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Even with such a proactive approach to safety as described above, scuffles between dogs can and do happen from time to time. Although this is a rare occurrence, dogs are animals and don’t always talk about whose tennis ball it is. If a scuffle does occur, staff are trained to intervene immediately by making a loud noise and separating the dogs involved as quickly as possible. For most dogs enrolled in our program, this is enough to stop the situation. If needed, we are also equipped with squirt bottles and a hose. Any dog involved in a scuffle will receive a cursory body check and play break to calm down.

Yes! We love to celebrate our dog friends’ birthdays. 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. 

Contact us to schedule your dog’s party! 

Our staff is trained in dog body language and positive playgroup management techniques so they can respond proactively to help avoid issues between dogs. These tools include praise, treats, and work on important Group Play Skills daily like name recall, group sits, and going calmly in and out of doorways and gates. If a dog ever becomes overstimulated during play (just like kids do on the playground sometimes) we use these practiced skills to help redirect dogs into more desired behaviors (like coming to us and offering a sit for a treat) which gives the dog a chance to reset and calm down. When needed, we also utilize play breaks (a short rest in an individual crate) or in-group leash walks if a dog needs a little more help to bring their energy levels back down.

As part of joining the Central Bark® family, our expert staff conducts a thorough behavior assessment at your local Central Bark store. These assessments help ensure that your dog is placed with a playgroup they’re comfortable with so they can play safely every day they’re with us.

This four-day evaluation, while your dog participates in our Enrichment Day Care, assesses your dog’s:

• Comfort and social skills with people 
• Social skills and playstyle with other dogs to help determine the playgroup and play schedule they can benefit from the most
• Comfort in both indoor and outdoor play spaces
• Comfort in rest areas and a crate 
• Ability to share resources like water and toys in social settings
• Level of comfort taking treats in social settings

This process gives us a chance to get to know you and your dog while your dog gets acquainted with their new favorite place away from home. Through the entire four days, your dog’s comfort and safety is our top priority.

Once your pup passes all the behavior assessment elements, you are welcome to sign up for any of our daycare services or a sleepover!

To schedule a Behavior Assessment for your dog, please contact your local store.

NOTE: Please bring all required signed forms, vaccination proof, and a collar and leash for your behavior assessment.