The question that many pet owners have when they go to big-box shops is whether Costco lets dogs inside. A lot of people feel at ease shopping with their animal friend. Dogs are like family, so it can feel unfair to leave them at home or in the car. While the answer is usually “yes or no,” it’s not that simple when it comes to big stores like Costco.
Learn more about Costco’s dog policy, including why they have certain rules and what other options you have if you want to shop with your dog.
Costco’s Official Policy on Dogs
Inside its warehouse shops, Costco does not allow pets. In general, this means that people can’t bring dogs or any other pets with them when they shop. The reason for this rule comes from rules about health and safety.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) makes shops like Costco follow strict cleanliness rules because they sell food, both fresh and in packages. Because letting pets into stores could make them more likely to get sick, Costco has this rule in all of its stores.
Still, there are some exceptions, mostly for service animals.
Service Animals Are Welcome
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) says that stores like Costco have to let disabled people bring their trained service animals inside. People with disabilities can’t live without their service animals, which are not really pets but rather working animals.
Why Costco Doesn’t Allow Dogs Inside
Some pet owners are let down when they learn that Costco doesn’t allow pets. But there are a few good reasons for it:
- Well-being and cleanliness: Pets may drool, shed hair, or have problems that could make food less safe.
- Allergies: Some customers may be allergic to dogs, and Costco wants to make sure that everyone feels comfortable while they shop.
- Safety concerns: Dogs can get scared, bark a lot, or even bite, especially in busy places.
- Consistency Across Locations: Costco has stores all over the world, and having clear, consistent rules helps keep things simple.
Where Your ESA Has Rights (Unlike Costco)
Although Costco does not allow ESAs, here are the areas where your ESA letter protects you:
- Housing (Fair Housing Act – FHA): Housing providers must reasonably accommodate ESAs, no matter whether they are no-pet housing or not.
- Air travel (depending on airlines and airline policies): Some airlines recognize ESAs, but guidelines have recently become more stringent.
- Emotional Support Benefits: When you really need your ESA, having legal documentation helps ease your mind.
This is why it is important to possess a true ESA letter from a legit source, such as ESA CLINIC.
How ESA CLINIC Can Help
At ESA CLINIC, we recognize that you have a unique bond with your dog. Even if a venue such as Costco does not allow ESAs, it is always best to have a valid ESA letter in hand, so you can be free to:
- Housing protections – No more fretting over landlords denying your furry friend.
- Travel accommodations – Some travel venues may allow ESAs with documents.
- Peace of mind – Knowing that your ESA is recognized as part of your wellness journey.
Our website ensures that the process is simple, secure, and 100% online with a licensed mental health professional who can assess your need for an ESA letter and determine if you qualify.
Final Thoughts
Is it okay to bring dogs to Costco? No, pets are not allowed in Costco shops. Service animals, on the other hand, are always welcome as long as they are trained to help their disabled owner. I’m sorry to say that emotional support animals are not the same thing.
If you have a pet, you might be upset that your animal friend can’t go to Costco with you. But keep in mind that these rules are in place to keep customers safe, make sure food is safe, and keep the building safe overall.
For now, the safest and most comfortable thing to do is to leave your dog at home while you shop at Costco and enjoy the member perks. If you need an ESA letter from a licensed professional, you can always rely on ESA CLINIC.
FAQs About Costco’s Dog Policy
1. Can dogs and cats come into Costco?
No, Costco does not allow pets at all. Inside is only open to service animals.
2. Does Costco accept animals that help people who need them?
Costco does not have to let emotional support animals inside because they are not service animals under the ADA.
3. Can the staff at Costco ask for proof that my dog is a service animal?
Not at all, they can’t ask for papers. They can only ask two questions about what the dog does and how it works.
4. What should I do if I see someone in Costco with a pet that isn’t a service animal?
You can tell the Costco staff about it. It is important to follow the store’s rules about health and safety.
5. Are there stores besides Costco that are pet-friendly?
Some local hardware shops, PetSmart, Petco, and Home Depot are among the stores that do let dogs in. The other options are to shop online or use Instacart to have food delivered.
