It turns out the idea for a dog bar inside 11th and E Pike’s Chophouse Row was not meant to be, but you can still go watch pups romp around during your Capitol Hill lunch break.

The owner behind Play on the Hill dog daycare opened a small pet shop this week on the daycare’s mezzanine level that overlooks the puppy play area. Sarah Slater, who opened Play in April, originally envisioned a bar in the upper floor space.

Permitting complications quashed those dreams, so Slater opted to open a pet supply store stocked with a reliable assortment of food, toys, and treats along with a selection of dog and cat themed gifts. Slater also said dog lovers are welcome to pull up a stool at the counter bar that looks over the daycare.

“No alcohol I’m afraid, but folks can come and sit with their coffee, laptop, or The Stranger and de-stress watching pups at play,” she said (you could browse the new CHS new mobile site, too).

The Play on the Hill shop opened Tuesday. Slater said space is still available at the dog daycare, as long as your furry friend weighs in at 30 pounds or less.

Meanwhile, perhaps all is not lost for that original dog bar idea. The neighboring Manhattan space is looking for a new tenant. Live your dreams.

You can learn more here.

Not a dog bar :( (Images: Play on the Hill)