December 2005

The grass is greener for dogs whose owners shop at Baltimore’s only full-service doggie boutique, Pretentious Pooch.

Located at 1017 Cathedral Street, just a few steps from the City Café, the shop opened its doggie doors on December 1 to yelping acclaim. “Our goal was to create a posh shop full of delights for every dog and dog lover then combine that product with the services and special touches too often overlooked,” says co-owner Tom Berger. The store is stocked with apparel, treats, and toys for all budgets, but highlights include a doggie pastry section, designer toys, and puppy couture to satisfy even celebrity dogs. Some of the special touches mentioned include gift boxing, gift cards, special ordering, and a commitment to customer satisfaction before, during, and after the sale.

One patron is quoted as saying, “Oh this is bad, very, very bad—I’m going to spend way too much money at this place.” And it’s no wonder why. Owners Christopher Woodside and Tom Berger, residents of Mt. Vernon, went to great lengths to offer dog and cat lovers a delightfully unique shopping experience. The four-foot crystal chandelier, the carved marble top cash stand, and the decorative striping on the walls combine to create a rich, warm shopping experience for owners of well-loved pets.

But, in spite of lavish decoration, it’s the owners’ canine, Chai, who steals the show. Chai sits in the display window along side the stuffed display dogs, attracting onlookers who are sometimes startled when she suddenly comes to life with movement—the shop’s very own live mannequin.

Pretentious Pooch (443-524-7777 / www.pretentiouspooch.com) livens downtown shopping Tuesday though Friday from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday until 7:00 p.m. Pets are welcome in the shop, too. So-be sure to visit this newest gem of the doggie-shopping scene.