Does IKEA Allow Dogs? [A Quick Update for 2023]

IKEA, the Swedish furniture giant, has taken the United States by storm with its affordable and stylish furniture options.

But for some, IKEA has become more than just a place to shop for furniture. It has become a hangout spot where people want to bring their kids and dogs to spend time and relax. With its spacious layout, comfortable seating areas, and affordable cafe, it’s easy to see why.

However, the question remains – does IKEA allow dogs in their US stores?

As of 2023, IKEA allows service dogs in their US stores but otherwise does not allow pets. This pet policy is in place for health and safety reasons to ensure a comfortable shopping experience for all customers.

Keep reading to learn more about which dogs are allowed in IKEA and whether their pet policy changes from one location to another.

Does IKEA allow dogs? 

IKEA does not allow pet dogs or any other pets in their stores in the United States. However, an exception is made for service dogs or other service animals, so they’re allowed in IKEA to assist shoppers with disabilities.

Allowing only service animals in the store helps minimize potential health and safety risks, such as accidents, allergies, and fear of animals, that could affect other customers.

By limiting the presence of animals in their stores to only service animals, IKEA is ensuring that all customers are able to have a positive shopping experience.

What Animals Are Allowed in IKEA?

Under the American Disabilities Act (ADA), only service dogs and service animals are allowed in IKEA stores, which means that pet animals and emotional support animals are not allowed.

The reason behind the ban on emotional support animals in Ikea is that it is not vital to bring your dog with you in-store. Emotional support animals are only therapeutic; they do not assist shoppers in any practical way. 

If you are taking your service animal with you to IKEA, employees are entitled to ask you a few questions about your dog’s training. They are also within their rights if they ask to see any service dog-related documentation. 

The purpose of such questions is to make sure that it is essential to have your dog with you and that your dog is well-trained. 

Does IKEA’s Pet Policy Change Depending on the Store’s Location?

IKEA’s dog policy varies from one country to the other. Unfortunately, IKEA ins the US, Canada, and Australia strictly abide by the rules; they do not allow dogs unless they are certified service animals. 

In the UK, IKEA’s pet policy is a bit more flexible, as you are allowed bring your dog into the store with you if it’s small and can fit into your bag.

In some countries like Germany and Switzerland, there are special park areas outside the store where your dog can wait for you. However, in some stores in Switzerland, you can bring your dog in the store with you, but they have to be on a leash. 

Generally, it would be best to check with the specific IKEA store you are planning to visit for their pet policy.

IKEA stores by country	Pet-friendly or not	Service Animals
U.S	Not-pet friendly	Allowed
Canada	Not-pet friendly	Allowed
Australia	Not-pet friendly	Allowed
U.K	Pet-friendly (dog has to fit in a bag)	Allowed
Germany	Pet-friendly	Allowed
Switzerland	Pet-friendly	Allowed

Are There Dog Parking Spots in IKEA? 

It might be frustrating for you to take your dog out and go to IKEA, only to find that they don’t allow dogs in-store. In this case, you would either have to go back home or leave your dog in the car. Both are very inconvenient options. 

Luckily, IKEA has designated dog parking spots for your four-legged best friend. These dog parking spots have astroturf beds, water bowls, and shades that protect your dog from the sun or the train. For small dogs, there are even kennels where the dogs can nap. 

It’s a brilliant idea because dog-owners can shop without worrying about their dogs. Unfortunatly, the dog parking spots have only been implemented in Germany and are not availaible in the US.

What Stores Allow Dogs? 

As mentioned before, some non-US IKEA stores are more pet-friendly than others as they allow small dogs or on-leash dogs.

Most people claim that IKEA in Switzerland specifically is the most pet-friendly, as they allow pets in the following stores across the country: 

• Ikea Vernier
• Ikea Aubonne
• Ikea Grancia

If IKEA does not allow dogs where you live, here are some alternatives:

• Home Depot
• CB2
• Lowe’s
• Tractor Supply Co.
• Petco
• Petsmart

Stores that allow dogs in the United States vary by location. Additionally, while these stores may allow dogs, they may have specific rules and restrictions in place, such as only allowing well-behaved dogs on a leash, or only allowing service dogs. So, it is always best to check with each individual store beforehand.

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