I have been bringing my dog to the Common Dog for 5+ years now, since he was 12 weeks old. The Common Dog fulfills all of my dogs needs; day care (5x a week), boarding, grooming, and even a massage once! The staff has always been incredibly friendly, and seem to genuinely enjoy being around the dogs - and my dog is always excited to see the staff. There are webcams in a few of the boarding suites so I can even spy on my dog when I'm on vacation! I highly recommend the Common Dog for any kind of boarding, training, or doggy daycare needs. read more

I have had a couple of horrible experiences bordering my dog, he has separation anxiety. A friend recommended The Common Dog. I was a little apprehensive at first but once I met them and toured the facility I knew I had to give it a try. I planned on leaving him for the weekend but ended up adding an extra day. You can view the park via webcam from anywhere and see how your dog is doing. My dog was running around an playing every time I checked on him, and believe me it was a lot. They gave him a bath and shed reduction too, he looks amazing. I wish I had heard of them years ago. This is the best place you will ever find for your dog!! read more

The Common Dog is wonderful. Great customer service and, most importantly, they take great care of our little guy. The new renovations and web cam are just the cherries on top! I'd highly recommend them... and this is coming from an overprotective "dog mom." read more

I've been boarding my pooch Rita here for last year or so, and have always had positive experiences. The $$ certainly adds up if you're out of town for long, but I've researched a few other places nearby and the prices seem comparable. Rita has a ton of energy, and is always exhausted when I pick her up - score!! The folks who work here are always really friendly, and I feel 100% comfortable leaving Rita with them. They've also been really accommodating on a couple of occasions when I had last-minute trips and dropped Rita after the approved hours, which I was really grateful for (altho probably shouldn't be advertising this!) The location/hours are kind of tricky, but so far it's been worth it for me. Wish it wasn't so freakin' expensive, but what can you do! read more

We happened to start at the Common Dog at the same time there was new ownership/management (no kidding, on the same day!) We met the new owner and she seemed great- spent a lot of time talking to us about the changes and what they could offer to our new puppy and told us about her impressive background. Things have only gotten better from there. As soon as we turn down the street to the Common Dog, our dog knows exactly where we are and he gets really excited! When we pick him up, he's always as happy as can be- and EXHAUSTED! The staff are great and able to update us on his day- everyone appears to know him very well. They are great about calling/emailing back in a very timely manner. Also, they open everything up in the summer so the dogs get to play outside and splash around in small pools! My only slight concern or suggestion to the wonderful new owner is the exposed concrete. Our dog plays from the moment he walks in until the moment we pick him up (he's about 90#). With all of this play and on concrete, his nails tend to naturally grind down. One day they ground down to the point one of his nails bled. In saying that, they immediately to care of it and separated him from the group until we were able to get there. We were truly impressed with the time the staff took to explain what happened, tell us how she addressed it, and let us know what to do if it happens again. Overall, I would recommend the Common Dog to any and everyone! We hope to get a second puppy soon and look forward to bringing him/her there as well. I would give 4.5 stars, but can't seem to do it from my phone! read more

I went to The Common Dog for the first time today to have my dog groomed. My little buddy came out looking so great and smelled like a spring garden. They do absolute wonders there! Highly recommend you try them out. Can't go wrong! Plan on trying out their daycare. read more

I've been taking my dog here for almost a year. I usually board him for anywhere between a night and a week. From reading other reviews, they got new ownership a while back, but I've only known the current management. They are great! Every person in there is so happy to see my dog when I walk in. My dog is afraid of people, and he will great everyone there, which means they've taken the time to get to know him. He can't wait to get in to the play area. They have a live video feed (watch out, it's addictive!!) and there's usually quite a few staff in with the dogs, and I've never seen any bad behavior, from the dogs or the staff. In addition, I can pick up and drop off almost any time of day, they even have after hours pick up till midnight. read more

I love this place and they have bailed me out of "immediate boarding" emergencies for years now! I have been a client since July of 2005, when my pom was just a puppy, and she went to Common Dog day care, and was boarded, quite often over a two to three year period. I still bring her there but not as frequently due changes in my work schedule allowing her to be with me more often. While it's true that their hours can be prohibitive at times and I have had to get out a paper and pencil to work out a "drop off/pick up schedule" that would work for me, I decided to work around that issue for the other benefits. In terms of the location, it is a bit off the beaten path, but I grew up in the area and am comfortable with their location. To some degree, their location allows them to provide the room for the dogs to run around outside and play in the pool they provide. If you bring your dog there you'll notice a few things right away: dogs love going through the door, and often don't want to leave! Seriously. My dog turns into Scarlett O'Hara when we approach the building (since my dog, I'm convinced, has a GPS in her head) and begins to howl and beg to be let out of the car. When she gets through the door, she practically high-fives her peeps! She's never been injured, nor has she displayed any personality changes, when she has been there - either at daycare or when boarded. I'm aware that the owner of Common Dog is a dog lover, is quite an accomplished dog trainer, and is well known in the field. Their website lists the owners credentials and is quite thorough regarding rates/hours and other services. They have accommodated me with last minute requests for boarding within the confines of their drop off hours, although my dog is so small perhaps I enjoyed this benefit over those who had larger dogs or special needs. Last, but not least, the staff have always been gracious and accommodating to me. If a staff member said something that made me "paws," it could be because they are operating from a working knowledge of your dog and want to spare the animal any more emotional or physical pain. It is sometimes a shock to realize that a staff member knows your dog - and how he/she socializes - better than you do! The staff I've dealt with at Common Dog works with the dogs "hands-on" and don't function solely in a front desk capacity - checking dogs in and out - so they may be more opinionated than one would expect. To sum up, I've never worried when my Pom has been in their care. I've appreciated that peace of mind. I'd definitely give them a try. read more

Had my Goldendoodle groomed for the first time here. This can be a challenging breed to groom, because most of the time the come out looking all poodle-y. But this groomer listened to what I asked for and did an excellent job. Especially considering he was all matted. Cost was $80. Which was about $20 less than our old place in NYC. We will be back to check out the day care. read more

We love the Common Dog! Our puppy, Caesar, has a blast at daycare. He always comes home exhausted and very happy. The late pick up is great and reasonably priced. Caesar has also boarded a few times. We have peace of mind knowing that he's in a familiar place and playing with his friends. read more

I was like many new dog owners when I brought my 10 week old Golden Retriever to the Common Dog: I was nervous, apprehensive, somewhat ignorant, and overly trusting of those who appeared to have knowledge about our four legged friends. I fell under the spell of the well commercialized exterior of the Common Dog and did whatever they said. I took it all as gospel. Over time, however, I changed as an owner: I read every book that I could find on dogs, including those having to do with training and dog psychology. I also took numerous training classes to ensure that my little guy was well adjusted, well socialized, and well trained as a service dog. Over time, however, my dog began to suffer from horrible diarrhea. I brought him to the vet nearly a dozen times over the course of a year. During that time, we tried many different foods and medications in an effort to determine whether this was an allergy or some other, more serious, issue. It wasn't until a great deal of time had passed that we learned that our dog was eating poop at the Common Dog. Moreover, in an effort to combat the problem, rather than pick up the poop, the staff encouraged the use of a shock collar on my dog in an effort to try to train him not to eat poop. Needless to say, the shock collar did not have the intended affect. Moreover, over time, as our dog was shocked in the presence of other dogs, the shock collar caused our Golden to become increasingly more and more aggressive with other dogs. They had had our dog since he was only 10 wks old. He had never been aggressive, and now, suddenly, he was reacting to other dogs after having been shocked in the group setting. I subsequently learned about the "proper" use of shock collars, if and when used, and have subsequently learned that The Common Dog was using it abusively and inappropriately. Finally, one day, we received a call that our dog had gotten into a fight with another dog over some food, and that we would have to pick him up and was not welcome back. This incident happened years ago. Our dog has been at a new facility, and, after some work, is doing much better. He has not had a single incident since leaving the Common Dog. Not a single fight or even skirmish with another dog. I refrained from writing this review, because I didn't want it to seem reactionary or,in fact, be a reaction to The Common Dog's handling of a single incident incident. Now several years later, after having had time to reflect, to cool, and after having become much more knowledgeable about dogs and their development, I can honestly say that The Common Dog was not a good place place. I can't speak to how they are today, but, based upon reading other reviews, it doesn't sound like much has changed. They put profits and a skin deep commercialized appearance over the dogs welfare. And, based upon my experience, they don't stop there. It wouldn't be half as bad if they were only neglecting dogs. However, based upon our experience, they were actively harming dogs. It is a sad and horrific experience that I hope owners, companions, and our four legged friends / family members will never have to experience. Stay away from the Common Dog. read more

This place is good for safe daycare. Grooming is another story. They really don't do a great job. Nails are left too long, fur still loose on my dog, and he smelled again only 2 days later. Go here for daycare, but pass on the grooming. The daycare staff is good. read more

I started out going to the Common Dog when my one dog was a young pup. It helped with house training, socialization, and exercise. There were a few instances where she contracted giardia and kennel cough which was not a shock for me because of the group of dogs. Overall I was happy with the place until recently. Both of my dogs were dropped off for a 3 day boarding. They went in perfectly healthy. I received an email telling me that one had what looked like a bad allergic reaction on her feet. Not sure what could have caused it so I took her to the vet and the vet told me that it was not an allergice reaction but a bacterial infection. I felt so bad for my dog because the pads on the bottom of her feet were peeling off and she was in pain and couldn't walk. I am not sure what is going on there but I will not be bringing my dog back again. read more

The incident referred to in my first review still stands, however, I would like to write that the manager of The Common Dog (Chris) did take my concerns seriously and took action against the employees who mistreated my dog. I appreciate the attention to this matter and hope that The Common Dog has changed for the better. read more

My wife and I began taking our lab to the Common Dog when he was 12 weeks old in December, 2011. Since then, he has been there numerous times for daycare, grooming and extended stays..the longest being 16 days this past summer for our honeymoon. Laura, the owner, personally picked him up from my house so he could be included in our wedding photos! He absolutely loves going to the common dog and we would highly recommend it to anyone looking for any type of pet service. Everyone there knows him by name and shows him the same love and affection that we do. read more

I probably would give the Common Dog 4 stars, but they refused our bulldog breed after a quick interview. Our other dog had already been "accepted" and boarded from a previous time, and we were hoping for convenience, money, time, etc. that we'd be able to bring our bulldog for boarding during our upcoming vacation. The lady working at the time would not even let him off the leash because he seemed "anxious." Anyone who has experience with bulldogs knows their heavy breathing always makes them seem anxious. Our dog was letting others sniff him, and showing no signs of aggression; just wanted to sniff around and get used to the new surroundings! He ended up "failing," so we took both dogs to another kennel they'd passed interviews at previously. That experience was a disaster, and we ended up having a friend transport one dog back to the Common Dog. The Common Dog happily reinstated our reservation we had canceled. I called to check up on him, and they were friendly and put me at ease; I had been full of nervousness and concern about the situation. I like how the boarded dogs play all day, and are only crated at night. I hate to board our dogs, but this is where one of them will continue to go when we are out of town. People complain about the location but I don't think it's bad, and I live in the southern part of the city. It's actually nice that you don't have to sit in expressway traffic if you don't want, just take the 99 from Charlestown and you're there quickly. I appreciate that there's parking and a nice outdoor area for the dogs! I wish I could give a higher rating, but I felt as though they discriminated against our bulldog. read more

My groomer recently got transferred over an hour away, and my dog desperately needed a good bath. I decided to try The Common Dog, as it seems to come highly recommended and I have dealt with them professionally as a veterinary employee--they are always pleasant and easy to deal with; I even recommend them to my own clients for boarding and daycare. The facility is beautiful and clean, and when I called for an appointment the receptionist was very receptive and kind. However, despite giving VERY specific instructions to "trim" my dogs feathers, bum, and tail, my double coated dog--a very fluffy corgi/chow mix--was shaved down. He looks horrible. They even shaved his "mane" around his face when I asked for a clean up. I understand the current trend of owners requesting puppy cuts for poodley-breeds and small dogs, but you simply do not shave a double coated dog, especially when an owner says, "he mostly needs a brush out and bath". My mother picked him up from his appointment, and while she is not the type to complain, I think it was obvious she was disappointed. They did end up giving us a discount, which is greatly appreciated; however, I'm still very disappointed, just because I tried to give specific instructions to avoid this. I do know they treated my dog with great care, and we're not bad to him by any means which is the most important thing. I will continue to recommend for boarding/daycare, and again, the staff is great, personality wise. However, I probably won't go back for grooming. read more

I think the common dog is wonderful! We 'interviewed' many of the local daycares and found this was the best BY FAR!! We took our dog there for over 2 years on a daily basis, and he was loved and cared for like he was part of the family. Anytime there were issues, the staff was very helpful, flexible, and caring. I also think the owner is fabulous and is really passionate about animals and his clients. We had to transfer daycares due to moving out of town, and really miss common dog. The new daycare is no where as good! I would recommend this daycare to any friend or family and in fact have, with friends who were also very happy with this place. read more

We cannot say enough kind words about Laura and everyone at the Common Dog. We have a very anxious dog who used to be very scared of people. Thanks to the care of the team at the Common Dog he has come out of his shell and now even seeks affection from people other than myself and my husband which is very significant step for him. He takes the bus to and from daycare each weekday and he gets really excited to get on the bus which I think goes to show what a wonderful environment the team creates. We are so incredibly thankful for the team. It's really been a lifesaver for us and our little guy. read more

I love this place. It's a cageless daycare/boarding residence for dogs and cats. The price is a bit much, but if you truly love your animal the extra cost is well worth it knowing that the animals are outside all day, not locked in in a cage. The staff is great, they are so friendly and they also have their own grooming dept who does excellent work.. Definatley worth 5 stars !!!! read more

We've been boarding our dog here for over a year whenever we go out of town, and the staff is great. She always comes back tired and happy. I like the fact that she is only crated overnight, and the staff genuinely love dogs. The only reason for the 4 stars and not 5 is that the groomer doesn't seem to have much flexibility in scheduling. read more

This is a great place! My dog is always excited to get here. The staff is wonderful and seem to really enjoy the dogs. There is a webcam so you can check in and see what your pup is up to. I bring my dog here for daycare, boarding and grooming and couldn't be happier. Highest possible recommendation. Also recommend the groomer, she does a great job! read more

My little terrier has been very happy at Common Dog for her daycare for the past 2 years. She thrives on the supervised play, attention, care and expertise provided by Laura the owner and all of the staff. Everyone is helpful and friendly. The facility is very clean and organized and well maintained. My dog really enjoys the splash park on hot summer days! As a senior but quite energetic dog, at Common Dog they've been really attentive to her need for both lots of activity and rest periods during the day. Her overnight boarding experiences have been great and she loves the spa services! read more

I like this place a lot. It is great if you have an emergency and you need some help with your doggie. They always have a spot for a dog all you need is recent vaccination record. The grooming service is outstanding. I would defiantly recommend this place! read more

We have sent our dog here for grooming since he was a puppy (starting at the old location). He is now 9, and still doesn't mind when we drop him off! They do a good job with everything, and I've never worried about leaving him there. The new facility is so nice, clean, new. read more

I've been bringing my dogs here since 1998 (previous and current location) and my wife and I couldn't be happier. Having a safe place to watch our pets when we can't provides great peace of mind. All four of our dogs have had training, a few of them were afraid of people and other dogs, but after a while, they came to love the attention. Can't say enough positive things. read more

Common Dog is a real nice place my puppy loves it and is quite happy and as for me I am also very happy .I take my puppy for training there and is much more obedient since I started the training at CD . The trainers and the crew are great always very helpful. Also to note I got my puppy bathe there simply a job well done my puppy was clean and no odor and the ears and nails were also done. Hats off to Chris and Rhonda and the crew you have a great place and crew. read more

When I went in they told me they take all dogs and find a situation that fits the dog I made sure I got all shots. went in for visit to get a look at the place left my dog for 2 hours when I went to pick her up what a 360 in additude they told me a regular kennel would be better so the pros they claim to be and offer training as well as daycare turned us away so I would think twice about any service they claim they are pros at instead of working with my dog they put her in a room alone and commented on her barkin. I would bark to if i was put in a strange place read more

I recently took my dog here for an extended stay while vacationing. On the day I was returning from a week's long vacation - I received a call that my dog was sick. Thinking it was something minor I went in when I arrived home to pick-up my dog. As soon as I saw her, she looked as though she had lost 8 lbs (dog is appx 33 lbs total) ... when I dug further and asked what happened, I was told 'we aren't sure'... I called the next day to talk to a manager, they said 'it was because your dog doesn't listen and eats things we tell her not to'... the rudeness of that individual infuriated me, especially since my dog has NEVER been so ill. Somehow it was put back on me and my dog, as they took NO responsibility. Add this to the fact that I had to take my dog to the ER and spent an additional $300 to correct the sickness she acquired here. Read all the reviews, there are others like mine. If you want to be treated with respect as someone utilizing their business and you want your pup treated with similar respect, please look elsewhere for a doggy daycare. read more

My dog Daisy was in desperate need of training (and so was I!). I had heard about The Common Dog and decided to give it a try. Within 5 minutes of meeting the owner Laura, she recommended board & train. I decided to give it a shot knowing there was no guarantee. I was very sad to leave Daisy for 2 weeks but I knew she was in good hands. Needless to say it has been 4 months since her training and Daisy is a different dog! She never pulls on her leash or "freaks out" when she sees other dogs. She can calmly say hello to them and keep walking. She listens to me (for the most part) but is overall a calmer dog. I believe bringing her to training and also 3 days a week in daycare at The Common Dog was the best decision I've ever made. Not only is Laura an amazing dog trainer but the rest of the staff too. They are all so nice and it's obvious they love their jobs and all their furry friends! read more

We have had dogs cared for at The Common Dog for many years and have always had great experiences there. The most important thing to our family is trusting that the staff will take as good care of our dog as we do, and they have consistently exceeded our expectations. Our 5 yr old golden has the energy of a young puppy, and is always eager to go. He really enjoys playtime in the park and loves the indoor water park feature on summer hot days. We appreciate the flexibility and expertise of the team, who appear to know all of the dogs (and their family members) individually. We know others whose dogs have had lousy experiences at other local places - in which their dogs have had serious injuries related to rough play or unmonitored activity with more aggressive dogs, and are glad our dog is in such good hands that this is not a worry we have. Because of the care, play, and excercise our dog gets at TCD each week day, he's in great health and is a great family member! We also find the drop off time and pick up time especially enjoyable. The staff are good people, and it's a treat to see families and their dogs each day. read more

I love this place. What a different experience from the last daycare I visted. I did NOT leave my dog at Lucky dog. Which should be called UNLUCKY Dog. After my horrible experience there I came here to The Common Dog and was met by very dog savy staff. The place is huge and beautiful and they had many workers. I asked a bunch of questions and all were answered in a very professional experienced way. This is what dog daycare is all about. I guess my dog needed a kennel cough vaccine and they were not able to evaluate my dog until he had it. That made me feel good. A place that thinks about the dogs before their wallet. I am very picky where i can leave my dog. He is very shy and the last thing I want is him just thrown in a room with a bunch of dogs. The staff there made me feel very comfortable and offered training to help with my dogs issues. Now thats what I want to hear. Not that he will just be fine. This place is far from my home but close to my work. I will visit other daycares to see if I can find one more local. My vet let me know of the good ones in my area. In the mean time my dog will be coming here. What I also found excellent was that I was told of a great local daycare in my area if I was not able to bring him here. Now that is AWESOME customer service. I know I will be out checking out daycares but at least I am able to be comfortable with a place my guy can go for now. read more