By Michelle Giluso

The dogs that visit Five Paw Bakery may sit up and beg for more when they get a taste and whiff of the posh-life at the specialty dog treat store, which opened Tuesday in downtown Los Altos.

Paul Callary, owner, head pastry chef and self-proclaimed “lead sled dog,” said the bakery is “a whimsical, fun-loving place,” which enables a “healthy pet indulgence” with all natural freshly baked treats and gift products.

“Pet owners tend to be a lively, fun-loving group and we intend to provide a haven for pet lovers looking for a unique gift for their pet, themselves or a friend in an environment that is passionate about providing only the best for our beloved pets,” Callary said.

At first, he said the bakery will offer a selection of eight different dog biscuits, including allergy treats made from wheat, corn and soy products, plus veggie treats for dogs “watching their waistline.”

For canines with a sweet tooth, the bakery will supply pastries, such as Bow-Wow Biscotti, carob-dipped cookies, oatmeal cookies, cinnamon swirls and bone-shaped birthday cakes with low-fat cream cheese icing.

“Unlike most commercial treats, we use the same quality ingredients you would find in a human bakery,” Callary said. He added that the bakery uses carob as a substitute for chocolate because the latter can be toxic to dogs.

The snacks are all natural with no added sugar, salt, coloring or chemical preservatives and are healthy if eaten in moderation, he said.

“We use very simple ingredients of the highest human quality-grade and will list those ingredients in our shop for all our baked treats,” Callary said.

The bakery is not canine exclusive; they sell fresh-baked cat and horse treats.

“We will always have samples available for the discerning canine and kitty,” Callary said.

Callary looked at a half dozen locations before deciding to open the bakery in Los Altos.

“It is really hard to find a more dog-friendly city with such a pleasant downtown ambiance,” he said.

He encourages people to visit the bakery with their pets, and the customers may even have their picture taken with their animals for a store display.

“If you are a little too into your pets, we are probably the perfect place for you to check out,” Callary said. “I guarantee our eclectic mix of products will put a smile on every visitor’s face. Eventually we hope to be a gathering place for people who want to connect with other people who love pets.”

Five Paw Bakery is located at 315 Main St. For more information, call 941-5729.