Are Dogs Allowed in IKEA? 3 Important Rules to Know

Furry companions are becoming a common sight in retail stores. If you’ve ever pictured yourself perusing the aisles of Swedish design giant IKEA with your faithful family dog, you’re not alone in this pet-loving world. But are dogs allowed in IKEA? As pet trends evolve, so do the policies of retailers like IKEA. Explore the answer to this question and determine whether your beloved pet is welcome in the land of BILLY bookshelves, KIVIK sofas, and meatballs. Moreover, discover important rules and guidelines that dog owners need to know.

Are Dogs Allowed in IKEA?

Unfortunately, the Swedish giant does not allow pets in its stores. The quirky information cites pets as family members, but its furniture is for human family members only. However, under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines, IKEA welcomes trained, ADA-qualified service animals. This accommodation does not extend to comfort or emotional support animals (ESAs).

3 Important Rules to Know

ADA-trained service dogs have no trouble following rules. However, it is important for you, as their owner, to be aware of important rules and common courtesy for the most pleasant shopping experience.

Your Dog Must Be on a Leash

This first rule is straightforward. IKEA, like most retailers, requires all service dogs to be on a leash or guide. A leash prioritizes the safety of customers, IKEA’s merchandise, and your service companion. This rule is especially important for preventing accidents, maintaining control over your dog, and ensuring that the other customers feel comfortable during their visit. After all, IKEA’s vision is: “To create a better everyday life for the many people.”

No Furniture Allowed

While IKEA welcomes trained service dogs, it is important to note that they do not allow dogs on the furniture displays. Dogs can be unpredictable; even the best-behaved and most trained dogs shed hair or leave marks on the furniture. To maintain the cleanliness and integrity of its showroom pieces, IKEA prohibits dogs from lounging on the sofas, chairs, or beds.

So, as you explore IKEA’s beautifully designed rooms and envision how that EKTORP sofa would look in your living room, resist the temptation to let your dog hop up for a quick nap. Instead, guide them safely around the store without disrupting the carefully curated displays.

Answer Service Animal-Related Questions

IKEA’s staff may approach you to ask if your dog is a service animal. It is important to be honest and transparent. Legally, the Americans with Disabilities Act protects service animals. However, retailers can ask limited questions to determine if an animal is indeed a service animal. If your dog is not a service animal, respect this inquiry and follow any store policies regarding pets.

Pro tip: Put a vest or identifiable collar or handkerchief on your dog, identifying them as a service animal. However, remember that the ADA does not require service animals to be identifiable. Instead, the ADA defined service animals by their training.

What Is the Difference Between Service Dogs and Emotional Support Dogs?

Service animals and emotional support animals (ESAs) both provide necessary comfort or support to their owners. However, they serve different purposes and have distinct legal rights and definitions.

Service Animals

Service animals perform specific tasks for individuals with disabilities. The tasks relate to the person’s disability. They include guiding the blind, alerting authorities to seizures, and providing mobility assistance. The Americans with Disabilities Act protects service animals in the United States.

Under the ADA, service animals can accompany their owners in places open to the public, including restaurants, stores, and transportation. They are also exempt from pet restrictions and can enter areas where establishments prohibit traditional pets.

Furthermore, service animals do not require certification or documentation. Businesses may ask two specific questions to determine if an animal is a service animal:

1. Is the dog a service animal required because of a disability?
2. What task does the dog perform?

Emotional Support Animals

Emotional support animals are usually dogs or cats. They provide emotional support and comfort to individuals with mental health or emotional disorders. They do not undergo training for specific tasks like service animals.

ESAs are not service animals under the ADA. However, the Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA) protect their rights. Public housing accommodations must allow ESAs even if they have a “no pets” policy. Furthermore, ESAs can fly with their owners in the cabin of an aircraft without paying a pet fee.

To qualify for ESA status, individuals need a letter from a licensed mental health professional stating that they have a disabling mental health condition and that the ESA provides therapeutic benefits. The letter is also required to access the ESA-related rights regarding housing and airplanes.

Are the Rules About Dogs the Same for Every IKEA Store?

While IKEA’s meandering layout and carefully curated displays are universal, its pet policies are not. Check out some popular locations and their alternative policies:

Japan

Japan’s IKEA stores follow the same rules as those in the United States. They do not allow pets. However, they permit guide dogs and service animals.

Spain

Spain allows two pets to visit their stores with families. They also allow pets in most areas except the food areas and Swedish stores. However, the stores allow accredited service animals and therapy dogs access to all locations.

Taiwan

Taiwan has unique pet policies. The IKEA stores in Taiwan allow pets to visit. However, you must keep them off the ground and inside a pet travel bag or trolley. Furthermore, they do not allow pets near food sources or the market because of food regulations.

It is essential for visitors to any IKEA store to be aware of the local pet policy. Additionally, policies change over time, so it is always a good idea to check with the specific IKEA store you plan to visit or use their website for the most up-to-date information.

Pet-Friendly Alternatives

Few stores match the wonder of IKEA. However, there are several pet-friendly alternatives to consider. Policies vary widely from one retailer to another.

• Pet stores: Stores like Petco and PetSmart encourage their customers to bring well-behaved pets into their stores.
• Home improvement stores: Some Lowes locations allow dogs into their store. The Home Depot allows pets. The retail giant also provides free bowls of water.
• Outdoor retailers: Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops are pet-friendly. They allow dogs in their store where local laws allow.

Pet-friendly stores have their own rules and expectations regarding pet behavior. Always be considerate of other shoppers and follow the store’s guidelines to ensure a positive experience for everyone.

IKEA and Dogs

While IKEA stores worldwide have differing pet policies, it is essential to respect and adhere to the rules of the specific location you visit. Your furry friend’s presence undoubtedly enhances your shopping experience, but knowing and following the guidelines is crucial.

IKEA only allows service animals in its stores. However, if you find that IKEA’s policies are not to your liking or you are simply looking for alternatives, there are plenty of stores that welcome well-behaved pets. Pet supply stores, home improvement shops, and outdoor retailers are just a few options.

Before heading out with your pet, always check the specific policies of the store you plan to visit and ensure your pet is well-behaved. By doing so, you can enjoy a pleasant shopping experience while also respecting the comfort and safety of fellow shoppers and their pets.