Girl Scouts of the USA will begin selling the organization's first-ever cookies designed for dogs in January. These blueberry muffin-flavored treats, named Patch Pals, were developed in collaboration with Bark, a New York-based retailer specializing in dog products. The dog cookies will be available for purchase exclusively online.
Alongside the canine-friendly cookies, the Girl Scouts are also launching Sparkables, their inaugural allergy-friendly cookie for human consumption. Sparkables are described as crunchy oatmeal cookies with chocolate chips and colored sprinkles. Partake Foods, a New Jersey-based company, partnered with the Girl Scouts on this product. The cookies are produced in a facility designed to avoid nine major allergens, including eggs, dairy, peanuts, wheat, tree nuts, and sesame.
According to the Girl Scouts, the introduction of these new cookie varieties was inspired by scout members who aimed to increase inclusivity within the cookie program, ensuring both people and pets could participate. The tradition of Girl Scouts selling cookies as a troop fundraiser dates back to 1917, with the organization currently selling approximately 200 million cookies annually. The general cookie season typically runs from January through April, though local start dates may vary. Patch Pals and Sparkables will be offered alongside traditional flavors such as Thin Mints, Samoas, and Tagalongs.