The Bear & The Rat Dog Ice Cream
NO DEAL
EPISODE SUMMARY
🕓 Air Date: October 26, 2012
Asking For:
$125,000 for 20%
Investor:
No Deal
Deal:
No Deal
PRODUCT SUMMARY
The Bear & The Rat offers healthy frozen yogurt treats for dogs, inspired by the founders' own dogs' love for treats but sensitivity to traditional ice cream.
WATCH HERE
IN A RUSH?
Click these to jump to the section you want to read.
Background Story
Meg and Matt, a couple from Denver, Colorado, were inspired to create The Bear & The Rat after noticing that their dogs often got sick from traditional ice cream treats. Wanting to provide a solution that was both enjoyable and beneficial for their dogs’ digestion and immune system, they developed a line of frozen yogurt treats. Their dogs, Quimby and Laika, served as the motivation behind the venture, which began as a passion project to cater to pet owners looking for healthier treat options.
The Product
The Bear & The Rat offers frozen yogurt treats for dogs in three flavors: Bacon Peanut Barker, Banana Peanut Barker, and Choc ‘O’ Not. The treats are made with natural ingredients and are free from added sugar. Each flavor is designed to be appealing to dogs while also supporting their health.
The frozen yogurt treats can be purchased online through their website or in select retail locations like Whole Foods and Unleashed by Petco stores. They are packaged in convenient single-serving cups, making them easy for pet owners to serve to their furry friends.
The treats are priced competitively with other premium pet treats on the market, offering value for pet owners who prioritize their pets’ health and enjoyment.
How It Went
The company’s position before Shark Tank
The company has achieved regional distribution in the Rocky Mountain area, with their products available in Whole Foods and Unleashed by Petco stores. They have experienced moderate sales of $30,000 in their first year, with potential for growth as they expand their distribution network. The founders have cultivated relationships with key retailers and attended trade shows to showcase their products and build brand awareness. However, they face challenges in scaling their business due to the competitive nature of the pet treats market and the limited freezer space available in retail locations.
The Negotiations:
Despite showcasing their innovative product and strong branding, Meg and Matt were unable to secure a deal with the Sharks. While they received positive feedback on their packaging and concept, the Sharks expressed concerns about the company’s valuation and sales performance. Meg and Matt defended their valuation based on the potential for growth and the goodwill they had built with their brand.
However, the Sharks ultimately passed on the opportunity, citing the small size of the pet treats market and the high valuation relative to the company’s sales. Despite the setback, Meg and Matt remain committed to growing their business and continue to seek opportunities for expansion and investment.
