“Everything we have is chosen for durability, fit and function,” explains DeChaine.
Many of these products are made in Massachusetts and Rhode Island, so customers can feel good about “shopping local.”
“Nothing made in China,” DeChaine emphasizes.
There are toys galore, including stuffed toys in the shape of whales and squids, pull toys in the shape of anchors and buoys, and squeak toys in the shape of pretzels and tacos.
“Some things are very fun,” says DeChaine, “but all have a function.”
Treats abound at Woof Woof. Their extensive bakery case is stocked with doggie treats in the forms of fire hydrants, baseballs and pizza slices, many frosted with dog-friendly yogurt.
The shop’s Biscuit Bar features crunchy bones in multiple flavors including bacon, cheddar, pumpkin and peanut. There are also filled bones and bully sticks.
Nutrition is prized here, with multiple lines of healthy wet and dry dog foods lining the shelves. DeChaine trains her staff carefully in canine nutrition, and the shop offers individual consultations on special diets.
“We will work with you on finding a nutrition plan,” she explains.
The streamlined shop interior reflects a six-month “full gut” renovation. A few sections are still under construction but ready soon, including a meat locker to stock raw-diet foods.
More displays hold supplements and other health supports including shampoos and insect repellents.
The shop also stocks gifts galore especially for dog lovers, such as mugs, plaques, dog bowls, and treat containers.
Feline customers have not been neglected; there is a Kitty Corner at Woof Woof, featuring toys, treats, and the same types of nutritious canned and bagged foods the store offers to dogs.
Woof Woof even goes on the road, with its custom-built Woof Wagon, a mobile version of the store that travels to such venues as food truck events and farmers’ markets. It’s also available for booking at private events.
Woof Woof’s merchandise will soon be available through their website, WoofWoofBoutique.com. Customers will be able to place orders online and pick up in the store.
DeChaine grew up in Bristol, Rhode Island. After years of corporate retail, she decided to work with animals. “That was always a dream of mine,” she said.
She became a veterinary technician, in addition to running her own dog-walking business for 14 years. In 2011, she opened Woof Woof, first in Warren, Rhode Island, and later in Bristol.
She discovered the possibilities of New Bedford when visiting a friend who owns a restaurant here. She liked the “cool vibes” of the city and decided that an expansion here “just seemed right.”
Woof Woof plans a grand-opening event over the weekend of June 22 and 23, which will include dog photos by Wiggle Butts Pet Photography.
Woof Woof Pet Boutique and Biscuit Bar is located at 255 Union Street in New Bedford. The store is open 7 days a week: Mondays through Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, contact them by email at
wag@woofwoofboutique.com or by phone at 774-202-7559.
