If you’re gearing up to shop at one of the more than 1,000 TJ Maxx stores in the United States, you might be wondering if TJ Maxx is dog-friendly. (After all, they do sell dog beds and a variety of dog accessories!)
The quick answer is you can maybe Take your dog shopping with you at TJ Maxx.
Why do we say can and not only? Because there is no official company policy. Instead, the decision to be dog-friendly is up to the individual store. However, many TJ Maxx stores nationwide welcome your docile leash to join you on your shopping tour.
Before you go out, check TJ Maxx Store Finder and give your local store a quick call. Trust us when we say you’ll be glad you did. This will prevent any awkwardness when entering the store (and don’t forget: if you feel uncomfortable, your dog will sense those emotions and feel uncomfortable too. after talking to the store and learning that you and your dog can have a fun outing together!)
How to make sure your dog has a successful shopping trip
Is your dog brand new to shop? You may want to start at a mom and pet supply store first, then work your way up. smart pet or Petco, and THEN go to the clothing and lifestyle stores.
Why? Because other shoppers in pet supply stores know that our dogs aren’t perfect 24/7. They will understand if your dog suddenly barks in the middle of a shopping spree!
But if you’re confident in your dog’s behavior and you’ve verified that your local TJ Maxx is dog-friendly, then pack your bags and get ready for your shopping spree! Here are some quick tips to make your trip a success:
- Pack a fixed lanyard no longer than 6 feet. Leave the retractable at home.
- Pack a cleaning kit. Accidents happen and it’s your responsibility to pick up–and pick up FAST.
- Pack a small blanket or throw in a stroller. If you have a small dog that will be sitting in your cart, PLEASE pack a chair for him to sit on to prevent his paws from threading through the mesh bottom of the stroller.
- Stop the potty before entering the store.
- Keep your dog by your side or in a stroller. Don’t let your dog catch up with other shoppers.
Share your photos on social media
If your local store welcomes your dog, be sure to snap a photo and share it with the hashtag # #TJMaxxDog. (And include in your captions where you and your dog are welcome so others know which places are dog-friendly!)
Are service dogs allowed in TJ Maxx?
Even if your local TJ Maxx is not dog friendly, your service dog will be allowed into the store under the supervision of Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The act notes: “The work or task a dog has been trained to perform must be directly related to the person’s disability. Dogs whose sole function is to provide comfort or emotional support do not qualify as service animals under the ADA.”
Service dogs are not required to wear special vests, harnesses, or tags.
If your dog is not a trained service dog, do not misunderstand your dog as a service dog. Depending on where you live, misrepresenting a dog as a service dog can be fined up to $1000.
Another dog-friendly store
Be sure to check out our list Over 100 dog-friendly stores for places you can shop with your dog in your home city and other tests”Can I bring my dog?” post for details on specific stores.
Some of our personal favorites with our dogs include low, Tuesday morning and ace hardware.
Pin it to remember is TJ Maxx dog friendly?
