Affiliate Disclosure
We participate in Amazon affiliate program, earning fees from qualifying purchases via links at no extra cost to you.
Key Points
- Many major US stores are dog-friendly, but pet policies vary by location and manager.
- Stores like PetSmart, Petco, and Nordstrom welcome dogs; grocery stores like Walmart and Target typically don’t.
- Always call ahead to confirm pet policies, as local laws or mall rules may apply.
- Service dogs are allowed everywhere under the ADA, but emotional support animals (ESAs) aren’t.
- Responsible pet ownership ensures pet-friendly shopping is safe and enjoyable for all.
Why It Matters
You love your pup, and leaving them home for a quick shopping trip feels tough. Dog-friendly stores let you bring your furry friend along, making errands more fun. But not all stores allow dogs, and pet policies can be confusing. Knowing where dogs are welcome helps you plan better and avoid awkward moments at the door.
What to Expect
This guide lists over 100 major US stores, detailing which are dog-friendly and which aren’t in 2025. We’ve included tips for pet owners and ways to balance pet-friendly shopping with public health. Share your favorite dog-friendly spots on pawsavvytech.com!
How to Use This Guide
Check the lists below for dog-friendly stores and those that only allow service dogs. Use our tips to ensure smooth shopping trips. Always verify policies with your local store, as they can vary.
Introduction
Your dog’s wagging tail makes every trip better, right? But when you’re heading to the store, you might wonder: can I bring my dog? With 68% of US households owning pets, mostly dogs (American Pet Products Association), pet owners are eager to include their pups in daily errands. Dog-friendly stores make this possible, but pet policies differ across retailers, causing confusion. Some stores welcome dogs with open arms, while others stick to strict no-pet rules, except for service dogs. This article lists over 100 major US stores in 2025, showing which are dog-friendly and which aren’t. We’ll also share tips to make pet-friendly shopping fun and safe. Got a favorite dog-friendly store? Tell us at pawsavvytech.com!
Why Dog-Friendly Stores Matter to Pet Owners
I’ve been there—your dog’s your best buddy, and leaving them behind stinks. A 2021 study found 85% of pet owners feel less stress with their dogs nearby (ScienceDirect). Bringing your pup shopping strengthens that bond, especially if they’ve got separation anxiety. Dog-friendly stores cater to pet owners, letting you shop without worry.
But pet policies aren’t always clear. Some stores allow dogs everywhere, others depend on the manager, and some ban pets due to public health concerns like allergies or messes (ACAAI). Knowing which stores are dog-friendly helps you plan errands and avoid surprises. It’s a win for pet owners and their furry friends. Keep your dog happy at home with smart pet toys if you can’t bring them along.
Dog-Friendly Stores in the US
Dog-friendly stores welcome well-behaved, leashed dogs, but pet policies vary. Below, we’ve categorized over 100 major US retailers based on their pet policies in 2025. Always call ahead to confirm, as local laws or mall rules may apply. Use a GPS dog collar to keep your pup safe on outings.
Always Dog-Friendly Stores
These stores allow dogs at all locations, making them top picks for pet owners.
| Store Name | Policy Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| PetSmart | Allows all leashed, vaccinated pets | Offers pet supplies, staff often give dogs attention (PetSmart) |
| Petco | Welcomes all domestic pets | Dogs must be leashed and vaccinated (Petco) |
| Tractor Supply Co. | Enthusiastically dog-friendly | Offers vet clinics, pet wash (Tractor Supply) |
| Nordstrom | Welcomes leashed dogs | Luxury store, dogs must be well-behaved (Nordstrom) |
| Everlane | Allows dogs in all stores | Ethical brand, pet-friendly shopping (Everlane) |
| Bass Pro Shops | Welcomes dogs unless prohibited by law | Hosts dog-friendly events (Bass Pro) |
| Harbor Freight Tools | Allows leashed pets | DIY store, ensure dogs don’t disrupt (Harbor Freight) |
| Ross | Welcomes leashed dogs | Has pet section (Ross) |
| Michaels | Allows well-behaved pets | Sanitizes carts for allergies (Michaels) |
| JOANN Fabrics | Welcomes leashed, vaccinated dogs | Check mall rules (JOANN) |
| At Home | Allows leashed, vaccinated dogs | Home decor store (At Home) |
| Half Price Books | Welcomes leashed dogs | Dog-friendly bookstore (Half Price Books) |
| Gander Outdoors | Liberal pet policies | Outdoor gear, pet supplies (Gander Outdoors) |
| Bed Bath & Beyond | Dog-friendly, some locations have canine carts | Check local policy (Bed Bath & Beyond) |
| Strand Bookstore | Allows dogs in NYC location | Bookstore with dog-friendly vibe (Strand) |
| Warby Parker | Welcomes dogs, may offer treats | Eyewear retailer (Warby Parker) |
| LUSH Cosmetics | Welcomes dogs in all stores | Vegan products, no animal testing (LUSH) |
Often Dog-Friendly Stores
These stores allow dogs at most locations, but pet policies depend on the manager or local rules. Check with your local store before bringing your pup.
| Store Name | Policy Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Home Depot | Varies by manager, often allows pets | Wide aisles, call ahead (Home Depot) |
| Lowe’s | Varies, often allows pets | Check store details (Lowe’s) |
| Pottery Barn | Often allows leashed dogs | Avoid fragile items (Pottery Barn) |
| TJ Maxx | Often dog-friendly, varies by store | Call ahead (TJ Maxx) |
| Marshalls | Often allows dogs, varies by store | Call ahead (Marshalls) |
| Homesense | Often dog-friendly, varies by store | Part of TJX (Homesense) |
| Gap | Often allows dogs, varies by store | Check mall rules (Gap) |
| Old Navy | Often dog-friendly, varies by store | Owned by Gap (Old Navy) |
| Cabela’s | Often allows dogs, check local laws | Part of Bass Pro (Cabela’s) |
| Orvis | Often allows dogs, may offer treats | Outdoor retailer (Orvis) |
| Hobby Lobby | Often allows dogs, some restrictions | Call ahead (Hobby Lobby) |
| L.L.Bean | Allows dogs except at flagship Maine store | Outdoor gear (L.L.Bean) |
| Ann Taylor | Often allows well-behaved dogs | Check mall rules (Ann Taylor) |
| LOFT | Often dog-friendly, varies by store | Check mall rules (LOFT) |
| Patagonia | Often allows dogs, varies by store | Outdoor brand (Patagonia) |
| Columbia Sportswear | Often allows dogs, varies by store | Outdoor gear (Columbia) |
| Eddie Bauer | Often allows dogs, varies by store | Outdoor clothing (Eddie Bauer) |
Varies by Location
These stores have inconsistent pet policies, so always call ahead to avoid surprises.
| Store Name | Policy Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Apple Stores | Some allow dogs, depends on mall rules | Check crowds (Apple) |
| Macy’s | Some locations allow dogs, check mall rules | Varies by store (Macy’s) |
| Sephora | No official policy, varies by store | Check mall rules (Sephora) |
| Victoria’s Secret | Some allow small dogs or carriers | Check mall rules (Victoria’s Secret) |
| Duluth Trading Co. | Varies by manager, often allows dogs | Outdoor gear (Duluth Trading) |
| Anthropologie | Often dog-friendly, varies by store | Trendy merchandise (Anthropologie) |
| Urban Outfitters | Often allows dogs, spacious layouts | Check mall rules (Urban Outfitters) |
| Free People | Often dog-friendly, offers pet accessories | Call ahead (Free People) |
| Saks Fifth Avenue | Some locations allow leashed dogs | Luxury store (Saks) |
| Bloomingdale’s | Some allow dogs, no pets in restaurants | Check mall rules (Bloomingdale’s) |
| Madewell | Often allows dogs, varies by store | Clothing retailer (Madewell) |
| Bath & Body Works | Some allow dogs, consider space for large dogs | Call ahead (Bath & Body Works) |
| Abercrombie & Fitch | Some allow dogs, especially in dog-friendly malls | Check mall rules (Abercrombie) |
| Ross Dress For Less | Some allow dogs, has pet section | Call ahead (Ross) |
| Tiffany & Co. | Some allow dogs, varies by store | Luxury jewelry (Tiffany) |
| Hallmark | Some allow dogs, varies by store | Check mall rules (Hallmark) |
Stores That Don’t Allow Dogs
Some stores, especially those selling food or in malls, only allow service dogs due to public health rules (FDA Food Code). Service dogs are protected under the ADA (DOJ ADA), but ESAs and pets aren’t. Here’s a list of stores that typically don’t allow dogs, except for service dogs.
| Store Name | Policy Details | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Only service dogs allowed | Grocery and retail (Walmart) |
| Target | Only service dogs allowed | Grocery and retail (Target) |
| Costco | Only service dogs allowed | Wholesale club (Costco) |
| Sam’s Club | Only service dogs allowed | Wholesale club (Sam’s Club) |
| IKEA | Only service dogs allowed | Furniture, some outdoor areas may allow pets (IKEA) |
| Menards | Only service dogs allowed | Home improvement (Menards) |
| Trader Joe’s | Only service dogs allowed | Grocery store (Trader Joe’s) |
| Kroger | Only service dogs allowed | Grocery chain (Kroger) |
| Albertsons | Only service dogs allowed | Grocery chain (Albertsons) |
| Safeway | Only service dogs allowed | Grocery chain (Safeway) |
| Publix | Only service dogs allowed | Grocery chain (Publix) |
| Whole Foods | Only service dogs allowed | Grocery chain, some outdoor areas may allow pets (Whole Foods) |
| Aldi | Only service dogs allowed | Grocery chain (Aldi) |
| CVS | Only service dogs, manager discretion | Pharmacy (CVS) |
| Walgreens | Only service dogs, manager discretion | Pharmacy (Walgreens) |
| Rite Aid | Only service dogs allowed | Pharmacy (Rite Aid) |
| Best Buy | Only service dogs allowed | Electronics (Best Buy) |
| Staples | Only service dogs, varies by store | Office supplies (Staples) |
| Office Depot | Only service dogs allowed | Office supplies (Office Depot) |
| JCPenney | Only service dogs allowed | Department store (JCPenney) |
| Kohl’s | Only service dogs allowed | Department store (Kohl’s) |
| Dillard’s | Only service dogs allowed | Department store (Dillard’s) |
| Belk | Only service dogs allowed | Department store (Belk) |
| Burlington | Only service dogs allowed | Department store (Burlington) |
| Dollar General | Only service dogs allowed | Discount store (Dollar General) |
| Dollar Tree | Only service dogs allowed | Discount store (Dollar Tree) |
| Family Dollar | Only service dogs allowed | Discount store (Family Dollar) |
| Five Below | Only service dogs allowed | Discount store (Five Below) |
| Big Lots | Only service dogs allowed | Discount store (Big Lots) |
| H&M | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (H&M) |
| Zara | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (Zara) |
| Uniqlo | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (Uniqlo) |
| Forever 21 | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (Forever 21) |
| American Eagle | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (American Eagle) |
| Hollister | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (Hollister) |
| Nike | Only service dogs allowed | Sportswear (Nike) |
| Adidas | Only service dogs allowed | Sportswear (Adidas) |
| Foot Locker | Only service dogs allowed | Footwear (Foot Locker) |
| DSW | Only service dogs allowed | Footwear (DSW) |
| Famous Footwear | Only service dogs allowed | Footwear (Famous Footwear) |
| Ulta Beauty | Only service dogs allowed | Beauty (Ulta) |
| Claire’s | Only service dogs allowed | Accessories (Claire’s) |
| Spencer’s | Only service dogs allowed | Novelty (Spencer’s) |
| Hot Topic | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (Hot Topic) |
| Zumiez | Only service dogs allowed | Skatewear (Zumiez) |
| PacSun | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (PacSun) |
| Express | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (Express) |
| White House Black Market | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (White House Black Market) |
| Talbots | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (Talbots) |
| J.Crew | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (J.Crew) |
| Levi’s | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (Levi’s) |
| Wrangler | Only service dogs allowed | Clothing (Wrangler) |
| Carhartt | Only service dogs allowed | Workwear (Carhartt) |
| Books-A-Million | Only service dogs allowed | Bookstore (Books-A-Million) |
| Party City | Only service dogs allowed | Party supplies (Party City) |
| Guitar Center | Only service dogs allowed | Music (Guitar Center) |
| Dick Blick Art Materials | Only service dogs allowed | Art supplies (Dick Blick) |
| BuyBuy Baby | Only service dogs allowed | Baby products (BuyBuy Baby) |
| World Market | Only service dogs allowed | Home decor (World Market) |
Tips for Shopping at Dog-Friendly Stores
Want to shop with your dog without a hitch? Here’s how to make pet-friendly shopping smooth for pet owners and others:
- Call Ahead: Pet policies vary, so check with your local store (BringFido).
- Leash Up: Use a short, non-retractable leash for control (AKC).
- Train Your Dog: Programs like AKC Canine Good Citizen ensure good behavior (AKC). Try a pet care schedule planner to stay organized.
- Clean Up: Bring poop bags and wipes for accidents. Keep public health in mind.
- Respect Others: Don’t let your dog jump on people or displays. Some folks have allergies or fears (ACAAI).
- Use Tech: A GPS dog collar keeps your pup safe. Monitor health with a pet health monitor.
Balancing Pet-Friendly Shopping and Public Health
Dog-friendly stores are awesome, but not everyone loves dogs. Allergies affect 10-20% of people (ACAAI), and some have phobias. Public health rules, like the FDA Food Code, limit pets in food stores for safety (FDA Food Code). Pet owners should respect these concerns. Stores can help by offering pet-friendly hours or outdoor areas. I’ve seen dogs in stores cause smiles, but also sneezes. Let’s work together for pet-friendly shopping that’s safe for all. Share ideas on pawsavvytech.com!
Conclusion
Dog-friendly stores like PetSmart and Nordstrom make shopping with your pup a breeze, but stores like Walmart and Target only allow service dogs. Check pet policies before you go. Use our tips to keep shopping fun and safe. Got a favorite dog-friendly store? Share it on pawsavvytech.com to help other pet owners!
FAQs
Related posts:
