George in Berkeley is not just a pet store; it’s a place where dog owners can find unique and thoughtfully designed products that actually reflect how people live now. What truly sets George apart is that it makes many of its own items—beds, collars, dishes, carrying cases—all built to high standards with a unified aesthetic you’d actually want in your home. The color palette pulls from mid-century modern design, so the whole space feels more like a carefully curated shop than a typical pet supply store.

When you walk in, you’ll find things you won’t see everywhere else. There are hand-woven stuffed animals from Peru that work as actual toys, not just disposable plush. The store also carries antiques and vintage pet products, which gives the whole browsing experience a sense of discovery. You might find something with real history attached to it, which changes how you feel about bringing it home for your dog.

If you’re the type who reads about dog care and training, George stocks BARk magazine along with other books and publications for people who want to stay current on what’s happening in the dog world right now. It’s the kind of place where you can easily spend an hour just looking around, especially if you’re in the neighborhood anyway and want to combine it with a walk through Berkeley’s nearby residential streets or stops at local coffee shops.

The vibe here is refreshingly different from big-box pet stores. Everything in the shop—from the layout to the product selection to the design choices—shows real thought about what actual dog owners might want. You can bring your dog along while you shop, which makes it a genuine outing rather than just an errand. It’s the kind of store where you’ll probably discover something you didn’t know you needed.