When the local branch of the Stony Stratford Women’s Institute recently invited a real life contestant  from BBC One’s Dragon’s Den to speak at one of their meetings, it was a case of forget Gucci think Poochie as the members were introduced to Debbie Greaves, founder of the successful pet accessory brand, Barking Bags. 

Barking Bags are fast becoming an essential companion for any fashionista dog walker. Their fashionable and multifunctional design allows the wearer the flexibility to use them cross body or as a bum bag, allowing you to carry everything you need without compromising on style. They are weatherproof and suitable for any climate or environment and following their successful appearance on BBC One Dragon’s Den which resulted in a sell-out of six month’s stock in one night, their sales have gone from strength to strength.

“My favourite concept is the mesh pocket to store used poo bags,” mentioned Deborah Meaden, who applauded the company for helping to solve the problem of carrying unsightly dog waste. However, it was Dragon, Sara Davies, who offered investment as she recognised the functionality and stylishness of the bags which come in a range of funky fabrics and luxury leather. There is even a vegan friendly range as well.

Inspired by young British designers, Barking Bags’ ingenious designs not only have mesh pockets for you to carry everything you need whilst on the go including a place to put the unmentionable stuff until you can dispose of it, but some models have reflective strips for added safety when walking in the dark.

Barking Bags was set up in Milton Keynes by former teachers Debbie Greaves and her husband Rob Angell .Having both decided to retire in 2014, Debbie and Rob bought their first dog, Maisie a Cockerpoo. Wanting to remain active and to provide some additional income, Debbie started working part-time in a charity helping to re-engage vulnerable teenagers through supported volunteering. “We wanted to stay active in retirement so setting up a small business had appeal for us both, little did we know it would become a national company and have such wide appeal,” said Debbie.

Barking Bags is a small family run company headed by Debbie and Rob but they also employ young and enthusiastic people who have taken part on the Kick Start programme. 

Since their appearance on BBC One’s Dragon’s Den, Debbie has found herself in demand as a public speaker. She is very keen to promote responsible dog ownership so addressing her local WI was an opportunity to talk about the dog walking guide she had written for the local Milton Keynes area which has all the the poop bins marked out in it and how that led her on to looking for a solution to carrying the full poop bags.  

During her talk, Debbie emphasised the ups and down of starting a business including not being afraid to ask for help. Debbie was very keen to employ and support local businesses. Barking Bags works with  MK SNAP a local charity whose supports people with special needs and they help pack the bags as part of their work training programme. Debbie has also used local designers to create their website and branding. 

Barking Bags has ambitious plans for the future, with support from Sara Davis and other new business partners they have plans to internationalise the business and create a wholesale offering here in the UK. “We will still be attending shows and writing blogs to help people with their pets but we will be taking on new roles to develop the business. We are also coming up with some new designs and hope one day to produce a bag for us by wheelchair users, “concludes Debbie.

Julie Clothier, President of the Stony Nightingales WI said, “We were absolutely delighted to have Debbie come and present to us. Her talk was so inspiring and informative and it shows it is never too late to set up a successful business and fulfil your dreams.”

Barking Bags were the Best New Business in the PIF Awards 2021, were nominated in the 2021 PetQuip Awards and this year have been nominated for the 2022 PetQuip Awards for, Innovation, Sustainability, Green and Organic and Supplier of the Year categories.

For further information visit: www.barkingbags.co.uk

Pictured: Debbie Greaves (Barking Bags) with Julie Clothier (Stony Stratford WI).