French regulations
In France, no law formally prohibits dogs in shops — except in food establishments. It's the departmental health regulation (RSD) that prohibits animals in premises for preparing, manufacturing and storing food. In practice, each merchant decides for their establishment.
- Food shops (bakeries, supermarkets, butchers): prohibited unless merchant decides otherwise
- Non-food shops (clothing, bookstores, DIY): allowed by default, unless explicitly prohibited
- Shopping centers: variable policy, often accepted in aisles but not in food shops
- Open-air markets: leashed dogs generally tolerated
Where your dog is welcome
| Type of shop | Dog accepted | Conditions | Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pet stores | Always | Leash | Shopping paradise with your dog |
| Garden centers | Almost always | Leash | Gamm Vert, Truffaut, Jardiland: often dog-friendly |
| DIY | Often | Leash, large dog OK | Leroy Merlin, Castorama: check per store |
| Bookstores / Stationery | Variable | Small dog, calm | Independents are often more welcoming |
| Clothing / Fashion | Variable | Small dog in bag | Ask before entering |
| Supermarkets | Rarely | Food RSD | Small dog carrier sometimes tolerated |
| Bakeries | Rarely | Food hygiene | Tie briefly outside or alternate |
Well-known dog-friendly brands
Tips for shopping with your dog
Look for the dog pictogram at the entrance, or simply ask. Our directory of dog-friendly shops lists verified establishments near you.
Walk before shopping so they're calm. Avoid peak hours. A tired dog is a well-behaved dog in stores.
Short leash (no retractable), carrier bag for small dogs, treats to reward them. Some stores have attachment hooks at the entrance.
Your dog must not touch anything, knock anything over, or bark. Good behavior in stores guarantees they remain open to dogs.
Never tie your dog alone outside a store for an extended period. Risks: dog theft (up 30% in 5 years), stress and barking, biting a passerby, heat stroke in summer. If you must enter a shop that prohibits dogs, alternate with a companion or shop online.
Open-air markets: an ideal alternative
Open-air markets are often more tolerant than stores. Your dog can accompany you in the aisles provided they're on a short leash. Avoid peak hours (10am-12pm) and keep your dog away from ground-level food stalls.
For your shopping outings, combine with lunch at a dog-friendly restaurant. Always check local regulations. If visiting a new city, check our guide to dog-friendly cities to identify welcoming shopping areas.
Frequently asked questions
Can a merchant refuse my dog?
Yes, unless it's a guide or assistance dog. A merchant is free to refuse access to animals in their establishment. Respect their decision — insisting will only make things worse for all dog owners.
Do shopping centers accept dogs?
Policy varies. The common walkways of shopping centers often accept leashed dogs, but each store has its own policy. Large centers (Westfield, Cap 3000…) generally display their rules at the entrance. Small dogs in bags are better tolerated.
Can my dog enter the post office or bank?
Post offices and banks have no uniform national policy — it depends on the branch. Small dogs in bags or very calm leashed dogs are often tolerated. Don't hesitate to ask before entering.
What if my dog breaks something in a store?
You are civilly liable for damage caused by your animal (Article 1243 of the Civil Code). Immediately inform the merchant and offer to reimburse. Your liability insurance may cover this damage.
My Truffaut garden center has become our Sunday outing. My dog loves it — there's always someone to pet him. And I can shop peacefully.
— Cavalier King Charles owner, Lyon
