From Loss to Love (in Every Bite)

On August 18, 2022, our lives were forever changed. While we were away, we received the heartbreaking call no pet parent ever wants to hear—our beloved mini schnauzer, Apple Jack, wasn’t doing well. He had been given a rawhide treat, and tragically, it made him extremely ill. Because of that mistake and the dangers of rawhide, we lost him far too soon.

In our grief, we felt called to take action. We wanted to honor Apple Jack’s memory, protect other pets from hidden dangers, and share our love for baking with our community. That’s how AJ’s Dog Bakery came to life.

AJ'S Dog Bakery

Values

  • Health

    We believe every pup deserves safe, wholesome, and nourishing treats. That’s why we use simple, natural ingredients and craft every batch to support happy, healthy lives.

  • Transparency

    From our ingredient lists to our baking process, we value honesty and openness. What you see is what you get—safe, wholesome treats you can trust, baked as if they were for our own dogs.

  • Community

    As a small, family-run business, we’re proud to connect with fellow pet parents, local makers, and retailers who share our passion for dogs. Together, we build a stronger, healthier pet community.

  • Legacy

    Apple Jack’s story is at the heart of our mission. His memory inspires us to create with purpose and to ensure no family experiences loss from unsafe treats.

Meet the Pack Behind AJ’s

AJ’s Dog Bakery isn’t just a business—it’s a family mission.

Taki is the heart and hands behind the bakery. As founder and head baker, she pours her love for dogs and passion for safer alternatives into every recipe. Her creativity in the kitchen keeps tails wagging and pup parents coming back for more.

By her side is her husband, Derrick, who proudly serves as the behind-the-scenes rock of AJ’s. From heavy lifting at markets to cheering on every new idea, Derrick keeps the bakery grounded and growing. His support is the glue that holds the dream together.

Of course, no bakery would be complete without the most important team members—our four-legged taste testers. Apollo the mini schnauzer and Thor the standard poodle proudly serve as our Chief Tasting Officers. Every batch of treats is rigorously “tested” (with plenty of drool and tail wags) before it ever makes its way to your pup.

Together, this pack turns heartbreak into purpose—honoring Apple Jack’s legacy by baking safe, wholesome, and joy-filled treats for dogs everywhere.