A Samoyed getting groomed in a dog barber shop.

Are Dogs Allowed In Barbershops?

4 mins |

Most dog owners will defend the right to have their beloved pets go with them wherever they go. But that doesn’t mean they can go wherever they want. Are dogs allowed in barbershops, for example?

Dogs are allowed in some barbershops and not others because it depends on local bylaws and individual owner policies and restrictions.

How Do I Figure Out If Dogs Are Allowed In A Barbershop?

A dog holding a comb in its mouth.
Dogs love to be helpful.

The easiest way to find out if a barbershop allows dogs is to contact that barbershop. Even if they are dog-friendly, it’s still worth a call to make sure your specific breed is allowed in.

Another way to find out is to contact your local government or use their websites to search for laws related to animals and barbershops. It can be difficult to figure these things out this way though, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t find your answer right away.

Should I Allow Dogs Into My Barbershop?

Pet-friendly businesses are on the rise. These include restaurants, cafes, clothing stores, and hardware stores, to name a few. Barbershops are jumping on board with this idea too.

If your local bylaws say that dogs are allowed in barbershops, then it’s up to you, as a business owner, to decide what you want to do. For example, you may only want to allow dogs under 20 lbs (9.07 kg) or hypoallergenic dogs.

Even if you’re unsure, there are some good reasons to allow dogs in. It could open your business up to new customers. In general, dogs create a fun, friendly atmosphere. You might even be able to do special events with them.

Another thing to consider is social media. Lots of people are supporting dog-friendly businesses and sharing them. So, why not make yours one of them?

Are There Any Reasons Not To Allow Dogs Into My Barbershop?

The main reason would be if your local laws don’t allow it. Even if they do, if you’re not comfortable, that’s your call as a business owner what you want to do.

If you do allow pets, you will have to prove sanitary control though. This means pets can’t be near food preparation.

Another thing to keep in mind is that some people are allergic to dogs. Allowing dogs into your barbershop might stop those customers from coming. Other customers are afraid of dogs, and you could be partially liable if a dog bites someone. This would depend on what steps you’ve taken to create a safe environment for everyone though.

There’s also the problem of cleanliness. Pets shed dander and might bring in other unwanted things too. You’ll have to do more cleaning to keep your barbershop clean. Air purifiers can help a little bit with this.

Are Service Dogs Allowed In Barbershops?

Closeup of a service dog laying on the floor.
Service Dogs are legally allowed everywhere.

Service and support dogs are usually exceptions to the rule. They must be able to go wherever the general public can go.

The following are some service dog categories:

  • Hearing Alert Dogs: These dogs alert their owners to sounds.
  • Guide Dogs: These are usually seeing-eye dogs who help people navigate their surroundings.
  • Medical Assist Dogs: These dogs help their owners by alerting others if they are in medical danger.
  • Seizure Alert Dogs: These dogs alert others when their owner has a seizure.
  • Emotional Support Dogs: These dogs help owners who struggle with mental health.

The good news is that these dogs are trained and well-behaved.

In Conclusion: Are Dogs Allowed in Barbershops?

So, are dogs allowed in barbershops? They are if the laws and barbershop owners allow it. If you are a barbershop owner, it’s up to you how you handle this issue, but keep in mind that service dogs are allowed anywhere.

So, what do you think? What are some other reasons dogs should be allowed into barbershops? What are some other reasons they shouldn’t? Let us know in the comments below!