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Maybe you’re not a big fan of shopping, or you’re the opposite and you love nothing more than pottering down the high street and spending some hard earned pennies on new goodies. No matter which you are, we guarantee you’ll find shopping so much more fun if you could take your four-legged best friend with you.
For so many of us, our dogs aren’t just pets, but members of the family and we believe they should get to be involved in as many aspects of our daily lives as possible. Thankfully, more and more shops in the UK are rolling out the welcome mat for our hounds, meaning there’s a treasure trove of dog-friendly shops just waiting to be explored.
Taking your dog shopping isn’t exactly a new idea, but we’ll certainly take credit if you haven’t thought of this previously! Many shops for several years have considered themselves dog-friendly, but now more than ever, more retailers are opening their doors to our canines. And what’s so special is that taking your pup into one of these dog-friendly shops is a win-win for both of you.
For your furry friend, the outing is an exciting sensory adventure. Shops are brimming with fascinating new sights, sounds, and smells so it’s basically a smorgasbord of enrichment, stimulating their curious noses and keeping their minds sharp.
Socialisation is another major perk. A trip to one of these dog-friendly shops can help your pup build confidence as they meet new people, other dogs and experience varied environments. For younger dogs or shy ones, it’s a gentle way to practice good manners in public. And let’s face it, most shop assistants and customers love dogs, so expect lots of cuddles and treats to boost your dog’s day!
For you, shopping with your dog is pure joy. Their presence can turn a mundane errand into a memorable bonding moment. Plus, having your dog with you can ease social interactions because after all, who can resist saying hello to your adorable pooch? It’s also a fantastic opportunity for exercise, because without you even realising, a stroll between shops can add in some extra steps to keep both you and your pup moving.
And don’t forget the feel-good factor. Studies show spending time with dogs reduces stress and boosts happiness. So, while you’re out finding that perfect pair of jeans, your dog is making your serotonin levels skyrocket.
Heading out to some dog-friendly shops can be a fun and rewarding experience, but a little preparation goes a long way to ensure everything runs smoothly. While many shops are becoming more dog-friendly, there are a few key things to consider before you grab your pup’s lead and heading out the door.
Not all shops have the same rules when it comes to canine companions. While well-behaved dogs on leads are typically welcome in dog-friendly shops, it’s always wise to confirm beforehand. Some places may have restrictions, such as only allowing small dogs if they’re carried, which could be a challenge for owners of larger breeds. A quick call or check of the store’s website can save you time and disappointment.
A successful shopping trip starts with packing the right gear. At a minimum, you’ll need:
Most dog-friendly shops still require dogs to be on a lead, so ensure your pup is comfortable walking calmly by your side. Practising basic commands like “sit,” “stay,” and “leave it” can help make the experience smoother. If your dog tends to jump up or bark at strangers, a little extra training before hitting busy dog-friendly shops is a good idea.
Not all dogs thrive in bustling environments. Crowded dog-friendly shops with narrow aisles, loud music, or heavy foot traffic can be overwhelming, especially for dogs that are shy or unused to such settings. Keep an eye on your dog’s body language, like signs of stress like panting, pacing, or pulling to leave. This might mean it’s time for a break or to head home.
While dog-lovers may shower your pup with attention, not everyone is comfortable around dogs. Be mindful of personal space and keep your dog close to you to avoid blocking aisles or startling anyone.
If your dog hasn’t visited any dog-friendly shops before, start small! Visit a quiet shop during off-peak hours to gauge how they handle the experience. With time and exposure, your dog’s confidence and your own will grow, making outings together even more enjoyable.
Tech shopping is more fun with your furry sidekick, and Apple Stores are happy to welcome well-behaved dogs on leads. Whether you're eyeing up a shiny new iPad or just browsing, these dog-friendly shops are perfect for curious pups to soak in the sleek environment. If the store is located in a shopping centre, just be sure to check their pet policy as this will apply.
At DFS and Sofology, your dog doesn’t just tag along, they get the VIP treatment! These dog-friendly shops let your pup test out sofas themselves, so they can give their paw of approval before you buy. With water bowls and treats on hand, they’ll feel as comfy as you while you browse.
Dobbies Garden Centres are a haven for green thumbs and their canine companions. These dog-friendly shops welcome well-behaved dogs on leads in most areas, including outdoor seating and designated restaurant spots. With so many sights and smells to explore, from blooming flowers to earthy compost, your dog will love the sensory experience. Just keep them out of food halls and play areas!
FatFace is one of those dog-friendly shops that feels like it was made with pet owners in mind. Not only are dogs welcomed warmly, but they also stock a range of pet accessories like beds and toys. Shopping here is a treat for both you and your pup, and you might even leave with a stylish new lead or harness.
If you’re visiting Flying Tiger, your pup will love the sensory adventure of this quirky store. These dog-friendly shops, though compact, are a treasure trove of colourful items and unique pet accessories. If you’ve ever visited Flying Tiger before, you’ll know they have rather narrow aisles, so for this reason it’s a dog-friendly store best suited to smaller dogs.
Hobbycraft is proudly dog-friendly, so your pooch can join you as you gather craft supplies. With new textures, scents, and a bustling atmosphere, these shops provide plenty of enrichment for curious pups.
John Lewis has been one of the UK’s most celebrated dog-friendly shops since 2019. From their spacious layouts to their accommodating staff, your dog will feel right at home. While assistance dogs can enter food halls and cafes, pets may be limited to general shopping areas. Keep your pup close on a lead and enjoy turning errands into a bonding experience.
Joules goes above and beyond to make dogs feel welcome. With water bowls and treats waiting, they cater to your pup’s needs while you browse their stylish offerings. As one of the most inviting dog-friendly shops, Joules also stocks a fabulous range of doggy apparel and accessories.
Lush is a paradise for sensory stimulation, making it one of the best dog-friendly shops for enrichment. From the delightful aroma of their handmade products to the colourful displays, your pup will have a ball sniffing around. And with their cruelty-free ethos, you can shop with confidence knowing you’re supporting animal welfare.
Outdoor adventurers will love Mountain Warehouse, a retailer that proudly welcomes dogs. These dog-friendly shops sell everything you need for your next adventure, including dog coats, leads, and walking gear.
Selfridges offers a luxury shopping experience that’s as dog friendly as it gets. Small and medium-sized dogs on leads—or carried—are welcome to explore the stores alongside you. Assistance dogs can even access their bars, restaurants, and cinemas.
The Range has recently become one of the most inclusive dog-friendly shops in the UK. From homewares to pet essentials, these stores have it all. Dogs must stay on leads and be well-behaved, but with so much to see, sniff, and explore, your pup will no doubt stay entertained.
Wilko is another one of the leading dog-friendly shops, with over 248 stores welcoming pets across the UK. You and your pup can explore home, garden, and pet essentials together. Keep them on a lead, and you’ll both enjoy a stress-free shopping trip.
Kitchen shopping doesn’t have to be dull when your dog is part of the process. Wren Kitchens welcomes dogs on leads throughout their stores, even providing water bowls to keep them refreshed. The spacious layouts make these dog-friendly shops perfect for pups who enjoy a leisurely wander or want to build their confidence in socialisation.
Shopping with your dog is one of life’s simple pleasures, turning everyday errands into a shared adventure. For your pup, it’s a treasure trove of enrichment, from sniffing new smells to meeting friendly faces, and for you, it’s a chance to bond, de-stress, and make memories together. Whether you’re picking out a sofa or restocking your garden supplies, dog-friendly shops transform mundane tasks into something worth looking forward to.
That said, preparation is key. Before you grab the lead and head out, make sure you’ve packed the essentials like water, treats, and poo bags. Plus, know your dog’s personality because while some pups thrive in bustling environments, others prefer quieter spaces. And of course, always double-check a store’s pet policy so there are no surprises when you arrive.
But let’s be honest, as much as we love a good outing, sometimes you just want to stay snuggled up on the sofa with your pup. That’s where online shopping comes to the rescue and when it comes to treating your dog, WOOOF has you covered.
We’ve got everything your furry friend could ever need: stylish leads, collars, and harnesses for your next adventure; cosy beds and fluffy towels for ultimate relaxation; and grooming essentials like shampoos and brushes to keep them looking (and smelling) their best. And let’s not forget the enrichment toys! From lick mats and treat dispensers to slow feeders, we’ve got the best enrichment toys for dogs to keep your pup entertained and happy.
No matter whether you’re exploring the high street together in one of these dog-friendly shops or browsing from the comfort of home with WOOOF, shopping for your pup is always fun.
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Always check ahead! Most dog-friendly shops will have their policies outlined on their website or social media pages. You can also call the store to confirm before heading out. Keep in mind that some stores allow dogs on leads, while others may have size restrictions or require dogs to be carried. It’s always better to double-check to avoid disappointment.
Taking your dog to visit some dog-friendly shops can be extremely beneficial for both you and your pup. For them, it’s an opportunity for socialisation, enrichment, and bonding with you. For you, it makes mundane errands more fun and stress-relieving. Plus, who doesn’t love showing off their adorable four-legged friend?
Keep an eye on your dog’s body language. Signs of stress include excessive panting, pacing, or trying to pull away. If your dog seems uncomfortable, take a break or head to a quieter area. Not every dog enjoys busy environments, so don’t force it. A smaller, quieter shop might be a better fit next time.
Always be mindful of others when visiting dog-friendly shops. Keep your dog close to you and on a short lead to avoid startling anyone. If someone seems uneasy, give them space and assure them your dog is under control. Respecting others’ comfort ensures dog-friendly shops can remain dog-friendly!