Are Dogs Allowed in Target? (Yes, But Only Service Dog)

May 2024 · 7 minute read

Target is a great place to shop, but you may find yourself asking the question, Are Dogs Allowed in Target?

 Are there any restrictions on what type of pooch can come in? Well, I will answer that question and more so that you know everything you need to know about bringing your furry friend to Target!

Contents

What Is Target?

What Is Target

Target is an American retail chain that sells a wide variety of items, including clothing, cosmetics, home goods, and much more. They have locations all across the United States, and their goal is to provide affordable prices for their customers. 

Target’s Dog Policy

No pets of any kind are allowed in their stores, with the exception of service animals. Service animals are defined as those that are individually trained to do work or to perform tasks for people with disabilities. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires businesses to permit service animals into all areas of the store where customers are normally allowed. This includes the sales floor, restrooms, fitting rooms, and break areas. 

Employees are not authorized to ask guests about their disability, but they can ask if the animal is a service animal and what task it performs. If an individual is accompanied by one, team members should welcome them both. 

What Other Shoppers Think

What Other Shoppers Think

While Target does not allow dogs in their stores, some shoppers have found ways to get around this rule. One customer said she brings her pooch into the store all the time and has never had a problem. She simply puts her dog in the child seat of the shopping cart and covers it with a blanket. This method seems to work well, but it is not guaranteed that you will not get caught. 

Another shopper said she has seen people bring pets into the store, but she does not think it is a good idea. She has seen dogs urinate in the store and thinks it is unsanitary. She also believes that dogs should not be in stores because they may bark and disturb other shoppers. 

Why Does Target not allow dogs in the Store?

It is not just Target that does not accept animals in their stores; the FDA also has strict rules about them in food establishments. According to the FDA, live animals are not allowed in areas where food is prepared, stored, or sold. This is because there is a risk of contamination and spreading bacteria. 

Naturally, there are a few exceptions to this rule, such as service animals and trained dogs that are used for security purposes.

Are Dogs Allowed In Target? – What Service Animals Are Allowed In Target?

What Service Animals Are Allowed In Target

As mentioned before, service animals are accepted in all areas of the stores. The ADA defines disability as a physical or mental impairment that limits a major life activity. This includes but is not limited to blindness, deafness, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Service animals are not just limited to dogs; they can also be mini horses. However, Target does not permit any other type of animal in their stores, even if they are trained service animals. 

There are eight main types of services these dogs provide, including:

Do I Have To Pay A Fee To Bring My Service Animal Into Target?

No, you do not have to pay any money to bring a service animal into Target. However, you may be asked to leave if your animal is not well-behaved or is disruptive.

How to recognize a Service Dog?

How to recognize a Service Dog

They are usually easily identifiable because they are often wearing a vest or harness that says, “service dog.” They may also have an ID tag or badge that identifies them. 

Can I Carry My Dog into Target?

No, Target does not allow dogs to be carried into the store. Putting your furry friend in a carrier or stroller is also not accepted. 

What If I See A Dog In Target?

It is probably a service animal. As mentioned, they are allowed in all areas of the store. However, if you are unsure, you can always ask a team member to confirm. There have been some instances where people have tried to pass their pets off as service animals to bring them into stores. This is considered fraud and is punishable by law. 

Not only is it illegal, but it is also unfair to those who rely on service animals. Service animals are trained to behave in public and perform specific tasks for their owners. Pets, on the other hand, have not undergone the same training and may act out in public. This can create a dangerous and stressful situation for both the pet and their owner. 

What Stores Can I Bring My Dog Into?

If you are looking for a store that is dog friendly, there are plenty of options to choose from. Some stores, such as Lowe’s, Home Depot, and Petco, allow pups inside their stores. However, it is important to note that each store has its own policy, so be sure to check before you go. 

Many stores have dog-friendly patio areas, such as Starbucks and Panera Bread. These patios are usually located near the entrance of the store so your pooch can stay cool while you shop. 

How To Ensure A Successful Trip?

How To Ensure A Successful Trip

If you are planning on bringing your pup into a dog-friendly store, there are a few things you can do to make sure your trip is successful. First, be sure to potty them before going into the store. This will help to avoid any accidents inside the store. 

Next, keep them on a leash at all times and be sure to clean up after them if they make a mess. Finally, be considerate of other shoppers and do not let your dog bother them or block aisleways.

Additional Information On Target

If you’d like to know more about Target and perhaps work there, check out my Target Mission And Vision Statement AnalysisTarget ApplicationTarget Interview QuestionsDoes Target Pay WeeklyHow Old Do You Have To Be To Work At Target.

If you’re going shopping with your furry friend, you’ll need a good harness. So, check out the variety that we found online such as the PoyPet No Pull Dog Harness, No Choke Front Lead Dog Reflective Harness, Adjustable Soft, the PHOEPET Upgraded No Pull Dog Harness, Reflective Adjustable Vest, with a Training Handle, and the rabbitgoo Dog Harness, No-Pull Pet Harness with 2 Leash Clips, Adjustable Soft Padded Dog Vest.

Why not spoil your favorite pet with the DuLaSeed Puppy Toys, Squeaky Dog Chew Toys for Small Medium Dogs, Durable Rope Toys, the Dog Enrichment Toys – Dog Treat Puzzle for IQ Training & Brain stimulating, and the Nocciola 5 PCS 3D Dog Squeaky Toys with Double Layer Reinforced Fabric, Durable Plush Dog Toys all available online in 2023.

Are Dogs Allowed In Target? – Final Thoughts

Well, certain dogs are allowed in Target; as long as they are service animals, they are accepted in all areas of the store. 

However, pets are not permitted inside Target stores. But fear not, there are plenty of other places you can take your furry friend to! If all else fails, maybe a trip to the park is in order.

Good luck, and enjoy your shopping at Target!

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