About Central Bark Charlotte-Matthews

A Cleveland, Ohio native, Jennifer moved to Charlotte, North Carolina in 2004 after graduating from St. Bonaventure University with a BBA in Marketing. After spending 14 years in the banking industry, Jennifer began to feel the pull toward a more fulfilling and dynamic career—one that didn’t involve spending her days behind a desk.

In 2013, life gave her a new kind of inspiration: a Boxer puppy named Annabelle. Like many pet parents, Jennifer struggled with the guilt of leaving Annabelle home alone all day. After discovering the positive impact doggy daycare had on Annabelle’s happiness—evident in her nub-wagging and “smile” at pickup—Jennifer had an “a-ha” moment. What if she could turn her passion for dogs into a business?

Driven by a desire to do work that brought joy to both pets and people, Jennifer set out on a journey that led her to Central Bark. In August 2020, she proudly opened her own Central Bark location in Charlotte, where she gets to combine her business acumen with her love for dogs—while also bringing her pup to work.

When she’s not at Central Bark, you’ll find Jennifer taking an Orangetheory class, enjoying time with her husband of 10 years, Steve, savoring the occasional glass of wine, or managing her energetic and sassy 1-year-old European Boxer, Mila.

“We welcome you to join our Central Bark family.”

Jennifer, Central Bark Charlotte-Matthews Franchise Owner

Meet The Team

Mallory

Mallory, a Rock Hill, SC native, graduated from Wingate University in May 2023 with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Biology. Her passion for animal care and commitment to making a meaningful impact in the industry led her to begin her career at Central Bark that same month as an Enrichment Specialist.

Kirstie

A native of Charlotte, our groomer Kirstie is a lifelong animal lover and advocate with over a decade of experience in animal rescue, fostering, and rehoming. Her deep commitment to animal welfare has shaped both her personal life and professional path.

Awards & Achievements

Charlotte Magazine 2023 BOB Award Winner for Best Pet Boarding/Day Care

Our Family Photo Album

Jessica DeMaio 8 months ago

Great place. We use it once a week to get a break from the dog and then a discount when we go out of town. Employees are always friendly. (CoAx)

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Samantha Griffin 3 months ago

We love Central Bark! They ALWAYS greet our dog by name, and he genuinely always comes back so happy. He recently stayed with them for a week and as always we got him groomed before we picked him, and he got probably the best grooming of his life!! He looks 5 years younger!! We love knowing he’s in such good hands at Central Bark!

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Justin Wycoff 1 month ago

We absolutely love Central Bark! The staff is very friendly and personable, can’t recommend them enough!

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None Anonymous 6 months ago

They are awesome. My dog Edward loves coming here. He is so excited when we pull up. He loves the handlers and other dogs. He runs into their arms when he enters. I’ve also used them to board Edward and he loved his deluxe suite. It has been a wonderful fit. Turns out most of my hospital co-workers also bring their dogs here which is cute. This is a great place for dogs. They are loving, caring people here and we also like them personally as well ❤️ The May family

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Ashley-Lynn Andrews 3 weeks ago

We are new to the Central Bark family, but we have been nothing short of impressed. The people that work there are so kind and treat our dog, Levi, as if he were their own. He gets so excited to go and literally whines to see all of his friends, human and furry alike. We also signed him up for training sessions, and the results have been immediate. I had some nervousness bringing him to daycare, but the staff helped reassure me and just seeing his excitement every day makes me so happy. He has utilized most of their services now and I could not recommend a better place for your baby. Thank you to everyone at Central Bark for making this such an amazing experience and loving Levi the way we do. You’re all angels.

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Tracy Pedersen 10 months ago

My dog really enjoys going here. The staff are always friendly and excited to see my dog.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you crate train a dog?

For dogs, being comfortable in a crate is a life skill that is incredibly useful for them and their owners. If you have ever traveled with your dog or had the unfortunate experience of an overnight stay at the vet, knowing your dog is comfortable in a crate is immeasurably comforting.

Crate training can take just days or a few months, based on your dog’s age, temperament, and past experiences with crates. The two keys to successful crate training are to keep the experience positive and go slowly.

When your puppy is not in their crate, keep the door open and reward them every time they choose to enter, even if you didn’t ask them to enter it. When crating your puppy, give them a safe enrichment item (like a stuffed Kong) that will keep them busy and allow them to self-soothe while confined. Remember that crate training should take place in a series of small, slow steps that will help your puppy become more comfortable.

Central Bark® offers everything you need to help you care for your new puppy. Our Enrichment Day Care gives puppies all the socialization, exercise, mental stimulation, and rest they need for a lifetime of happiness with you and your family. We also offer expert training and classes so you and your puppy can learn and bond together.

Learn more about our training classes.

Visit our Dog Blog for more helpful tips.

Can I purchase a single training session or do I have to buy a package?

Our Training Tutor and Enrichment services are available as add-ons to your dog’s day care visit, and while single sessions are available, packages are also offered for your convenience. Please note that prepaid packages are nonrefundable, and all sales are final. We recommend speaking with an associate to determine the best option for your dog’s training needs.

What dog grooming services do you offer?

We offer everything you need to keep your dog clean, healthy, and comfortable at our Salon & Spa. Our expert groomers focus on creating a calm and relaxing experience your dog can enjoy.

We offer:

Dog baths
Dog grooming
Dog ear cleaning
Dog teeth brushing
Dog nail trims
Dog deshed treatments
Dog brush outs
Dog gland expressions
And more

Make a reservation for your dog’s grooming session

How much does it cost to get a dog groomed?

All dogs are different, and like humans, your dog deserves grooming customized to their size, breed, and level of attention. For this reason, prices may vary by service and location.

Learn more about our Dog Salon & Spa.

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.