At Barkus, we believe that the ultimate act of love for your pet is conscious care, intentional choices rooted in quality, community, and uncompromising standards. That philosophy is the foundation of our newest creation, Fur Glow Oil, co-created with the incredible community builders at Toronto Dog Moms (TDM).

This isn't just an oil; it’s a mindful grooming ritual born from a real-life need, setting a new standard for effective and gentle pet care.

The Intentional Why: From Dog Mom Frustration to Fur Glow Solution

Every product we launch begins with a problem we simply can't ignore. For Ingrid, the founder of Toronto Dog Moms (TDM), the challenge was finding a conditioning solution that truly met her standards for quality and efficacy without compromise. Like many dedicated pet parents, she faced the daily frustration of trying to soothe sensitive, allergy-prone skin.

We sat down with her to discuss the journey:

“Having my soul dog Chino and knowing his breed is prone to so many skin allergies and issues, I had a hard time finding anything that truly worked. There were many products out there with harmful ingredients that were really harsh. I kept thinking, if I can’t find something good enough, why not create it myself?”

— Ingrid, Toronto Dog Moms Founder

Ingrid’s determination became her guiding principle. The solution couldn't be halfway. If she wouldn’t put harsh chemicals on our own skin, Ingrid wasn’t going to put them on her dog, whose skin is often more delicate and absorbent. So Ingrid created a formulation of oils that she used with Chino for several years to help manage his skin conditions and coat.

The Journey: Two Years of Intentional Formulation

The development of the Fur Glow Oil didn’t happen overnight. The collaboration began almost two years ago when Ingrid first reached out to Vernadette to discuss the idea. Ingrid was specifically seeking an intentional pet brand that shared her core values around ethical and high-quality pet care.

Once the partnership was established, Vernadette went to work with her Toronto formulator she has a long-standing relationship with; the same expert who crafted the cult favourite Barkus Coat Spray. Together, they revised and finalized the delicate balance of oils for the new Fur Glow Oil formula.

This meant nothing was rushed. The product was extensively tested with dogs of different ages, breed sensitivities, and fur textures before it was ever released. This meticulous, local process ensured that Fur Glow Oil delivers consistent, reliable results for the diverse dogs within the TDM community and beyond.

The Human-Grade Pivot: Quality Over Compromise

The defining feature of Fur Glow Oil, and a non-negotiable for Barkus, is its uncompromising quality. For us, the decision to use human-grade ingredients wasn't a marketing choice; it was a core mandate. We believe this standard is the future of sustainable dog grooming.

As Barkus founder Vernadette explains, compromising on what touches a dog's sensitive skin simply isn't an option:

“Like our Coat Spray, using safe, high-performing, human-grade ingredients is mandatory. We look for ingredients that are bio-compatible, meaning they’re gentle and effective. Take Manuka Essential Oil, for instance, it’s highly bio-compatible and less likely to cause irritation. It has incredible benefits: soothing itchy skin, possessing anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and providing a protective skin barrier.”

This dedication to quality ensures that every drop delivers true holistic dog coat care. The investment in powerhouses like Evening Primrose Oil was easily justified. It’s a powerful choice for sensitive, allergy-prone skin because it’s rich in Gamma Linoleic Acid, an essential component that actively reduces inflammation, regulates skin cell membrane health, and promotes a healthy, lustrous coat.

This commitment means our Fur Glow Oil formula delivers maximum benefits without the filler:

  • Evening Primrose Oil: The gentle hero that restores the skin barrier and reduces inflammation—perfect for pups prone to seasonal allergies.

  • Manuka Essential Oil: A natural protector providing strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory support for soothing irritated spots.

  • Grapeseed Oil: Lightweight and loaded with antioxidants, it delivers intense shine without the dreaded greasy residue.

“Our intention is to prioritize quality and sustainability. That means small-batch production, local partnership, and an emphasis on natural, non-toxic ingredients. This is a choice for long-term health over quick fixes. Pet wellness should feel as safe and thoughtful as the products we choose for ourselves.”

— Vernadette, Barkus Founder

This oil reflects a shared vision that pet grooming should be an extension of overall wellness, not just a cosmetic treatment. The Barkus philosophy goes beyond what’s inside the bottle, it’s about conscious care and a commitment to your dog’s long-term health and the planet.

The Final Vision: A Lasting Difference

The results of using Fur Glow Oil are visible, but the true impact is felt in your dog’s comfort and confidence.

We asked Ingrid to share the single biggest difference this oil will make for a dog with sensitive skin or a tangle-prone coat:

“It’s not just a glossy coat; it’s the itch-free, tangle-free kind of confidence every dog parent dreams of. It’s helpful for in-between baths to keep fur and skin hydrated, creating a self-care routine you can feel confident about.”

Whether used to combat seasonal dryness, manage tangles, or simply enhance natural brilliance, the Barkus x TDM Fur Glow Oil becomes a comforting, bonding ritual that makes a lasting difference in your pup's wellbeing.

Give your pup the glow they deserve. Shop Fur Glow Oil, available now.