Stores That Allow Pets

Reviewed by Dr. Fiona Lee

They sleep in the same house as you, they sense your emotions and they'll try to steal your snacks if you're not careful. No, we're not talking about roommates—we mean your pets.

Living with an animal is more than house-sharing, it's a special bond. And while it's easy to spend quality time together doing things around the house, out at the dog park or even on an extended camping trip, it gets a bit more complicated if you need to run errands or go shopping. That's why we've put together a short list of brands joining the growing trend of pet-friendly stores in the U.S., as well as some tips for taking your pets shopping.

Read on to learn where you can bring your dog—or cat!—so that you can be sure they receive the warm welcome they deserve.

Benefits of Pet-Friendly Stores

While it's still uncommon to see animals roaming around in shops, the idea is steadily gaining traction. Owners benefit by spending more time with their pets while running errands. Pets, in turn, become more comfortable around people, other animals and new places through early socialization.¹

These are solid reasons to let pets into stores, but there are also other (surprising!) benefits for the community at large. Animal-friendly brick-and-mortar shops tend to attract more customers, create a welcoming atmosphere and can even increase sales.² Everyone wins!

Pet-Friendly Stores in the U.S.

Here are some of the retailers already offering pet-welcoming shopping experiences.

PetSmart

As a top pet-friendly retailer of pet-related goods, not to mention a purr-veyor of training, grooming, daycare and adoption services, it should come as no surprise that you can bring your pet to PetSmart.

Just make sure you follow the rules. PetSmart's policy on in-store pets lets you bring your appropriately secured and vaccinated animal, as long as it's on the list of approved animals, which includes dogs, cats, rabbits, (non-venomous) reptiles and pot-bellied pigs. PetSmart's adoption days are a great time to visit with pets in need of a good home while in the company of knowledgeable staff.

PetCo

PetCo is another pet retailer that welcomes not only dogs and cats but also other types of animals. Just make sure you've got your capybara's vaccination records and license. Like PetSmart, PetCo offers grooming, training, veterinary services and adoptions, and they've been known to have a treat jar at checkout.

Lowe's

If you want to bring your pup to pick up lumber at Lowe's, you're probably good to go as long as they're vaccinated and leashed. However, the policy varies between locations so your best bet is to call first or check online. Enter your zip code into the Lowe's location finder and scroll to the bottom of your store's page. If you see “Dog-Friendly" under their list of “Store Features," both you and Fido are welcome.

Barnes & Noble

Just because you're browsing doesn't mean you can't bring Bowser. Chain bookseller Barnes & Noble allows each location to set their own pet policy, and many welcome animals, so call ahead.

Alternatively, some independent bookstores are often dog-friendly locations. For instance, your dog or other quadruped is warmly welcomed at River Lights in Dubuque, Little Shop of Stories in Decatur and The Strand in New York City.

Bass Pro Shops

Not only does Bass Pro Shops welcome dogs, but some stores even have on-site kennels where you park your pooch should they need a little time-out. Noting that regulations vary by state, the stores recommend you call ahead. You can look up your local store on their site.

Nordstrom

If your dog does well on a leash (or is a seasoned purse pup), they're welcome to come shopping with you at high-end retailer Nordstrom and its discount stores, Nordstrom Rack.

Joann Fabrics

According to their pet policy, Joann knows how much your pet inspires creativity. As always, make sure your pal is well-behaved and properly contained, but otherwise feel free to run wild and free amongst the textiles.

Pottery Barn

Bring your leashed pup to Pottery Barn to help you pick out home goods. Don't pass by the section on upscale pet beds, feeders and accessories.

Other Pet Friendly Stores

Precautions to Take Before Bringing Pets to a Store

Pet-friendly stores create a sense of community, but only if it's fun and safe for everyone involved. That's why you should always take these precautions before you bring your pets into a store.

Check store policy

Avoid disappointment for you and your pet by confirming that they can come along. Pet policy information can be hard to find online, and in some cases it's location-dependent. Your best bet is to pick up the phone. Note: Service animals are always welcome as per the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Ensure your pet is well-behaved

When a store opens its doors to animals, it's always with the understanding that the animal is fully trained and able to be around strangers. Ensure that your dog is

leash-trained and sufficiently socialized before you go shopping together.

Bring necessary supplies

You'd probably never forget to bring a leash or waste bags, but there are other items to think about depending on your pets, where you're going and how long you'll be gone. Consider a portable water bowl and comfort items like a sweater or blanket. If you're bringing out your cat or another animal, such as to a PetSmart store, make sure your enclosure is in good working order.

Health and hygiene

Animals can carry germs that can be harmful to people and other animals, so it's your responsibility to mitigate the risks. Ensure that your pet has regular veterinarian visits and is up-to-date with their shots. Take any appropriate flea prevention measures to avoid infecting others. And, finally, make sure you practice good personal hygiene by disposing of waste promptly and washing your hands frequently.³

Be mindful of other shoppers

Stay alert not only to your pet but also to other shoppers. Not everyone feels comfortable around animals and some people are afraid of them. Keep your pet contained with a leash or enclosure, and respect other people's space.

Be mindful of your pet

Just because you can bring your animal to some stores doesn't mean it's always a good idea. Keep an eye on your pet and be ready to leave if they show signs of distress. For dogs, this could look like barking, excessive panting or destructive behavior.⁴ Cats tend to express stress through tense postures like crouching, flattened ears, arched back, fluffy tail and vocalizing⁵.

Pets Best is Here to Help

Pet-friendly stores are a growing phenomenon in the United States, which opens up a prime opportunity for you and your pet to spend more time together in your community. The right preparation will ensure it's a good time for everyone, including you, your fellow shoppers and your best furry friend.

Consider pet insurance to help you keep your pet in tip-top shape for visiting. If you're a Pets Best policyholder, you can speak to a veterinary expert anytime through a 24/7 Pet Helpline.

Sources/ Citations

1. “Socialization of dogs and cats," American Veterinary Medical Association (unknown), https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/animal-health-and-welfare/socialization-dogs-and-cats

2. “Benefits of Making Pets Welcome," Better Cities for Pets (unknown), https://www.bettercitiesforpets.com/resource/pets-in-businesses/

3. “Ways to Stay Healthy Around Animals," Center for Disease Control (04/2024), https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/index.html

4. "Anxiety in Dogs: Signs, Symptoms, Treatment," American Kennel Club (04/2024), https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/treating-dog-anxiety/

5. "Stress in cats," International Cat Care (01/2025), https://icatcare.org/articles/stress-in-cats