Is TJ Maxx Dog Friendly?

If you love a little retail therapy and you're ready to hit up your local TJ Maxx, you've likely wondered, 'Is TJ Maxx Dog Friendly?' With over 1000 stores across the US, it's a popular shopping destination for many families. This guide covers everything you need to know about bringing your pup along for a day of shopping at this well-loved discount store.

What is the TJ Maxx Dog Policy?

We have great news! For the most part, TJ Maxx is considered a dog-friendly store. Many TJ Maxx stores across the country do allow dogs in-store, which makes it an excellent destination for those with canine companions.  

Some TJ Maxx stores, however, will only allow service dogs who perform a specific disability-related function. Always call your store of choice ahead of visiting to check their unique stance on pet dogs and emotional support dogs. 

Go Deeper

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Pettable Academy is the best option for confidently training your dog or puppy to become the best version of itself. Our two video-based programs are designed to cater directly to your dog's needs.

Is TJ Maxx Dog Friendly?

Most TJ Maxx stores have a dog-friendly policy, allowing service dogs, psychiatric service dogs (PSDs), emotional support dogs, and pet dogs to come along for the ride (provided they are well-behaved). However, it's usually down to the store manager's discretion, and it's always best to call the store in advance to avoid disappointment. 

Tips for Bringing Your Dog to TJ Maxx 

If you've decided to bring your furry friend along for a shopping trip, there are some general etiquette guidelines to follow:

• Call the store in advance to check that it's okay to bring your dog along. 
• Ensure that your pup is always on a leash (unless the leash hinders the ability of the service dog to perform its disability-related task).
• Make sure that your pooch is toilet trained and bring a clean-up kit in case of any accidents. 
• Keep an eye on your pup at all times and make sure that they don't bother other patrons or dogs. Dogs should be well-behaved and calm at all times. 
• Bring some water along if you plan on being out for a few hours. It's imperative that your pup keeps hydrated during your shopping adventure. 

Are Service Dogs Allowed in TJ Maxx?

Yes. As highlighted in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), all service dogs and psychiatric service dogs are allowed in any area that the general public is able to access. This includes department stores, cafes, restaurants, movie theaters, shopping malls, and entertainment centers. It is illegal to turn away service animals and in direct contravention of the ADA. 

Are Emotional Support Animals Allowed in TJ Maxx?

Emotional Service dogs, much like pet dogs, are often allowed in TJ Maxx stores. Nonetheless, since it is down to the store manager's discretion, it's best to always call in advance. It would be disappointing to arrive at a store with your furry companion only to be told they should have stayed at home. 

Service dogs are always allowed as per the ADA. If your ESA is another animal species (like a cat, rabbit, or reptile), you must call the store in advance to check their policy on that specific animal. 

Are Dog Strollers Allowed in TJ Maxx?

Dog strollers will generally be permitted in TJ Maxx stores that allow dogs. Check with the store manager before you visit to make sure. 

Can TJ Maxx Ask for Proof of a Service Dog? 

No store can legally ask for proof that an animal is a service dog. They can, however, ask handlers two questions. Firstly, if the dog is needed because of a specific disability, and secondly, if the dog can perform a disability-related functional task. 

List of Dog-Friendly Stores 

Much like TJ Maxx is dog-friendly (for the most part), there are loads of other dog-friendly stores across the US. Popular stores with a dog-friendly policy include:

• Apple Store (many locations)
• Barnes & Noble 
• The Gap (most stores)
• Harbor Freight Tools 
• Lowes (most stores)
• Nordstrom 
• Old Navy 
• Petco
• Pottery Barn 
• Ross
• Victoria's Secret

Online Psychiatric Service Dog Training with Pettable  

If you are ready to take the leap and access psychiatric service dog training with a qualified trainer, get in touch with the animal experts at Pettable. Access our self-paced online course which runs over 15 sessions. Upon course completion, receive your certificate. PSDs have the same rights as service dogs under the ADA. 

We are also on hand to help you acquire official ESA letters. Get in touch with us and we will happily connect you with a licensed therapist from your state. While ESAs are not seen as service animals, they do have special rights, especially regarding housing as per the Fair Housing Act (FHA).  

Under the FHA, owners with ESAs cannot be unfairly discriminated against. ESAs must be permitted to stay in houses by landlords, even if conventional pets are not allowed in the apartment or complex.