As pet parents in a big city, we love entering dog-friendly stores and shopping with our pet dogs. However, it can be difficult to know which of your retail therapy outings or errands can be accomplished with your pup in tow. Certain store policies aren’t always clear about the rules in their storefronts or online, and the uncertainty can be stressful for .
To give you and your pup confidence on your next shopping trip, we’ve rounded up a list of dog-friendly retailers, plus some ideas about which stores your pup isn’t likely to be welcome in.
Dog Friendly Shopping
Dog policies for nationwide stores can vary by location, since the laws about where dogs can and can’t go vary from state to state. Plus, some chains leave it up to their individual managers’ discretion—which means there’s a lot of variability.
Whether you prefer to call, DM, tweet, email, or just stop by without your dog, asking is the best way to discover if your local store is pet-friendly. It’s also worth checking online with a quick Google search, browsing Yelp reviews, or visiting the store’s social media pages before you head out with your pup in tow.
The good news is that dog-friendly stores are becoming more common, with many allowing your dog inside to create a welcoming shopping experience for pet owners. So, let’s get to it!
1. What is Dog Friendly Shopping?
Dog-friendly shopping refers to the practice of allowing dogs to accompany their owners inside retail stores, shopping centers, and other commercial establishments. This trend has gained popularity in recent years, as more pet owners consider their dogs to be part of the family and want to include them in their daily activities. Dog-friendly shopping provides a convenient and enjoyable experience for pet owners, allowing them to shop with their dogs by their side. Whether you’re running errands or indulging in some retail therapy, having your furry friend along can make the experience even more delightful. Plus, it’s a great way to socialize your dog and expose them to new environments.
1. Pet Supply Stores
These stores are almost always dog-friendly, as they specifically cater to pet owners and welcome pet dogs as long as they are leashed, vaccinated, and well-behaved:
Petco: Petco (along with just about every other pet store) welcomes all pets! When asked, Petco confirmed that not just dogs but “any domesticated companion animals that are legal to own in your county/city/state, have the proper license, and are fully vaccinated, are welcome to accompany you to your visit to Petco.”
The company’s only other request is that pets be leashed or otherwise appropriately restrained. And for a pro tip: they will often offer your dog a treat at the counter!
PetSmart: Pets are encouraged to visit, and the stores often host events specifically for pet owners.
Tractor Supply Co.: Known for its pet supplies section, the store often welcomes leashed dogs.
Pet Supplies Plus: Straight from their own website, they state: “Come on by! And don’t forget, we are pet friendly so please bring in your furry friends so we can meet them!”
(You can find PRIDE+GROOM products in both Petco and Pet Supplies Plus, so feel free to bring your pooch to help you shop for their next bath time!)
2. Home Improvement Stores
Home improvement stores typically have large spaces that make them ideal for pet-friendly policies:
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Lowe’s: Most Lowe’s locations allow leashed dogs, but policies may vary.
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Home Depot: Many Home Depot stores are dog-friendly, though some have restrictions depending on local regulations. The Home Depot has a long history as a dog-friendly home improvement chain, and that continues today as well. Unlike other stores, Home Depot’s dog policy can vary by location according to the store manager’s discretion, and some locations may turn your dog away at the door. We recommend calling before setting out to visit your local store with your pooch.
Some locations of The Container Store also have dog-friendly policies, making it a convenient option for pet owners looking to organize their dogs' supplies while shopping.
3. Bookstores
Some bookstores create a cozy, welcoming atmosphere for dogs:
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Barnes & Noble: Select locations allow leashed pets. It is always best to call ahead to confirm.
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Half Price Books: Many locations are pet-friendly and even provide treats at the checkout.
4. Clothing and Retail Stores
These stores often welcome pets in all their locations, making shopping adventures more enjoyable for dog owners:
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Nordstrom: Well-behaved dogs are welcome at many Nordstrom locations, especially in urban areas.
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Anthropologie: This trendy retailer is known for welcoming pets in their stores.
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Free People: Another pet-friendly retailer, dogs are allowed to accompany owners as they shop.
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LUSH Cosmetics: Many locations are dog-friendly, aligning with their animal cruelty-free ethos.
5. Outdoor and Sporting Goods Stores
These stores cater to outdoor enthusiasts, often including dog lovers:
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Bass Pro Shops: Bass Pro Shop is a family-friendly retail destination with a wide variety of outdoor products and a pet-friendly policy that allows customers to shop with their dogs. Dogs are welcome in most locations, and some stores even have pet-related sections.
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Cabela’s: Like Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s typically welcomes dogs and sometimes hosts pet-friendly events.
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REI: Some locations allow dogs, especially in areas with strong outdoor recreation cultures. Some managers may be less than enthusiastic about having dogs in their store, which can hinder your ability to bring in a dog.
6. Furniture and Home Decor Stores
Several furniture stores welcome pets:
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IKEA (select locations): While most IKEA stores do not allow pets, some locations with outdoor areas or smaller models are dog-friendly.
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Pottery Barn: Many locations welcome pups, and they are known for occasionally hosting pet adoption events.
7. Breweries and Cafes
While not traditional stores, many breweries and cafes allow dogs, especially in outdoor seating areas. Local spots often highlight their dog-friendly nature.
8. Dog Friendly Shopping Centers
Many pet friendly shopping malls in the U.S. allow your dog to accompany you while you shop. In some states, dogs are not only permitted but welcomed with amenities, such as dog comfort stations, doggie drinking fountains, dog parks, yappy hours and other dog-centric events. Most outdoor malls allow well-behaved dogs on a leash in the common areas, while some stores allow dogs on a leash or in a carrier to come inside. Before taking your pet to a shopping mall, make sure you know the rules of the individual mall.
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Simon Premium Outlets offers 65 pet friendly shopping malls nationwide. Simon Premium Outlet Centers in the United States are located primarily in or near major metropolitan markets such as New York, Los Angeles, Boston and Chicago and visitor markets such as Orlando and Palm Springs. Pets on leashes are allowed at all outdoor air Premium Outlets® centers.
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The Country Club Plaza in Kansas City: This shopping center welcomes dogs and provides water bowls for pets during the summer months, ensuring your furry friend stays hydrated while you shop.
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The Americana Manhasset in New York: With over 60 retail stores to boast and 2 dog-friendly restaurants that welcome all dogs at their outdoor tables, The Americana Manhasset is the place to take your furry best friend for luxury goods and even the best pet products designers can make. From smaller dogs to giant pooches, you will see almost every breed imaginable in their pet friendly stores.
These shopping centers not only cater to the needs of dog owners but also create a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors, making dog-friendly shopping a pleasant experience for everyone.
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 and may not welcome dogs. Here are a few popular stores that do not allow dogs – except ADA-defined service animals – regardless of training, size, leash behavior, or socialization:
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Walmart
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Sam’s Club
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Most grocery store chains, such as Trader Joe’s
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Target
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Costco
Unlike these retailers, many pet stores welcome dogs.
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.
Companion Animals and Service Dogs
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.
Tips for Visiting Dog-Friendly Stores
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Call Ahead: Even within the same chain, the pet policy can vary by location.
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Keep Your Dog Leashed: Most stores require pets to be on a leash at all times.
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Mind Your Dog's Behavior: Only bring your dog if they are comfortable in public and around people or other animals.
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Bring Cleanup Supplies: Accidents happen, and being prepared is essential.
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Be Respectful of Others: Not all customers may be comfortable around dogs.
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.
By visiting pet friendly stores, you can include your furry friend in your errands and adventures while respecting store policies and other patrons.
Supporting Dog Friendly Retailers
By supporting dog-friendly retailers, pet owners can help promote a culture of inclusivity and acceptance for dogs in public spaces. When shopping at dog-friendly stores, pet owners can show their appreciation by:
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Following the store’s pet policy and rules: Adhering to the guidelines ensures a positive experience for everyone.
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Keeping their dogs on a leash and under control: This helps maintain a safe and comfortable environment for all shoppers.
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Cleaning up after their dogs and disposing of waste properly: Being responsible pet parents is crucial in maintaining the store’s cleanliness.
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Being respectful of other customers and store employees: Not everyone may be comfortable around dogs, so it’s important to be considerate.
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Providing positive feedback and reviews: Encouraging more retailers to adopt dog-friendly policies can be as simple as leaving a kind review or mentioning your positive experience.
Supporting these retailers not only benefits pet owners but also helps foster a more inclusive community where dogs are welcomed and appreciated.
Never Leave Your Dog Outside Of a Store
- Theft: Dogs left outside a store are a target for thieves. Some breeds, like French Bulldogs, Chihuahuas, Doodle Mixes and Yorkshire Terriers, are especially vulnerable.
- Injury: Dogs can injure themselves if their leash gets tangled or they slip it.
- Anxiety: Dogs can become anxious when left alone.
- Behavior problems: Dogs left outside may become more likely to bark, dig, chew, jump, and bite.
- Stress: Dogs can experience stress from being left alone, which can age them faster and reduce their life expectancy.
Conclusion
Dog-friendly shopping has become a popular trend in recent years, with many retailers and shopping centers welcoming dogs into their establishments. By understanding what dog-friendly shopping is, finding dog-friendly stores and shopping centers, and supporting dog-friendly retailers, pet owners can enjoy a convenient and enjoyable shopping experience with their dogs by their side. Remember to always follow the store’s pet policy, be respectful of others, and provide positive feedback to help promote a culture of inclusivity and acceptance for dogs in public spaces. Whether you’re visiting a local store or a large shopping center, bringing your dog along can make your shopping trips more enjoyable and memorable.
