If you’re a dog owner, chances are you want to spend as much time as possible with your furry friend. That’s easy when you just want to head out for a walk or hit up your favorite dog park, but what happens when you need to run errands or do some shopping? Can you bring your dog along with you?
The answer is yes, in many cases! Not all stores allow dogs, but there are plenty that do. In this listicle, we’ll share 30 stores that welcome dogs, as well as tips for finding out if a store is dog-friendly and what to do if you can’t bring your pup inside.
Stores that allow dogs
No matter what kind of retail therapy you’re looking for, there are pet-friendly stores that happily welcome your furry best friend. We’ve compiled a list of stores that allow dog owners to bring their pooch, ranging from well-known retailers to some surprising additions you may not have considered before.
Pet stores & farm supplies
- Petco: Allows dogs in all locations
- PetSmart: Allows dogs in all locations
- Tractor Supply Co: Allows dogs at all Locations
Home goods & home improvement stores
- Home Depot: Allows dogs in some locations
- Lowes: Allows dogs in most locations
- Harbor Freight Tools: Dogs allowed in all locations
- Pottery Barn: Pets allowed in most locations
- Restoration Hardware: Allowed in most locations
- Bed Bath & Beyond: Dogs Allowed in almost all stores
Clothing retailers
- Nordstrom & Nordstrom Rack: Allows dogs in all locations
- Macy’s: Dogs allowed in some locations
- TJ Maxx, Marshalls, & Homesense: Allows dogs in all locations
- Ross: Allows pets in all locations
- Ann Taylor & LOFT: Allowed in most stores
- The Gap: Dogs allowed in most locations
- Old Navy: Allows pets in most locations
- L.L.Bean: Dogs Allowed in almost all stores
- Everlane: Allows dogs in all locations
Specialty stores
- Victoria’s Secret: Allows pets in all locations
- Warby Parker: Allows dogs in most locations
- The Apple Store: Allows dogs in many locations
Sporting goods
- Bass Pro Shops: Allows dogs in all locations
- Cabela’s: Dogs allowed in most locations
- Orvis: Allows dogs in all locations
Beauty & cosmetics
- LUSH Cosmetics: Allows dogs in all locations
- Sephora: Allows dogs in some locations
Bookstores
- Barnes & Noble: Pets may be allowed in some locations
Craft & hobby
- Hobby Lobby: Allows pets in most locations
- Michaels: Allows dogs in all locations
- JOANN Fabrics: Allows dogs in all locations
Companion and service dogs are generally allowed in most retail locations, as they provide essential support and assistance to their owners. Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), businesses and public spaces must accommodate service animals, ensuring individuals with disabilities have equal access and opportunities.
Should you bring your dog to a store?
While many stores now welcome pets, there are still some places where bringing your dog along isn’t a good idea. Factors like your dog’s temperament, the store’s policies, and the type of store you’ll be visiting are all important things to consider. Even if a store allows dogs, it’s worth thinking about whether it’s safe and appropriate to bring your pet inside. Ultimately, the decision to bring your dog to a store should be made with their best interests in mind.
🚨Retractable leashes are not recommended for enclosed public spaces, like pet supply stores, vet’s offices, common areas, small patios, or anywhere where the extended leash could become a trip or tangle hazard. It’s best to use a standard 6-ft leash to keep your dog nearby at all times.
Your dog’s personality
When deciding whether to bring your dog to a store, first consider your dog’s personality and behavior. If your dog is well-behaved and comfortable in new environments, they may enjoy exploring a store with you. However, if your dog is anxious, easily overwhelmed, or doesn’t do well in crowds or around other dogs, it’s best to leave them at home.
Store type & policy
Next, research the store’s policies on animals. Some stores may only allow service animals, some may allow any well-behaved dogs, and others might be at the manager’s discretion. It’s important to follow the rules and regulations set by the store to ensure a pleasant shopping experience for both you and your dog.
Finally, consider the type of store you’ll be visiting. Stores with a lot of foot traffic, loud noises, and bright lights may not be the best environment for your dog. On the other hand, quieter stores with a calm atmosphere may be a great place to bring your furry friend.
How to find out if a store is dog friendly
One of the easiest ways to determine if dog-friendly shopping is possible at a store is by checking their website or social media accounts for any mention of their pet policy. If you can’t find the information online, don’t hesitate to give the store a call and ask if they allow dogs inside. By doing some research beforehand, you can save yourself and your furry friend from any potential disappointment or inconvenience.
Once you arrive at the store, keep an eye out for code of conduct signs or stickers on or near the door that indicate whether or not dogs are welcome. If there’s no clear signage, feel free to ask a staff member about their pet policy. Remember, even in dog-friendly stores, it’s important to practice proper pet etiquette, such as keeping your dog on a leash and respecting the personal space of other customers.
What to do if you can’t bring your dog into a store
If you find yourself in a situation where your dog isn’t allowed inside a store, consider alternative options to ensure their safety and comfort while you shop. One option is to have a family member or friend stay with your pet outside the store while you quickly grab what you need. Another possibility is to use dog-friendly services such as pet sitters, doggy daycares, or even designated dog parking areas that some stores offer.
If these options aren’t available, you may want to plan your shopping trip for a time when you can leave your dog at home in a secure and comfortable environment. Always prioritize your pet’s well-being and avoid leaving them unattended in potentially harmful situations, such as locked cars or tied up outside for extended periods.
Notable retailers that do not allow dogs
It’s tempting to pop into your favorite one-stop shop when you’re already out with your furry friend, but take note that many of these retailers have fairly stringent policies around pets in the store. Here are a few popular stores that do not allow dogs – except ADA-defined service animals – regardless of training, size, leash behavior, or socialization:
- Walmart
- Sam’s Club
- Most grocery stores, such as Trader Joe’s
- IKEA
- Target
- Costco
Even if you can’t take your dog shopping, there are plenty of activities you and your pooch can do together. Depending on your city, you may find a restaurant or bar that is dog friendly . And if you’re hitting the road this summer, try exploring some of America’s best beaches for dogs.
