FAQs
How often does my dog get let out for potty breaks? What should I bring for boarding? Can my dogs share A run? The answers to these frequently asked questions and others are below. If you can’t find the answer you are looking for, please give us a call at (480) 650-1650.
All dogs are given safe, neutral exposure to other dogs who are also staying at the facility. They are able to see, hear, and smell each other however they do not have the freedom to physically interact. Each dog has their own individual run and separate potty break area. These areas are not shared with each other as this helps to prevent cross contamination from dog to dog as well as decreases the amount of stress your dog may experience while being away from home. For those who are completing a training program, our trainers will methodically introduce your dog to other dogs in a controlled environment as they work on building boundaries and appropriate behaviors during these interactions.
At Top Dog we offer bath and brush services plus nail clipping/dremelling. These services can be added on to any boarding stay or may be booked anytime as an individual service. To make things easier for you, if you are planning to board your dog, you can schedule a bath and brush for their last day ensuring your dog will be fresh and ready-to-go upon pick up. Call for more information or to book/add one of these services to your stay. Prices vary based on the size and coat of your pet.
Prior to boarding we will need a copy of your vaccination records that include proof of Rabies, Bordetella, Parvo, and Distemper. You can email this to the office or bring a hard copy with you at the time of your drop off. Be sure to bring a sufficient amount of food for your dog’s entire stay. If your dog is raw fed, no problem, we can take care of that for a small additional fee of $2 a day. If needed, we are more than happy to distribute medications. Please have your medications labeled and separated in individual containers. Optional items include bedding and non-destructible toys (no squeakies please). We do provide sleeping mats and use our own sanitized stainless steel bowls.
Dogs are let out five times a day for approximately fifteen minutes depending on weather conditions. All runs are securely double fenced, inlaid with concrete, and shaded throughout the day. All dog waste is immediately removed after each break and recorded so we can closely monitor your dog’s health.
The brand we use is called Red Barn Naturals Dog Food. The reason we use Red Barn is because it is a more nutritious option for your pet. It is an actual dog food versus a high calorie dog treat that is commonly sold in stores. The dogs typically find this type of treat to be more rewarding due to its texture and taste. It comes in multiple flavors including beef, chicken, and lamb. If you are interested in using these treats at home, they can be purchased at our onsite Dog Shop.
Every dog will be assigned one trainer who acts as the manager to oversee their individual training program. As your dog progresses, an important part of their growth process will be to also work with several others to build the context of their training. Over time, multiple trainers will work with your dog to help reinforce the meaning of our communication tools and obedience commands.
We do offer specialized group classes that address specific unwanted behaviors. We also offer classes focused on heeling, the Canine Good Citizen certification, dog aggression, and fun tricks. Each class is tailored to touch on a specific topic for 3-8 dogs who share similar temperaments. We do not however offer general obedience or puppy classes. We believe every dog is different and that by placing a wide range of temperaments in one environment to learn foundational training skills, is not optimal for the dog or the owner to effectively learn the quality content they desire.
Both locations are owned and operated by the same team of Top Dog professionals. They both boast a safe, clean, and comfortable environment with plenty of acreage for your pet to enjoy. The difference is that Top Dog Gilbert is our original location where all of our training services like private lessons, classes, or boarding with training are offered. Top Dog Tempe offers boarding and grooming services.
Yes, Top Dog trains and sells specialty dogs such as service animals, therapy dogs, and protection dogs. If your personally owned dog has the right temperament and aptitude to reach the goals you desire, we can create an individual training program for you both to reach those goals. We also can sell you a specialty dog already trained depending on your specific needs.
Of course! We would be happy to allow your dogs to stay together while they board. We have several larger runs that can accommodate more than one dog. If they are completing a training program your trainer may advise putting them in separate runs to start, until they have both reached the stage where they can be reintegrated back together. Please let us know ahead of time your preferences and we will have the space ready for you.