- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
We love dog-friendly stores—but it can be hard to know which of your errands can be accomplished with your pup in tow. Store policies aren’t always clear on storefronts or online, and the uncertainty can be stressful.
To give you and your pup confidence on your next shopping trip, we’ve rounded up a list of 30 dog-friendly retailers, plus some ideas about which stores your pup isn’t likely to be welcome in. We’ve also consulted Alexandra Bassett, Lead Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant at Dog Savvy, for valuable insights on whether or not bringing your dog into a store is a good idea.
What Stores Are Dog-Friendly?
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. So, let’s get to it! Here’s our list of America’s top dog-friendly stores.
All Locations | Most Locations | Some Locations | No Locations |
Petco | Home Depot | Apple Store | Costco |
PetSmart | Lowes | LUSH Cosmetics | Target |
Tractor Supply Co | Pottery Barn | Macy’s | IKEA |
Nordstrom | TJ Maxx + Marshalls + Homesense | Barnes & Noble | Walmart |
Bass Pro Shop | Cabela’s | Victoria’s Secret | Menards |
Harbor Freight Tools | The Gap + Old Navy | Ann Taylor | Whole Foods |
Everlane | Orvis | LOFT | REI |
JOANN Fabrics | Hobby Lobby | Sephora | Burlington |
At Home | Ross | Duluth Trading Company | |
Michaels | The Container Store | ||
L.L.Bean |
#1 – Petco: Allows Dogs in All Locations
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!
*Confirmed via Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/p/BFedBpiD2jI/?taken-by=petco&hl=en
#2 – PetSmart: Allows Dogs in All Locations
Like Petco, this store for all things pet-related eagerly welcomes your pooch. Staff here often give your dog lots of attention, so make sure your dog is ready for the royal treatment.
https://www.instagram.com/p/B1y0YJFFqex/
#3 – Home Depot: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
Home Depot is one of many hardware stores that often welcome dogs. With its wide aisles, there’s plenty of space for leashed dogs to accompany you on a home improvement expedition.
Our research shows that although the official line is service dogs only, many stores won’t question customers with dogs as long as they are well-behaved. So, while some customers report being turned away at their location, others say their local Home Depot still welcomes their pooch. To be safe, call ahead and verify.
#4 – Lowes: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
A store representative confirmed that Lowe’s welcomes service animals and pets.* The company asks that animals be carried or controlled with a leash. Dogs shouldn’t disrupt other customers (e.g., jumping on people or surroundings, barking, growling, or acting aggressively towards other animals or people).
While the company’s official policy is to allow both service and other animals in stores, this policy is up for interpretation by the store manager. So we recommend calling ahead to your local store, unless you’re only going to the outdoor living section, which—being outside—is generally dog-friendly everywhere.
*Confirmed via Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/p/BEQ0GOMKX0C/?tagged=lowesdogs&hl=en
#5 – Tractor Supply Co: Allows Dogs in All Locations
This national chain is proud to be dog-friendly at all locations.* “We love animals of all shapes and sizes!” a brand representative told us.
In addition to outdoor equipment, Tractor Supply Co. stocks products for dogs, so you can pick out their favorite items together on your next visit. The only requirements are that your dog is friendly and on a leash.
*Confirmed via Social Media
#6 – Sephora: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
While you might find it surprising, many customers report being able to shop in Sephora with their pooch in tow.
Since there’s no official policy, always call or message your local store beforehand. Remember that many Sephora stores are located inside malls, which will have their own pet policy.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CdbVfnmJ3mw/
#7 – LUSH Cosmetics: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
Since many LUSH stores are located in malls, the company has no specific in-store dog policy.* A store representative explained that each location will have its own rules and regulations based on local laws and any mall rules.
If your local shop allows dogs, you’ll be happy to hear this brand shares your love for animals. With their no animal testing policy across all their products, you can be sure no animals were harmed in the making of any items you decide to take home.
*Confirmed via email
#8 – Nordstrom: Allows Dogs in All Locations
Both Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack officially welcome well-behaved dogs on a leash (as confirmed in this Twitter exchange via Doggone Seattle). However, it’s always worth ringing your local store ahead of time to avoid ruining your shopping spree.
Just make sure your dog is well-trained, because if they decide to chew on the designer shoes, it might cost you a pretty penny!
#9 – Everlane: Allows Dogs in All Locations
Everlane is an ethical clothing brand that supports factories with fair wages, reasonable hours, and environmental policies. They also welcome dogs.* This is happy news for pet parents who want to shop cleaner and greener in 2024 and beyond.
*Confirmed via Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/p/CbGpsOWJL1W/
#10 – The Apple Store: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
Many Apple Stores are happy to allow well-behaved dogs on a leash. However, some customers reported having to pick up their dogs due to heavy foot traffic—something to keep in mind if your dog is too heavy to be held.
It’s also important to note that many Apple Stores are located in malls, so it’s good to check if the mall is dog-friendly before heading over.
#11 – Bass Pro Shops: Allows Dogs in All Locations
BPS wants your dog in-store. As stated on the company’s site, “Pets are allowed in the store except where specifically prohibited by state or local laws.”
They even provide a few indoor/outdoor kennels for customers to use while they shop. Before visiting, it’s best to call ahead to find out if a particular store follows this pet policy.
#12 – Pottery Barn: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
Perhaps surprisingly, this upscale home goods chain often welcomes leashed dogs and purse pups. Call ahead to confirm, but chances are you can bring your pet along to choose a new, seriously stylish doggy bowl.
#13 – Macy’s: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
Macy’s has a notable history of accepting dogs in their stores, including in-store courtesies and collaborations with the SPCA. Naturally, many Macy’s are connected to larger malls, which may or may not welcome dogs inside. Always call ahead to inquire.
#14 – TJ Maxx/Marshalls/Homesense: Allow Dogs in Most Locations
These sister-brand discount clothing and home goods chains are known for being dog-friendly. Plus, they’re a great place to pick up everything from dog beds and chew toys to water bowls and treats at discounted prices!
Like the other chains on this list, policies can vary by location*, so always double-check before you go.
*Confirmed via email
#15 – The Gap: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
When we inquired at our local Gap stores, we got an immediate “yes.” However, the corporate office told us the policy was “on a store-by-store basis.”
That doesn’t sound super-definitive, does it? So, like all the stores on this list, always call your local store before bringing your dog.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bb8Iz5ujOzD/?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet
#16 – Barnes & Noble: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
Barnes & Noble has a policy allowing service animals for the disabled in all their stores.* However, locally, each venue follows health codes for their county or state. Be sure to contact your local store directly for more details on their policy for non-service animals.
It’s worth noting that since B&N often has cafes either inside the store or attached, these may limit your dog’s access to the rest of the bookstore.
*Confirmed via Social Media
#17 – Harbor Freight Tools: Allows Dogs in All Locations
The social media folks at Harbor Freight Tools informed us they make every effort to accommodate all their customers and are happy to welcome pets in their stores. They only ask that pets be leashed and not disrupt other customers or store operations.* Service animals are always welcome.
*Confirmed via Social Media
#18 – Cabela’s: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
Since Cabela’s is all about hunting gear, it only makes sense that sporting dogs like retrievers, setters, spaniels, hounds, and pointers would be allowed in their stores (other breeds, too—they don’t discriminate!).
Cabela’s retail stores are generally dog-friendly. However, due to state laws, some stores cannot admit pups other than service dogs. So, it’s best to call before going with your dog.
Like Bass Pro Shop, Cabela’s retail stores have a limited number of indoor/outdoor kennels for customers.
#19 – Old Navy: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
Owned by the same corporation as The Gap, Old Navy has the same policy that differs from store to store. Many, however, will say yes.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BCduyxcm7Ze/
#20 – Orvis: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
Orvis says most locations allow dogs.* Your pooch may even receive a treat from one of their dog-loving retail associates.
If you’ve ever received the Orvis dog catalog, you know it’s one of the best sources for high-end dog beds. Aside from pet products, they even take submissions for their regular catalog cover dog photo contest. Plus, they donate to the Morris Animal Foundation for research into canine cancers and veterinary medicine.
*Confirmed via email
#21 – Victoria’s Secret: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
VS stores allow well-behaved, leashed dogs in their stores—so you and your furry friend can shop in style. However, Victoria’s Secret does tend to get pretty busy, so we’d recommend a carrier for smaller dogs and opting to shop at quieter times.
Remember, too, these stores are often found in malls, which may have their own rules regarding pets.
#22 – Hobby Lobby: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
Before heading to Hobby Lobby with your dog, it’s best to call ahead since the local store manager determines the pet policy. While they are officially dog-friendly stores, some may only allow service dogs or smaller dogs in carriers, for example—whereas others will happily accept your adorable Malamute.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CfU5vfnspk2/
#23 – Ross: Allows Dogs in All Locations
Need your best pal to help you sniff out a bargain? Bring them to Ross Dress for Less and enjoy all their discount deals! Ross welcomes dogs in all their stores, provided they’re leashed.* Ross even has a pet section where you can get your doggy a discount.
*Confirmed via social media
https://www.instagram.com/p/CTCrhVNhUhT/
#24 – Michaels: Allow Dogs in All Locations
Michaels Stores welcome well-behaved, properly restrained pets in all their locations*.
*Confirmed via Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/p/CZkIuhDl9lf/
#24 – Ann Taylor & LOFT: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
These partner fashion stores are dog-friendly as long as your dog is well-behaved and correctly leashed or carried.
The policy also depends on whether your local store is inside a mall, so you’ll have to refer to the mall’s rules, too. Call them before you shop, and they’ll let you know.
#26 – JOANN Fabrics: Allows Dogs in All Locations
JOANN Fabrics outlines its pet-friendly policy on its website. The company requests dogs have good manners and full vaccinations. Dogs must also be clean, considerate, and leashed or carried. The website also has a store locator tool to check if your nearest store is pet-friendly, indicated by a pet icon.
https://www.instagram.com/p/CcNmX5CLLRy/
#27 – L.L.Bean: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
Love hiking or camping with your dog? At L.L.Bean, you can take your hound to shop for all the outdoor essentials—including dog supplies.
With the exception of their flagship in Maine (which features two cafés and only admits service dogs), pets are welcome at most stores across America. Policies will vary by location, so contact your local store beforehand.
https://www.instagram.com/p/Cc3KiyXrkv3/
#28 – Duluth Trading Company: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
Known for durable workwear apparel, Duluth Trading Company also sells dog gear like sweaters, dog cots, and doggy water bottles. The company’s policy regarding dogs in stores is left to the discretion of the store manager, but many permit dogs.
*Confirmed via social media
#29 – At Home: Allows Dogs in All Locations
If you want to spiff up your space, an At Home store will happily oblige your pup. Pet dogs must be leashed or carried—not placed in a shopping cart or basket. Additionally, dogs must be licensed and vaccinated per state and local requirements.
Disruptive dogs may be asked to leave, so make sure your pup is on their best behavior.
#30 – The Container Store: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
Looking to organize your pup’s supplies? The Container Store allows dogs at some locations. Call your local store to learn if they’re one of them.
Popular Retailers That Don’t Allow Dogs
Grocery stores aren’t dog-friendly, and food-serving establishments typically don’t allow dogs indoors due to health regulations. If you want to dine out with your dog, it’s best to look for a venue with an outdoor seating area.
For example, though Starbucks doesn’t allow dogs inside stores, they welcome dogs outside—and will even offer them a tasty “puppuccino” if you ask.
The following stores have a service dog-only policy:
- Costco
- Target
- IKEA
- Walmart
- Menards
- Whole Foods
- REI
- Burlington
Should You Bring Your Dog to a Store?
According to Alexandra Bassett, Lead Dog Trainer and Behavior Consultant at Dog Savvy, before your bring your dog to a store, they should:
- Reliably respond to general obedience cues
- Be potty trained (ensuring your dog has done their business before entering the store helps)
- Respond to redirection away from other people, dogs, and objects
- Respond positively, without stress, to new people and places
In addition, Bassett encourages dog guardians to consider their pet’s personality and energy level. Some dogs might be best left at home. This includes anxious pups who don’t like new situations, reactive dogs with a tendency to bark at other animals, and hyper-energetic dogs who might be hard to control. Dogs with aggressive tendencies should also avoid in-store shopping.
If your dog is a good fit for in-store shopping, here’s what you can do to set yourself and your pup up for success.
- Plan ahead. Avoid peak shopping hours to avoid overwhelming your dog.
- Bring supplies. You’ll need a secure collar and/or harness, a short leash (six feet or less), poop bags, treats, a treat pouch, water, and a bowl. Disinfectant pet wipes are a good idea, too. Smaller dogs may need a carrier.
- Keep your dog on a leash. Most stores enforce strict leash policies.
- Be mindful of others. Bassett advises against letting your dog approach others without consent, even if they’re friendly.
- Pay attention to signs of distress. Monitor your dog’s body language closely for signs of stress or fear.
- Reward good behavior. Along with reinforcing good manners, treats can help keep your dog focused during your outing.
- Bring a friend. If your dog is new to stores, consider bringing a friend with you so you can have an extra eye on your pup—or someone to wait outside with them if things go sideways.
What To Do If You Can’t Bring Your Dog Inside
If you’ve done your homework properly before you go, hopefully, the stores you visit won’t turn your dog away. However, if a store refuses your dog entry, you must respect the employees and other customers by complying with their request. As Bassett points out, not everyone is comfortable around dogs. We should be sensitive to fellow shoppers and follow all store rules.
If you get turned away, avoid tying your dog up outside or leaving your dog in the car—in weather over 70º, even a short stay in the car can be dangerous. It’s much better to take your pup home before running an errand to a store that’s not dog-friendly.
It’s also important that we never lie about our dog being a service dog just to get them into a store. This discredits anyone who actually has a service dog and relies on the service dog policy to shop.
If in doubt, always ask when you enter a store if your dog is welcome.