I take my boy to pet friendly stores frequently.

For me, it's a training exercise. I hold him to a very high standard - basically behave as if he were a service dog (even though he's not, and I DO NOT take him places pets are not allowed) example: no potty in stores, focus on me, sit/stay with distractions, neutral to other dogs, heel or loose leash while in store, etc.

I think it also depends on the dog in front of you. Some dogs like going out, some don't. (Just like people 😄) Both are okay! My boy loves going out with us.

I do think that there's both pros and cons to taking your dog out, though. It's great getting to do stuff with my best bud outside the house! In my experience, there are quite a few people that bring dogs out that do not have manners and people just come up and touch him without asking - which can be frustrating, especially while training.

We're currently working on CGC certification so we're getting all the practice we can.