In 2013, a young entrepreneur named Ryan Kelly stepped into the Shark Tank with his innovative business, Ryan’s Barkery, now known as Ry’s Ruffery. His mission? To create all-natural, healthy dog treats that would satisfy even the pickiest of canine palates. Armed with his unique recipes and youthful enthusiasm, he managed to secure an investment from Barbara Corcoran.
This article delves into the journey of Ry’s Ruffery post-Shark Tank, exploring the growth, challenges, and current status of this remarkable venture started by an 11-year-old boy with a passion for dogs and a dream of entrepreneurship.
What Is Ryan’s Barkery (Ry’s Ruffery)?
Ryan’s mission was simple: create healthy, natural dog treats that his dog could enjoy. The result was Ry’s Ruffery, a line of all-natural, homemade dog treats that come in several flavors, including cheddar, pumpkin-apple, and peanut butter [1].
The treats lovingly prepared at Ry’s Ruffery are always fresh, featuring ingredients of such quality that even humans could partake. In stark contrast to the stale scent of typical treats, the aroma of Ry’s biscuits is so inviting that you might even be enticed to sample one yourself!
Available Flavors
Ry’s Ruffery biscuits are offered in a variety of flavors, thoroughly vetted and embraced by discerning dogs:
- The Cheddar option offers your furry friend a generous protein supply, coupled with additional nutrients like vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, and essential fatty acids;
- The Peanut Butter treats serve as a rich protein source for your pup, while also delivering vitamin E;
- The Sweet Pumpkin-Apple flavored delights pack vitamin C, digestive-friendly fiber, and beta carotene, a valuable source of vitamin A;
Nevertheless, the ultimate arbitrator of their quality is our furry friend, and in my household, both my four-legged companions enthusiastically devour these delectable morsels.
All three variants of these canine treats encompass peas, potatoes, cane molasses, canola oil, salt, natural essence, rosemary infusion, and green tea extract. Depending on the flavor, the addition of peanut butter, pumpkin puree, apples, or cheddar cheese augments their taste.
Pricing
These canine indulgences are available in 8-ounce pouches, containing roughly 40 delectable treats per bag. They can be conveniently purchased at PetSmart for $ 5.99, or you can acquire them online via the company’s official website [3].
Pros:
- Quality Ingredients. One of the standout features of Ry’s Ruffery is their commitment to using only high-quality, natural ingredients in their treats. Their products are free from artificial preservatives and additives, which makes them an excellent choice for pet owners looking for healthier treat options for their dogs;
- Variety. With flavors like cheddar, pumpkin-apple, and peanut butter, there’s something for every dog at Ry’s Ruffery. The variety of flavors ensures that even picky eaters will find something they like;
- Social Impact. Ryan’s entrepreneurial journey has been inspiring to many young entrepreneurs. His success story serves as a testament to what can be achieved with passion and dedication, regardless of age;
- Positive Reception. The dog treats have received positive reviews from customers who claim their dogs love the treats. The treats are also recommended by veterinarians due to their healthy ingredients;
Cons:
- Pricing. While the quality of the ingredients used in Ry’s Ruffery treats justifies the price point to some extent, some customers have noted that the treats are somewhat pricey compared to other options on the market;
- Availability. Ry’s Ruffery treats are primarily sold online, which could be a disadvantage for customers who prefer to buy their pet products in physical stores;
Who May Benefit From Using Ryan’s Bakery:
- Health-Conscious Pet Owners: The dog treats from Ry’s Ruffery are made from all-natural, high-quality ingredients. This makes them an excellent choice for pet owners who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and prefer feeding them with natural, preservative-free treats;
- Owners of Picky Eaters: With a variety of flavors like cheddar, pumpkin-apple, and peanut butter, Ry’s Ruffery provides options that can cater to even the pickiest of eaters. If your dog turns its nose up at conventional dog treats, the unique and tasty flavors offered by Ry’s Ruffery might just do the trick;
- Supporters of Young Entrepreneurs: Ry’s Ruffery was started by Ryan Kelly when he was just 11 years old. Those who appreciate and want to support the entrepreneurial spirit in young people might choose to purchase Ry’s Ruffery products as a way to support Ryan’s business endeavors;
- Fans of Shark Tank: As a company that got its start on Shark Tank, Ry’s Ruffery might appeal to fans of the show who enjoy trying out the products featured there;
- People Looking for Gifts for Pet Owners: The treats from Ry’s Ruffery could make a great gift for dog owners. Whether it’s for a birthday, holiday, or just because, these high-quality treats are something that both the pet and their owner can appreciate [4];
About Founders Of Ryan’s Barkery
As they embarked on their journey homeward, Ryan’s parents made a spur-of-the-moment decision to buy conventional dog treats from a local pet store. However, the moment they cracked open the package, the pungent odor left them thoroughly unimpressed, and even Barkley turned his nose up at the uninspiring morsels.
Determined to pamper his four-legged friend, Ryan embarked on a mission to concoct a medley of flavors, crafting custom-made dog treats for Barkley. Much to his delight, Barkley exhibited sheer excitement and devoured the treats with gusto. Recognizing the potential of his homemade creations, Ryan Kelly took the initiative to share his newfound canine confections with neighboring dogs, and they, too, were smitten by the delectable offerings.
This marked the inception of Ryan’s Barkery, but for it to truly flourish and reach dog owners across the nation and around the globe, Ryan is seeking the support of the Sharks to provide the necessary investment.
The Pitch Of Ryan’s Barkery At Shark Tank
Ryan Kelly, flanked by his mother Daniella Kelly, and their faithful companion Barkley, confidently takes center stage in front of the Sharks, poised to kick off their presentation [6].
At just eleven years old, Ryan Kelly takes the floor, introducing himself with an air of youthful enthusiasm. He proceeds to introduce Barkley, the four-legged inspiration behind his enterprise, proudly dubbed Ryan’s Barkery. With a beaming smile, Daniella Kelly chimes in, expressing their need for a $ 25,000 investment in exchange for a 25% stake in Ryan’s Barkery.
The infectious charm of the presentation elicits smiles from most of the Sharks, who are intrigued by the youthful entrepreneur.
Ryan Kelly delves into the heart of the matter, elucidating that Ryan’s Barkery specializes in crafting and selling fresh, all-natural dog treats. These treats are so impeccably fresh that one might be tempted to exclaim, “Slap me, are these for real?” He emphasizes the importance of family pets being an integral part of the family, much like Barkley. The catalyst for their venture, he shares, was the abysmal experience of buying commercial dog treats that neither smelled nor tasted fresh.
With rapt attention, the Sharks listen intently to Ryan’s presentation.
Daniella Kelly underscores their shared passion for baking and their dedication to consulting veterinarians to identify dog-friendly ingredients. Together, they embarked on a journey of experimentation in the kitchen. Ryan Kelly elaborates on their relentless pursuit, stating that they refused to rest until they had uncovered flavors that sent Barkley into a canine culinary frenzy.
He goes on to highlight the array of flavors in their product line, including Pumpkin Apple, Banana Oat, and Low Fat Cheddar. The common thread among all of Ryan’s Barkery treats is their freshness, simple ingredients, and absence of preservatives.
Ryan Kelly recalls sharing these treats with friends, specifically their dogs, who exhibited an undeniable love for the delectable morsels.
In a captivating moment, Ryan offers one of his homemade dog treats to Barkley, vividly showcasing the canine’s enthusiastic response to the aroma and taste.
The mother-son duo has been fielding inquiries from pet owners eager to acquire their custom dog treats, which ultimately led to the birth of Ryan’s Barkery. They express their intention to utilize any investment from the Sharks to develop a website and commence order fulfillment from a commercial kitchen. Ryan Kelly makes a lighthearted remark, asserting that he needs the Sharks’ assistance because he can’t manage Ryan’s Barkery on his own while juggling his schoolwork.
The room fills with laughter at his candid comment.
Daniella Kelly extends her gratitude to the Sharks for their time and invites them to not only see, and smell but also taste the custom dog treats, emphasizing that they are of human-grade quality. To underscore their commitment, Ryan Kelly approaches the Sharks with a tray of his homemade dog treats.
Robert Herjavec inquires about the location of the dog treat production. Ryan Kelly reveals that the treats are created in their very own kitchen at home.
Barbara Corcoran wonders if Ryan manages the treat-making process after school or during late hours. Ryan Kelly clarifies that he bakes the treats bright and early, rising at 5 a.m. to pursue his passion and provide both for his pup and potential customers.
Barbara Corcoran proceeds to ask about his siblings’ involvement. Ryan Kelly mentions his older brother, Nick, who helps with selling Ryan’s Barkery products at events. Nick doesn’t share the early morning routine, preferring to handle sales duties.
Kevin O’Leary inquires about the product’s sales figures. Ryan Kelly reveals that he has already sold about 200 bags of custom dog treats, priced at four dollars per bag, each containing eight treats.
Mark Cuban follows up by asking about the cost of producing one bag. Ryan Kelly states that it costs them a mere thirty-six cents to create a single bag.
Barbara Corcoran probes into their plans for business growth. Ryan Kelly explains that they initially attempted to sell their products at local supermarkets but found it more effective to directly reach out to dog owners, cutting out the middleman.
Robert Herjavec queries whether there are other avenues for product distribution. Ryan Kelly discloses that they distribute samples at his lacrosse practice, attracting many dog owners who return for more due to their pets’ love for the treats.
Kevin O’Leary wants to know if people purchase the products when Ryan is not personally present at lacrosse practice. Ryan Kelly shares that their contact information is included on the labels, and people frequently call to place orders.
Barbara Corcoran probes into the amount of personal investment Ryan has made in his business and its source. The question amuses Mark Cuban, but Ryan Kelly answers seriously, crediting his mother with a $ 200 investment. He acknowledges that they’ve been profitable but hasn’t yet paid her back due to ongoing production.
Robert Herjavec inquires about Ryan’s vision for the business’s future. Ryan Kelly envisions a path where stores across the nation stock their products. Additionally, they plan to launch a website for orders, allowing him and his mom to efficiently meet customer demands.
Mark Cuban shares a piece of his entrepreneurial journey, stating that he initiated his first business venture at the age of twelve in pursuit of a new pair of basketball shoes. However, he emphasizes the considerable responsibility that comes with a $ 25,000 investment, particularly challenging for a young student like Ryan. While he’s excited for Ryan, he opts out of the opportunity.
Robert Herjavec, reminiscing about his path to entrepreneurship, acknowledges that he could never have dreamed of it at Ryan’s age. He mentions that his journey was fueled by a later-life job loss, and, while he won’t invest in Ryan’s Barkery, he looks forward to the young entrepreneur’s future ventures.
Daymond John, reflecting on his background and the challenges he faced growing up, asks Ryan about his friends’ reactions to his business. Ryan believes his friends might be a tad envious, especially considering his appearance on Shark Tank.
Kevin O’Leary offers some valuable advice. He acknowledges that Ryan’s Barkery is not a full-fledged business yet, more like a hobby that can be profitable. While he doesn’t invest, he wishes Ryan luck on his journey.
Barbara Corcoran, recognizing the potential in Ryan’s Barkery, extends a full-price offer. She proposes a $ 25,000 investment in exchange for a 25% stake, foreseeing the rapid growth of the business [7].
Daymond John commends Barbara’s generosity but urges Ryan to understand the weight of the responsibility that accompanies an investment of this scale. He opts out, confident in Ryan’s ability to succeed independently.
With an elated smile, Ryan Kelly accepts Barbara Corcoran’s offer, sealing the deal.
In a post-interview, Ryan expresses his eagerness to see his products on the shelves of pet stores across America and his excitement about partnering with Barbara Corcoran.
Ryan’s Barkery After The Shark Tank
Much like several other products showcased on “Shark Tank”, it appears that Ry’s Ruffery has ceased its operations [8]. The company’s most recent Facebook update dates back to 2018, its Instagram account has remained dormant since 2017, and the “Ry’s Ruffery” website has vanished from the digital realm.
However, by 2018, they had reverted to exclusively offering their treats on their website. It’s worth noting that, at the time of the “Beyond the Tank” segment airing, the company had amassed a remarkable $ 7.7 million in sales, as reported by CNBC.
The reasons behind the company’s closure remain unofficial and shrouded in mystery. What we do know is that Daniela Cos-Kelly tragically passed away at the age of 48 in 2018, as indicated by Lemonade Day and the Kelly family’s GoFundMe page. Fans of the show may fondly remember the Kellys and their entrepreneurial spirit, even though Ry’s Ruffery is no longer a part of the business landscape.
The Net Worth Of Ryan’s Barkery
The company itself appears to have been quite successful, with one report suggesting it had made a profit of $ 7.7 million in sales. However, it’s important to note that another source suggests that Ryan’s Barkery is no longer operating which if true, might affect these estimates.
Alternatives To Ryan’s Barkery
- Denzel’s: Like Ry’s Ruffery, Denzel’s emphasizes healthy and delicious treats for dogs. Their products are made with 100% natural ingredients, and they offer a range of interesting flavors;
- Brothers Barkery: This company is known for encouraging fun activities for dogs in addition to providing tasty treats. They might be a good choice if you’re looking for more than just food products for your pet;
- Bay’s Barkery: Bay’s Barkery uses wholesome ingredients like whole wheat flour, unsweetened apple sauce, peanut butter, plain Greek yogurt, olive oil, honey, and baking powder in their treats. Their commitment to using real, recognizable ingredients may appeal to health-conscious pet owners;
FAQ:
- Is Ryan’s Barkery still in business?
As of 2023, Ryan’s Barkery is not in business.
- What is Ryan’s Barkery net worth?
It has been reported that Ryan Kelly and Daniella Kelly, the founders of Ryan’s Barkery, have a combined net worth of $ 5 million as of 2023. However, there are also speculations that Ryan Kelly’s net worth could be significantly higher, potentially around $ 12 million.
- Can you find Ryan’s Barkery on Amazon?
Whether or not you can find Ryan’s Barkery products on Amazon depends on their distribution and sales channels. They may have listed their products on Amazon, but this information would require checking on Amazon’s website or contacting the company directly.
- What is so special about Ryan’s Barkery dog treats?
Ryan’s Barkery dog treats are known for being all-natural, homemade, and crafted with care. They are made with ingredients suitable for human consumption, free of preservatives, and boast a range of flavors that dogs find irresistible. The business’s unique aspect is that it was started by a young entrepreneur, Ryan Kelly, who was passionate about providing high-quality treats for dogs.
- What is Shark Tank?
“Shark Tank” is a popular American television series where aspiring entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas and products to a panel of wealthy investors, known as “sharks.” The entrepreneurs seek investment from the sharks in exchange for equity in their businesses.
- What is the most successful product on Shark Tank?
Several products that received investments on “Shark Tank” have gone on to achieve great success. Some notable examples include Scrub Daddy, Groovebook, and the Simply Fit Board, which became highly successful after appearing on the show.
- Is Shark Tank 100% real?
While the pitches and deals on “Shark Tank” are real, the show is still a television production. Some aspects, such as the negotiations and interactions, may be edited for entertainment, but the business pitches and investments are genuine.
- Has Shark Tank ever failed?
Not every business that secures a deal on “Shark Tank” ends up being successful. Some businesses face challenges or fail after the show due to various factors like market conditions, competition, or mismanagement. Success is never guaranteed, and not all deals on the show come to fruition.
- Are Shark Tank billionaires?
The sharks on “Shark Tank” are indeed successful investors and entrepreneurs, but not all of them are billionaires. Their net worth varies, with some being billionaires and others having net worth figures in the hundreds of millions.
- Do sharks help?
The sharks offer more than just investment capital; they provide valuable business expertise, industry connections, and mentorship to entrepreneurs who strike deals with them. Their involvement can significantly boost the chances of a business’s success.
- Who owns Shark Tank?
“Shark Tank” is produced by MGM Television and is based on the Japanese show “Dragons’ Den.” The executive producers include Mark Burnett and others involved in its production.
- Do Shark Tank businesses succeed?
Many businesses that secure deals on “Shark Tank” go on to achieve significant success, while others face challenges and some may even fail. Success often depends on the quality of the business idea, the entrepreneur’s execution, and market conditions.
- Who made the most money in Shark Tank?
The individual shark who has made the most money from “Shark Tank” investments can vary from season to season. Mark Cuban, Kevin O’Leary, and Lori Greiner are among the sharks with many successful investments.
- How does Shark Tank work?
On “Shark Tank,” entrepreneurs pitch their business ideas to a panel of potential investors (the sharks). They seek investment in exchange for equity in their businesses. The sharks can choose to make offers, negotiate, or decline the opportunity.
- Why is Shark Tank so popular?
“Shark Tank” is popular because it combines elements of entrepreneurship, investment, entertainment, and real-life drama. Viewers are drawn to the show’s format, which allows them to witness the journey of entrepreneurs and the decision-making process of investors.
- How does Shark Tank earn?
“Shark Tank” earns revenue through advertising, sponsorships, and licensing deals with products featured on the show. It also generates income from merchandise and product sales related to the show.
Useful Video: Kid Gets Removed From Shark Tank
References:
- https://www.looper.com/850684/whatever-happened-to-rys-ruffery-after-shark-tank/
- https://www.sharktankblog.com/business/ryans-barkery/
- https://gazettereview.com/ryans-barkery-shark-tank-update/
- https://wealthybyte.com/ryans-barkery-shark-tank-update/
- https://sharktanktales.com/ryans-barkery-shark-tank-update/
- https://www.sharktanksuccess.com/ryans-barkery/
- https://allsharktankproducts.com/pet-care/rys-ruffery/
- https://paddockpost.com/2015/12/07/rys-ruffery-healthy-dog-treats/
- https://rchreviews.blogspot.com/2014/10/review-giveaway-rys-ruffery.html