I worked here for a couple of months . I was treated very differently from all the other staff . Being the only POC There I always felt singled out and picked on . When I complained about a coworker who was I guess was of superior gender and race I was fired . This coworker talked down to me and made me feel less than after only working there for days ! When I took this to managements attention I was portrayed as the angry black woman and was fired on the spot without any type of warning or write up . It's sad discrimination still exists in 2021. read more

Our dog loves loves LOVES RiverDog. They care for our pupper like we do, and it's been such a blessing they continued to operate during the lockdowns. They carry pet supplies too and can order for you if they don't normally have what you need. Five stars from our two and four-legged family members read more

My pup went here for two years. We had an absolutely wonderful experience and I wrote two glowing reviews about both management and my dog's experiences during that time that I've now taken down because this place has changed. Four times when I went to pick up my dog the manager appeared to be under the influence, slurring words and dropping items, and when I reported it to the daycare owner I was told there was no evidence. During that time, my dog got attacked by a dog who I was told (by the manager) had a history of causing incidents in the playroom--they allowed that dog to return the very next day until I reported the incident to animal control, after which the manager told me she felt "sad" that the dog who attacked mine was not at the daycare and that she needed me to understand how sad she felt. Meanwhile my dog was seriously hurt to the extent he needed emergency surgery to repair the damage, and obviously we no longer go here but six months later we are still dealing with the repercussions. I was appalled by the way things changed here and the lack of accountability and responsibility. I've since heard from other dog owners/clients and also a former longterm employee about incidents swept under the rug. A place that once cared deeply about each pup in their care became a money-hungry establishment with unkempt floors and ceilings falling apart, and dogs getting hurt, and lives irreparably changed in the process. What a betrayal to the people who put their trust in this place. read more

The staff are wonderful and friendly and they love the dogs! I think my dog loved it! But she was so dirty with scuff marks all over her when I picked her up, into the bath she went as soon as we got home. read more

You fancy pet son-of-a-gun! You've done it! You've found the best spot in town to buy organic and gluten-free pet nosh, get your dog sat, and chill with a big orange cat. We've got a cat and a rabbit--clearly not the standard shoppers at this eponymous boutique--but the owners and staff here still manage to set us up with lovely supplies and advice. Dennis the store kitty is a pretty charismatic dude, and sometimes I think about going in just to chat with him. Our cat's favorite thing here is the toy bin--they've got good deals on lots of little things that your kitter can play with, destroy, and have replaced. I can't speak to the dog training/sitting that goes on, but the pups always seem happy when I stop by for my shopping and chatting. read more

I will never bring my dog back to this place. We did the eval for overnight stays with our Australian shepherd puppy. She is super friendly and we take her to dog parks often and she plays with all kinds of dogs. When I went to pick her up after the 4 hour trial she was cowering in the corner- very unlike her. I asked the lady working there how our pup did since it was a trial and she said our pup was afraid of the big dogs. She is NOT afraid of big dogs she loves big dogs and really all nice dogs. When I took her out of the building she immediately peed- a lot. I brought her home and she spent the next 5 hours hiding under the coffee table- also very unlike her. Something must have happened with another dog but I will definitely not bring her to that place ever again. read more

I just had a terrible experience with the facility in Somerville. Firstly, they make you do a 4.5-5 hour evaluation to see if your dog is a fit. And they make you pay for half the day to do the evaluation. Secondly, I left my puppy here for the evaluation and he came back and not only had diahrea but also vomited. Lastly, to make matters worse, we had left his food specifically labeled there. Instead, they fed him something else and won't even own up to it! During pick up they told us he ate all of his lunch then handed us the full bag of lunch. After I called them they said they misspoke and he had half. I measured what was left in the bag we got back from them and it was the full bag! As soon as we got home my puppy also had so much water as if he hadnt had it all day! Are they even making sure there are plenty of water bowls? I doubt it! I'm not bringing my puppy back here ever again and if you love your puppy you wouldn't either! read more

We can't say enough about the staff at RiverDog in Somerville. They have always been attentive, courteous, and professional to us and our dog Bae! On top of that they have been open and available during COVID! If you need a dog daycare service in Somerville then look no further than RiverDog!! read more

RiverDog - Bae our Chiweenie!! - Pet Training Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

Our dog Hank loves Riverdog! We live close by and when we are approaching Riverdog he tries to sprint to the door.... and he sometimes doesn't want to leave! He comes home happy and sleepy. The staff is very friendly and accommodating! read more

We adopted during last spring lockdowns and we wanted to be sure our pup was well socialized with different people & dogs. RiverDog did that and MORE! Bolt always comes home happy and tired! Daycare even improved his manners, and he's got a bunch of buddies in the area. We couldn't be happier. Thank you, thank you! read more

My pup Tope LOVES her RiverDog family! She grew up with them, starting her visits when she was a few months old and continuing now as a lively 3-year-old. As a cattle dog mix, she is wary of people she doesn't know or trust. But whenever we walk into RiverDog, Tope shows full-on butt wiggles and tail wags to see her 2- and 4-legged friends. We're so grateful that they're part of our extended family! read more

RiverDog - Pet Training Near Me - Somerville, Massachusetts

Well where to start... We had an a great doggy day care where we lived before. Our playful dog was so happily exhausted when he would come home. They also would give us a detailed overview of how his day went and different things they were working on. Being new to the area we checked out RiverDog and read the 5 star reviews. Unfortunately after trying it out the last few months we were continually disappointed. And we are not going back anymore! Something just doesn't seem right and we hate the way we are treated. We would pick up our dog and when we got home he was hyper! What is he doing at RiverDog??? Not playing? He would also be very hungry since we couldn't bring his food. Our previous dog care always asked if he had breakfast and if not we would bring it for him. Why don't they allow him to have food?? The customer service...rude and disinterested in the individual needs of every dog. From the beginning they were very pushy trying to get us to sign up for classes and to buy their food. It just makes you feel taken advantage of. They also would make odd side comments of our dogs behavior and sigh in annoyance when it was our dogs turn. We have a very active dog but he is a good dog. No dog should be singled out as an annoyance or unworthy. We continually felt insulted and like our dog wasn't getting proper care. No pictures, no updates, nothing to make you feel like your dog matters. I guess we just don't fit in with their club. read more

I'm glad to have a pet store back in Union, and the owners are exceptionally nice. Gone is the smell of stanky dogs, which is what the previous business smelled of towards the end of them being open. I went in with Ruby soon after her surgery looking for a harness, and while they didn't have one, I found a toy. They weren't completely open and didn't have the credit card machines up, so they told me to come back another time. I thought that was a really positive way to start a relationship with a new customer! I went in the following weekend and paid for the toy, and bought a bottle of really nice dog shampoo that was organic and contained no sulfates. Ruby has never been shinier! I stopped in this weekend and let Ruby pick out a toy again and had a nice interactions with the owners. I'd totally be interested in daycare services here, which I wouldn't say about the past business that was in this space. The owners definitely love and care for pets, and I wish them the best! read more

Not impressed. I had to cancel a daycare evaluation because of the horrendous amount of snow the day of and the guy on the phone seemed pretty annoyed and then said he'd have to charge me for another evaluation because they have a 24 hour cancellation policy. Of all the places I've taken my dog, I've never run into that, get off your high horse dude. There are so many good dog care places with friendly understanding folks there's no reason to play the nickel and dime game with these people. Sorry I don't control the weather, I'll take my money somewhere else. read more

I walked over here on a rainy day with my dog hoping to find a rain slicker for him (I know, I know). What do you know! Rain slicker and fleeces! And the dog food I used to get him! What a nice place! I haven't tried their grooming or boarding services but the people picking up their dogs looked pretty happy. read more

Woah I was really disappointed with River Dog. I am coming from the South End area, where boutique shops have 2 to 3 times the selection. They don't really have many great options (I was looking for marrow bones), and their toy selection is mainly ChewGuard stuff. They had Taste of the Wild food though, which is nice. My dog's Iguana ChewGuard toy was also $22, which I believe is on the high end. The place is sooo smelly too. I would not take my pup there for daycare. Other spots I have been to that have a boutique + daycare smell way nicer and were much cleaner. read more

Great place to take your pets to get groomed. I have come here a few times to get my two rabbits nails trimmed. It can be really difficult to find a place that can accommodate rabbits but this place does. They make sure to take them in a separate room so that they feel safe and can stay away from the other animals that come in. It can be difficult to find parking in this area. read more

I have to add another glowing review to River Dog- they are really awesome! I've never left my little Napoleon here because he doesn't need daycare, but if I ever had to leave him somewhere during the day, it would absolutely be River Dog. I go in every few weeks to buy some Taste of the Wild kibble (when I first moved here last summer, I panicked at first when I couldn't find the brand of grain-free kibble I feed my pampered pooch, but luckily River Dog stocks TotW along with many other health-centered canine [and feline] products). I always end up picking up a special treat or two when I come in for the food because they have so many enticing options- my Shar Pei goes wild for the "bully sticks" and the duck breast jerky. We've also picked up a number of out-of-the-ordinary toys for the pup here two, most memorably a wooden treat-hiding puzzle, which he adores. As for the day-care: every time I'm in the store I peek through the divider where all the dogs are playing together and they look SO happy! It really brings joy to my heart to see a day-care that is so clean and well cared for. I've seen so many places where the dogs are all standing alone in corners, but at River Dog the dogs seem really content and peaceful. read more

With last business that was in here, I was tentative walking in to this new K9 Business. However, all of that hesitation went right out the door once I saw this place. Peter and Co. did a fantastic job cleaning up, repainting, renovating, and getting everything ready for a successful doggy place. The space is ready for daycare and self-do bathing, the quality of the food is great (Innova and others), and the Kitties haven't been left out! I just bought a bunch of Bully Sticks (best deal I've found - $4.79 for a 12" stick!) for our greyhound, a tennis ball the size of a mid-sized mammal, and a Jolly Ball for my Border Collie. Everyone has been happy so far. It's good to see that things have turned around and the positive vibe (for dogs and humans alike!) is back in Union Square! read more

Complete and utter disappointment. They are way too over priced. the young staff are really helpful and nice but the items they sell can be found at other places for a fraction of the cost. Some of the older sales people will give you advice on pet food telling you that they are experts and what do vets know? I can bet you my vet who has gone to school know a lot about what my pet should and should not eat, which is not the costly stuff found here. The overall dog area does appear a bit small and worry that too many dogs may be a problem. read more

we've been sending our maltichon pup to riverdog for over a year now. The first couple of times she was definitely nervous, which is completely understandable. But now she loves going there and always comes home happy and tired. They have a separate area for small dogs, but no cages whatsoever. You could tell she had a blast every time we pick her up! read more

This place is absolutely great. I echo previous poster's sentiments about Peter and Priscilla -- they are very knowledgeable and carry a lot of great products as well We take our dog to daycare here on Fridays and she absolutely loves it. All of the staff that work there are very helpful and knowledgeable as well and we have total confidence that our dog is having a great time and being attended to When we first got our dog, we had some trouble walking her. We stopped by RiverDog since it was down the street from the dog park we were at and they fitted her for a harness and even marked where the harness was supposed to go (stomach, back, etc) to make it easier for us to use. Fast forward almost a year and we've been in there to buy other products such as leashes, toys, treats, additional harnesses as well as weekly daycare visits They truly care about the dogs that are there and our dog is always so excited to go there read more

Riverdog makes you feel like part of the family whether you're there once a month or everyday for daycare. New ownership (not exactly sure when they switched) has brought Riverdog leaps and bounds ahead of previous owners. They are friendly, consistent, quick to communicate via email, and continue to expand their other services- whether it's classes or their new daycare facility. I mostly bring our 13lb mini poodle to the Somerville location for daycare, but I've also done an eval with my 85lb greyhound- and they both were warmly welcomed by the staff and came home happy and exhausted. I highly recommend riverdog for daycare, picking up treats, and friendly interactions with staff. If you haven't been there in a while, give Riverdog another try and they'll exceed your expectations! read more

Hmm. RiverDog is decidedly an improvement over previous businesses which have occupied this (cursed?) space in Union Square. That said, I'm not sold. They sell your average pet boutique products--holistic treats, durable toys, the latest ergonomically correct harness, and, yes, dog clothes, which were fun to explore around Halloween. I can't speak to the doggie daycare at all, since I've just come in looking for products and to inquire about training classes. Both owners have been friendly, but I'm not convinced I'd send my dog to training classes sponsored by this business. I inquired about classes back in September and knew nothing was final yet since they were looking for a large space, so I put my name on a wait list for information at the store--after already sending them an email. Fast-forward to January, when I was on a walk with Woof and stopped in to check the upcoming class schedule. There were two classes that sounded like they might make sense for us (not agility, though, since they are still looking for a space), but when I asked for more detail, I was told they weren't quite sure what they'd teach in each one yet. For $180-$210 for 4-6 week sessions, I'd like to have more information to go on before booking a class. There was no pressure to sign up or anything, but I wasn't wowed by the options on the table. I'd been really looking forward to options for dog training much closer to me that Arlington or Malden, but if you're looking for comprehensive training classes and/or development of additional skills (tricks or agility, for example), both of those schools meet those needs. Nothing against the retail outfit or daycare, but I'm not convinced I'd recommend this spot for dog training. read more

RiverDog is amazing! I have a 6 month old puppy who had surgery and was stuck in the cone of shame and the owners of RiverDog were SO helpful when I was in need of daycare for her. We have used other daycares, but will now be visiting RiverDog! Two things really stick out for me: 1) The dogs not only play with each other, but with people. Most daycares claim this is the case, but the reality is that most just watch the dogs. The staff at RiverDog truly care about the dogs and it shows. 2) My puppy is not nearly as smelly when she comes home from RiverDog as she is after other daycares. This is a huge bonus! :) I have nothing but positive things to say about this great spot in Union Square.! read more

I love River Dog. I rescued my dog, George, last March and have brought him in a few times. George is extremely shy and skiddish. Even with this, the people working at the store know what they are doing and how to approach him. Someone always sits with him on the floor when we arrive and talks to him in a normal voice. This immediately calms him down and he seems right as ease. Then, as soon as he hears the dog, he is ok. They bring him in with the rest of the dogs to start his day and he always enjoys himself. I'm thankful for the excellent care they provide my doggie love and the knowledge they give on caring for my rescue pup! read more

My dog loves going to RiverDog daycare. The staff is very friendly, and more importantly, takes great care of my pup and gives him lots of cuddles. They're also very responsive and have typically replied within an hour of any email I've ever sent. While I do wish there was an outdoor space, I understand restrictions of being in the city and you have to make sacrifices to get in a great location, and it seems like they frequently clean inside (I always hear the vacuum going when I'm picking up my dog). read more

I usually take our puppy to a different day care, which I love, but we had done the evaluation in Riverdog and I was working nearby, so we wound up there one day. I was unimpressed. We take their puppy classes, which I like, but since the first time we went in, I felt the staff were judgmental about us and our pup! Comments about the food she was having, which they deemed inappropriate, generalisations about how the breed need lots of socialization, that kinda thing. When I went to pick her up, I could see another dog jumping up to look through the window and barking. I did wonder if he was not getting sufficient stimulation. Our pup loves our other day care - staff report she plays well with everyone, and is always a wreck afterwards, sleeping from when she gets home until almost the following morning! After her day at Riverdog, she was surprisingly energetic. In the car on the way home, I noticed 3 big bumps on our dog's neck, which were new. I called Riverdog to ask about them, and they told us she was playing a lot with another pup, and perhaps she had been nipped by the other pup's sharp teeth. Maybe - our pup is a rambunctious player. However, she has never been bitten before by another dog, and I would have hoped that having her in Day Care meant that she was being supervised to the extent that any play would be interrupted before she got hurt. I had to ask about the other pup's rabies status. It's not acceptable, and I won't be going back. read more

Yay for River Dog!! I am so happy to finally have a specialty pet store back in Somerville! I've been going to this place ever since it was Dogma, and River Dog is by far the best. It was closed for a few months for renovation, and I must say, the new owners have done wonders! Gone is the stench of dog as soon as you walk in. The dog room is freshly painted, and the owners have maximized their small space by filling it with gourmet pet food, treats, toys, collars, leashes, etc. While they concentrate mainly on dogs, they do have a selection of cat items too. I have both, so this is my one-stop place to pick up dog and cat food (both EVO, my food of choice). The owners are INCREDIBLY sweet and nice. He really tries to get to know you and your pet, and can make recommendations if you need them. I met his dog too (the one that River Dog is named after), and he was just an absolutely sweet and fluffy little thing! The dogs in the day care all seem incredibly happy to be there, and there isn't hair all over the floor like there was when the previous owner was here. I also like that they are green and environmentally-friendly. They gave me the option to have my receipt e-mailed to me, which I gladly took the up on. Props to you, River Dog, and here is hoping for a long residency in Union Square! read more

RiverDog rocks! I have been taking Langley, my high strung husky mix dog, here since September and both my dog and I could not be happier! Peter and Priscilla are so sweet and you can tell they really care about the dogs. Langley takes a while to warm up to people and new settings and the fact that she gets so excited to come here says it all. I love hearing about how social she is becoming. Peter seems very happy to see her progress and I can tell how much he cares about her comfort. Additionally, RiverDog has a great food and toy selection and sells Taste of the Wild for both dogs and cats, so I will never need to go anywhere else for pet food. read more

So very happy to have a pet center back in Union Square. Met the owner and loved what he has in store for the place - daycare, grooming, etc. He really seems to know a lot about his products and is stocking the place with high quality food and treats. His toy selection is really unique. Got this Griggles toy for my dog that he absolutely loves - its actually unstuffed so he can't eat the stuffing out of the toy. And my cats will be happy too! I am glad they weren't forgotten. I didn't see the food I usually get for my cats and I am really happy that he has no problem ordering it!! As it just opened, he still has lots more to stock and to get the daycare and grooming going. I can't wait to go back in to see how the place is progressing. read more

My puppy LOVES going to RiverDog for day care. We get a few stores away and she starts running towards the store, and then she is sad to leave. The staff is so knowledgeable and welcoming and I'm so glad Theodora has puppy friends at RiverDog. read more

Very happy with RiverDog! They've been wonderful to our puppy, who greatly benefited from the exercise, socializing with other dogs, and interaction with the RiverDog staff. Our dog is always excited to get out of the car and run up the stairs. We highly recommend RiverDog for those with new puppies. read more

I moved to Somerville about 3 years ago now with a 6 month old lab puppy, Raleigh. I was lucky enough to be in the neighborhood with River Dog, so after checking online and asking at the local dog parks (good reviews) I thought I'd give it a try. I'm thrilled!! Raleigh goes 1-2X a week, has buddies, is always excited to get there, and always worn out in a good way when he gets home. They keep track of vaccines, are very hygienic, and keep a great eye on the dogs. They even carry great food, toys and supplies. I couldn't be happier! read more

Today my brother picked up our dog brought him home only to realize that the employees forgot to remove the e-collar (electronic collar) we called and confronted them about this the girl acted shocked that they forgot to remove the collar, they didn't deny them using it either. Anyone who uses River Dog in Somerville Union Sq be aware they are using electronic collars on our dogs, unknown to us and probably unknown to you. read more

I take my puppy to RiverDog for daycare 2-3 times a week, and he is always excited to go each time. The owner along with the other employees there really love to spend time with the dogs, which is evident since my dog jumps in the owners arms every morning when I drop him off : ) The staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and flexible when it comes to last minute grooming or clipping of nails. My dog comes home tired and happy, and RiverDog has been a real life saver while I am away at work during the day. I definitely recommend their products and services. read more

RiverDog has been amazing for my dog. I tried one other daycare and they asked me to pick him up after one hour because he was "too anxious." RiverDog understood his anxiety and worked with him to make him more comfortable. After about 4 times, he was so excited to go he began jumping with excitement as soon as we started driving up the street. It's been about 8 months and I haven't had one issue. His excitement increases each week. Thank you so much RiverDog for helping me with my little guy's separation anxiety and giving him a safe space to play! read more

We came here twice this week after getting our 11 week old pup. Very limited selection of supplies. Then we thought that we had our puppy signed up for their kindergarten class, since they said "you're all set just come in with a check". Came in with a check and class is full but we can sign up for another class in a month and a half. When our puppy will be not quite a puppy. Thanks. Signed up for kindergarten with Zen instead and happy that I did. read more

This place is awesome. You can tell they really love dogs and really love being small business owners. I am so happy I found them and don't have to buy my dog food or get my dog's nails clipped at a chain. read more

My Ziggy absolutely LOVES attending daycare at RiverDog. Both Peter and Priscilla are incredibly warm and friendly. Zig can't wait to get in the door and is a truly tired pup at the end of the day. They also have a great selection of food, treats, accessories and toys. Both the store and the daycare areas are bright, cheery and welcoming (not to mention, spotless!). We are extremely happy to have RiverDog in Union Square! read more