Critterland Pets in Mill Valley has been a family-run spot since 1981, and owners Mark and Curtis Fong clearly know their stuff when it comes to what dogs actually need. Walking in with your dog is straightforward—they’re completely welcome to come along while you shop, which makes browsing their inventory way easier than leaving them in the car.

The selection here is legitimately comprehensive. You’ll find premium dog food alongside healthy treats, toys that won’t fall apart after a week, and accessories in various styles. The staff can actually talk through what might work best for your specific dog rather than just pointing to the shelf. If you’re dealing with a dog that needs hypoallergenic food or you’re trying to track down eco-friendly toys, they can help you narrow things down instead of leaving you to guess.

Beyond just selling stuff, Critterland Pets hosts community events and workshops around pet care, training, and nutrition throughout the year. It’s the kind of place where you’ll run into other dog owners in Mill Valley and end up swapping recommendations. The store also carries locally-sourced products that reflect what’s happening in Bay Area pet culture, so you’re not just getting standard chain-store offerings.

Mill Valley itself is right there in Marin, so you could easily make this a stop while you’re exploring the area. The atmosphere is genuinely welcoming—not the sterile fluorescent vibe of bigger retailers. Mark and Curtis have built something that actually feels like a community resource rather than just a transaction point.

It’s worth calling ahead if you want to know about any specific workshops coming up or if you’re looking for something particular they might need to order. They can let you know what’s happening that week too.