Two major UK retailers, The Range and Wilko, have declared their stores dog-friendly amid divided public opinion.

Commenters on Facebook underneath posts by the North Wales Pioneer and the Rhyl Journal responded to the question: "Would you like to see more dog-friendly stores on the high street?"

Sally Anderson said: "Other than assistance dogs they shouldn't be in cafes, restaurants or stores.

"Unhygienic and some people have allergies.

"Plus not much fun for the dog - take them for a long walk or on the (unrestricted parts) of the beach."

The announcement was greeted in a similarly lukewarm fashion by others, including Patrick Short, who said: "No - not at all, dog muck on streets and now in shops, yes they could pick it up but why should staff be expected to clean dog wee and poo up?"

Kim Howarth, who stressed that she was a dog owner herself, said: "Shops are no place for dogs.

"I can’t understand why you’d want to take your dog shopping.

"It’s bad enough in Pets At Home when there’s wee everywhere."

Amanda Paul raised the matter of liability in accidents involving dogs in stores, saying: "No, shops are for shopping, not walking your dog.

"Who's going to be liable if the dog bites someone; wees and someone slips on it before cleaning; cleaning it up if they do have an accident?"

Ms Paul also said: "North Wales especially around Rhos and Llandudno, everywhere seems to let dogs in.

"Not everyone is a dog fanatic."

Lynn Murphy cited personal health issues, saying: "Another store I will not be able to use due to my pet allergy.

"Wonderful."

However, there were also voices of support for the move.

Brian Springthorpe said: "I'd rather see a well-behaved dog in a shop, pub or restaurant than an unruly, unattended child."

Matt Sharpe had a fun take on the matter, saying: "For my dog - yes.

"For everyone else’s dog - absolutely no."