!