how to increase dwell time in retail stores with pet amenities

Looking for a smart way to keep shoppers in your store longer—and buying more? A pet-friendly amenity like a self serve pet wash might be your secret weapon.

We’re Kate & Pete, co-founders of Puppered, and we’ve helped countless retailers transform their space (and their revenue) with dog wash station solutions. In this guide, we’re breaking down how dwell time works, why it matters, and how our stations can help you turn pet owners into loyal, repeat customers.

 

why dwell time matters

Dwell time is how long a customer stays in your store—and it’s directly tied to how much they spend.

Studies show that longer visits often lead to higher purchase volume, more impulse buys, and a stronger emotional connection with your brand. For pet retailers and service providers, this is especially true when the shopping experience includes both convenience and value.

 

here’s what longer dwell time can mean for your business:

✓ more product discovery
✓ greater likelihood of upsells
✓ increased brand recall and loyalty
✓ higher average transaction value

 

how dog wash stations increase dwell time

Self-serve dog washing stations don’t just attract foot traffic—they give customers a reason to stay longer. Here’s how:

✓ customers spend 10–15 minutes at the station
✓ while pets get clean, people browse
✓ post-wash, many shop for soaps, treats, and accessories
✓ the experience becomes part of their regular routine

It’s simple: the longer they’re engaged, the more likely they are to spend.

 

smart upsell opportunities

Turn your commercial dog wash station into a revenue-generating engine with the right upsell strategies:

bundled promotions:

• “wash & wag” bundles with shampoos, brushes, or drying towels
• loyalty cards that reward repeat visits with discounts on retail items

branded soap sales:

• let customers buy the same shampoo and conditioner they used in the wash
• feature eye-catching displays of hypoallergenic, plant-based products

impulse items near the station:

• treats, toys, collars—anything dog-friendly
• strategically placed for quick-grab purchases while waiting

 

low labor, high return

Worried about adding a wash station to your store team’s workload? Don’t be. Puppered dog wash stations are designed for easy integration with minimal staff involvement:

✓ simple-to-use controls—no staff assistance needed
✓ easy-clean surfaces and built-in drainage
✓ optional payment setup or token system for seamless transactions
✓ compact footprint—customizable to your store layout

Our customers tell us that the dog wash equipment often runs itself—and brings in reliable, passive revenue with virtually no friction.

 

real-world results

We’ve seen stores go from “just another pet shop” to “the place with the cool dog wash.” Here’s why it works:

✓ It’s an experience customers talk about
✓ It brings people in more frequently
✓ It builds routine habits around your location
✓ It reinforces trust in your brand

Retailers with Puppered dog washes have reported increases in soap and accessory sales, better retention of walk-in customers, and more visibility from local pet owners looking for modern, DIY wash solutions.

 

make your store a destination

Today’s shoppers want more than products—they want experiences. A self-serve dog wash station is a value-add that positions your retail or service business as thoughtful, innovative, and community-focused.

Whether you run a boutique pet store, a multi-location chain, or a grooming add-on, we’re here to help you create a standout customer experience that drives sales and keeps tails wagging.

 

ready to increase dwell time (and sales)?

Let’s chat. We’ll help you find the right setup, choose the right branding, and start turning foot traffic into real revenue. Reach out to us directly at [email protected] or browse our shop to learn more.

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