A guide to shopping with your dog
Source: blogefl
There are many different shops, boutiques and even larger chain types of retail stores that are becoming increasingly dog friendly. Whilst these stores have allowed guide dogs and assistance dogs for a lengthy time period, they are now warming up to having well behaved and socialised dogs within the stores with their human companions.
Taking your dog shopping does require some additional training and consideration on your part. Remember, that if your dog creates a bad experience for the shop or store owner, he or she is much less likely to allow other dog owners to bring their pets along. Taking responsibility for and control of your pet when in public just makes good sense for all involved.
Socialised and Desensitised
No one wants a wild animal in their store or on their property. Taking the time to properly socialise and desensitise your dog with other people, pets and objects in a store environment is essential. To do this, consider using a neighbour's house or work with a shopkeeper you know, to allow the puppy or dog to become comfortable in walking around in a shop and coming into contact with a variety of different sights, sounds and smells.
Socialisation with other dogs, children and people is also critical to make the experience positive for all involved. Routine walking in public places, taking your dog to obedience classes and doing lots of activities with your pooch will help decrease stress and anxiety for the dog. It will also help in building confidence and comfort in a variety of different settings.
Choose Your Shopping Time
The first several times you take your dog shopping, it is essential to have a calm, controlled type of environment. This prevents you from having to manage the environment as well as the dog. Shop early in the morning or in off peak hours to give your dog the chance to get used to the surroundings without mobs of people.
Avoid shopping sales and special previews or events within the store, until the dog is comfortable with crowds, busy places and all the bustle, sights and sounds that this includes.
Watch For Signs of Anxiety and Stress
Carefully monitor your dog for any signs of stress and anxiety. This can include growling or hiding, barking, crouching down or trying desperately to get away. At the first signs of anxiety, reassure the dog and find a quiet area to allow the dog to calm down. When he or she is calm, provide reinforcement and leave the stressful area. Continue to work on this in desensitisation and help the dog overcome whatever issue is triggering the stress. Never punish or scold the dog, or immediately leave the store at the first signs of stress, as you will be acting in a counter-productive manner.
A good strategy is to only keep the dog in the store for limited amounts of time at first, gradually building up without any issues around stress or anxiety occurring. This ensures that every training session is positive and the dog has no bad experiences that may create stress the next time they go with you.
Know the Store Policy on Dogs
Verifying that it is acceptable to have the dog in the store in advance is very important. This not only ensures that your dog will have a positive experience, but also prevents any issues from arising that may cause you frustration or embarrassment if the policy has changed from dog friendly to dog avoidant.
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