Introduction

The market for pet food and supplements is currently booming, and pet owners are becoming increasingly demanding—not only regarding product composition but also in terms of packaging. Packaging design in this industry has evolved beyond its protective and informative roles; it has become a key element in brand building, shelf appeal, and conveying product values.

As a creative agency, we know that a good packaging design is a combination of aesthetics, functionality, and sales psychology. In this article, we’ll explore the latest trends in designing packaging for pet food and supplements, discuss dominant graphic styles and color schemes, and share what elements your label should include to attract today’s consumers.

Trend 01. Minimalism and “Clean Design”

Minimalism has dominated the packaging industry for several years, and the pet food market is no exception. Simple, aesthetic, and clear designs attract conscious consumers who look for natural and healthy products.

Key characteristics:

• Large amounts of white or neutral space
• A limited color palette (e.g., pastels, beiges, grays)
• Simple sans-serif fonts that enhance readability
• Highlighted essential information (e.g., “Grain-Free,” “100% Natural,” “With Added Omega-3”)

Minimalist packaging is often associated with premium quality and transparent product composition. Consumers perceive such products as simple, natural, and free from unnecessary additives.

Trend 02. Illustrations and Graphic Motifs

Illustrations are another growing trend in the design of pet food and supplement packaging. They can be both realistic and stylized—as long as they convey emotions and create positive associations.

Popular approaches:

• Stylized animal graphics – Flat design illustrations or humorous sketches give the packaging a friendly character.
• Botanical patterns – Plant motifs (e.g., leaves, herbs) emphasize the natural origins of ingredients.
• Infographics – Icons and simple charts quickly communicate key product benefits (e.g., protein or vitamin content).

Illustrations serve not only a decorative function but also an educational one, helping consumers quickly understand the product’s advantages.

Trend 03. Ecology in Design

Consumers’ growing ecological awareness directly influences packaging design. More and more brands are embracing eco-design, combining environmentally friendly materials with thoughtful aesthetics.

Sustainable materials:

• Kraft paper or recycled paper
• Biodegradable films and compostable packaging
• Reduced use of plastic and unnecessary elements

Eco-friendly graphic elements:

• Earthy color palettes (greens, browns, beiges)
• Minimalistic, natural motifs
• Clear labeling about eco-credentials (e.g., “100% Recyclable,” “Plastic-Free”)

Consumers increasingly value brands that care about the environment—sustainable packaging can be as influential in purchasing decisions as product composition.

Trend 04. Premium look

Pet owners are more willing than ever to pay extra for premium products. A well-designed premium package highlights the exclusive nature of pet food or supplements.

Distinctive features:

• Darker color palettes (e.g., deep navy, burgundy, black)
• Gold or silver accents, embossing, spot UV finishes
• Thicker packaging materials with a pleasant texture
• Serif fonts combined with minimalist illustrations

This type of design is often used in veterinary lines or high-end diet-specific products for pets.

Color Schemes

Color plays a vital role in packaging design—not only does it catch the consumer’s eye, but it also triggers emotions and builds brand associations. In the case of pet food and supplements, color often reflects the product’s values.

Popular color palettes:

• Greens and browns – Symbolize natural ingredients and eco-friendliness, commonly used in organic or grain-free products.
• Pastels (beige, light blue, powder pink) – Give the packaging a soft, premium feel, ideal for products aimed at young or sensitive pets.
• White and grays – A minimalist palette that emphasizes product purity and transparency.
• Bright colors (orange, red, yellow) – Attract attention and suggest energy, often used in food for active pets.
• Dark tones (navy, black, burgundy) – Employed in premium lines to highlight a luxurious feel.