Rosie

When your “dogs are barking” after walking around historic downtown Madison, you can stop in at one of the region’s top boutique footwear and accessories stores in the heart of the city. There, you’ll find stylish, quality kicks to keep you comfortable and keep you up to date with the latest trends.

You might also find Rosie, the shop’s fashionable, four-legged ambassador.

“She’s pretty popular around the store and on social media,” says Vickie Hunt, owner of Barkin’ Dogs Shoe Co.

The four-year-old mix came into her life a few years ago after Main Street Vet called and said they had the perfect dog for her, says Hunt. She had just lost both of her Lhasa Apsos in the same year, so when Rosie was brought in after being found on a busy road and no one could locate her owner, the vet knew just who to call.

At the store, Rosie is welcoming and well-behaved. At home, Hunt says, she lives up to the store’s name. “She’s a talker for sure,” says Hunt. “If somebody pulls in the driveway, we don’t need a doorbell.”

Back at the store, it’s all business. Often Rosie isn’t the only furry friend that can be found at Barkin’ Dogs Shoe Co. After being in business for 15 years, Hunt has cultivated countless regular customers, many of whom like to shop with canine companions of their own.

“Oh, we love dogs around here,” says Hunt. “What better place for customers to bring in their own dogs? We just love meeting them.”