We are a daycare for dogs, much like a daycare for children. And we know some would say doggy daycare is just a great big off-leash play space for dogs. But that only partially fits us, because we’re not great big, and we’re not just a play space.

We’re sorta small, kinda cozy, insanely friendly, a lil silly, tons of fun with lots of laughs- but also a tiny bit boujee - all designed on purpose.

What we are NOT is just a “dogs gone wild” party hall where the pups run and play til they drop from exhaustion. We believe in playing long and hard, but also with manners, rules, routines, and breaks. And continuous supervision.

We build curated playgroups which are supervised by the pioneer of doggy daycare in Iowa. Our owner, DawnLarie Michel, has more experience designing & overseeing doggy daycare facilities than anyone else in the area. Dawn, also known as “MamaDawg” is the person who created the first doggy daycare-only facility in Iowa right here in Cedar Rapids, Iowa in 2002.

How Is Downtown Dogs Different?

We work hard to ensure appropriate play that fosters friendships. We’re not just an off leash “free for all” space. And we’re not “just another daycare” where your best friend is “just another dog” in a warehouse. They’re a valued member of The Club!

We ARE a place where we know each dog personally & intimately. We remember their endearing quirks & personalities, & their own particular likes and dislikes.

We ARE a social club for dogs AND the people who love them -with fun yappy hours, special ‘pawty’ activities, and the occasional holiday sleepover - a place for everyone to have fun whether they have two legs or four.

We believe in fostering a community of all the family members, (two & four-legged). To us, The Club isn’t just about basic babysitting or warehousing for your pup—it’s about crafting a fulfilling lifestyle for your four-legged family members that also includes you.

We have a bit of a different, eclectic, and by-gone era vibe at The Club, and that’s by design. Stepping inside feels a little like entering an old-school speakeasy club from the back door (because it kind of is). From our prohibition-era aesthetic, to our cozy “hanging out at grandma’s house” rec-room lounge, we’re not just convenient—we’re quirky and laid back, a little like family, and a whole lotta fun!

We’re in the heart of downtown because so much of YOUR life is. No long detours, just a quick stop (or a short walk) on your way to work or on your way to get coffee & run errands.

Our hours (6:30 am- 6:00 pm Monday-Friday) make it simple for you to accomplish everything you need to do and easily pick your dog up on your way home.