Introduction
As one of the most popular home furnishings stores in the UK, Ikea attracts millions of visitors every year. For any dog owners shopping at Ikea, an important question often arises – is Ikea dog friendly in the UK? The answer is yes, Ikea welcomes dogs in their stores across the country. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Ikea’s pet policies, exploring where dogs are allowed, dog etiquette rules, purchasing pet products, Ikea dog events, and guide/service dogs. The goal is to inform UK dog owners about everything they need to know for a smooth shopping experience with their furry companions at Ikea.
Ikea’s Official Dog Policy in the UK
Ikea welcomes dogs in all of its stores across the UK. The Swedish furniture giant has adopted an official dog-friendly policy to create a welcoming environment for pet owners. Unlike many other retailers, Ikea allows leashed dogs to accompany their owners while shopping inside the stores. This thoughtful policy enables dog owners to browse furniture, purchase food at the restaurant, and explore the shop without having to leave their four-legged friends behind.
The dog-friendly policy applies to domesticated pets only. Ikea does not permit other animals, with the exception of guide and service dogs, to enter its stores. Dogs must be kept on a lead at all times and remain under the control of their owner. Overall, Ikea aims to provide dog owners with a relaxed and hassle-free shopping experience where the whole family, including their canine companions, can feel comfortable.
Where Dogs are Allowed in Ikea Stores
Ikea allows well-behaved dogs in most areas of their stores in the UK. At the entrance, dogs are welcome to come inside as long as they are leashed and under control. The marketplace section of Ikea stores is a dog-friendly zone where you can browse furniture displays with your four-legged friend.
Dogs are also allowed in the restaurant areas at Ikea’s UK locations. There are no restrictions on dogs sitting with owners on the restaurant floor or in the bistro seating sections. So feel free to enjoy some Swedish meatballs or other menu items while your leashed dog lies at your feet.
The main areas dogs are not allowed are the Food Hall section where food products are sold, as well as the Smaland play area. These sections maintain health code restrictions, so dogs cannot enter. But the majority of Ikea stores in the UK have Pet Park locations set up to provide water and relief areas for pets.
Dog Etiquette Rules at Ikea
While Ikea welcomes dogs in their stores, there are some rules dog owners need to follow to ensure a pleasant shopping experience for everyone. Ikea expects dogs to be well-behaved when visiting their stores.
One of the key rules is that dogs must be kept on leashes at all times. Dogs should never be allowed to roam freely around the store. The leash ensures the dog stays close to the owner and does not bother other customers or cause any accidents.
In addition to leashes, owners should make sure their dogs are well-trained and will listen to commands. Dogs that are prone to excessive barking, jumping on people, or displaying other unruly behaviors should be left at home. Well-behaved dogs are less likely to cause disruptions or safety issues at Ikea.
Dog owners are expected to promptly clean up after their pets if any accidents happen. Ikea wants to maintain clean and hygienic stores for all customers. Dog owners should come prepared with cleanup bags.
By keeping dogs leashed, well-behaved, and cleaning up after them, owners can help ensure everyone continues to feel comfortable shopping at Ikea. These etiquette rules create a welcoming environment for dog lovers.
Dog Friendly Areas at Ikea
Although pets are not allowed throughout the entire Ikea store, there are some designated dog friendly areas that owners can utilize. Most Ikea stores have water bowls set up at the entrance doors for pets to use. Store managers understand that dogs need water during hot days, so this is a thoughtful accommodation for visiting dogs.
Many Ikea locations also have green spaces or outdoor furniture areas that are pet friendly. If the weather is nice, owners can sit outside on the patio furniture with their dogs. This gives dogs a chance to rest and get fresh air. The outdoor areas also provide dogs more space to move around, which they appreciate during long shopping trips.
Ikea aims to make parts of their stores comfortable for pets so the whole family can shop together. The dog-friendly areas give pets a chance to take a break and get water without needing to leave the store entirely.
Purchasing Dog Items at Ikea
Ikea offers a variety of products for pets, especially dogs, that owners can purchase during their visit. Ikea carries several beds, bowls, toys, and other accessories that provide comfort and enrichment for dogs.
For dog beds, Ikea has several sizes and styles to fit each dog’s needs. They offer round cushion beds, orthopedic memory foam beds, covered beds, and elevated cot beds. Dog owners should measure their dog to find the right sized bed.
Ikea has stainless steel or plastic dog bowls in various colors and designs. The bowls come in packs of 2 or 4. They are easy to clean and durable for continued use. Ikea also sells silicone collapsible bowls, ideal for travel or outdoor activities.
The DUKTIG toy collection at Ikea features plush, rope, rubber, and vinyl dog toys. They have classic dog toys like balls, ropes, squeakers, and chews. Dog owners can hand select toys based on their dog’s size and preferences.
Beyond the dog essentials, Ikea also sells clothing, carriers, gates, mats, and waste bags for dogs. Shoppers can find all they need for their beloved pet in one Ikea trip.
Ikea Dog Events
Ikea stores occasionally host special dog-themed events that allow dogs and their owners to socialize. One of the most popular is Yappy Hour, which takes place in the store café after regular business hours. Owners can bring their dogs to roam the empty showrooms, and Ikea provides water bowls and treats. It’s a fun opportunity for dogs to explore new sights and sounds in a safe environment.
Some locations also hold dog training workshops in partnership with local pet professionals. These sessions cover topics like basic commands, leash manners, and socialization. Owners get expert advice on correcting behavioral issues like barking, chewing, or aggression. Workshops are usually limited to small groups to allow for individual attention. Attendees must keep their dogs under control at all times.
Check with your local Ikea to see if any dog events are scheduled. While fun for pets and owners alike, these events do require dogs to be well behaved around food, children, crowds, and distractions. Ikea wants dog events to be enjoyable for all guests.
Guide Dogs and Service Dogs
Guide dogs and service dogs are always welcome in any area of Ikea stores in the UK. This includes the shop floor, restaurants, playgrounds and all other public spaces.
Ikea staff are trained to acknowledge guide and service dogs and provide any assistance the owner may need. Guide and service dog owners are not required to show any formal identification or certification for their dogs to be allowed entry.
As guide and service dogs are working animals, it’s important that other customers allow them to focus on their job and not distract them unnecessarily. However, if you do interact with a guide or service dog at Ikea, be sure to ask the owner first.
So you can feel confident bringing your guide or service dog with you on your next trip to Ikea. They are integral to enabling many people’s independence and are welcome anywhere you need to go in the store.
Other Pet Policies at Ikea
While dogs are welcome at Ikea’s UK stores, there are some restrictions regarding other pets.
Cats and other small animals like rabbits, birds, hamsters, etc. are generally not permitted in Ikea stores, unless they are service animals. This policy is in place for health and safety reasons, as well as to avoid disruptions or damage that untrained pets may cause.
Reptiles, arachnids, and insects are also prohibited for similar reasons. These types of exotic pets can potentially scare or harm other customers if they get loose from their enclosures.
The only exception is for guide dogs and officially designated service animals. They are allowed at all Ikea locations regardless of species or type of animal. Proper identification is required in these cases.
In summary, Ikea aims to maintain a safe and clean shopping environment for all customers. While leashed dogs are welcomed, other untrained pets pose more risks and are best left at home or with a sitter when visiting Ikea.
Conclusion
Ikea stores in the UK are quite dog friendly overall. While dogs are not allowed everywhere in the stores, there are many designated dog friendly areas. At most locations, well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome in the restaurant patio areas, children’s play areas, and certain parts of the showroom floors. Guide dogs and service dogs have access to all areas of Ikea stores in accordance with UK law. Additionally, Ikea occasionally hosts dog-centric events at their stores such as “Dog Days” where dogs are celebrated. While there are some limitations, Ikea makes an effort to accommodate dog owners and their pets for a more fun and convenient shopping experience.