2 min read (Articles narrated by Mabel)
When shopping or running errands, it can be difficult to leave your dog behind. It’s naturally assumed that dogs are never allowed in stores, unless of course, it’s a pet-specific store like Petco or Petsmart. But I’ve recently learned that there are other big companies that are also dog-friendly. They don’t always state that they allow dogs on the door, but they claim to be dog-friendly on their websites.
When in doubt, call a location near you to confirm that dogs are allowed. I haven’t visited any of these stores yet, so make sure you ask stores near you before letting your dog tag along.
Which Stores Allow Dogs?
There are many popular stores that allow dogs, so I can’t list every single one of them. Here are a few that I’ve commonly heard are dog-friendly:
- Abercrombie and Fitch
- Apple Store
- Barnes and Noble
- Bass Pro Shop
- Half Price Books
- Hobby Lobby
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
- LUSH
- Macy’s
- Nordstrom
- Ross
- Tractor Supply Co.
It’s important to note that for many of these, only select locations will allow dogs. For example, if the shop is in a mall, it’s unlikely that the store will allow dogs if the mall doesn’t. So, as mentioned earlier, simply call or message the shop ahead of time. That can help clear up any uncertainties you might have.
What Should You Consider Before Bringing Your Dog?
Just because a store is dog-friendly doesn’t mean every dog should go. Dogs that come along for errands should be well-behaved and on a leash at all times. You should be able to have control over your dog and be able to quickly correct bad behaviors. If there’s even a small chance that your dog might try to run off, bark, or chew on something they’re not supposed to, it might be better to leave them behind.
Also, make sure your dog goes to the bathroom before entering a store. The last thing you’d want is for the staff of a non-pet store to have to clean up after your canine. If your dog isn’t house-trained or if they often pee when excited, then they definitely shouldn’t come.
I don’t want any dogs to feel left out, but I certainly don’t want any dogs to get in trouble either. So, please ensure that your dog will be on their best behavior before entering a store. It can be an exciting event for everyone if you trust your dog. But if you feel that it’s better to leave your dog at home, make sure to give them plenty of love and cuddles when you return.
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Mabel the Rescue Dog 
There seems to be a conscious effort in some areas here in the UK to allow dogs. We holiday in the Lake District and there is a town there called Keswick which allows dogs in pretty much every shape, cafe or pub with about one or two exceptions. Its a fabulous area for walking and climbing so I always enjoy it when I go. I have been told I have to show Lenny what it is like.
One thing I would like to say please. If people take their dogs with them to the store please please please do not leave us tied up outside. We are liable to be stolen within seconds and with the current high prices for dog sales on the internet generally, we will be whisked away instantly. As we are part of the family I suppose I should ask the question “would you leave a child tied up outside?”. Didnt think so.
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