Does Hobby Lobby Allow Dogs? What Pet Owners Should Know

If you’re a dog parent who loves browsing through Hobby Lobby’s endless aisles of craft supplies, seasonal decorations, and home décor, you’ve probably wondered: can I bring my furry friend along for the shopping adventure? It’s a fair question, especially when you have a well-behaved pup at home and don’t want to leave them behind. The answer, unfortunately, isn’t as straightforward as we’d like it to be.

Hobby Lobby’s pet policy is more restrictive than some of its competitors, and understanding the specifics can save you a trip to the store with your beloved companion. Whether you’re planning a quick craft project run or a major home makeover shopping spree, knowing what’s allowed—and what isn’t—will help you plan accordingly and avoid any awkward encounters at the checkout counter.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about bringing dogs to Hobby Lobby, compare their policy to other major retailers, and provide practical tips for pet owners who want to shop smart.

Hobby Lobby’s Official Pet Policy

Hobby Lobby’s official policy is clear: pets are not allowed inside the store. This applies to all animals except certified service dogs. The company maintains this policy across all of its locations in the United States, making it consistent whether you’re shopping at a Hobby Lobby in New York, California, or anywhere in between.

The reasoning behind this policy typically centers on health and safety concerns, inventory protection, and ensuring a comfortable shopping environment for all customers. Hobby Lobby carries numerous craft items, fabrics, and materials that could be damaged by animals, and they want to maintain a clean, allergen-friendly space for everyone.

If you’re wondering if dogs are allowed in Hobby Lobby, the straightforward answer is no—with one important exception. The store does make accommodations for certified service animals, which we’ll discuss in detail below. However, emotional support animals (ESAs) and therapy dogs that aren’t officially certified service animals do not qualify under this exemption.

It’s worth noting that while Hobby Lobby maintains this pet policy, individual store managers may occasionally exercise some discretion in unusual circumstances. However, you shouldn’t count on this—it’s always best to assume the policy will be enforced as written.

Service Animals: The Exception to the Rule

The one area where Hobby Lobby does make exceptions is for certified service animals. According to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), businesses must allow service dogs to accompany people with disabilities. A service dog is specifically trained to perform tasks or do work for a person with a disability. These tasks might include guiding people who are blind, alerting people who are deaf, pulling wheelchairs, alerting to seizures, or performing other specific duties.

The key distinction here is that the dog must be individually trained to perform specific tasks related to the person’s disability. This is different from emotional support animals, which provide comfort simply through their presence, and therapy dogs, which are trained to provide comfort to multiple people in settings like hospitals or nursing homes.

If you have a certified service dog, you have the legal right to bring them into Hobby Lobby. Store employees should not ask you to remove your service dog or challenge your right to have them present. However, if your service dog is behaving disruptively—barking excessively, jumping on people, or having accidents—the store does have the right to ask you to remove the animal.

Service dogs must be leashed or harnessed while in the store, and they should be under your control at all times. If you have documentation for your service animal, it’s a good idea to keep it with you, though Hobby Lobby cannot legally require you to provide it.

How Hobby Lobby Compares to Other Retailers

If you’re trying to figure out which stores welcome your canine companion, it’s helpful to see how Hobby Lobby stacks up against similar retailers. The landscape of pet-friendly shopping has evolved significantly, and many major home improvement and craft stores have different policies.

When it comes to the question of what stores allow dogs, you’ll find quite a bit of variation. Home Depot, for instance, has a much more dog-friendly approach. If you’re wondering if Home Depot is dog friendly, the answer is yes—most Home Depot locations explicitly welcome well-behaved dogs on leashes. Similarly, Lowes allow dogs in most of their stores, though it’s always wise to call ahead and confirm your local store’s specific policy.

Other major retailers like Target, Walmart, and most grocery stores do not allow pets (other than service animals). Petco and PetSmart, naturally, welcome dogs with open arms. Outdoor retailers like REI also tend to be dog-friendly, recognizing that many of their customers are outdoor enthusiasts with canine companions.

The variation in policies reflects different business models and target audiences. Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowes often cater to customers who might be working on outdoor projects or repairs where having a dog along is practical. Hobby Lobby, by contrast, focuses more on indoor craft and home décor shopping, where they’ve determined that a no-pets policy works better for their operations and customer base.

Alternatives for Pet-Friendly Shopping

If you’re a Hobby Lobby regular but also a devoted dog parent, you have several options to consider. First, you could shop online. Hobby Lobby has a robust website where you can browse and purchase items for delivery or in-store pickup. This eliminates the need to leave your dog at home or in the car while you shop.

Second, consider exploring stores that allow dogs. While they may not carry the exact same inventory as Hobby Lobby, many craft and home improvement retailers welcome dogs. You might discover new favorite stores in the process!

Third, if you absolutely must visit a Hobby Lobby in person, plan ahead for your dog’s care. Options include:

• Hiring a pet sitter to watch your dog at home while you shop
• Asking a trusted friend or family member to dog-sit
• Using doggy daycare services for a few hours while you’re out
• Leaving your dog at home in a comfortable, secure space with toys and water
• Making a quick trip during times when you can minimize your dog’s alone time

Many pet owners find that investing in a reliable pet care solution is worth it for the peace of mind and the ability to shop comfortably without worrying about their furry friend.

Tips for Shopping Without Your Dog

If you’re heading to Hobby Lobby without your pup, here are some strategies to make the experience work better for both you and your dog:

Plan Your Trip

Make a list before you go. This helps you shop more efficiently and spend less time away from your dog. The shorter your outing, the better your dog will handle the separation.

Prepare Your Dog

Before leaving, make sure your dog has had a bathroom break and some exercise. A tired, relieved dog is more likely to rest peacefully while you’re away. Consider a quick walk or play session before heading out.

Create a Comfortable Space

Set up a designated area in your home where your dog feels safe. This might be a crate (if your dog is crate-trained), a specific room, or a comfortable corner with their bed. Leave familiar toys and perhaps an item with your scent on it.

Use Enrichment Activities

Leave puzzle toys, long-lasting chews, or treat-dispensing toys to keep your dog mentally stimulated while you’re gone. This can help prevent boredom and anxiety-related behaviors. According to the American Kennel Club, mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise for keeping dogs happy and healthy.

Consider Timing

If possible, time your Hobby Lobby visit for when your dog typically naps or rests. Many dogs have natural quiet periods during the day when they’re more content to relax.

Keep It Short

Limit your shopping trips to an hour or less, especially if your dog isn’t used to being alone for extended periods. You can always make multiple trips or order online for items you need urgently.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring my emotional support animal (ESA) to Hobby Lobby?

No. Hobby Lobby’s policy specifically excludes emotional support animals. Only certified service animals trained to perform specific tasks related to a disability are permitted. ESAs, while wonderful companions, don’t have the same legal access rights as service dogs under the ADA.

What happens if I try to bring my dog into Hobby Lobby?

If you attempt to bring a non-service dog into Hobby Lobby, store employees will likely ask you to remove the animal or leave the store. Hobby Lobby staff is trained to enforce this policy consistently. It’s best to avoid this situation by following the policy from the start.

Can I leave my dog in the car while I shop at Hobby Lobby?

While technically possible, this is not recommended. Leaving dogs in cars, even with the windows cracked, can be dangerous. Temperatures can rise quickly, and your dog could become overheated, stressed, or dehydrated. Many states have laws against leaving pets unattended in vehicles, and you could face legal consequences. It’s far better to arrange proper pet care.

Do all Hobby Lobby locations have the same pet policy?

Yes. Hobby Lobby maintains a consistent no-pets policy across all of its U.S. locations. However, it’s always good practice to call your local store if you have specific questions about their policies.

Are there any Hobby Lobby events or sales where dogs might be allowed?

No. Hobby Lobby’s pet policy applies consistently across all circumstances—regular shopping days, sales events, special promotions, and holidays. The policy doesn’t change based on the occasion.

How is Hobby Lobby’s policy different from other craft stores?

Hobby Lobby is stricter than some competitors. While Hobby Lobby has a blanket no-pets policy, some independent craft stores and certain locations of other retailers may be more flexible. It’s always worth calling ahead to ask about specific stores’ policies.

Can I bring my dog if I’m just picking up an online order?

Most Hobby Lobby locations offer order pickup services. While you won’t be browsing the store, you’ll still need to go inside to complete the transaction. You’d need to leave your dog in the car or elsewhere during this time. Many customers find that placing orders online and having someone else pick them up is a convenient solution.

What should I know about service dog etiquette at Hobby Lobby?

If you have a certified service dog, treat them as a working animal while in the store. Keep them close, don’t let other customers pet or distract them, and ensure they’re on a leash or harness. Other customers should never assume a service dog is available for petting or interaction—they’re performing important work for their handler.

For more information about service animals and their legal rights, consult the U.S. Department of Justice ADA website, which provides comprehensive guidance on service animal access laws.

Are there any exceptions to Hobby Lobby’s no-pet policy I should know about?

The only exception is for certified service animals as defined by the ADA. Beyond that, Hobby Lobby does not make exceptions. This includes puppies, toy breeds, or dogs that “never cause problems.” The policy is applied uniformly to protect the store’s inventory and ensure a consistent environment for all customers.

Where can I find more information about pet policies at different stores?

Many retailers publish their pet policies on their websites or customer service pages. You can also call specific store locations to ask about their policies. For broader information about which stores are dog-friendly, the ASPCA provides resources and guidance for pet owners, and many local pet communities maintain lists of dog-friendly businesses in their areas.

Understanding store policies like Hobby Lobby’s helps you plan better shopping trips and ensures your dog stays safe and comfortable while you’re out. By being informed and prepared, you can enjoy your shopping experience without stress or disappointment.