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15 Largest Pet Food Companies

By Abby McCain
Dec. 23, 2020
Last Modified and Fact Checked on:

15 Largest Pet Food Companies in 2026

As of 2026, approximately 70% of U.S. households own a pet, reflecting an enduring commitment to pet companionship. The demand for high-quality pet food continues to surge, contributing to a robust U.S. pet food industry that remains the strongest globally.

The United States hosts the world’s leading pet food companies, with most of the top players operating from American soil. This dominance is underpinned by a growing awareness among pet owners about the nutritional needs of their pets and a trend toward premium and specialized pet food products.

According to the American Pet Products Association (APPA), U.S. pet food sales have seen steady growth, with the market projected to reach over $42 billion in 2026. This figure highlights the industry’s resilience and adaptability in a rapidly changing marketplace.

So, which companies are at the forefront of this thriving sector? Here’s an updated list of the top 15 pet food companies in the U.S., ranked by their total revenue in 2026.

  1. Nestlé Jobs (Overview)

  2. J.M. Smucker Jobs (Overview)

  3. Hill’s Pet Nutrition Jobs (Overview)

  4. Diamond Pet Foods Jobs (Overview)

  5. Spectrum Brands Jobs (Overview)

  6. Simmons Pet Food Jobs (Overview)

  7. Merrick Pet Care Jobs (Overview)

  8. Central Garden & Pet Jobs (Overview)

  9. Archer Daniels Midland Company Jobs (Overview)

  10. American Nutrition Jobs (Overview)

  11. Sunshine Mills Jobs (Overview)

  12. Tuffy’s Pet Foods Jobs (Overview)

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15 Largest Pet Food Companies

  1. Mars Petcare, Inc.

    Franklin, Tennessee
    $20.5 billion

    Mars Petcare, Inc. remains the world’s largest pet food company, continuing to expand its global reach. The company’s impressive revenue is driven by its comprehensive portfolio of brands, including Pedigree, Iams, Whiskas, Royal Canin, and Cesar. Mars has also enhanced its market position through strategic acquisitions and investments in pet health services, bolstering its commitment to pet wellness.

  2. Nestlé Purina PetCare

    St. Louis, Missouri
    $15.1 billion

    As the second-largest pet food company globally, Nestlé Purina PetCare continues to innovate in pet nutrition and wellness. Its diverse brands, including Dog Chow, Felix, and TidyCats, emphasize quality and health-conscious formulations, catering to a growing market of pet owners who prioritize nutrition.

    3. Find Nestlé Jobs Near Me

  3. J.M. Smucker

    Orrville, Ohio
    $3.2 billion

    J.M. Smucker has solidified its position in the pet food sector through strategic acquisitions, including Big Heart Pet Brands. The company’s extensive brand portfolio features household names like Meow Mix and Milk-Bone, catering to diverse consumer preferences and market segments.

    4. Find J.M. Smucker Jobs Near Me

  4. Hill’s Pet Nutrition

    Topeka, Kansas
    $2.8 billion

    Hill’s Pet Nutrition, a leader in science-based pet food, continues to partner with veterinarians to enhance pet health through its Prescription Diet and Science Diet product lines. The company remains committed to producing high-quality food tailored to specific health needs.

    5. Find Hill’s Pet Nutrition Jobs Near Me

  5. Diamond Pet Foods

    Meta, Missouri
    $1.6 billion

    Diamond Pet Foods has expanded its offerings to include various specialized formulas, emphasizing natural ingredients and tailored nutrition. The company continues to grow its distribution both domestically and internationally.

    6. Find Diamond Pet Foods Jobs Near Me

  6. General Mills/Blue Buffalo

    Wilton, Connecticut
    $1.7 billion

    Blue Buffalo, known for its premium, natural pet food, continues to attract health-conscious pet owners. The brand’s emphasis on real meat and wholesome ingredients has solidified its place in the competitive pet food market since its acquisition by General Mills.

  7. Spectrum Brands/United Pet Group

    Earth City, Missouri
    $950 million

    Spectrum Brands continues to diversify its portfolio beyond traditional pet offerings, catering to various small pet species as well. The company’s strong presence in both the pet food and care sectors positions it well for future growth.

    8. Find Spectrum Brands Jobs Near Me

  8. Simmons Pet Food

    Siloam Springs, Arkansas
    $750 million

    Simmons Pet Food remains a key player in the wet pet food segment, with a focus on innovative packaging and product offerings aimed at meeting evolving consumer preferences.

    9. Find Simmons Pet Food Jobs Near Me

  9. WellPet

    Tewksbury, Massachusetts
    $720 million

    WellPet continues to innovate in the natural pet food space with brands like Wellness and Holistic Select, focusing on health-conscious formulations that appeal to modern pet owners.

  10. Merrick Pet Care

    Amarillo, Texas
    $500 million

    Merrick Pet Care continues to reflect its Texan roots with a focus on high-quality, natural ingredients. The brand emphasizes raw and slow-cooked pet foods, catering to discerning pet owners.

    11. Find Merrick Pet Care Jobs Near Me

  11. Central Garden & Pet

    Walnut Creek, California
    $460 million

    Central Garden & Pet has expanded its scope to include a variety of pet care products, emphasizing quality across its diverse offerings. The company services both large and small retailers, solidifying its market presence.

    12. Find Central Garden & Pet Jobs Near Me

  12. Archer Daniels Midland Company

    Quincy, Illinois
    $400 million

    ADM Animal Nutrition has focused on expanding its capabilities in custom pet food formulations while continuing to offer its proprietary Proud Paws line. The company is strategically positioned for growth across North America and beyond.

    13. Find Archer Daniels Midland Company Jobs Near Me

  13. American Nutrition

    Ogden, Utah
    $400 million

    American Nutrition continues to thrive in the grain-free pet food segment, focusing on high-quality ingredients and innovative formulations. The company also offers contract manufacturing services, expanding its business footprint.

    14. Find American Nutrition Jobs Near Me

  14. Sunshine Mills

    Red Bay, Alabama
    $360 million

    Sunshine Mills remains a family-owned business, focusing on pet foods that reflect human culinary trends. Their innovative flavors aim to meet the needs of modern pet owners looking for quality nutrition.

    15. Find Sunshine Mills Jobs Near Me

  15. Tuffy’s Pet Foods

    Perham, Minnesota
    $300 million

    Tuffy’s Pet Foods continues to innovate with its focus on natural ingredients and health-forward formulations. The company has expanded its manufacturing capabilities with a state-of-the-art facility to serve a growing global market.

    16. Find Tuffy’s Pet Foods Jobs Near Me

In conclusion, the pet food industry in 2026 reflects significant growth and evolution, driven by consumer demand for quality and specialized nutrition. The leading companies are adapting to these trends, ensuring they meet the needs of modern pet owners while continuing to innovate in their product offerings.

Author

Abby McCain

Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.

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