Woof The Yorkshire Dog Shop

Woof The Yorkshire Dog Shop was founded in 2021 after Natalie’s son received an autism diagnosis and she set up Woof with his needs in mind. Her son loved dogs but found typical dog shops overstimulating due to their bright lights. This impacted how she designed the shop, including a spacious lay out and interactive products. As a family-run business, the shop was also set up to provide her son with a career.

To set up the business, Natalie secured a £25k Start Up Loan, which was delivered by Virgin StartUp. She used the funding to fit out the premises with bespoke furniture and to purchase initial stock.

Woof is unique to other dog stores as it has interactive features such as a doggy pick-and-mix and supports other small business in the region by selling locally sourced products. The business also has a strong community focus and Natalie works with other local business owners to run family fun days to increase footfall to Roundhay.