Pug inspires couple to launch worldwide dog accessory business

HE’S one “crazy” dog, according to his owners, but the antics of this pug cross called Wilbur have changed their lives.

Jessica and Jamie Knight have a dog accessory and toy company and are selling 1000s of dog sticks a week across the world. Can we get pic of them with Wilbu

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A “CRAZY” pug cross called Wilbur has changed the lives and fortunes of a Bilgola family.

The eight-year-old pooch inspired his owners Jamie and Jessica Knight to design outdoor gear for active dog owners, as well as a humorous range of toy sticks, after he injured himself playing with a real one.

Their products are now being sold around the world including the US, Canada, the UK, Germany and Asia, as well as Australia.

The business, DOOG, received a large order from Walmart last year.

Now a US chain has asked them to design a range of dog toys.

Wilbur keeps a tight hold of his “pretend” stick. Picture: Martin Lange

The couple, who have three children — aged nine, two and one, created a range of rubber sticks with funny characters including Incredible Stalk, Captain Fantastick, Tree-mendous Twig and Woody, after an expensive trip to the vet when Wilbur got a stick lodged in the roof of his mouth.

“Wilbur absolutely loves playing with sticks, but our vet said we really shouldn’t let him play with them as they are a common cause of injury,” said Mrs Knight, 39, who formerly worked in TV production.

Jessica Knight with “crazy” Wilbur. Picture: Martin Lange.

“So, we decided to design a safe stick for dogs to play with. Because they are a range of funny characters they make people chuckle. The dogs love them and the owners want one.”

The sticks, which also float in water, have already been on the market for three years.

The couple started off in the dog accessory market by designing a utility belt for dog owners who like to have their hands free when out with their pet.

“Wilbur is a crazy, hyperactive dog who needs lots of exercise,” said Mrs Knight.

Wilbur fights off the competition. Picture: Martin Lange.

“He runs 3-5km a day every morning. We wanted to design a product that we didn’t need to hold.

“Wilbur has been our inspiration and if we had chosen a lapdog, perhaps we would have never been inspired to design outdoor gear for dog owners.”

Mrs Knight and Mr Knight, 41, who used to have a career in marketing and advertising, gave up their jobs soon after they launched their business in 2008.

“It’s still very hard work and we’re very busy, but it’s also exciting,” said Mrs Knight.