Daycare is an excellent way to give dogs the socialization and exercise to meet their needs. Daycare helps dogs learn appropriate interactions with humans and other dogs. Dogs also gain lots of exercise by playing with other dogs, toys or staff. This allows dogs to stimulate both mind and body. Downtown Dogs gives dogs a chance to be part of a “pack” in a safe, monitored environment, when their owners are not around.

And most importantly, dog - dog play is the best way to get your dog tired.

Is Daycare right for your dog? While most dogs enjoy playing and wrestling with other dogs, there are some that do not. Some dogs do not like to share toys or treats or nervous around people. These are dogs that find daycare to be too stressful and would prefer to be in their own home environment. How a dog reacts at daycare depends on their socialization experiences. If you are unsure if daycare is right for your dog, we are able to discuss any concerns with you over the phone.

What makes a great daycare?
Over the last few years dog daycare has grown quite popular. However, not all daycares are created equal. Every daycare facility is designed and run differently. With so many choices, we want you to be informed when making your decision and choose a facility in which you feel your dog will be safe and well cared for. It is important that you visit the facility and ask questions so you feel comfortable in your choice. Here are some questions to ask when checking out a daycare facility for your dog:

What is their philosophy on dogs?
Dogs come to daycare to have fun, but in order to maintain a safe environment, they also need to play by the rules that we set for them. At Downtown Dogs, we believe that it is important for dogs to have structure in their playtime, and not think that they can do what they want, when t hey want and how they want. Through the use of basic command practice and positive reinforcement methods, the dogs learn that good behavior brings good rewards (play, treats, verbal and physical praise). We have found that using positive reinforcement methods, the dogs actually want to learn and are eager to please us. While appropriate behaviors are reinforced, inappropriate behaviors are disciplined, through the use of time outs or loss of play. By consistently applying these techniques, we can help ensure that every dog had a fun and safe experience while at daycare.

How long have they been in operation?
Downtown Dogs has been offering quality daycare experiences for dogs and their owners since November of 1998. Mark and Kelly Helsing, the founders, have always been and continue to be actively involved in Downtown Dogs daily operations.

What is the Staff to dog ratio?
Our staff to dog ratio varies based on the size, activity level and personality of the dogs. The ratio ranges from one dog handler to twelve dogs for large, high energy dogs and one dog handler to fifteen dogs for smaller or older dogs. What is the background/ training of the staff? Our staff come from a variety of backgrounds, but all have a common interest. They love dogs! All staff go through orientation with our on-staff trainer (Kelly Helsing, CTC) and cover such topics as learning theory, body language, group dynamics, appropriate play and signs of stress. We are proud to say that all of our staff are trained in canine First Aid & CPR. Staff regularly attend local classes/lectures on dog behavior, training and handling. Our dog handlers also attend monthly internal meetings to discuss pack dynamics, foster teamwork and brainstorm on activities for our clients. To further enhance the experience for our canine clients, our staff work set schedules. This allows our handlers to more intimately learn the personality of each regularly attending dog.

How do they deal with different dog personalities? We accommodate the various dog personalities by engaging them in activities and separated into out playrooms that match their interests. In the Green Room, it is typical to see all the "ball" dogs, with a ball in mouth, running back and forth playing fetch. Others may enjoy a game of chase, racing around our playing structures, jumping from slide to slide. While the older, mellow dogs just enjoy getting petted or brushed. And the smaller guys have a room of their own to play in without the worries of a big paw.

In the middle of the day we have a nap time where dogs are able to rest after their busy morning. While resting, the dogs enjoy listening to soothing music and nibbling on chewies. We started naptime to help curb the “grumpiness” that many dogs show during the end of the day. Naptime also allows dogs to take a break and rejuvenate for the afternoon activities.

As the day winds down, lower activity levels encourage brushing and snuggling, while they wait for "mom" and "dad" to pick up.

Throughout the day, dogs are asked to perform sits, downs or stays before they get good things (petted, a treat, or having a toy thrown).This is referred to as “nothing in life is free”. This means that dogs need to do something in order to get something good. This helps to ensure that the dogs are able to listen to staff as well as reinforce basic commands.

How is the facility set up?
To accommodate for various personalities, we have four different play rooms for the dogs to play. The small dogs have their own room to run around in with out the worry of being stepped on by a big paw. There are two big dog rooms in which the dogs are separated by activity level. Our last room is our mellow big dog area to accommodate for senior or mellow dogs who enjoy a slower pace. Our facility is fully climate controlled with air purification systems to limit the spread of illness among dogs.

Why should you choose Downtown Dogs?
Do you need any other reasons?