Purina's Beggin' brand has launched its fourth annual Battle of the Beggin' competition, pitting two BBQ-inspired dog treat flavors against each other in a consumer voting contest that runs through September 30.
The competition features five-time world barbecue champion Myron Mixon representing Bacon & Beef Brisket flavor, while BBQ Hall of Famer Rodney Scott champions Bacon & Pork Spare Ribs. Both pitmasters developed limited-edition treats that incorporate smoky barbecue profiles designed for canine consumption.
Dog owners can vote at battleofthebeggin.com, with the winning flavor joining Beggin's permanent product portfolio in 2026 and gaining nationwide retail distribution.
Will Bacon & Beef Brisket or Bacon & Pork Spare Ribs win this year’s battle to become a permanent Beggin’ dog treat? Cast your dog's vote at battleofthebeggin.com until Sept. 30, 2025.
Pitmaster partnerships drive flavor development
Mixon, a BBQ Hall of Famer, worked with the brand to create the beef brisket variety that combines rich beef flavor with smoky bacon elements.
"There is nothing quite like the joy of barbecuing," said Mixon. "I take great pride in crafting deep, smoky flavors that unite people. With Bacon & Beef Brisket Beggin' treats, you can extend that same delight to your dog. I'm thrilled to partner with Beggin' for Battle of the Beggin' because it combines my love of bold flavors with a fun way to celebrate dogs, including my dog Roxie."
Scott developed the pork spare ribs option, featuring savory pork flavors with hickory-smoked aromatics.
"Battle of the Beggin' is unlike any competition I've ever done, and I'm looking forward to bringing my passion for BBQ to a fun battle that lets dogs be the ultimate judge," said Scott. "I know dogs are going to love the rich, smoky flavors of Bacon & Pork Spare Ribs Beggin' treats."
Brand expansion strategy
The annual competition serves as both a consumer engagement tool and product development vehicle for the Purina subsidiary. Previous Battle of the Beggin' contests have resulted in permanent flavor additions to the brand's retail presence.
According to Petfood Industry's Top Pet Food Companies, Beggin' operates under Nestlé Purina PetCare, which reports feeding 46 million dogs and 68 million cats annually through its portfolio of brands including Purina ONE, Pro Plan, Friskies and Tidy Cats. The company employs more than 11,000 associates in the U.S. and maintains a team of nearly 500 scientists, veterinarians and pet care specialists. Over the past five years, Purina has contributed more than $150 million towards organizations that bring, and keep, people and pets together, as well as those that help communities and the environment thrive.
