Who doesn't love shopping with their best friend?! Whether you're looking for high-distraction training opportunities or just love doing as much as possible with your pooch, dog-friendly stores are always a great thing to be aware of.

With Charlotte being such a dog-centric city, it should come as no surprise that there are many stores that allow dogs! Here are a bunch of our favorites -

1. Lowe’s & Home Depot
   On hot days, hardware stores are perfect for getting your dog some exercise and enrichment! These stores have a long history of being dog-friendly, but policies vary by store (especially Home Depot). Make sure to call in advance and check before bringing your dog!
2. Blackhawk Hardware
   Another hardware store, this local favorite has a wide selection of tools, home goods, gardening supplies, and more. Be aware - this store has shop dogs. If your dog isn't comfortable being approached by off leash dogs, this might not be the best spot for them!
3. Michaels
   One of our best kept secrets, Michaels is an ideal environment for training! It's unlikely that you'll run into any other dogs and it's a fairly quiet store - good for dogs who lack confidence or are uncomfortable around other dogs.
4. Great Outdoor Provision Co.
   Located across the parking lot from Blackhawk, Great Outdoor Provision Co. is the perfect place to stock up on outdoor clothing and gear for adventures with your dog. 
5. Orvis
   Another option for outdoor gear, Orvis has an extensive collection of high quality dog gear. Bring your pooch along to shop, and treat them to a bed or bumper!
6. Marshalls / TJ Maxx / HomeGoods
    A bargain shopper's dream, this family of stores are all known to be dog friendly! Check out their wide variety of dog toys and discounted treats.
7. Old Navy
   Most are surprised to hear that Old Navy is dog friendly! In our experience, most locations welcome well-behaved pups, but make sure to call in advance to confirm since policies may vary!
8. Bass Pro / Cabela’s
    Whether you're an outdoor sportsman / sportswoman or just looking for an indoor training opportunity, Bass Pro and Cabela's offer unique training opportunities like taxidermy deer and giant aquariums.
9. Moxie Mercantile
   We love supporting local businesses! This women-owned boutique has eclectic clothing and gifts. Bring your pup and splurge on something unique for a loved one! 
10. Sleepy Poet
    This antique mall is truly a treasure. Enjoy perusing with your pooch, but minding their wagging tail!
    
11. Nordstrom / Nordstrom Rack
    You might be surprised to learn that Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack are dog friendly! If your dog has a taste for luxury, bring them along for a shopping adventure!
12. Anthropologie / Free People
    These funky stores have a little bit of everything - clothes, beauty products, gifts, and more. While dog friendly, keep an eye out for breakable items like Christmas ornaments and coffee mugs!
13. Paper Skyscraper
    Whether you're looking for gifts or souvenirs, this fascinating shop has a little bit of everything! Navigating tables of curiosities is a great training experience, but mind your dog's tail as you wander!
14. Park Road Books
    If you're a reader, combine three therapeutic things - shopping, books, and dogs! Take your book shopping offline and support this local, independent bookstore with your pooch.
15. West Elm
    On the hunt for furniture or home goods? Bring your pooch down to West Elm and let them help you with your shopping!

Have you visited any of these stores with your dog? Are there any you would add to this list? Let us know in the commends below!

Looking for other dog-friendly recommendations? Check out our posts on Breweries and Greenways!