Can You Bring Your Dog into Target? Here's What You Need to Know
As more people embrace pet ownership, it’s natural to want to bring your dog along on errands. However, policies about allowing dogs in retail stores vary widely. If you’re planning a trip to Target, one of the biggest retailers in the United States, it’s essential to understand their pet policy before you go.
Target’s Official Dog Policy
Target has a strict no-pets policy enforced across all its stores. This means that, generally, you cannot bring your dog into Target unless they are a certified service animal. This policy exists primarily to comply with health and safety regulations, especially because many Target locations include grocery and food sections.
Exceptions for Service Animals
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), service animals are allowed in public spaces, including Target. These animals are not pets but working animals trained to perform tasks for individuals with disabilities. Target abides by this law and permits service animals in accordance with the ADA.
- Service dogs must be under control at all times, usually with a leash or harness.
- Employees are legally allowed to ask two questions: whether the dog is a service animal and what task it is trained to perform.
- They cannot ask for documentation, demand the dog perform the task, or inquire about the handler’s disability.
Emotional Support Animals Are Not Allowed
Unlike service animals, emotional support animals (ESAs) do not enjoy the same legal protections. Target’s policy does not recognize ESAs as service animals, so they are not permitted in stores.
Why This Policy Exists
There are several reasons why stores like Target do not allow dogs:
- Food safety regulations prohibit animals in areas where food is present.
- Not all customers are comfortable around dogs, especially in confined public settings.
- Dogs may be untrained or disruptive, causing unwanted incidents.
What About Other Stores?
If you're looking to shop with your furry friend, some retailers are more pet-friendly than Target. Examples include:
- Petco and PetSmart – Designed for pets and allow leashed animals.
- Home Depot and Lowe’s – Typically allow service dogs and sometimes well-behaved pets, depending on store discretion.
- Bass Pro Shops – Generally dog-friendly, except in food areas.
- Retailers like Michaels or Nordstrom – Some locations welcome pets but always call ahead to verify.
Best Practices for Shopping with Dogs
When visiting stores that do allow pets or even service animals, it’s important to follow proper etiquette:
- Keep dogs on a non-retractable leash at all times.
- Ensure they are well-trained and socialized.
- Bring treats and cleanup supplies, just in case.
- Respect the comfort levels of other shoppers and store policies.
Why You Shouldn’t Misrepresent Your Pet as a Service Animal
It's illegal and unethical to claim your pet is a service animal if it isn't. Misrepresentation can harm the credibility of legitimate service animals and create conflict for individuals with disabilities who depend on them. Only highly trained dogs assisting with a disability qualify as service animals under federal law.
Where Dogs Are Typically Not Allowed
Beyond Target, many other public spaces have similar restrictions. Dogs are usually not allowed in the following places unless they are service animals:
- Grocery stores like Walmart, Costco, Whole Foods
- Restaurants, especially indoor seating areas
- Public transportation unless crated or service-certified
- Healthcare facilities such as hospitals and clinics
Conclusion
While Target is one of the many stores that enforce a no-pet policy, they do allow service animals in alignment with ADA requirements. If you’re ever in doubt about a store's policy, make one quick phone call to confirm. And when in public with your dog—even in pet-friendly places—follow etiquette guidelines to keep everyone safe and comfortable.
