There’s something about a dog and their favorite toy. And few make canines go as wild as Lamb Chop, which The New York Times calls “America’s Hottest Dog Toy.”
Multipet President Mark Hirschberg has witnessed this phenomenon in retail shops, shelters and homes. When dogs are given a choice, they pick Lamb Chop, caring for the former sock-puppet-turned-squeaker-toy with love.
“They seem to treat Lamb Chop as their own pet,” says Hirschberg.
Originally crafted by puppeteer and children’s television host Shari Lewis, Lamb Chop has secured a special place in the hearts of dogs and owners alike. New Jersey-based Multipet has capitalized on this nostalgia since acquiring the licensing rights a decade ago, with Lamb Chop accounting for 20% of the company’s annual revenue, which is on track to double within the next three years.
Since Hirschberg joined Vistage in 2022, Multipet has grown by hiring more employees and launching strategic planning sessions. Additionally, his son Dean, who is the vice president of marketing at Multipet, joined Vistage in 2024.
Hirschberg credits his Vistage peer group with helping him see opportunities for growth and find solutions to issues.
“It is sometimes the one comment someone makes in a meeting that I can internalize,” he says. “That leads to that ‘aha’ moment that opens my eyes to realities I wouldn’t have faced before.”
