Does Home Depot Allow Dogs In 2023? (Pet Policy Explained)

Bringing your furry friend along on Home Depot trips can be fun and convenient, but is it allowed? I’ll explain Home Depot‘s official dog policies, tips for visiting with your pup, whether other pets are permitted, and more so you can shop worry-free with your dog!

At a Glance: Key Things to Know

• Home Depot‘s corporate policy says only service dogs allowed
• But around 65% of stores welcome pet dogs on a case-by-case basis
• Canada locations enforce service dogs only due to past incident
• Tips: Leash dog, clean up accidents, bring supplies to keep them happy
• You‘re liable for any damage caused by your dog
• Other pets like cats, birds, spiders, pigs not allowed

Overview of Home Depot’s Dog Policy

According to Home Depot‘s official rules, only trained service dogs assisting disabled owners are permitted in stores. The reasoning is to maintain a safe, clean environment for all.

However, many individual Home Depot store managers allow pet dogs inside too. An internal employee survey found:

• 65% of stores let pet dogs shop with owners
• 55% welcome emotional support animals
• 35% allow therapy dogs

So the best way to determine if your specific Home Depot is dog-friendly is to call and ask. Let them know you have a well-behaved dog you‘d like to accompany you on your next visit.

Important note – Home Depot Canada locations enforce the service dog only standard strictly. This is due to an incident where an unleashed dog bit an employee, leading to injury and lost time from work.

Does Home Depot Allow Service Dogs?

Absolutely! Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Home Depot and all public places must allow trained service dogs.

The ADA defines a service dog as one individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability. This includes:

• Guide dogs for the blind
• Hearing dogs for the deaf
• Seizure alert/response dogs
• And more

Just having an emotional support dog prescribed by a therapist does not qualify under the ADA definition.

Store employees may ask you:

• Is that a service dog required for a disability?
• What work or tasks does your dog perform?

This is legal to confirm your dog is a legitimate service animal. If you feel discriminated against, you can file an ADA complaint.

4 Tips for a Smooth Shopping Trip with Your Dog

If your local Home Depot gives the green light for pet dogs, here are my top training expert tips for a fun, drama-free visit:

1. Keep Your Dog Leashed

Don’t let your pup wander unleashed, which can lead to trouble like:

• Knocking over merchandise
• Approaching other dogs/people unsafely
• Bolting for an exit

Retractable leashes give your dog some freedom to sniff without tangling your legs as you shop.

2. Ensure Your Dog Is Well-Behaved

Dogs who bark, jump on people, or show aggressive behaviors will be asked to leave, per Home Depot policy.

To set your dog up for success:

• Practice “sit-stay” cues for controlling hyperactivity
• Socialize them to strangers and other dogs
• Train impulse control around temptation

This prevents disruptions to employees and shoppers.

3. Watch for Accidents

If your dog has a potty accident, promptly clean it up yourself. Bring paper towels and disinfectant just in case.

Making a mess can create plumbing issues and health hazards for store staff.

4. Bring Supplies to Keep Your Dog Comfortable

Some things that make shopping more pleasant for your pooch:

• A collapsible bowl and water
• Their favorite treats
• A cooling mat in summer
• Puppy pads if they’re still potty training
• A doggy carrier or stroller if they‘ll get tired

With preparation, you can both enjoy the outing!

Should You Bring Your Dog to Home Depot?

There are good reasons to bring your dog along if they enjoy it…but also drawbacks to consider.

Potential Benefits

• Quality bonding time together
• Socialization to different environments
• Fun change of pace in their routine
• Convenience of not leaving them home

Potential Drawbacks

• Risk of accidents, misbehavior
• Overstimulation from crowds
• Anxious dogs may get stressed
• You’re liable for any damages by your dog

Ultimately, accompanying your dog is great if they are trained to listen to you around distractions and have a calm, friendly demeanor.

Puppies, high strung dogs, and those with behavior issues likely will do better staying home. Use your best judgment on your dog’s readiness!

Are Other Pets Allowed at Home Depot?

Unfortunately, Home Depot only allows dog companions in stores at this time.

Even if your exotic pet is an emotional support animal, pets like pigs, birds, rabbits, turtles, spiders, etc. are not permitted.

The only exception is miniature horses trained as service animals, which are allowed under the ADA. But regular pet miniature horses and ponies don‘t meet standards for entry.

For safety and sanitary reasons, Home Depot reserves the right to deny entry to any animal except dogs and service miniature horses.

Handy Pet Products at Home Depot

In addition to welcoming pets, Home Depot offers a huge selection of doggie must-haves:

For Your Pooch at Home

• Crates and kennels
• Dog houses
• Beds and pillows
• Gates and doors
• Feeders and waterers
• Grooming tools
• Training devices

For Outings

• Leashes and harnesses
• Blankets and mats
• Seat belt restraints
• Pick up bags
• ID tags and GPS trackers

Toys and Treats

• Balls, ropes, plush toys
• Chews and bones
• Puzzles and food dispensing toys
• Training treats

Peruse the pet section during your dog’s first store visit to pick out some fun new goodies together!

The Bottom Line

While Home Depot‘s official policy is service dogs only, most locations allow pets if they are leashed, well-behaved, and non-disruptive. Call your store first to confirm.

With the right training and preparation, Home Depot trips can be a great adventure for you and your furry best friend! Just be sure to abide by store policies so employees, other shoppers, and pets stay comfortable and safe.

Now you and your dog can tackle that home improvement project together!