Luxury Pooch Fever in the USA!

February 28, 2012

Americans are crazy for their dogs.  And when it comes to the family pet, the rich and famous are no different from anyone else.   Small dogs are in particular favor and have been for several hundred years.  During the Renaissance, noble women were known to carry their pampered pets within the folds of their dresses.  Today, women of means carry their “accessory dogs” in designer bags that costs hundreds or even thousands of dollars.  Expensive doghouses that are custom-made to resemble French Chalets, pagodas, castles, and southern-style plantations are selling like hot cakes – even though the price tags can range up to ten thousand dollars or more.  Doggie clothing and jewelry are also popular.  So are leashes and collars that sport real diamonds and other gems!

Perhaps no one has done more to bring the pocket dog phenomena into our national consciousness than Paris Hilton, granddaughter of the late hotel magnate, Conrad Hilton.  For years she has carried her Chihuahua, Tinkerbelle, to various social events and functions. Other celebrities like Tori Spelling and Mickey Rourke are frequently spotted toting their tiny furry friends while out and about in Hollywood.  Even Grammy award winner Adele is often photographed with her mini- Dachshund scampering by her side.

But it’s not only celebrities who are enamored with “pocket pouches.”  In New York City and other financial hubs around the world, young executives can be seen carrying their pint-sized friends to business meetings and social gatherings.  In fact, because they are so popular among the jet set, many airlines, ritzy hotels, and fine restaurants are hospitable to accessory dogs.  So the next time you’re traveling first class and see something wiggling in a bag across from you, don’t panic!  It’s likely just a frisky pocket pooch giving his legs a stretch!