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Two years ago, a chocolate lab-mix named Timmie changed the course of business for two Toronto entrepreneurs.

Georges Khayat and Paul Ryu were running their graphic design business, Untitled_Art, from their home offices, and contemplating whether to find retail space to move into. However, instead of opening a design office, they decided to open a dog boutique: Timmie Doggie Outfitters.

Khayat said the idea to open the shop was inspired by Ryu and his wife Angela Suh's dog named Timmie. Like many owners, they were frustrated at not being able to find products that suited Timmie's needs, so they decided to combine their design skills with their love of dogs.

"It was a natural progression doing a dog boutique store, but it wasn't just about opening a dog boutique per se, it was more about combining design with dogs in mind," he said. "We approached the building of the store from a designer's point of view instead of just a general pet supply store."

Meaning, from the moment you enter their stores it looks like a boutique, or baby store, not like a dog store. Khayat said the layout combines function with visual appeal, however the design element doesn't stop at the store's appearance.

"We bring in products that are well-designed, that are visually interesting and made of good quality ... from the food and treats to the clothing, shampoos and the toys," he said.

Timmie Doggie Outfitters first opened in June 2006 at their first location on Queen Street West. At the time, Khayat said their research showed there was a need for a mid-to-high-end dog boutique in Toronto.

"There were a few stores but they didn't have much selection," he said, "Now the dog industry is growing and there's more fun and unique products," he said.

This past October, they opened their second location in Leslieville on Queen Street East and now each runs one store, with the help of Suh in accounting, and three in-store groomers.

At both locations, Khayat said they still are able to run their design company by "doing design in the back and retail in the front," but the two businesses don't mix.

What sets them apart from other pet stores, he said, is the uniqueness of the products they offer. Khayat said they are constantly doing research and going to trade shows to find practical but unique products to offer their customers.

"We try to bring in items that not many other stores would carry," he said.

Although the products are higher in price than at your average pet store, Khayat said they are affordable, and customers will be impressed by the quality, design and durability of the products that come from within Canada, the United States and Europe.

For example, say someone is in the market for a new dog bowl. Khayat said the bowl you would find at another store will not be as nicely designed as the ones they sell.

"If you have a new condo you may want the bowl to nicely match the furniture because the bowl is going to be exposed, so might as well get something that looks good and matches the d�©cor," he said.

Same idea for dog beds. Khayat said they offer beds that clients can customize by choosing the fabric and colour they want. The covers and pillows are washable with the option to purchase more than one cover to interchange them with the seasons.

They also have the standard pet necessities like collars, sweaters and food, and every few weeks, especially in the fall and winter seasons, they bring in products to keep their selection new and fresh.

They also enjoy giving back to the community by way of their annual fundraiser, Twelve Beds of Christmas. Now in its second year, it's a charity auction that sees 12 local celebrities, like television hosts, fashion designers and architects, each designing a dog bed that will be auctioned off. The proceeds go to the Toronto Humane Society.

"Last year we raised $10,000; this year we hope to raise more," he said.

Besides hoping to expand their charitable contributions, Khayat said they also have plans to expand the Timmie brand, despite opening up their new store only a month ago. Those plans include starting their own Timmie product line and opening a third location.

For more information on the Timmie Doggie Outfitters visit www.timmie.ca