Last updated on April 27th, 2023 at 12:00 pm

Does Home Depot Allow Dogs Inside? Is Home Depot Pet Friendly? Pet Policy Guide

Does Home Depot Allow Dogs? Short Answer: no, dogs are not allowed in Home Depot stores unless they are service animals. Dogs that are working service animals, as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), are allowed inside Home Depot stores.

Does Home Depot Allow Dogs
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Does Home Depot Allow Dogs Inside?

When it comes to Home Depot, there is no company-wide policy regarding dogs in store. This means that each individual store can set its own policy on the matter. As a rule, еmotional support animals and pet dogs are not welcome inside the store, regardless of their behavior. 

The following is a summary of Home Depot pet policy in their stores.

Is Home Depot Dog Friendly?

No, Home Depot stores are not dog-friendly. As a rule, pets are not allowed in the store. Some shoppers have reported that they have been able to bring their dog into an Home Depot store, although this is not the posted pet policy.  

Home Depot employees may make exceptions on a case-by-case basis, depending on the individual situation. If you are considering bringing your dog into an Home Depot store, it is best to call ahead and speak to a manager to see if they would be willing to make an exception in your case.  

Photo from (IG) @homedepotpets

In general, Home Depot are not pet-friendly and pets are not allowed inside.

Are dogs allowed in Home Depot? 

No, as a general rule, dogs are not allowed in Home Depot stores. Some stores may be more lenient than others when it comes to allowing dogs inside if it is well-behaved, but service animals are the only type of dog that are allowed in Home Depot stores according to the company’s policy.

But keep in mind that not all employees will be okay with this, so it’s always best to check with the store before bringing your dog inside.

What Is Official Home Depot Dog Policy

When it comes to Home Depot, there is no company-wide policy regarding dogs in store. This means that each individual store can set its own policy on the matter.

However, what remains constant in the pet policy for any store is that service animals, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, are always allowed in the store. Emotional support animals and pet dogs are not considered service animals and therefore are not always allowed. 

Photo from (IG) @homedepotpets

In addition, each local store’s pet policy is governed by federal laws, state laws, and local laws.  

Does Home Depot Dog Policy Vary By Location?

Yes, as mentioned, the pet policy at Home Depot can vary depending on the store location. However, dogs who are not service animals should not be taken your local Home Depot store unless you have obtained approval from store employees in advance by telephone.

From reading online reviews, it seems apparent that some Home Depot stores allow dogs inside and even have dog treats available, while other locations strictly forbid any non-service dogs.  

Are Dogs Allowed in Home Depot Canada?

Dogs are not allowed in Home Depot stores in Canada, with the exception of service animals. This policy is in place for the safety of customers and employees. In 2011, an employee in Ottawa was attacked by a dog, resulting in partial facial injuries.

Why Does Home Depot Not Allow Pets?

Home Depot does not allow pet dogs in their stores for a variety of reasons:

  • The first and most important reason is that some people are allergic to dogs
  • Secondly, dogs can be disruptive and cause messes in the store
  • Third, Home Depot wants to create a safe and comfortable environment for all shoppers, and having dogs in the store may not be conducive to that goal
  • Fourth Home Depot no-dogs policy helps to keep the store clean and free of pet hair. Dogs shed, and their hair can end up all over the place. Allowing dogs into the store would mean extra work for Home Depot cleaning staff.
  • Finally, Home Depot employees are not trained to deal with dogs, so it is not fair to them or the dog to have them in the store.  
Does Home Depot Allow Service Animals
Photo from (IG) @mini.calvin.and.ivy

For these reasons, Home Depot has implemented a strict no pet policy for all animals except service dogs. While this policy may be inconvenient for some pet owners, it is necessary to maintain a safe and healthy environment for all Home Depot customers.

What Are Service Dog and Emotional Support Animals?

What is the distinction between an emotional support animals (ESA) and a service animal? There are a few key distinctions between emotional support animals (ESAs) and service animals. 

  • Firstly, service dogs are individually trained to perform specific tasks or work for their disabled handler, whereas an ESA does not require any specific training. 
  • Secondly, service animals are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which means that they are allowed to accompany their handler in public places, whereas an ESA is not protected under the ADA and therefore may not be allowed in certain public places. 
  • Finally, a service dog must have a strong bond with their handler and be well-behaved in order to perform their tasks or work effectively, whereas an ESA does not need to have such a strong bond or be well-behaved in order to provide emotional support to their owner. 

An emotional support animal does not need to have any specific training and provides companionship and emotional support to its owner. While both ESAs and service animals can provide companionship and emotional support, it is important to note that they are two distinct types of animals with different roles and protections. 

If you plan on bringing your service dog to a Home Depot store, please be sure to keep them on a leash at all times and clean up after them if they happen to make any messes.

Does Home Depot Allow Service Animals?

Yes, service dogs are allowed in Home Depot under the Americans with Disabilities Act and as long as they are well-trained. This pet policy is in place to ensure the safety and comfort of all shoppers. Service dogs must be under the control of their handler at all times, and handlers must be prepared to clean up any accidents that may occur.

Stay tuned to this blog for the latest updates on places that allow your furry friend:

Does Tractor Supply Have A Dog Wash?

Are Dogs Allowed in Tractor Supply? 

 Does Ace Hardware Allow Dogs Inside?

Does Lowe’s Allow Dogs Inside?

Is Menards Dog-Friendly? 

Are All Service Animals Allowed In Home Depot?

Yes. Home Depot permits well-trained service dogs to enter their locations. Service dogs are trained to perform a variety of tasks for persons with any sort of disability, whether mental or physical. As a result, we do not consider service animals to be pets. They are helpers that assist their owners in leading more self-sufficient lifestyles.

Are All Service Animals Allowed In Home Depot
Photo from (IG) @homedepotpets

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protects the rights of those who utilize service animals in public areas. This means that Home Depot staff members cannot deny entry to someone and their service animal, so long as the animal is acting appropriately. In very rare cases, however, an animal may be asked to leave if it becomes disruptive or poses a safety hazard.

Stay in the loop with us and we’ll keep you updated on all places that allow your furry friend:

Is Harbour Freight Tools Pet Friendly? 

Does Farm And Fleet Allow Dogs Inside?

Is Fleet Farm Pet Friendly?

Is AutoZone Pet Friendly?

What Are The Service Dog Rules At Home Depot?

Home Depot has strict rules in place for clients who want to take their service animal into its stores, much like any other business.

  • At all times, the handler must control the service animal;
  • The dog must always wear a harness, rope, or leash (unless the handler is unable to use the harness or leash due to a disability and the restraint would impede the animal’s service to the handler);
  • If the handler is unable to utilize restraints, he or she must control the animal using signals or voice commands;
  • Home Depot will request that you leave the animal outside of the store if it is a danger to others’ health or safety, or if it is uncontrollable;
  • If an animal is a problem and has to be eliminated, a shopping assistant may be given to the shopper if they request it, allowing them to continue their store at Home Depot.

Does Home Depot Ask If Your Dog Is A Service Dog? Do You Need To Show Service Dog Documents In Home Depot?

The Home Depot employees have the right to ask whether the animal in question is a service dog, according to Americans with Disabilities Act. ADA – regulations intended to make sure that health and safety laws are followed. Employees may also inquire about the service dog’s capabilities or tasks.

However, they are not allowed to request any other documentation proving disability.

How To Identify a Fake Service Dog

There are a few key ways to tell if a dog is not a service animal. If the dog is stealing food from shelves, jumping at people, or sniffing everything, it is likely not a service animal.

Other signs include barking or whining at people, pulling on the leash, riding in shopping carts, or urinating or defecating in the store. If the dog is seeking attention from other Home Depot members, it is also likely not a service animal.

Are Emotional Support Dogs Allowed In Home Depot?

Home Depot stores has a unofficially pet policy in place that does not allow emotional support dogs into their stores. The concern is that emotional support dogs are not covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, therefore they do not have the same legal protections as service dogs.

This pet policy is in place because it can be difficult to determine if an individual actually needs an emotional support dog, and therefore the store does not want to risk violating any laws.  However, this pet policy may make it difficult for some people who actually need an emotional support dog to get the assistance they need.

Tips For Taking Service Dogs To Home Depot

  1. Make sure your service dog is well-trained and has the necessary skills to navigate a busy store like Home Depot. This includes being able to walk on a leash without pulling or jumping, staying focused on their handler, and responding to commands such as “sit” and “stay.”
  2. Contact your local Home Depot store in advance to verify their specific pet policy and ensure that your service dog will be welcome. You may want to ask about any specific guidelines or restrictions that the store has in place.
  3. When you arrive at the store, make sure your service dog is wearing their identification tags and any necessary gear, such as a vest or harness that identifies them as a service animal.
  4. Be mindful of other customers and employees while in the store. Keep your service dog on a short leash and close to your side to avoid any potential collisions or distractions. If your dog is in training or is still learning how to navigate public spaces, consider using a training lead or harness to give you more control.
  5. Be prepared to provide documentation if requested. While Home Depot does not require any specific documentation for service animals, it’s always a good idea to have proof of your dog’s training and certification with you in case you are asked to provide it.
  6. Bring along water and treats for your service dog, as well as any other supplies that they may need, such as a collapsible bowl or poop bags.
  7. Be aware of any potential hazards in the store, such as loose nails or sharp objects, and keep your service dog away from these areas. If your dog is prone to chewing or licking things, consider using a muzzle to prevent them from ingesting anything harmful.
  8. If you encounter any issues while in the store, such as other customers or employees questioning your service dog’s presence, remain calm and explain that your dog is a trained service animal. If necessary, you can also ask to speak with a manager or supervisor to clarify the store’s pet policy.
  9. Lastly, don’t forget to reward your service dog for a job well done! Take some time after your trip to Home Depot to give your dog some extra love and attention, as well as a special treat or toy as a reward for their good behavior.

FAQ

Can You Bring Dogs Into Home Depot?

Yes, you can bring dogs to most US Home Depot stores as long as they are on a leash and you clean up after them. However, you should call your local store in advance and ask them.

Can I Bring Any Other Animals to Home Depot? 

The law allows service dogs inside Home Depot stores, with some stores allowing pet dogs as well under certain conditions. You are not permitted to bring any other (particularly exotic) animals to a Home Depot store, even if they meet the Fair Housing Act’s requirements (FHAct).

Can Сats Go In Home Depot? 

If your cat is not on a leash, you will not be able to take it inside Home Depot. The store has enough space for your pet to walk around while you do your shopping. However, not every branch of Home Depot is pet-friendly. Some customers have reported being turned away because they had pets with them.

Are there any size or breed restrictions for service dogs at Home Depot?

Home Depot does not have any specific size or breed restrictions for service dogs in their stores. However, owners are responsible for ensuring that their service dogs are well-behaved and do not pose a threat to other customers or employees.

Do I need to bring any documentation for my service dog to enter Home Depot?

Home Depot does not require any specific documentation for service dogs to enter their stores. However, some locations may ask for proof of vaccination or a current rabies tag. It’s always a good idea to bring these documents with you, just in case.

Are dogs allowed in Home Depot California?

Some consumers say they were turned away from their store, but others claim their local Home Depot still allows their pooch. There’s plenty of room for leashed dogs to go shopping with you at the store’s wide aisles.

Does Home Depot Allow Pets In Strollers?

It’s always best to ask the store directly about their personal policy on stroller-bound pooches. Some stores might not allow dogs in strollers for safety reasons, as strollers can be easily toppled over. It’s always polite to ask the store employees before bringing your pet inside.

Can You Put A Dog In Your Shopping Cart At Home Depot?

Customers have reported seeing animals and dogs being transported in Home Depot shopping carts. However, this is against the law (FDA guidelines).

Shopping carts should only be used to carry groceries and other items. As a result, transporting a dog or any other animal is not permitted. If an Home Depot employee sees you carrying your dog in a shopping cart, you will likely be asked to leave the store.

Can Service Dogs Sit In Shopping Carts At Home Depot?

Service dogs are not allowed to sit in shopping carts at Home Depot, or be on a mat or inside of baskets. This policy has always been in place. Exception to the rule are not easy to come by.

Conclusion. Are Dogs Allowed In Home Depot?

In conclusion, it can be said that Home Depot is not very pet-friendly, allowing only service dogs inside. However, anecdotal evidence suggests that some Home Depot stores may be more lenient than others when it comes to animals inside the store.  

Ultimately, each particular store’s pet policy is up to the store manager. If you are unsure, it is always best to call ahead or ask an employee before bringing an animal into the store.

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