Ask The Barktenders

We’ve tried to think of everything but please ask if you have more questions - we’re happy to help!

What Is Required To Join The Club?

Truthfully it’s as easy as 1, 2, 3

1) Pup must be 6 months or older, spayed/neutered, & current on vaccinations (rabies, bordetella, and DHPP). We also strongly recommend flea/tick & heartworm prevention.

2) Fill out a little basic paperwork - which you can request by email or fill out in person at your meet’n’greet.

3) Make an appt for a quick meet & greet interview - you can email us at downtowndogssocial@gmail.com or text/call 319-826-5178.

What’s Included With Membership?

You get pawsome cash discounts, invites to all our social events, opportunities to participate in our “pawties” and more. Your pup gets to romp, lounge, sniff, socialize, and snooze with other like-minded canines in our small, eclectic vintage-styled playrooms.

We offer a structured day with supervised group play, occasional treat breaks, a strict naptime policy, random birthday and holiday “pawties”, and lots of love from our attentive MamaDawg & her barktenders.

The best part? Your membership is complimentary and never expires

Do I Need Reservations?

Yes, please! We’re a members-only establishment and space is limited, so we need to know who & how many members will be here to keep the vibes chill and safe.

Regulars can reserve recurring days and/or schedule their days far in advance if they choose. Any & all members can come as little or as much as they choose—as long as we’ve got a spot open for them & plan ahead for reservations.

Half-days can be scheduled ahead too, and hourly visits will be allowed as space permits, but all of the above require confirmation ahead - please don’t just “drop in” with your paws crossed that we will have room for your pup.

We wouldn’t want to disappoint either of you! You can call for reservations at 319-826-5178 or use the “call now” button at the bottom. You can also TEXT US!

What Are Your Hours?

The Club is open Monday-Friday 6:30 am to 11:30 am (closed 11:30 am to 1:30 pm) and open again from 1:30 pm to 6:00 pm. We are also closed on holidays and take a quick summer break in August (to give the MamaDawg & PapaDawg a breather).

NOTE: we have a very strict rest/nap time (per state regs) from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm and no-one is allowed in or out during that time.

NOTE: Do your hours sometimes run outside of our hours? Need to arrive early or run late? or adjust your schedule a bit for one day? Let us know ahead and we’ll always try our best to accommodate member requests— if our schedules allow.

What’s a Day at The Club Look Like?

At The Club, we favor refined play over raucous romps—think more cocktail party than college kegger. All interactions are closely supervised to keep the vibe safe, social, and enjoyable for every member. Play is always kept appropriate and structured to keep the mood upbeat, safe, with just the right amount of rowdy.

While our members are free to let loose, our play style is more Great Gatsby, less canine chaos. Our Top Barktender - we call her MamaDawg - has over 35 years experience in guiding canines to be on their best behavior. She raised guide dogs for almost two decades, is also a former trainer, & has owned two previous doggy daycares.

She’s fun and friendly but observant and kind, gently ensuring every pup enjoys a good time without things getting “out of paw.” And she trains her staff intensively. Her training has even been written about by leaders in the dog care industry. (See the "Top Dawgs” tab for more about MamaDawg)

What If I Buy A Package But Decide Not To Use It?

We want to encourage regular visits to keep your pup’s social life strong & your value high which is why we give great discounts for buying more & paying with cash (We have an ATM on site just for that reason!)

  • Packages are valid for six months from date of purchase & are not refundable (unless your dog is asked to not return to The Club for any reason.)

    If for some other reason you are unable to use your package but want to give your credits to another established member, we would be happy to transfer the unused days to one of your pup’s best friends-but they will still expire six months from the date you purchased.

What Makes Downtown Dogs Different?

Look, we know there are lots of places you could take your best friend to play for the day. Our Canine Social Club is more than just another doggy daycare, we are a convenient- but “members only” club. For us, it’s not just about basic babysitting for your pup OR a crazy free-for-all playground—it’s about crafting a lifestyle for urban dogs and their people. Here’s why our members choose us:

  • It’s social by design because dogs are social animals & thrive on connection. We build curated playgroups and foster “puppy love” friendships.

  • We’re in the heart of downtown because your life is. No long detours or suburban commutes—just a drop-off on your way to work or play, or to get your morning coffee.

  • It’s members-only but not intimidating. Our club vibe gives your pup something to be part of—without the snobbery. No country club attitude here, more secret fun speakeasy vibes. And your best friend will be matched with other like minded pups to belly up to the bar each & every time they visit.

  • It’s an experience. From our speakeasy-era aesthetic to our cozy lounge for dog parents, we’re not just convenient—we’re “private club cool.” Dropping off through the “back door” feels like entering a hidden club (because it kind of is).

    Please don’t hesitate to call or email for any question we haven’t answered! We hope to see you at The Club soon!