The Most Elegant Dogs in the World Live (and shop) in Vienna, Austria

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Sheep patrol on high alert. Note the suspicious looks as we snap photos.

It was 20 degrees in Stockholm but these chihuahuas had no coats

Bearded collie waits outside Tesco.

Some people love to check out the local architecture, fashions, or cuisines as they travel. I love to check out the local dogs.

Whether it’s the majestic Maremma sheep dogs in Tuscany, the hardy chihuahuas braving the cold in Stockholm, or a bearded collie patiently awaiting his owner’s return in Canterbury, one thing always remains the same– every city loves their dogs.

But of all the cities I’ve visited, there is something about the dogs of Vienna that sets them apart from other dogs.

Why Viennese dogs are the most elegant dogs in the world.

1.  Viennese dogs are perfectly groomed.

Coiffed, but never overdone, this fluffy poodle takes a late evening stroll on the Ringstrasse.

Not a speck of dirt on this spotless white hound.

Perhaps they are frequent visitors to the hunde salon?

2.  Viennese dogs are well-mannered.

This leash-free dog walked the grounds of Kunsthalle museum like he owned the place.

Unlike some American children, Viennese dogs don’t require a leash to behave. I saw many dogs wander around leash-free, then, without a single word or whistle from their owner, swiftly rejoin them at their side.

Off leash on the busiest shopping street in Vienna? No problem!

3.  Viennese dogs are gorgeous.

Hello pretty pug.

This is Max, the most adorable chihuahua in Vienna.

This gentle pup enjoyed a toy break.

4.  Viennese dogs blend in on public transport.

Dogs both small and large are allowed on the u-bahn trains, no carrier required. This golden retriever sweeps gracefully through the train terminal.

This hound helpfully holds his own leash while his owner takes a rest in the train station.

Viennese dogs are skilled at riding escalators. Two paws on each stair, please.

This adorable furball pranced happily through the Vienna airport.

Viennese dogs also are frequent fliers– instead of being stuck in a carrier, they waltz right through the airport– even post-security at the international gate.

I even spotted this pooch off the leash at the airport.

5.  Viennese dogs are stylishly dressed.

This chihuahua sports a fur-trimmed collar on her coat.

No garish designs for these dogs, they are all tastefully dressed.  So where do Viennese dogs shop for their elegant coats, sweaters and leashes?

Viennese dogs (and their owners) hit local shops like Katz and Hund for their doggie duds.  But you don’t have to have a Viennese dog to shop here– doggie clothes and accessories make a great souvenir to bring home for your own pooch. Katz and Hund features many local Viennese designers.

Locally made collars make a great souvenir.

The pooch-in-residence, Max, is available to assist you with your purchases (when he isn’t napping).

Even if you can’t get your dog to act like a perfect Viennese hund, at least they can look the part.

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Do you love to check out the local dogs and dog shops when you travel? Tell us about it in the comments below!

Vienna Souvenir Shopping Details:
Katz & Hund
Lange Gasse 11
Vienna, Austria

For more posts on Austria, check out:
Vienna’s Schonbrunn Palace Christmas market
Wrap-up of the best and worst Viennese Christmas Markets

All photos by Souvenir Finder, Copyright 2013, all rights reserved and may not be used without express permission.

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