New dog breeds
In 2022, the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized two new dog breeds that are expected to gain popularity in 2023: the Mudi and the Bracco Italiano. The Mudi, pronounced “MOO-dee”, is a Hungarian herding dog known for its versatility, protectiveness, and lively personality (1). Originating as an all-around farm dog, the Mudi is intelligent, agile, and energetic. The Bracco Italiano has origins as a hunting dog in Italy and features a regal stature, loyal personality, and keen tracking abilities (2). This ancient breed makes an excellent companion and has a distinctive “bramble” coat. With AKC recognition, both the Mudi and Bracco Italiano will likely see increased interest from dog lovers and breeders in 2023 as people discover these new purebred options.
(1) https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/mudi-becomes-newest-akc-recognized-dog-breed-in-2022/
Dog nutrition trends
Fresh and raw dog food continues to grow in popularity, with sales projected to reach $6 billion by 2025 according to Petfood Industry. The natural, minimally processed ingredients align with rising consumer demand for transparency and high-quality nutrition. Major brands like Purina and Iams have introduced raw, fresh meal options.
Personalized dog food based on age, size, and health needs also emerges as a 2023 trend. Companies like The Farmer’s Dog offer customized meal plans tailored to each dog. DNA testing from companies like Embark unveil breed background and genetic health risks to inform nutrition.
New supplements like collagen, turmeric, and cannabidiol (CBD) gain popularity for potential benefits like joint support, anti-inflammatory effects, and anxiety relief. However, research on supplement efficacy remains limited according to the AKC. Consulting a veterinarian before supplementing is advisable.
Dog tech trends
Some of the most exciting new dog tech products released in 2022 include GPS trackers like the Tractive GPS Dog Tracker, which allows owners to monitor their dog’s location and activity through a mobile app. Smart collars like the Link AKC Smart Collar can also track location while monitoring your dog’s health metrics like heart rate, activity levels, and more.
Interactive toys remain a popular category for dog tech, with products like the iFetch ball launcher allowing dogs to play fetch anytime. There are also new smart feeders on the market like the Petnet SmartFeeder that can be programmed to release custom portioned meals on a set schedule.
Overall, the latest dog tech aims to make pet care easier through automation and data collection. With more connectivity and AI integration, dog tech will likely continue advancing in 2023 and beyond.
Dog training developments
Dog training methods and philosophies have been rapidly evolving, with new approaches gaining popularity in 2023. Many trainers are moving away from traditional disciplinary methods and towards positive reinforcement techniques that build a bond between owner and dog. This often involves use of clickers, treats, and toys as rewards during training. New dog training tools are also emerging, like affordable at-home kennels, bark collars, and interactive toys that make training engaging.
There is also a rise of force-free training philosophies like “trust-based training” which focus entirely on building trust with the dog and avoiding any coercion or punishment. This empathetic approach is part of a larger movement towards more compassionate, science-based dog training. With the help of new technologies like AI and computer vision, trainers can better understand dog behavior signals and adapt methods to each individual dog. Overall, 2023 looks to be a year of continued innovation in humane, personalized approaches to dog training.
Dog fashion trends
When it comes to fashion, dogs are just as stylish as their owners. In 2023, expect to see some exciting new trends for canine couture. According to BaxterBoo, sustainable and eco-friendly dog fashion will be at the forefront. Brands using recycled materials like RPET (recycled polyethylene terephthalate) fleece and even upcycled human clothing are rising in popularity. Matching outfits between dogs and owners will also gain traction, letting style-conscious duos twin in adorable ensembles.
In terms of color, StyleCaster predicts that earth tones like olive green and burnt orange will dominate dog apparel and accessories for the year ahead. These natural hues reflect current trends in human fashion. Patterns-wise, classic buffalo check/plaid will remain a staple, as will camouflage prints. Sherpa textures will be big for coats and hoodies to keep pups cozy during fall and winter outings.
Specific items predicted to be popular include fleeces, puffer jackets, cargo pants, beanies, flannels, and hiking boots – reflecting the outdoor/camping style that’s carrying over from 2022 trends. So get ready to bundle up your furry friend in the coziest cold weather ‘fits this year!
Dog sport/competition growth
Dog sports and competitions continue to grow in popularity every year, with activities like agility, dock diving, flyball and more seeing huge upticks in participation. According to the American Kennel Club, dog agility has rapidly grown to become one of the most popular dog sports, captivating both participants and spectators alike. The sport was developed in the 1970s as a way to demonstrate a dog’s willingness to work with their handler across a variety of obstacles, and it has exploded since becoming an official AKC event in 1994. Other fast-paced sports like flyball and disc dog competitions are also surging in popularity as owners seek fun new ways to exercise and bond with their dogs. Dock diving, where dogs leap from an elevated dock into water after their favorite toy, has become one of the fastest growing dog sports with dock diving clubs sprouting up across the country. Companies like Zoom Room note that these sports provide great exercise, mental stimulation and strengthen the bond between owner and dog. So we can expect even more growth and participation in the world of dog sports in 2023 as people continue to find new ways to engage with their furry best friends.
Dog therapy advancements
In 2023, therapy dogs are expected to help more people than ever before. Recent research has shown significant benefits of animal-assisted therapy for mental health conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression. Interacting with therapy dogs can reduce stress, improve mood, and support emotional regulation (Gee, 2021).
There is also increasing acceptance and use of therapy dogs in healthcare settings, schools, disaster relief programs, and more. Organizations like Pet Partners are educating institutions on the research backing therapy dogs and how to implement programs safely and effectively.
In 2023 and beyond, therapy dogs will likely continue to gain traction for their ability to provide motivation, comfort, and connection for people dealing with health challenges or difficult circumstances.
Pet adoption outlook
According to recent statistics, pet adoption is expected to remain steady or continue to rise slightly in 2023. An estimated 6.5 million animals enter shelters each year, but roughly 3.2 million are adopted. There are around 3,500 brick-and-mortar animal shelters across the country working to find homes for these pets.
When it comes to dogs specifically, around 398,477 were adopted from shelters in 2022, a small increase from 393,712 in 2021. Experts predict this incremental growth will continue, with the total number of dog adoptions in 2023 estimated to surpass 400,000.
Shelters are working hard through education, outreach, adoption events, and partnerships to ensure every pet finds a loving family. With more awareness and support for adoption, the forecast for 2023 remains cautiously optimistic that more pets in need will be placed into forever homes.
Dog-friendly travel
The trend toward more dog-friendly travel options is expected to continue growing in 2023. According to Pet Travel Advisor, 27% of people said they want to see more dog-friendly hotels and holiday parks. The number of travelers bringing pets on vacation has also risen steadily, with 53% of tourists now taking vacations with their pets.
Hotels and airlines are responding to this demand by providing more accommodations for traveling with dogs. For example, many major hotel chains like Hilton and Marriott offer designated pet-friendly rooms. Airlines are also making it easier to fly with dogs, with some waiving pet fees completely. Popular vacation rental companies like Airbnb and Vrbo have pet-friendly filters to easily find rentals that allow dogs.
In terms of destinations, more cities and attractions are becoming dog-friendly as well. Parks, hiking trails, beaches, outdoor patios, and other public spaces are opening up to dogs on leashes. Major cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco have many dog parks and events catering to canine visitors. Overall, 2023 is shaping up to be the most dog-friendly year yet for pet travel.
Notable dogs of 2023
Some dogs are sure to capture the public’s heart and make headlines in 2023. Keep an eye out for the Havanese that goes viral after winning Best in Show at the 2023 National Dog Show. This perfectly coiffed pup beat out over 2,000 other dogs for the top honor.
The Jack Russell Terrier competing in dock diving competitions this year could set a new world record for the longest jump. Footage of this athletic dog’s incredible leaps into the water always rack up millions of views online.
And a plucky Chihuahua is expected to earn a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records for skateboarding the longest distance. This tiny daredevil has mastered maneuvers on her skateboard that win crowds over wherever she competes.
Other dogs are sure to capture hearts and make headlines with their impressive talents, viral videos, record-setting abilities, and camera-ready good looks. The dogs of 2023 are ready to make their mark!
