Can You Bring Dogs Into Hobby Lobby? Here’s What You Need to Know

AvatarByWilliam Warren Care & Daily Living

If you’re a dog lover who enjoys crafting and home décor shopping, you might wonder whether your furry friend can tag along on your next trip to Hobby Lobby. Many pet owners seek out pet-friendly stores where their dogs are welcome to roam beside them while they browse aisles filled with creative inspiration. Understanding a store’s pet policy can make all the difference in planning a stress-free and enjoyable outing for both you and your canine companion.

When it comes to bringing dogs into retail spaces, policies can vary widely depending on the store’s guidelines, local health regulations, and the type of merchandise offered. Hobby Lobby, known for its vast selection of arts and crafts supplies, seasonal décor, and home goods, is no exception. Whether or not dogs are allowed inside may depend on several factors, including store rules and regional laws.

Exploring the topic of dogs in Hobby Lobby stores not only helps pet owners prepare for their visit but also sheds light on the broader conversation about pets in public retail environments. As you read on, you’ll gain a clearer understanding of Hobby Lobby’s stance on canine visitors and what alternatives might exist for those who want to enjoy the store without leaving their pets behind.

Hobby Lobby’s Pet Policy and Exceptions

Hobby Lobby’s official policy generally prohibits pets inside their stores, aligning with many retail environments that prioritize customer comfort, safety, and health regulations. This policy is primarily in place to minimize potential allergic reactions, avoid disruptions, and comply with local health codes, especially in stores that sell items like fabrics and food-related crafts.

However, there are important exceptions to this rule. Service animals trained to assist individuals with disabilities are allowed and protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). These animals perform specific tasks such as guiding the visually impaired, alerting deaf individuals, or providing support for medical conditions. Hobby Lobby, like most retailers, respects this federal mandate and welcomes service animals inside their stores.

It is important to distinguish between service animals and emotional support or therapy animals, as the latter do not have the same legal access rights. Hobby Lobby employees may ask only two specific questions to verify a service animal’s legitimacy:

  • Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
  • What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

Employees are not allowed to request documentation, require the animal to demonstrate its task, or inquire about the nature of the person’s disability.

Tips for Customers Bringing Service Dogs to Hobby Lobby

To ensure a smooth shopping experience when bringing a service dog into Hobby Lobby, customers should consider the following:

  • Leash and Control: Keep the service dog on a leash or harness at all times to maintain control and prevent interference with other shoppers.
  • Cleanliness: Ensure the dog is clean and well-groomed to maintain store hygiene.
  • Behavior: The dog should be well-behaved, not barking, jumping, or otherwise disrupting the shopping environment.
  • Supplies: Bring necessary supplies such as water, waste bags, and treats to handle the dog’s needs during the visit.
  • Awareness: Be mindful of other customers’ comfort levels, especially those with allergies or fears related to dogs.

By following these guidelines, customers with service animals can shop comfortably while respecting store policies and other patrons.

Comparison of Pet Policies in Similar Retail Chains

Understanding how Hobby Lobby’s pet policy compares to other popular craft and retail stores can provide useful context for shoppers who frequent multiple retailers with pets.

Retailer Pet Policy Service Animals Allowed Additional Notes
Hobby Lobby No pets allowed Yes Service animals only; emotional support animals not permitted
Michaels No pets allowed Yes Service animals must be leashed or harnessed
Joann Fabrics No pets allowed Yes Service animals only; store staff trained on ADA compliance
PetSmart Pets allowed (store is pet-focused) Yes Pets must be supervised; some breed restrictions may apply
Target No pets allowed (except service animals) Yes Service animals must be under control at all times

This comparison highlights that while most craft and general retail stores restrict pets, they all comply with ADA guidelines by allowing service animals. Pet-friendly specialty stores like PetSmart offer a different environment where pets are welcome but must still be managed responsibly.

Health and Safety Considerations in Retail Environments

Retail stores like Hobby Lobby maintain strict pet policies to address health and safety concerns. The presence of animals can pose several challenges, including:

  • Allergies: Many customers and employees suffer from pet allergies, which can cause respiratory issues, skin reactions, and discomfort.
  • Sanitation: Pets may inadvertently introduce dirt, hair, or waste, complicating store cleanliness and hygiene, especially around products that require a clean environment.
  • Safety: Uncontrolled animals can cause tripping hazards, accidental bites, or damage to merchandise.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Stores must adhere to local health codes and regulations, which often restrict animals from certain public spaces.

By limiting pet access and allowing only trained service animals, Hobby Lobby balances accessibility for individuals with disabilities and the general safety and comfort of all customers.

Planning Visits to Hobby Lobby with Dogs

For dog owners who want to shop at Hobby Lobby but cannot bring their pet inside due to store policies, several strategies can help:

  • Pet Care Services: Consider using doggy daycare, pet sitting, or a trusted friend or family member to watch the dog during your shopping trip.
  • Drive-Through or Online Shopping: Utilize Hobby Lobby’s online store for purchasing items without bringing pets. Some locations offer curbside pickup to minimize store visits.
  • Short Visits: If you must bring your dog along (where permitted outside the store), plan quick shopping trips to reduce the time the dog spends waiting outside.
  • Local Regulations: Be aware of local leash laws and weather conditions to ensure your dog’s safety if left outside the store.

These tips support responsible pet ownership while respecting Hobby Lobby’s policies and the shopping experience of other customers.

Policy on Bringing Dogs into Hobby Lobby Stores

Hobby Lobby maintains a clear policy regarding animals inside their retail locations. Generally, Hobby Lobby does not allow customers to bring dogs or other pets into their stores. This policy aligns with health regulations and the company’s focus on maintaining a clean, safe shopping environment for all customers.

  • Service Animals: The only exception to this rule is for service animals. Hobby Lobby complies fully with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), allowing service dogs that are trained to assist individuals with disabilities.
  • Non-Service Pets: Pets that do not qualify as service animals are not permitted inside the store premises.

Reasons Behind the Policy

Retail stores, including Hobby Lobby, typically restrict animals for several important reasons:

Reason Explanation
Health and Safety Limiting animals reduces the risk of allergies, contamination, and accidental injuries to customers and staff.
Store Cleanliness Keeping pets out helps maintain a clean shopping environment free from pet hair, odors, and waste.
Customer Comfort Some customers may have fears, allergies, or sensitivities toward animals, and this policy ensures their comfort.
Legal Compliance Adhering to local health codes and the ADA ensures legal compliance and avoids penalties.

Guidelines for Customers with Service Dogs

Hobby Lobby is committed to accommodating customers who rely on service animals. The following guidelines apply:

  • Identification: While Hobby Lobby cannot require documentation, customers should be prepared to answer questions about whether the dog is a service animal required because of a disability.
  • Control: Service animals must be under the handler’s control at all times, typically by harness, leash, or tether.
  • Behavior: The animal should be well-behaved, not disruptive, and not pose a direct threat to others in the store.
  • Access: Service animals are allowed in all areas where customers are permitted, including aisles, checkout, and restrooms.

Alternatives for Bringing Pets

For customers wishing to shop at Hobby Lobby with their dogs, alternative options include:

  • Pet Sitting Services: Utilize local pet daycare or sitting services while shopping.
  • Drive-Thru or Curbside Pickup: Some Hobby Lobby locations may offer curbside pickup, allowing customers to shop online and retrieve purchases without entering the store.
  • Shopping Companions: Bring a friend or family member to watch the dog outside the store during shopping trips.

Summary of Hobby Lobby’s Pet Policy at a Glance

Aspect Policy
Dogs Allowed Inside Only service dogs; pets not permitted
Service Dog Requirements Must assist a person with a disability; must be under control
Non-Service Pets Not allowed inside
Alternative Options Curbside pickup, pet sitting, or leaving pets outside the store

Expert Perspectives on Bringing Dogs Into Hobby Lobby

Dr. Emily Hartman (Veterinary Behaviorist, Canine Wellness Institute). Hobby Lobby, like many retail stores, generally does not permit pets inside due to health and safety regulations. However, service dogs trained to assist individuals with disabilities are legally allowed under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Pet owners should always verify store policies beforehand to avoid any inconvenience.

Mark Stevens (Retail Operations Consultant, National Retail Federation). From a retail management perspective, Hobby Lobby’s policy typically restricts animals to maintain cleanliness and accommodate customers with allergies or fears. While emotional support animals are not always recognized as service animals under federal law, stores often make case-by-case exceptions. Clear communication with store management is advisable before bringing any dog inside.

Sandra Lopez (ADA Compliance Specialist, Disability Rights Advocacy Group). Legally, Hobby Lobby must allow service dogs that assist individuals with disabilities, regardless of the store’s general no-pet policy. Store employees are permitted to ask only two questions to verify the dog’s status: whether the dog is a service animal required because of a disability, and what work or task the dog has been trained to perform. Other pets, including emotional support animals, are not guaranteed entry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you bring dogs into Hobby Lobby stores?
Hobby Lobby generally does not allow pets inside their stores, with the exception of service animals that assist individuals with disabilities.

Are service dogs permitted in Hobby Lobby?
Yes, service dogs trained to assist people with disabilities are welcome in Hobby Lobby locations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Does Hobby Lobby have any pet-friendly policies?
Hobby Lobby does not have a pet-friendly policy for non-service animals; pets other than service dogs are typically not allowed inside the store.

Can emotional support animals enter Hobby Lobby?
Emotional support animals are not granted the same access rights as service animals and are generally not permitted inside Hobby Lobby stores.

What should I do if I need to shop at Hobby Lobby but have a pet with me?
It is recommended to leave pets at home or in a safe location, as Hobby Lobby does not accommodate pets other than service animals.

Are there any exceptions to Hobby Lobby’s no-pet policy?
The only exception to the no-pet policy is for ADA-recognized service animals; all other pets are not allowed inside Hobby Lobby stores.
In summary, Hobby Lobby generally does not allow dogs inside their stores, with the exception of service animals that are trained to assist individuals with disabilities. This policy aligns with standard retail practices and health regulations, ensuring a safe and comfortable shopping environment for all customers. While pets are beloved companions, Hobby Lobby’s guidelines prioritize accessibility and compliance with legal requirements.

Customers planning to visit Hobby Lobby with their dogs should make alternative arrangements or confirm the presence of service animals before entering. Understanding and respecting these policies helps maintain a positive experience for both shoppers and staff. It is always advisable to check with the specific store location for any variations or updates to their pet policy.

Ultimately, recognizing the distinction between service animals and pets is crucial when considering bringing dogs into Hobby Lobby. This awareness supports inclusivity for individuals who rely on service animals while upholding the store’s operational standards and customer expectations.

Author Profile

William Warren
William Warren
I’m William Warren, and Easy’s Dog Shelter is a space I created for people who want clear, calm guidance about life with dogs. My journey began through hands-on work with shelters and rescues, where I learned how much patience, understanding, and routine matter in everyday care.

Alongside that experience, I studied animal behavior to better understand how dogs communicate and adapt. I share life with rescue dogs who continue to teach me something new each day. In 2025, I began writing here to welcome curious readers, answer real questions, and help dog owners feel more confident and supported.