These chain stores are more than thrilled to welcome your pup!
Running errands or simply going for a normal shopping session is a lot harder when you have a pup. Most chain stores don’t care at all, and they will not allow you to bring your pet in. Unfortunately, this is not ideal for pet owners because sometimes it is what it is; your pet is with you, and things would be easier if they were allowed inside stores.
Luckily, things are constantly changing, and more chain stores are open to the idea of allowing pets inside. Today we will talk about the places where well-behaved pups are welcomed with open arms, and sometimes with some treats.
From big-box retailers to boutique-style shops, these dog-friendly chains are making it easier than ever for dog parents to include their four-legged companions in their daily routines. Read on and discover them all!
Hobby Lobby
If you are the type who needs lots of craft supplies and also has a dog, Hobby Lobby might be your new favorite pit stop. This widely popular hobby store has a reputation for being the biggest, with aisles packed with glitter, but more recently people have reported that most of their stores are also more than happy to welcome pets.
The truth is there is not a pet policy on Hobby Lobby’s website, but pet owners across the U.S. report that many locations report that they were allowed countless times inside the stores with leashed dogs.
But before you venture for a crafty adventure, be aware that not all chain stores are the same, and this is why it would be wise to ask beforehand. Maybe not all stores are as welcoming as the rumors say.
Macy’s
Who says high-end shopping is just for us? Maybe you were not expecting this from one of the most famous high-end chain stores, but here you go! Macy’s is generally a very dog-friendly store, and this is a fact that should be celebrated.
Many locations across the U.S. welcome leashed dogs, and this is especially true for areas where strolling with your pup is popular. They are aware of your needs, and they try to adapt accordingly.
However, keep in mind that pet policies vary from store to store. There are some locations, generally the ones you find in malls, that have stricter rules. So before you grab the leash and head out, it would be great to call the store and check with them.
Lush
This is one of those chain stores that truly care about animals. As you know, this is a store that sells cosmetics, and most of the time these products are tested on animals. Well, this is not the case for Lush. They have been the pioneers of a strict no-animal-testing policy since 1995, and they keep on doing that.
But Lush’s commitment to compassion doesn’t stop there. All of their products are 100% vegetarian and 95% vegan, so if you value animal welfare, this is the perfect spot for you.
Considering all of this, it was almost expected they to have dog-friendly stores. Unfortunately, there is no official policy about this on their website, but numerous pet owners reported that as long as your pup is leashed when you visit the store, no one will say anything.
The Home Depot
If the smell of fresh-cut lumber and DIY projects is your favorite thing, you are probably visiting Home Depot rather often. It is well known that this is one of the store chains that has a policy that allows anyone with service animals inside. But at the moment there are many locations that will allow any dog inside as long as they are leashed and well-behaved.
There are also stores where access with pups is strictly regulated because of past incidents such as dog-biting clients or accidents involving dogs and equipment. The thing is that as long as you know your dog is calm and will not cause any trouble and you keep them leashed, there should be no problems.
If you are not sure about what to do during your next Home Depot visit, a quick call can solve anything. Just ask them if the location is store-friendly, and then you will know what to do.
Nordstrom
This is one of the luxury store chains that is incredibly welcoming to your pet. They’ve updated their policy in 2023, and since then, you are officially allowed to bring your pup along your side while you are shopping here.
The only rule you should respect is to keep the dog leashed and make sure they don’t cause trouble. As long as these conditions are respected, you are free to go into their stores with your pup. Nordstrom’s commitment to creating an inclusive and enjoyable shopping experience for all customers is just one of the things that make this place so loved by people.
Another thing to consider is that the dog should be at least six months old. If your pet makes a mess, you are the one responsible for cleaning. This is why they have waste bags available at the entrance of every store.
Old Navy
Of all the chain stores, this one is popular among folks who are looking for good quality and affordable clothes. The part we love the most is that they have a flexible attitude when it comes to canine companions.
There is not a universal corporate policy regarding pets in Old Navy stores, but most locations will let you bring your four-legged friend with you, and you will not encounter any problems. The pup should be calm and leashed, and things will run smoothly.
This pet-friendly attitude matches its sister brand, Gap, which also allows customers to bring their pups inside. But with all of this, we still want you to remember that pet policies can vary by location. If they are inside a mall, there is a high chance they won’t allow you with your dog inside because they should respect the mall’s rules.
Bass Pro Shops
This is probably your haven if you enjoy fishing and hunting. The wilderness-themed retailer will warmly welcome your pup as long as they are leashed and behave well. Their website makes it very clear: “Pets are allowed in the store except where specifically prohibited by state or local laws.”
Service dogs are permitted in all locations, with no exceptions, but if some locations are close to a restaurant, there is a chance that the store will be off-limits for your pet. Hopefully, there are also many locations that provide indoor/outdoor kennels for customers. In this way, you can leave your dog to relax while you go shopping.
Harbor Freight Tools
When you need budget-friendly tools and equipment, this is probably the preferred option of all hardware stores. Harbor Freight is a true lifesaver for your DIY projects, and what’s even better is that you can always bring your pup with you while you are shopping at them.
Leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome in every store, and this is a general policy that was officially confirmed on social media. Once inside, you just need to make sure your dog is under control so everyone can have an enjoyable shopping experience.
Harbor Freight’s welcoming atmosphere is also turning some pups into local celebrities. For example, one user shared on Reddit that their basset hound, Walter, is a regular here, and both staff and the people love it so much that everyone is talking about this dog.
If you are always on the run and you take your pup with you, try this: Dog Water Bottle with Food Container
You should also read: 11 Dog Breeds That Love Traveling as Much as You Do!
