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Ever driven to the store and realised your best four-legged pal isn’t welcome? We all know the dangers of leaving our dog in a hot car while we shop, but leaving him at home isn’t always the best option either. Fortunately, there are plenty of stores that allow dogs across America, and we’ve rounded a bunch of them up for you!
Dog policies for nationwide stores can vary by location. So it can be tricky to know where our canine buddies are welcome. For example, is Target dog friendly? Well, their mascot might be a Bull Terrier, but they have a staunch “service dog-only” environment. And the following stores have the same policy:
- Costco
- IKEA
- Walmart
- Menards
- Whole Foods
N.B. Grocery stores aren’t dog friendly, and food-serving establishments typically don’t allow dogs indoors due to health regulations. So, if you want to dine out with your dog, it’s a good idea to look for a venue with an outdoor 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!
Should You Bring Your Dog to a Store?
Before your decide to bring your dog to a store, your dog should have a certain level of training. General obedience is important, as stores will better welcome well behaved pups. Of course, it’s crucial to make sure your dog is potty trained—no one wants an accident in the store! (Ensuring your dog has done their business before entering the store helps.) And training your dog with treats for redirection away from dangers and curiosities is a good trick for in-store behavior too.
It’s also wise to consider how long to visit a store and what times of day to go. Will your dog get tired, hungry or thirsty being out for too long? What can you bring with you to keep your dog happy? When will the store be quieter and less overwhelming for your dog? This can of course depend on what store you’re going to, so have a think about it before you set off.
Remember, you should never lie about your dog being a service dog just to get him 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—if not, we have some great alternative options to choose from.
The good news is dog-friendly stores are becoming more common. So let’s get to it! Here’s our list of America’s top dog-friendly stores:
30 Stores That Allow Dogs
#1 – Petco: Allows Dogs in All Locations
Okay, so it’s a pretty obvious one to start—Petco, along with pretty much any 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*”.
They also stated that: “All visiting pets are required to be appropriately restrained*”, whether that’s by a leash, tether, carrier, or travel habitat.
And for a pro tip … they will often offer your dog a treat at the counter!
*Confirmed via Social Media
#2 – Home Depot: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
Home Depot is one of many hardware stores that often welcomes 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. Just be sure to call ahead and verify.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BGAKfE0H2wA/
#3 – Lowes: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
According to the National Canine Research Association of America (NCRAOA) the official policy for Lowes is that they allow both service and other animals in store. However, this policy is up for interpretation by the store manager. So you’ll have to call ahead to your local store, unless you’re only going to hit up the outdoor living section, which—being outside—is generally dog friendly everywhere.
#4 – Tractor Supply Co: Allows Dogs at All Locations
This popular national chain is proud to be dog-friendly at all of its locations*. And apparently, one of their best customers is none other than Maddie Belle the Golden Retriever. They even posted her picture on their website to prove it!
Of course, as well as all your great outdoor equipment, Tractor Supply Co. also stock lots of products for your dog—so you can let them pick out their own favorite items on your next visit together. The only requirements are that your dog is friendly and on a leash.
*Confirmed via Social Media
#5 – Nordstrom: Allows Dogs in All Locations
Nordstrom: Dogs Allowed in All Locations
Does your dog need to spruce up her Insta account? Go on a doggy day trip to Nordstrom and get papped amongst all the latest fashion. There’s even a #dogsofnordstrom tag on Instagram if you need some inspiration. Just make sure she’s fully trained, because your wallet might not be able to keep up if your dog chews through the designer shoe section!
Nordstrom and the Nordstrom Rack have an official policy to welcome well-behaved dogs on a leash (as you can see on this Twitter exchange via Doggone Seattle). However, it’s always worth a ring to your local store ahead of time to avoid ruining your shopping spree.
#6 – The Apple Store: Allows Dogs in Many Locations
Need the new iPhone stat? Can’t wait to get your hand on the new Macbook? Now your dog can join in on release-day fun, too!
Yes, in many locations, the Apple Store is happy to allow well-behaved dogs on a leash. However, customers have reported having to pick up their dogs if there is a great deal of foot traffic—which is something to keep in mind if your dog is a little heavy to be held.
Also, many Apple Stores are located in malls, which may not be dog-friendly—so double-check before you go.
#7 – Bass Pro Shops: Stores That Allow Dogs in All Locations
You might think it sounds fishy, but BPS wants to have your dog in-store; they even blog about and encourage it!
“Customers will sometimes bring their puppies or young dogs in to Bass Pro Shops to help get them socialized. A good time to do the new introduction to this environment is during the weekday mornings or evenings. So, next time you come to Bass Pro Shops Altoona, bring your well socialized canine buddy and we will be sure to spoil them rotten!”—BassPro
They even have a popular “Dog Days” event each year, enjoyed by all types of hounds!
#8 – Pottery Barn: Pets Allowed in Most Locations
Perhaps surprisingly, this high-end home goods chain often welcomes leashed dogs and purse pups. Call ahead to confirm, but chances are you can bring your pet along to select a new, seriously stylish doggy bowl.
The Victoria Gardens location even posted this photo of a handsome poodle trying out a couch in-store!
#9 – LUSH Cosmetics: Stores That Allow Dogs in All Locations
Not only are dogs welcome in this store*, but you can purchase your makeup from this company knowing that you both share a 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 Social Media
https://www.instagram.com/p/9DbP9WSnUh/?tagged=lushdogs&hl=en
#10 – Macy’s: Dogs Allowed in Some Locations
A parade of floats and balloons isn’t the only thing Macy’s encourages: a parade of pooches is okay too! Macy’s has a notable history 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.
Macy’s even featured adoptable dogs in their holiday window displays one year—check it out. Awwww.
#11 – TJ Maxx/Marshalls/Homesense
These sister-brand discount clothing and home goods chains are known for being dog-friendly, as this cute little Frenchie can attest to. Plus, it’s 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.
#12 – Barnes & Noble: Pets May Be Allowed in Some Locations
While we wait for our favorite doggy book retailer Dogwise to open up stores (fingers crossed!), the next best thing is Barnes & Noble. They have a policy allowing service animals for the disabled in all their stores*, but locally each venue follows health codes for their county or state with regards to pets. So be sure to contact your local store for more details on their policy for non-service animals at that location.
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
#13 – Harbor Freight Tools: Dogs Allowed in All Locations
A dog is man’s best friend. And what else does man like? Using tools! Plus, Harbor Freight has a (limited) pet section too.
We had a nice message from the social media guys over at Harbor Freight Tools saying: “With more that 1300 stores nationwide, we make every effort to accommodate all of our customers. Service animals are always allowed. Customers with pets are also welcome, as long as they don’t present a risk to out customers or associates, or disrupt our store operations*”.
With that being said, feel free to head out and get yourself a new ratchet or tool chest, and your pooch can pick out her new pet bed.
*Confirmed via Social Media
#14 – Cabela’s: Dogs Allowed 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 (as well as all the other breeds!). 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 ahead before making a trip with your dog.
Cabela’s retail stores also have a limited number of indoor/outdoor kennels available for customers to use. They can set up the kennel and you can leave your dog there while you shop.
#15 – PetSmart: Stores That Allow Dogs in All Locations
Like Petco, this store for all things pet related eagerly welcomes your pooch. In fact, it’s pretty much doggy Disneyland! Staff here will often give your dog lots of attention, so make sure your dog is ready for the royal treatment.
#16 – Restoration Hardware: Allowed in Most Locations
We got in touch with Restoration Hardware, and they confirmed* that they welcome dogs at their locations. However, it’s worth calling ahead to the gallery you are interested in visiting to confirm their policy.
If you get the green light, you’ll be able to bring along your pup and get his opinion on the most comfortable sofas in store!
*Confirmation via Live Chat
#17 – The Gap: Dogs Allowed in Most Locations
When we inquired at our local GAP stores, we got an immediate “yes.” But the corporate office told us that 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 you bring your dog with you.
#18 – Old Navy: Allows Pets in Most Locations
Owned by the same corporation as The Gap, Old Navy has the same policy that differs from store to store.
So, if you want to take your dog to try and befriend some lifelike mannequin pals like this gorgeous Goldie below, call ahead and make sure your local store allows pets.
#19 – Orvis: Allows Dogs in All Locations
This one was a shoo-in. If you’ve ever received the Orvis dog catalog, you know it’s one of the best sources for high-end dog beds around. And aside from their array of pet products, they even take submissions for their regular catalog cover dog photo contest, as well as donating to the Morris Animal Foundation for research into canine cancers and veterinary medicine.
Orvis has retail stores throughout the U.S. (selling men and women’s clothing, hunting gear, fly fishing gear, home furnishings, and more), and this is what they had to say about their pet policy*: “We are a dog-friendly company and love dogs! They are welcome to visit all our stores—we even bring them into work sometimes!”
*Confirmed via Live Chat
#20 – Victoria’s Secret: Allows Pets in All Locations
Got a penchant for pups and panties? Well the good news is you can have both at Victoria’s Secret thanks to their dog-friendly policy. VS stores allow well-behaved, leashed dogs in their stores—so you and your furry friend can shop in style.
Victoria’s Secret does tend to get pretty busy though, so we’d also recommend a carrier for smaller dogs and opting to shop at quieter times.
https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/victorias-secret-soho-manhattan-gm157773787-16157000?phrase=victoria%27s%20secret%20store
#21 – Hobby Lobby: Allows Pets in Most Locations
Another one to call ahead before setting off, it’s the local store manager who decides the pet policy at Hobby Lobby. So, while they are officially dog-friendly stores, some may allow only service dogs, or smaller dogs in carriers for example—whereas others will happily accept your adorable Malamute.
Whatever your local store ruling, always make sure your dog is well trained and leashed before heading out to stock up on your craft supplies.
OR: https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/hobby-lobby-retail-store-gm458332789-21534883?phrase=hobby%20lobby
#22 – Ross: Allows Pets in All Locations
Need your best pal to help you sniff out a bargain? Bring her along to Ross Dress for Less and enjoy all their discount deals! According to their social media, Ross welcomes dogs in all their stores, with a policy that means they don’t have to distinguish between pets and service animals.
Ross even has a pet section where you can get your doggy a discount deal. And here they are celebrating National Pet Day over on instagram too!
#23 – Michaels: Stores That Allow Dogs in All Locations
Want involve your dog in all your crafting activities? Well, we’d probably advise against that—we’re pretty sure they’d make a big mess! But at least you can have him join in some of the fun, as Michaels Stores welcome well behaved, properly restrained pets in all their locations*.
*Confirmed via Social Media
#24 – Ann Taylor & LOFT: Allowed in Most Stores
In need of a wardrobe update? Want to take your dog along for a second opinion? Well, according to our online sleuthing, these partner fashion stores are all 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 for that you’ll have to refer to the mall’s rules too. Give them a call before you shop and they’ll be able to let you know.
https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/ann-taylor-gm458388833-27832266?phrase=ann%20taylor%20store
#25 – Bed Bath & Beyond: Dogs Allowed in Almost All Stores
Bed Bath & Beyond not only sell pet products, they’re usually happy to let our canine pals shop with us too. Dogs have to be leashed, carried or well behaved and the policy can depend on location due to state codes. Some stores even have special dog carts your dog can sit in as you shop!
Take your pooch along on your next trip and have him help you pick out all the best stuff—just like Moose here!
#26 – Everlane: Allows Dogs in All Locations
Everlane are an ethical clothing brand, supporting factories with fair wages, reasonable hours, and environmental policies. They also welcome dogs across the board* (and feature cute pups on their instagram)! Happy news for dog owners who want to shop cleaner and greener in 2022.
*Confirmed via Social Media
#27 – JOANN Fabrics: Stores That Allow Dogs in All Locations
JOANN Fabrics recently celebrated National Pet Day by posting this adorable Lab decked out in this adorable green gingham fit. They also have a pet-friendly policy outlined on their website, that includes good manners, full vaccinations, leashed or carried, and just to be clean and considerate! The policy page includes a local store search, where you can double check if your nearest store is pet-friendly and labelled with a pet icon.
So, next time you’re thinking of getting creative, bring your dog along for a little extra inspiration.
#28 – L.L.Bean: Dogs Allowed in Almost All Stores
Love taking your dog on a long hike, or for a weekend camping? Well at L.L.Bean you can take your hound along to shop for all the outdoor essentials—and that includes dog supplies too.
With the exception of their flagship in Maine (which features two cafés and only admits services dogs) pet pups are welcomed at all stores across America. They also love to showcase their four-legged customers on facebook.
#29 – Warby Parker: Allows Dogs in Most Locations
Warby Parker’s love of dogs is evident from their instagram. They’re always posting photos of pups trying on their frames! Their website has a whole page dedicated to dogs too, and sends out gluten-free dog treats with every order. They even released a limited edition Canine Collection, featuring five of their vintage-inspired styles crafted in chew-resistant acetate!
Unsurprisingly therefore, Warby Parker is happy to welcome pet dogs into the majority of their stores. When we chatted to them on social media, they said that the rule can vary from location to location due to factors like stores being inside malls and shopping centers. They also said they’d be happy to check on individual store policies from the DMs, so just send them a message and they’ll let you know what’s the lowdown on your local.
#30 – Sephora: Allows Dogs in Some Locations
While you might find is surprising, many customers report being able to shop in Sephora with their pooch in tow. Of course you’ll need to be sure to keep their tongues out of the testers!
Since there’s no official policy to go on, always be sure to call or message your local store ahead of time. Bear in mind too that many Sephora stores are located inside malls which will have their own pet policy.
How to Find Out if a Store is Dog Friendly
Whether you prefer to call, DM, tweet, email or just stop by without your dog, the best way to discover if your local store is pet friendly is to ask. It’s also worth checking online with a quick google, browse of yelp reviews, or the store’s social media pages before you head out with your pup in tow.
While national chain policy may vary quite a bit by location, chances are you’ll find dog-friendly spots in your city in our lists of local dog-friendly establishments, events, hikes, and more.
What to Do if You Can’t Bring Your Dog In
If you’ve done your homework properly before you go, the stores you visit hopefully won’t turn you and your dog away. However, if a store refuses your dog entry, you’ll need to respect the employees and other customers in the store by complying with their request. Remember, it’s never okay to pretend your dog is a service dog if this is not the case.
As we’ve mentioned above, any stores with food service will not allow dogs due to health codes. So, if you’re off to get groceries it’s always best to leave your dog at home—or with their favorite neighborhood sitter of course!
Further Reading
Now you know everything there is to know about dog-friendly stores, how about taking your dog other places? Have a read of our articles about taking your dog traveling around America or even further afield!
- Can I Take My Dog on Amtrak?
- Can I Take My Dog on a Cruise?
- Can I Take My Dog to Hawaii?
- Can I Take My Dog to England/The UK?
- Can I Take My Dog to Europe?
