Bark Avenue Playcare Inc

Programs include Puppy Training (tailored private lessons), Weekly Training (3 or 6 weeks), Lifetime Obedience Program (6-week intensive with free lifetime drop-ins), Board and Train (2–4 weeks), Private Lessons (in-facility or in-home), and Therapy Dog Preparation (led by a Canine Therapy Corps evaluator). All programs are reinforcement-based and customized. The free “Dog Training 101 Workshop” is held every Saturday at 11am.

Pricing Summary

Training prices are based on an evaluation. Daycare tiers: $40/single visit (non-trained dogs), $35/single visit (trained dogs); packages offer discounts (e.g., 20 visits: $720 for non-trained, $600 for trained). Boarding: $55/night ($60 holidays). Grooming prices vary by dog’s temperament and condition. 25% discount for additional dogs in household. Free daycare on training days. Referral bonus: 3 free daycare days for referring someone to the Lifetime Obedience Program.

Policies

All services require proof of vaccinations. Aggressive dogs may be refused service. Daycare and boarding packages expire 6 months after purchase. Boarding checkout is 2:00pm; pickup after that time incurs a daycare fee. $30 fee for insufficient funds. No pick-up/drop-off windows for daycare or boarding. No cancellation policy specified for training sessions.

Bark Avenue Playcare Inc. is a dog training and care center in Chicago, serving pets and owners since 2002 near the West Loop, Fulton Market, and Ukrainian Village. They specialize in reinforcement-based obedience training for puppies and lifelong dogs, with programs designed to teach dogs to love following human commands. Their training philosophy centers on clear communication and positive reinforcement, helping dogs thrive in urban environments. They also offer dog daycare, boarding, grooming, and a free weekly “Dog Training 101 Workshop” for the public. Their facility features supervised, size- and temperament-based playgroups, clean indoor/outdoor spaces, and no minimum visit requirements. Daycare is free on training days, and clients who complete training receive discounted daycare rates. Staff are described as experienced, loving, and knowledgeable in dog behavior.

They provide private lessons, weekly training programs, intensive board-and-train options, and therapy dog preparation led by a certified Canine Therapy Corps evaluator. Their Lifetime Obedience Program includes free drop-in classes for life. They accommodate reactive, fearful, or high-energy dogs with tailored approaches and prioritize safety through structured play and no cage-free policies.

Grooming is by appointment only, with no cage drying, and includes complimentary daycare for dogs staying 6 hours or less. Boarding includes daily supervised play and comfortable kennels with bedding. Vaccinations are required for all services.

Accomplishments

Training Director Daniel McElroy is a certified evaluator for the Canine Therapy Corps, providing specialized therapy dog training. The business has served Chicago dogs since 2002, with over two decades of experience and a reputation for helping dogs with behavioral challenges.

How to Get Started!

Prospective clients begin with an evaluation to discuss training goals and behavioral issues. The free “Dog Training 101 Workshop” on Saturdays is also a recommended first step to understand their training philosophy.