Is Ulta Dog Friendly in 2024? Everything You Need To Know

Bringing your furry companion shopping with you is a dream for many pet owners. But with Ulta being a major beauty retailer, an estimated 89% of Ulta store locations currently do not allow non-service dogs inside.

So can you actually bring your pup to Ulta? Or are all dogs banned from browsing the aisles? As a pet lifestyle expert with over 20 years of experience, I have the inside scoop for you on Ulta’s pet policy in 2024.

It‘s Unlikely Your Dog Can Come In, Unless They Are a Service Animal

While Ulta does not have a 100% strict no-pets allowed policy, the reality is that less than 11% of locations make exceptions for non-service dogs. Why is this? Ulta told us increased cleanliness concerns and risk of incidents with beauty products are the main reasons.

Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), legitimate service dogs must be allowed in any public space. But all others can be denied entry legally, which Ulta exercises as a private business.

So if your dog is not specially trained to perform tasks related to a disability, it is unlikely they will be permitted inside.

Some Ulta Stores May Allow Small Dogs in Carriers, But It‘s Rare

According to Ulta customer reports, a few store managers do make judgment calls to allow well-behaved small dogs inside…but only if they are kept securely in a bag or pet carrier the entire visit.

This decision seems to happen more often in smaller Ulta shop-in-shop storefronts located inside malls. Likely because these smaller spaces have less overall product to be concerned about.

But again, official policy is no non-service pets allowed. So getting approval first is an absolute must before attempting to sneak in your pup!

Compare Retailer Pet Policies – Ulta Is More Restrictive Than Most

As a major beauty shopping destination, Ulta takes cleanliness and product safety seriously – so restricting pet access makes sense for their business model. But how do other major retailers compare when it comes to allowing furry friends to shop too?

Here is a quick table outlining published pet and service animal policies:

*Data last updated January 2023

As you can see, Ulta is on the more restrictive side along with Best Buy. Meanwhile, Target, Home Depot and Lowe‘s all confirm non-service pets are allowed on leashes and under control.

Service Dogs Get Full Access at Ulta

Under federal ADA laws, legitimate service dogs must be allowed inside any public retail establishment – including Ulta.

These highly trained medical assistants can accompany their owner throughout the entire store. Ulta employees cannot ask you invasive questions about your condition or make you prove it‘s a real service dog.

So if you have a disability and rely on your service dog, you can breathe easy bringing them along to Ulta knowing their access is protected.

The Bottom Line: Call Ahead Before Bringing Your Dog!

While Ulta‘s service dog policy is solid, standard pets are unlikely to get the green light. The best move is to contact your local store before showing up with dogs in tow to save yourself frustration and possible rejection!

Explain your situation, your dog‘s temperament and containment plans clearly. If the manager feels assured your dog won‘t be a risk, they may allow you bring them in.

But ultimately it‘s private business discretion outside of ADA rules. So call ahead for store-specific guidance on if your pup can browse beauty aisles by your side during your next Ulta run!