About
Southern Paws sits in the heart of the French Quarter, and it is one of the most beloved pet shops in New Orleans, LA — but aquarium hobbyists should know upfront that it is a dog-and-cat boutique, not a fish store. There are no tanks, corals, or aquatic livestock here, and nothing aquatic is for sale, so if you came searching for a New Orleans aquarium store, this is not it. What it is, is a charming, Instagram-worthy boutique packed with NOLA-themed pet clothing, artisanal treats, costumes, bowties, fedoras, and locally inspired toys like squeaky crawfish.
Visitors describe it as the perfect spot to grab a souvenir for the pets back home, and several recent travelers say it topped their list of French Quarter shops to visit. The in-house pet bakery turns out treats — peanut butter and bacon crunch donuts among them — that customers' boxers, pitties, and German shepherds reportedly approve of. Reviewers this spring loved the festive Mardi Gras décor out front and the wide selection of toys, treats, and gear.
The staff earns near-universal praise for remembering dogs' names, separating treats by dog size, and even calling the owners' second nearby location to track down a specific shirt size. Travelers from New York and Florida call it a must-stop, and one regular notes this French Quarter shop is the good location of the two. The atmosphere blends exposed brick, soft jazz, and curated displays that reviewers compare to a lifestyle boutique rather than a typical pet store, and the shop supports local rescues through adoption events while featuring handcrafted, sustainable toys from small makers.
Prices run a little higher than average — expected for a one-of-a-kind French Quarter shop — but most customers feel the quality and the experience justify it. For dog and cat owners, Southern Paws is a warm, unmistakably New Orleans destination; for reef and freshwater hobbyists, it is a delightful stop to wander into but not an aquarium or fish store.
Highlights
What makes them special
- Dog-and-cat pet boutique in the French Quarter — not an aquarium or fish store
- In-house pet bakery with treats like peanut butter and bacon crunch donuts
- NOLA-themed pet clothing, costumes, and toys including squeaky crawfish
- Staff praised for personalized treat picks and remembering dogs' names
- Supports local rescues with adoption events; festive Mardi Gras décor out front
From keepers
Customer reviews
“The perfect spot to get your pet a souvenir!!”
— Rachel Ashby5.02 months ago“Awesome store! This place was at the top of our list of shops to visit and find souvenirs for all our pets at while visiting NOLA. Nice staff and lots of fun, unique things to choose from. A must-see business for anyone going to the Quarter that loves their dogs.”
— Trevor Gosden5.02 months ago“Cute little place filled with lots of adorable dog stuff. Got some yummies for my furkid and had a nice overall experience. Great little store.”
— kathleen owens5.02 months ago“Such a fun store for all pet lovers. Wonderful variety of gifts and pet needs. We found this store walking around and went back a second time during our stay. Friendly staff..”
— K B5.02 months ago“A sweet little shop to bring home something special for your fur babies. And I got the greatest tshirt for myself.”
— Lisa M5.03 months ago“There aren’t many pet stores in the French Quarter, so we were especially glad to find this gem. They offer a great selection of toys, treats, gear, and more. If you're staying in the Quarter and want to pick up something special for your pet, this is the perfect spot. We visited during Mardi Gras, and the outside décor was festive and fun.”
— Julie C.5.04 months ago“Just as a heads up, this is the good location the other one they have a bad attitude”
— India Love5.04 months ago“You Guys were our favorite part of our year in New Orleans!”
— Paul Nelson5.0Edited 4 days ago“Fun spot for your fur babies”
— Robert Groppe5.02 weeks ago“Awesome pet store with super fun New Orleans and misc toys (including alcohol related toys) for dogs and cats. Person working was super nice and gave local recommendations.”
— Charlotte Fron5.0a month ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (504) 510-5324 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Southern Paws.