Why You Should Take Your Dog Shopping

Have you ever taken your dog shopping? One of my favorite things to do when there’s nothing on my calendar: Leash up my pups and head to local pet-friendly shops. Whenever my dogs tag along for a shopping trip, I rarely try on clothes or spend hours searching for things to buy. Rather, my focus is on them. The goal for that outing is to provide an engaging and mentally enriching experience.

Benefits

Once dogs understand how to walk on a leash, and have their basic commands down, letting them journey through pet-friendly stores can actually provide many benefits.

Socialization – When we talk about socializing our dogs, it doesn’t only mean having them interact with people and other canines. It also means exposing them to new sights, sounds, smells, and experiences. During a shopping trip, your dog will likely walk through automatic doors, prance on various floor textures, hear voices or music over the loudspeaker, and smell new aromas. They’ll also see different types of people … many pushing large shopping carts. Plus, your pup may also see other dogs pass by.
Distraction Training – If your dog has mastered their basic commands in the comforts of your own quiet home, you may want to up the ante and take your training session to a store like Lowes. Between the other shoppers, various noises, and new smells, your dog will have the added challenge of distraction.
Builds Confidence – Is your pup shy? Little by little, exposure to new things and positive experiences while shopping can help build their confidence!
Strengthens Bond – When shopping with your dog, you’re spending quality time together, focusing on each other, and communicating with one another. These are all great ways to improve your relationship!
It’s Fun – If you ask me, the only thing more fun than shopping is shopping with your dog!

Tips When Starting Out

Sit Outside

If your dog isn’t quite ready to go inside stores and explore, let him watch from a distance. Either from your car or a bench, sit with your dog and let him watch the world go by. He’ll get to see all different types of people walking around, hear the sound of shopping cart wheels dragging along the ground, watch cars whizzing by, and the list of stimuli goes on. When your pup sees or hears something new and has a positive reaction, give him a treat and verbal praise.

Make Sure Your Local Shops are Dog-Friendly

The list of dog-friendly stores is long. In fact, I’ve included some below. But, oftentimes, rules vary depending on location. So, even if a list claims a store is dog-friendly, do yourself a favor and call your local shop before driving over there. It never hurts to double-check their guidelines.

Go During Off Hours

When first getting your dog used to stores, go when fewer people will be there.

Explore Different Stores

Different environments offer different stimuli. So, try to explore different places with your pup! While many people start at pet stores, like Petco and PetSmart, they can actually be some of the toughest. All the food and toys can be very distracting. Plus, it’s not uncommon for dogs to sniff out a previous accident and feel tempted to mark. Instead of starting at a pet store, consider Lowes or Home Depot, since they tend to have more space. I also love taking my dogs to HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls (double-check yours are pet-friendly, as rules vary by location).