How to Display Puppies at a Pet Store
Puppies are a draw for many customers wandering by a pet store. More personable than lizards and cuddlier than fish, puppies make people want to stop, stare and even pet. Properly display your puppies to get customers into your store and to offer the puppies a safe, comfortable living environment. Split your puppies between two different displays to give the animals a rest from the attention when they need it. No matter how you choose to display them, showcase the best qualities of your puppies for everyone to see.
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Instructions
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Front Display
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Select a spot by the front of the store for the primary display. If you have a window display that is large enough, open to the store and not in direct sunlight, choose that spot. Plan to display six puppies or fewer at a time in front, depending on the amount of space you have.
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Lay out soft pillows, dog beds and other places for the puppies to rest. Include some type of newspaper or puppy pad to act as a bathroom for the puppies.
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Put out chew toys, water bowls and a food bowl. Make sure there is enough for each puppy in the display.
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Create a barrier between the puppies and the store at the back of the display or the case. Unless it's relatively short, select a clear plastic, so the puppies can still be easily observed. Leave room between the barrier and the ceiling so the puppies get a constant supply of fresh air.
Secondary Display
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Select a spot at the back of the store for the secondary display. It should be a smaller area where people can't pile up.
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Create several individual pens large enough for two puppies each, to be separated from the large group during rest periods to keep things calm. The number of pens should be based on the number of puppies you intend to stock. Make one pen for every two puppies you stock, since you'll be returning puppies to the pens when the store closes. If you have 14 puppies, consider building 8 pens so you have one extra in case of overstock. Don't put more than three puppies in one pen, unless you are sure there's enough space for all three.
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Choose a clear plastic or glass for the pens. Avoid bars so the dogs don't look trapped. The pens must be at least one foot above the height of any dog placed in the pen, when the dog stands on its hind legs, and offer enough movement for each dog to tumble and play. Plan the size of the pens based on the breeds you plan to offer.
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Put out water, food, chew toys and bedding.
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Check to make sure your puppy displays meet all state and local standards for pet shops. Born Free USA offers links to a summary of each state's pet store regulations. Contact the Department of Health if you live in one of these states to get more details. Only the 27 states listed on the Born Free USA website have laws governing pet stores.
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Tips & Warnings
A printed wall pattern of bones or leashes is an attractive addition to a room with dogs.
Try using bright reds, yellows and blues to attract customers.
References
Resources
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