About Central Bark Gurnee
After more than 25 years in the watch industry, focusing on product development and management, I decided to pivot my skills in a whole new direction. While searching for ways to integrate my passion for dogs into a new career, I discovered Central Bark. I was impressed by their experience, integrity and commitment to providing the highest-quality care to each and every dog that walks in their doors, and wanted to provide that same quality care for the dogs in my own community. In June of 2013, Central Bark Gurnee proudly opened its doors.
I am happy to own Central Bark Gurnee with my wife of 32 years, Ellyn, a practicing occupational therapist. We have 3 adult daughters and an adorable grandson. We have parented 2 dogs together, first Rosco, a rescued Black Lab, and now Archer, an approximately 10-year-old Lab-Pit mix. As dog parents ourselves, we know that dogs are an integral part of the family and that they deserve the absolute best, which is why we focus on creating and maintaining a safe, clean, fun environment where our highly-trained staff treat your dogs like their own. Central Bark Gurnee is our extended family, and I look forward to welcoming you and your pup to our family!
“I have always loved dogs and am so excited to now have my own Central Bark!”
Layne, Central Bark Gurnee Franchise Owner
Awards & Achievements
Central Bark® Certified
Enrichment Dog Day Care
Our Family Photo Album
We decided to try Bark Central because of its great reviews and we couldn’t be happier with the quick turn around!
Thank you!
Frequently Asked Questions
At Central Bark®, our goal is to provide a balanced day of play, learning, rest, and love. Learning and mental exercise can happen in various ways, including training activities, brain games, scent work, and more. Our playgroups offer several hours of active playtime paired with learning opportunities during Group Play Skills. This way, dogs have plenty of time to socialize and get their energy out, while also exercising their minds through learning.
During one of your dog’s rest periods throughout the day, they are offered a rest period enrichment activity to stimulate their mind while encouraging healthy rest. These licking and chewing activities involve food rewards, such as frozen peanut butter KONG®. These activities engage their minds while helping foster quality rest.
Did you know? Scientific studies have shown that licking and chewing behaviors (especially those that involve food rewards!) are self-soothing, decrease heart and respiratory rates, and even release dopamine in a dog’s brain.
Training Tutor sessions stimulate the dog’s minds and bodies and help them learn important skills, behaviors, and tricks.
One-on-One Enrichment sessions give the extra attention dogs love and the freedom to use their senses and safely explore their instincts through interactive toys, puzzles, and games.
Did you know? 15 minutes of mental activity is equal to 30 minutes of physical exercise!
Puppies have unique nutritional needs that require specially formulated food to keep them healthy and happy as they grow. The best food for your puppy will depend on their dietary needs, breed, and personal preferences.
Every item in our Central Bark® Market is specially selected to enhance your puppy’s physical health and nutrition, and provide enrichment, happiness, and comfort. We can help you choose from our selection of healthy and nutritious food to help your puppy develop so they can enjoy a long and happy life with your family.
Call or visit our Market today!
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.
At Central Bark a proactive approach to safety is woven right into the fabric of our program. That is why we require that all dogs enrolled in our Day Care program pass our behavior assessment and attend at least once per week. This helps us ensure that dogs are social with other dogs & people and remain comfortable with all aspects of our program. It also allows us to proactively staff so we can keep a dog to staff ratios low which also helps increase safety. Plus, play is ALWAYS monitored. Whether it’s a group of 2 dogs or 12 dogs, we never leave dogs unattended during group play.
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.
