Hot Shop Three Dog Bakery at the Biltmore

“We host a Yappy Hour event each and every Thursday evening, rain or shine.” – Owners Melissa Hardison and Sandra Caldwell

Sweet Connection Editors had a chance to chat with Melissa Hardison of Three Dog Bakery, located at the pet-friendly Biltmore Fashion Park Mall.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in this business?
I'm a former energy industry analyst with Salt River Project with an M.S. in Economics and Sandra is a former real estate agent with a B.S. in Finance. Three Dog Bakery was established in 1989 by two guys who began to cook for their own dogs. One thing led to another and now there are 30 bakeries around the world, including 5 in Japan and 2 in South Korea. We got started in the business because of our love for dogs and our desire to provide superior quality merchandise and the healthiest treats possible to our fellow dog lovers.

Tell us about your pets:
Melissa's pets: Alice, an 11-year old Shetland Sheepdog; Sam, a 2-year old Springer Spaniel; Diana, an 8-month old Havanese and William, a 4-month old Havanese. Also, two cats, Xiao and Little One.

Sandra's pets: Two Beagles, Snoopy, 7 years and Pepper, 1 year.

What is your boutique known for?
Fresh-baked, all natural, healthy treats for your dog as well as fabulous accessories, clothing, beds, toys, and carriers.

What is your newest or hottest selling item?
Bling bling collars and jewelry. Dog and cat beds in all shapes and sizes, customized in fabric to match the décor of your home, sewn and stuffed by a local Phoenix artisan.

What is yourfavorite item?
Pet wheel-away.

What item would people be surprised to know you carry?
Airline-approved pet carriers.

What items do dogs seem to like the best?
Toys, celebration cakes and doggie ice cream.

What fashion look is "in" for pets?
Polo shirts, Doggles, shoes, and Bomber jackets

Tell us about some of your more memorable canine customers?
The Halloween costume contest featuring Priscilla, the Flamenco-dancing Bulldog and the set of four Chihuahuas dressed as characters from the Wizard of Oz.

Do dogs really look like their owners?
Absolutely!

What's a great gift to give a dog lover?
Henrietta, the retired showgirl chick from Las Vegas, by far our most popular squeaky toy! Coming soon will be Earl, Henrietta's redneck rooster husband. The pair is a must-have!

What else should we know about your store?
We host a Yappy Hour event each and every Thursday evening, rain or shine, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. It's a big party for dogs and their people. Don't miss it! We can also help plan your dog's birthday party. Give us a call any time.