About Central Bark Philadelphia

Portia joined the Central Bark Doggy Day Care franchise in 2006, and opened Central Bark Philadelphia in 2007. She left behind her Project Management career in the world of digital marketing to spend more time with her feet on the ground instead of in the “cloud.”

Portia chose “the dog life” due to an inherent, lifelong love of animals, and her desire to help those who choose dogs as companions and family members succeed in those relationships.

Portia’s dedication to elevating the canine-human bond and enriching our pet dogs’ lives through engagement and communication is the “Why” behind Central Bark Philadelphia.

“In a healthy relationship, everyone needs to have a life of their own, so why not our companion dogs? To me, dog day care can be a safe, healthy way to maintain a loving, caring, and respectful relationship with your dog. Central Bark Philadelphia provides the best environment for every dog that comes through our door. Being able to tailor each dogs’ day to their needs is key to delivering on our promise to our customers.”

Portia, Central Bark Philadelphia Franchise Owner

Awards & Achievements

Our Family Photo Album

Frequently Asked Questions

How are staff trained and what behavior management tools do they use in a playgroup?

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.

How much do dog parties cost?

The cost of your party depends on what you need to celebrate your occasion. 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, complete with a special treat, party favors, hats, decorations, and more.

Call today to learn more

What’s a Behavior Assessment and why is it important?

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.

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

How Does Central Bark Handle Feeding for My Dog During the Day?

We are happy to accommodate your dog’s feeding schedule as part of their “Rest Period Enrichments.” Simply bring their food in pre-portioned containers with clear instructions. Our trained staff will ensure your dog receives their meal in a private, quiet space. We are also experienced in handling a variety of specific needs, including day care for dogs with allergies and medication administration, though additional fees may apply.

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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.

Let’s get started

  1. Click Request Appointment
  2. Register Online
  3. We will contact you and schedule your first visit