If you’ve ever needed to pick up some paint, compost or a few plants but didn’t want to leave your dog at home, you might be wondering whether B&Q is dog friendly. The answer isn’t quite as straightforward as you might think.
According to B&Q’s website, “store managers may make a local decision to exclude any dog from a B&Q store, other than Guide Dogs and Special Assistance Dogs, which are always permitted”.
Can you take your dog into B&Q?
Unlike many retailers, B&Q doesn’t have a single nationwide policy for pet dogs. Instead, individual store managers can decide whether or not to allow dogs into their branch.
That means your local B&Q may welcome well-behaved dogs on leads, while another branch may choose not to. If you’re planning a visit, it’s worth remembering that the experience may differ depending on the store.
Our dog friendly experience at B&Q
We recently visited our local B&Q and found it to be an easy place to browse with a dog.
The wide aisles meant there was plenty of space, the garden centre was enjoyable to explore and there were lots of interesting smells to investigate, although we definitely recommend keeping curious noses away from the plants. That got us thinking… Which summer plants are actually safe for your dog?
So, while we were there, we checked some of the most popular plants currently available and have given each one a simple traffic light rating to make shopping a little easier.
🟢 Dog safe
Generally considered non-toxic to dogs:
- Lavender
- Fuchsia
- Busy Lizzie (Impatiens)
- Trailing Petunia
- Dahlia
- Rhodanthemum (Moroccan Daisy)
- Delosperma (Ice Plant)
Please note: Eating large quantities could still cause an upset stomach.
🟠 Mildly toxic
May cause mild stomach upset or irritation if eaten:
- Dianthus (Pinks)
- French Marigold
- Carnation
🔴 Toxic
These plants are known to be toxic to dogs and are best avoided:
- Geranium (Pelargonium)
- English Ivy
- Begonia
- Hydrangea
- Calla Lily
Even plants considered dog safe can still cause an upset stomach if eaten in large quantities, so it’s always best to discourage your dog from chewing any plants.
If you’re looking for a more comprehensive guide covering a wider range of flowers, shrubs and garden plants, head over to our guide to Dog Safe Flowers: Ensuring Your Garden is Dog Friendly. You’ll find more dog safe planting ideas and information on common toxic plants to avoid.
Tips for visiting B&Q with your dog
If your local B&Q welcomes dogs, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Keep your dog on a lead at all times
- Be considerate of other shoppers, particularly those moving large trolleys or timber
- Don’t allow your dog to chew or sniff plants too closely
- Clean up after your dog if the unexpected happens
- If your dog is nervous in busy environments, try visiting during quieter weekday mornings
- Don’t let your dog wee on the plants (your dog doesn’t know they are not allowed)
B&Q Stores confirmed as dog friendly
We’re building a list of B&Q stores that have been confirmed as dog friendly by the DOG community. These are the dog friendly B&Q stores that we are currently aware of:
If it’s not already listed on Dog Owners Guide, we’d love you to add it as a recommendation. Your contribution will help other dog owners discover dog friendly B&Q stores across the UK and build the most comprehensive community-powered guide.
Is your local B&Q already on Dog Owners Guide? Leave a review and let other dog owners know what to expect before they visit.
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