More and more businesses are opening their doors to humankind’s best friend.
It’s tempting to take your dog with you on all your adventures, large and small. After all, your dog won’t complain about traffic on the way to the hardware store, balk at the prices on the menu at your favorite restaurant, or want to switch rooms at the hotel because you’re too close to the ice maker. But before you head out with your dog by your side, make sure your favorite stores, restaurants and hotels are dog-friendly.
We’ve gathered a partial list of nationwide establishments that enjoy a reputation as being dog-friendly. These chains assume your dog will be well-behaved, friendly and on a leash while always being accompanied by you (hotels will of course understand if you take your dog off the leash while in your room). Keep in mind that city ordinances may influence the dogs-allowed policy at individual locations, so it’s a good idea to call ahead before you show up with your beloved pet at your side.
Restaurants
Health codes and city ordinances will likely prevent you from eating inside a restaurant with your dog unless he is a service dog, but many nationwide chains welcome dogs on their patios. The following restaurants are known for accommodating dogs (some even have menus for dogs), but again, call ahead before you leave to make sure your local restaurant has a dog-friendly policy. (Note: this list is not all inclusive—your favorite restaurant(s) may also welcome dogs.)
- Johnny Rockets
- Sonic Drive-In
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Just how dog-friendly is Home Depot? There is a Facebook community page for the Ashland, Virginia, store (@homedepotpups) that posts photos of visiting canines. Lazy Dog Restaurant and Bar
- Shake Shack
- Olive Garden
- Applebees
Retail Stores
When you take your pet to one of these dog-friendly stores, be sure to keep him on his leash and encourage him to be on his best behavior.
- Petco
- Lowes
- Tractor Supply Co.
- Nordstrom
- The Apple Store
- Bass Pro Shops
- Pottery Barn
- LUSH Cosmetics
- Macy’s
- TJ Maxx/Marshalls
Hotel Chains
Several of these properties truly value canines, with in-room amenities and dog concierges. While the majority of the locations for these hotel chains accept pets, not all locations are able to because of city ordinances. Some chains charge additional pet fees, but others do not. Be sure to call ahead to determine the individual hotel’s pet policy and associated fees.
- Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts
- La Quinta
- Kimpton Hotels
- Loews Hotels and Resorts
- Best Western
- Ace Hotel
- Fairmont Hotels and Resorts
- Hotel Indigo
- Red Roof Inn
Don’t see your favorite location on this list? We focused on nationwide chains for this article, but you can turn to the internet to see if that new place down the street welcomes dogs. Some great sources for this information is BringFido.com, DogFriendly.com, GoPetFriendly.com and TripswithPets.com. However, as we mentioned several times, it’s always best to call ahead to find out. Enjoy your day (or night) out with your dog.
