Alain Courchesne explores product design for pets blending playfulness and practicality

The emergence of pet-friendly products generates new opportunities for meeting the specific requirements and preferences of one's animal companions. These ideas represent the sincere commitment of product designers in the pet sector, ranging from creative solutions that improve the comfort and ease of dogs' lives to innovative designs that perfectly combine style and practicality. One such pet-friendly product designed by Montreal-based Doggy Bathroom founded by Alain Courchesne is a litter box for small dog breeds and custom pads specially designed for vertical application. As a homage to late American artist Keith Haring, the collection features some of his iconic artworks.

The Doggy Bathroom is made from recyclable plastic and serves as a seasonal solution for small breeds that cannot endure harsh weather conditions, a substitute when outdoor access is restricted, and a potty-training aid for puppies. The inspiration behind this collection brewed when Courchesne adopted Sterling an Italian Greyhound. Sterling’s inhibition to step outdoors during winters led Courchesne to design this collection, helping pet dogs in doing their business indoors. “The overall design of the Doggy Bathroom has been paramount in answering the needs of our four-legged friends, as well as their owners. With the addition of some of Haring’s most celebrated figures, mainly the barking dog and red heart, the collection highlights the unspoken relationship between art and design, as well as the special bond between man and his best friend. It also offers both pets and parents practicality and artistic expression, all at once, emphasising that art is for everybody.” shares Courchesne when asked about the collection and featuring Haring’s artwork.

Courchesne and his two-year-old Italian Greyhound have developed a treatment for male dogs that lift their leg. Although the Doggy Bathroom was created with male dogs in mind, it may also be used by both genders, making its design inclusive. The Doggy Bathroom's minimalistic design combines utility and functionality to meet the requirements of devoted pet owners and their pets. Haring's vibrant artwork lends the products and accessories with vitality, brilliance, and a fresh perspective. Along with seven design patents worldwide, The Doggy Bathroom has been granted a utility patent in the United States. Manufacturing was relocated to Montreal, Canada in 2020 in order to boost the regional economy and reduce carbon emissions; this action earned the coveted Entrepreneurs Osentreprendre prize.

Pet-friendly product design is an evolving sector that is motivated by a sincere desire to improve the quality of life for our beloved furry pets. The innovative works, including the Doggy Bathroom, are evidence of the visionary designers' unrestricted creativity and commitment. Every wag of the tail is a testament to the magic of thoughtful innovations addressing the specific needs of pets. The Doggy Bathroom's dedication to sustainability through the use of recyclable materials and a focus on pet inclusivity promotes its goal to provide products that are advantageous for both animals and the environment. Such thoughtful creations highlight the unwavering bond between owners and their animal friends, bringing happiness, practicality, and artistic expression.

Text by Ria Jha