Most pet stores allow leashed dogs inside, as you may or may not know. There are shops exclusively for dogs, after all. When there is so much going on, shopping with your dog can be both enjoyable and a little daunting for both of you. Follow these tips to make your dog's shopping trip a fun one.
It is highly recommended you visit a pet store when traffic is sluggish and your dog walks before shopping. Choose a dog collar that suits your dog better with the least number of safety problems, such as a flat buckle collar, Martingale collar, or a no-pull body harness that is correctly fitted. Attach a sturdy nylon or leather leash now – this is not the place for a leash of a retractable kind. Note, when visiting pet shops, all dogs must be on leashes.
Oh, and one more very important thing: store your pockets with special tasty treats, as this will give you the chance to reward good behaviour and divert your dog out of a potentially negative situation.
You can experience some challenging circumstances but these can be used as opportunities for dog training.
Keep calm and be able to guide your dog through challenging situations effectively, and thereby establish a positive experience. Your dog will notice automatic doors, other dogs (both friendly and maybe not so friendly), other animal forms (cats, birds, guinea pigs, etc.) and noisy noises. Be prepared.
When it becomes too much, which means that your dog is overwhelmed and begins to shake, drool, or bark or lunge at other dogs, leave immediately. Leave your aisle shopping cart, and go.
When witnessing stressful circumstances, remain calm and reward your dog every few seconds. Learn to be mindful of your surroundings, so that you can be ready for the situation instead of responding to something that's coming up. Until traumatic experiences ( i.e. shouting kids and barking dogs), keep the leash in one hand and food rewards with the other hand.
It is understandable why things just pop up like a dog or a loud noise coming around the corner. Use the special food reward in your pocket in these situations to divert the attention of your dog to something more interesting, such as smelly bones and toys!
Create positive relationships , improve socialization, and reward respectful conduct. Just think of all the nice smells and fun toys your dog gets to see — who doesn't want to buy new stuff from their favorite store? His experience would be improved by allowing your dog to take its time sniffing and exploring a new environment. Keeping any situation as optimistic as possible is very important, helping your dog to develop life skills.
These are few of the many must-see pet-related stores you don’t want to miss near Lafayette, California:
All of these wonderful locations are situated just a short distance from our location at 3369 Mount Diablo Blvd in Lafayette! Stop by for a visit anytime!