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
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
Once you have enrolled, we will need a copy of your dog’s vaccination records, which you can upload to your online account or bring with you on your scheduled first day. We also ask that your dog comes in on a regular 6-foot flat leash (no retractable or flexi-leads in the lobby) and a quick-release collar. Not sure what a quick-release collar is? No problem! We’ll be happy to show you on your first day. If your dog usually wears a harness while walking, you’re welcome to bring that as well.
If your dog typically eats a midday meal, you can bring it in an airtight container clearly labeled with your dog’s first and last names.
You do not need to stay with your dog during their grooming appointment. Our expert groomers always aim to help your dog feel as calm and relaxed as possible during their bathing and grooming experience. If your pup is feeling a little unsure, ask our training team about ways to enrich their experience and help create positive associations by using positive reward-based training methods.
Make a reservation for your grooming session today.
Our Stay-n-Play program offers boarding for dogs that have not enrolled in our day care program. Each overnight guest gets a restful night’s sleep, followed by a day of play, exercise, and plenty of TLC from our staff. Stay-n-Play guests sleep and play in their own designated areas.
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.
