US: The Farmer’s Dog and PetIQ drive latest pet M&A activity

M&A activity in the pet sector continues. In Europe, recent deals include Cotecnica’s acquisition of Portuguese pet food producer Pet Select and Gimborn’s acquisition of Italian pet treat company Prolife. 

Meanwhile, Assisi Pet Care acquired UK-based natural pet food company Forthglade, while United Petfood took a 50% stake in SmartPetPro. 

M&A momentum is now building in the US, following a series of recent deals that GlobalPETS examines in this article.

The Farmer’s Dog

The New York-based direct-to-consumer (D2C) pet food manufacturer has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire pet care brand Woof, a manufacturer of enrichment and wellness products. The latter will continue operating as an independent division within The Farmer’s Dog.

The transaction is expected to be finalized in 2026, subject to customary closing conditions. Financial terms were not disclosed. The deal marks The Farmer’s Dog’s expansion beyond pet nutrition as it seeks to build a broader portfolio of products designed to support canine health and wellbeing.

The companies say the acquisition will allow them to combine their resources and expertise while exploring opportunities to expand their respective product offerings.

“Together, we’ll innovate faster, reach more pet parents, and continue delivering products and experiences that make a meaningful difference in the lives of dogs and the people who love them,” says Woof CEO Steve Ball.

Founded in 2019, Woof is a Colorado-based pet care brand specializing in dog enrichment and interactive toys. 

The Farmer’s Dog specializes in freshly cooked and minimally processed meal plans. According to the company, it has raised over $150 million (€130.4M) since its founding in 2014.

PetIQ

Pet health and wellness company PetIQ has completed its acquisition of MYOS, a research-based advanced nutrition firm operating across human nutrition and animal health.

According to the Idaho-based firm, research in humans and companion animals, including dogs, cats and horses, has shown MYOS’ Fortetropin ingredient may help support muscle development and mobility while helping reduce muscle loss associated with aging, injury or surgery.

“Adding MYOS to our leading branded portfolio allows us to enter the fast-growing muscle health category and meet pet owners’ growing interest in preventive health, mobility preservation and quality of life for their pets,” says PetIQ CEO Camillo Pane.

GlobalPETS learnt that Myos will operate as a stand-alone brand and the existing dog, cat, human and equine products will remain available to animal owners. 

Founded in 2011, MYOS has conducted 14 clinical studies and holds 12 patents. Its portfolio includes a clinically studied muscle health brand and Fortetropin, a patented ingredient technology that PetIQ will add to its portfolio of pet medications, supplements and wellness brands.

PetIQ manufactures and distributes a portfolio of over-the-counter (OTC) pet medications and wellness products, and it recently sold VIP Petcare, a mobile veterinary care provider, to Tractor Supply. Founded in 1995 and headquartered in Idaho, the firm was acquired by New York-based private investment firm Bansk Group in 2024 for $1.5 billion (€1.4B).