Canine Earth goes global

Beware stinky shiba inus and unkempt akitas!

Canine Earth is cleaning up across Asia. The Baton Rouge-bred maker of organic, dog-grooming products now distributes everything from Not So Mangy Mango Coat Cleanser to Awesome Apple Paw Balm throughout Japan and Taiwan.

In 2007, founder Kylee Lejeune created an organic alternative to chemical dog shampoo in an attempt to improve the skin condition of her West Highland terriers. Although they are usually inherited rather than caused by environmental allergens, pesky, persistent skin problems constitute the single largest health problem in Westies and often require long-term treatment. So, once Lejeune developed formula that worked for Sammie, Sophie and Brodie, she was ready to conquer the Canine Earth.

Formulated in an FDA- and USDA-registered, Baton Rouge laboratory, some products have received the coveted organic certification under USDA National Organic Program; others have been verified as natural.

“The USDA does not regulate the word natural, but it does regulate the word organic,” founder Lejeune explains. “Many of our products are USDA Certified Organic, meaning at least 95% of the ingredients are organic—grown without the use of pesticides. Our all-natural products contain organic ingredients, but do not reach the 95% mark.”

All the company’s shampoos, conditioners, deodorizing sprays and balms are aroma-therapeutic, naturally deodorizing and hypoallergenic. And, while they certainly soothe canines’ ruffled fur, the lack of petrochemicals, sulfates, parabens, artificial colors and or fragrances make products safer for families, professional groomers and the environment.

Since the organic line’s introduction, sales have been growing nearly as fast as golden retriever’s coat—93% in just two years.

And, 2011 might be the best year yet. “The Asian market is also crazy about the green USDA Certified Organic seal that we have on several of our products,” Lejeune explains. “They understand that it means top quality ingredients.”

Even as demand on the small manufacturer increases, there’s no need to fear. American underdogs can still get their Come Here Coconut Mint Aromatherapy Spray and 14 other Canine Earth products at 1,500 retail outlets throughout the U.S., including Petco, Petz Plaza, Highland Road Veterinary Hospital and Whole Foods locally.

While global expansion is on the horizon, Lejeune admits product diversification has its limits—particularly when it comes to other species. “I do love all animals, but I’ve always been a dog person,” she says. “I’m terribly allergic to cats, which would make it difficult for me to even evaluate product formulas.”

For more information, visit canineearth.com.

Click here for this week’s Creature Feature.

Click here for this week’s City Lynx.