Southern Paws

Southern Paws is a pet boutique in the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter that caters almost exclusively to dogs and cats — not fish. But if you're strolling through the Quarter with your pup and happen to be an aquarium hobbyist, you'll want to know what this place is and isn't. It's a charming, Instagram-worthy shop packed with New Orleans-themed pet clothing, artisanal treats, costumes, bowties, fedoras, and locally inspired toys like squeaky crawfish.

Reviewers rave about the NOLA-specific souvenirs for their fur babies, from Mardi Gras costumes to peanut butter and bacon crunch donuts from their in-house pet bakery. The staff consistently earns praise for remembering dogs' names, making personalized treat recommendations based on dog size and breed, and even calling their second nearby location to track down specific shirt sizes. Visitors from as far as New York and Florida describe it as a must-stop destination.

One customer found a replacement of their late mother's dog's favorite duck toy, turning a shopping trip into an emotional moment. The store supports local rescues through adoption events and features handcrafted, sustainable toys from small makers. The atmosphere blends exposed brick, soft jazz, and curated displays that multiple reviewers compare to a lifestyle boutique rather than a typical pet store.

Prices run a bit higher than average — expected for a unique French Quarter shop — but most customers feel the quality and experience justify the cost. Southern Paws is decidedly not an aquarium store; there are no fish, corals, tanks, or aquatic supplies mentioned in any reviews. It's a dog-and-cat destination through and through, beloved by locals and tourists alike for its warmth, personality, and unmistakably New Orleans flair.