Philosophy
The Bark Lab was founded to challenge the traditional models of doggy daycares. On one end, there are “free-for-all” daycares with high staff:dog ratios and minimal supervision, designed to maximize profit without prioritizing the welfare of dogs. On the other end are “highly-structured” daycares, where high-energy play is discouraged — or sadly, punished — and dogs are exposed to compulsive training methods to keep their behavior in check.
In contrast, we prioritize dog welfare and wellbeing over profit. Everything we do centers the dogs and is spear-headed by science and fear-free principles. Dogs are allowed to play like dogs (within the confines of safety), and we break up the day with structured rest and enrichment periods to make sure we are exercising both their bodies and brains.
Four Core Principles
1
Welfare
Your dog’s experience at the lab should enhance their welfare and enrich their life
2
Fear-Free
Your dog will never experience the use of fear or pain in the name of training or behavior modification while at the lab
3
Supervision
Your dog’s play will be closely monitored to ensure they are having fun and consenting
4
Freedom
Your dog will have always the freedom to be a dog, within the boundaries of safety
Meet Our Head of Training and Behavior
Our facility is co-owned and operated by Dr. Laura (Claire) Frizzell, a multi-credentialed trainer specializing in behavior modification. We embrace behavioral sciences in everything we do, from matching dogs to appropriate playgroups to determining when to intervene in playgroups.
Contact Us
Interested in your dog attending The Bark Lab? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!