Madeleine Mitchell / Madeleine's Dogs

What:

Madeleine’s Dogs

Who:

Madeleine has been a resident of Old Town for the past 30 years, and has been designing couture costume dog coats for clients for 10 years. Madeleine’s Dogs is the only custom pet couture store offering one of a kind couture dog coats and handmade fisherman knit sweaters in Old Town.

About business:

After touring Paris, Madeleine had an epiphany. “I had noticed that all of the dogs on the Champs-Elysees were dressed in fabulous dog coats. I decided then and there that one day I would design fabulous pet apparel.” Her store features her own designs as well as others.

Clothing isn’t the only thing she sells. From accessories such as toys and strollers, to Tole Trays and custom paintings in oil or watercolor are available for you and you pooch. Last (but not least!), Madeleine has her own line of dog treats named Madeleine’s Dogs Gourmet Treats that are from a recipe her grandmother created and are named after the streets of Old Town. They’re even presented on a silver platter to pets that come by to visit.

Madeleine’s philosophy:

“All the clothing here is hand-made, and tends to fit dogs better than mass-produced items”. 

Why did you choose to do this?

“I gave my husband an 8-week old Doberman as a graduation present, and ended up showing him at many AKC competitions. That, along with my desire to create pet Couture has led me to where I am now.”

Why Alexandria?

“I’ve lived here for 30 years. I love this place”.

Funny story:

“Last week I was showing some couture at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria Black Tie & Tails Gala, and at the last minute realized I didn’t have a dog to model my creations. Here I am – a Pet boutique owner, and I don’t even have a pet”. (Note: She’s owned more animals than most, but is “in-between pets” right now.)  “Luckily, a good friend let me borrow his dog Parker, and the event turned out to be a great success – over $34,000 raised!”