[blisscodisco]

Some ways to get a warmer welcome at big box pet stores (petsmart, petco):
1. invite one of your friends that has a little dog that gets along with your dog. Walk the dogs closely together. Your dog might get ignored for the "cute wittle doggy" but at least people aren't climbing the walls to get away. I go with my moms two ancient beagles.
2. clothes of any sort
3. Tricks. Most rotts like to learn tricks any way and these stores are a great place to practice due to all the distractions.
4. Put your dog on a down or a sit (this is great training for staying in a down or sit when people come up for the "polite greeting part of the CGC). It also helps with large happy rotti puppies not stomping little dogs by mistake.
5. And always be nice and brush it off. I keep myself inbetween all strangers and my dog if they are looking uncomfortable. If you are smiling and civil people will notice and the "rude" people will look stupid. Don't ever get pulled into an arguement etc..
Good luck, you know the loyalty and love you will have from your dog, so just think of that when people are being extra rude.