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
I also like the fact that Layne, the owner, goes to Gurnee Days and I see him at the booth familiarizing people with Central Bark and just being so community-minded.
Poor Richard of the Town Planner Planner Calendar for the Village of Gurnee
Frequently Asked Questions
No. At Central Bark®, we never sedate dogs in our salon. Our expert groomers always aim to help your dog feel as calm and relaxed as possible during their bathing and grooming experience.
Suppose your dog has shown extreme stress or anxiety toward grooming in the past. In that case, we suggest speaking with a trusted veterinarian and one of our reward-based trainers about how we can best support your dog.
Make a reservation for your dog’s grooming session
No matter how long you’ve had your dog, it’s possible to teach them new skills and tricks.
Whether you’re crate training, leash walking, or potty training your dog, consistency is key. It’s crucial to establish a routine, practice positive reinforcement, supervise your dog (especially when potty training), and avoid punishing when mistakes happen.
Central Bark® offers everything you need to help you train your dog. We 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.
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.
Central Bark® has outdoor facilities complete with swimming pools and cooling systems for the summer.
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.
