Our Story

Our story began in the mid-1990s when Jackie Jordan and I (Chris Gaba) sought to provide a healthy and happy life for our dogs while balancing family and work demands. We loved our dogs and wanted to enrich their lives as much as they enriched ours. We needed a safe environment for our dogs to play, exercise, and socialize. But at that time, these resources just weren’t available.

So together, we created Central Bark®. It was based on one simple idea: Our best friends deserve the best care. We created a place where dogs can get all the love, attention and activity they need to be healthy, happy, and well-rounded members of the family. Our dogs were happier and healthier, our families felt more peaceful and loving, and our communities had a hub for like-minded dog lovers.

Today, Central Bark is one of the nation’s largest networks of day care for dogs and provides one of the most holistic pet care options available. We go beyond a traditional doggy day care with our unique Whole Dog Care philosophy and enrichment focus that combines decades of dog experience with the latest dog behavior science. We offer everything from Enrichment Dog Day Care and boarding to grooming, market, training and more. All with the mission to help you and your best friend enjoy a whole, healthy, and happy life together.

After more than 20 years, many things have evolved, but our mission remains the same: To forever nurture, enrich, and inspire whole health, happiness, and unconditional love for each dog, family, and community we serve.

We welcome you and your dog to join our Central Bark family.

– Jackie Jordan and Chris Gaba

 

Jackie Jordan and Chris Gaba, Principals and Co-founders of Barkley Ventures Franchising, LLC. and the Central Bark franchise system

Awards & Achievements

Our Family Photo Album

Yellow paw Kristy M
Super friendly and professional. Highly recommended. Our pup had a fabulous first day!
Yellow paw Lynn. A
Ellie's recent stayover was the longest thus far, and I felt such a peace knowing that Ellie was in the best of hands!! I was comfortable mostly because I know how much she enjoys her daycare days. She loves it!! I'm so happy that Central Bark West Columbia is in [...]
Yellow paw Katie M.
Our sweet Leo absolutely loves his daycare days. The staff is always friendly and have been helpful with any questions I’ve had. We are so happy we found a place that’s safe for our pup when we can’t be with him.
Yellow paw Megan J.
Rosie had her first ever Spa Day! She smelled so good and she felt so soft after her bath! I can’t wait for her to go again. Elizabeth did a wonderful job!
Yellow paw Rachel I.
Central Bark is by far the best place to take your fur baby. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and love all the pets as their own. Thank you Central Bark!!!!
Yellow paw Alicia L
This is the only place we will leave our furbaby when traveling. It is very clean and our furbaby gets so excited when we pull up!
Sheila T.
The staff is amazing, and Otto has a good time...he's always smiling in the pictures!
Lynn R.
Central Bark staff work with your dog's personality to acclimate them to the environment. Our Maggie is very timid, and they worked with her so that now she plays with the other dogs. She is worn out for the evening and the next day. Thank you, Central Bark!
Jennifer F.
This is an amazing place to send your furry friends! Our pup Mahogany (Huggy) gets so excited every time we pull in to the parking lot. He always comes home happy & pooped out! The staff is friendly and just as excited to see Huggy as he is to see [...]

Frequently Asked Questions

What products do you sell?

Shop the Central Bark® Market for the best choices in healthy and nutritious food, treats, toys, training aids, and dog lifestyle products and apparel. Every item is specially selected to enhance your dog’s physical health and nutrition and provide enrichment, happiness, and comfort.

Call your local store to learn more about the products we carry.

How much do dog parties cost?

The cost of your party depends on what you need to celebrate your occasion. You can rent space in our facility to celebrate, then bring in your treats and decorations. Or you can have us plan and run your entire event, complete with a special treat, party favors, hats, decorations, and more.

Call today to learn more

What is the best dog food?

The best dog food will vary depending on each dog’s dietary requirements, medical needs, breed, and personal preferences. 

Every item in our Central Bark® Market is specially selected to enhance your dog’s physical health and nutrition and provide enrichment, happiness, and comfort. We can help you choose from our selection of healthy and nutritious food that will give your pup the energy they need for a whole and happy life.

Call your local store or visit our Market today!

Can I join my dog in the training sessions?

While the Training Tutor, One-on-One Enrichment, and Rest Period Enrichment services are provided by our staff during your dog’s day care visit, Central Bark Fort Lauderdale also partners with Sue of We Love Dogs! to host group training classes. These classes are designed to help you and your dog refine skills together in a supportive environment. You can call the provided number to learn more about class schedules.

Read all FAQs

Central Bark Whole Dog Care

Our Whole Dog Care approach offers a full range of fun and personalized products and services to promote your dog’s physical, mental, and emotional health and happiness throughout their entire life.