Dog Daycare and Boarding

Live webcams and certified staff make Camp Bow Wow’s overnight boarding a transparent alternative to traditional kennels

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — For many pet parents, the hardest part of traveling is not the flights or itinerary, but trusting someone else with their dog’s care overnight. Camp Bow Wow, the nation’s leading dog boarding and daycare franchise, addresses that concern with an overnight dog boarding experience built on real-time visibility, transparency and play.

With locations nationwide offering 24-hour dog boarding, Camp Bow Wow’s overnight dog boarding experience is designed around visibility and peace of mind, allowing pet parents to view a live webcam feed from a phone, laptop or tablet to watch their dog play and socialize.

“Your pup’s experience with dog boarding affects everyone in the family, the dog and the pet parent alike,” said Camp Bow Wow VP of Marketing Kate Wright. “Our webcams exist because we believe transparency builds trust. When a pet parent can see their dog running around the play yard and making new friends, that worry turns into confidence.”

How Local Dog Boarding Looks Different at Camp Bow Wow
Traditional kennels often mean long stretches of confinement with little insight for pet parents. However, Camp Bow Wow’s overnight dog boarding model was built around openness, active play and supervision from Certified Camp Counselors.

Every overnight stay includes:

• Live webcam access in play yards, giving pet parents a direct view of their dog’s day
• Open-play dog boarding all day, with socialization in large, climate-controlled play yards
• Cozy, private Cabins with comfy cots and fleece blankets for overnight rest
• Dog daycare included with every overnight boarding stay, so dogs receive physical exercise and mental stimulation
• Pet First Aid and CPR Certified Camp Counselors on-site monitoring dogs during play
• Option to add personalized enrichments tailored to each dog’s comfort level

The Role of Webcams in Building Trust
Camp Bow Wow’s live webcam system is central to what makes its overnight dog boarding experience different from a traditional kennel stay. Rather than asking pet parents to simply trust that their dog is safe, Camp Bow Wow shows them.

• Pet parents can check in on their dog’s play yard activity at any time of day
• Webcam access reinforces Camp Bow Wow’s broader commitment to transparency in how dogs are cared for while boarding

What a Typical Overnight Stay Looks Like
Every overnight dog boarding stay at Camp Bow Wow follows a full day of open play, supervised by Certified Camp Counselors, and a comfortable night’s rest in a Cabin. Pet parents can watch the entire day unfold in real time through the webcam feed during open play hours.

A typical stay at Camp Bow Wow looks like:

• Dogs arriving and settling into daycare while socializing with other Campers in supervised play yards
• Certified Camp Counselors monitoring play, behavior and energy levels throughout the day
• As evening approaches, dogs wind down and move to their private Cabins for overnight rest
• Pet parents can check the webcam feed throughout the day to see their dog in action

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Camp Bow Wow webcams live?
Yes. Camp Bow Wow’s webcams stream live video from its play yards during open play hours, giving pet parents a real-time view of their dog’s day rather than a recorded or delayed feed.

Can I watch my dog during boarding?
Yes. Pet parents can watch their dog during boarding through Camp Bow Wow’s live webcam access, available from a phone, laptop or tablet at any time during open play hours, whether their dog is visiting for a single overnight stay or an extended boarding period.

How do dog daycare webcams work?
Camp Bow Wow’s dog daycare webcams are positioned in play yards and stream live video that pet parents can access remotely. Rather than asking pet parents to simply trust that their dog is safe and happy, the webcams let them see their dog playing and socializing throughout the day, reinforcing the brand’s broader commitment to transparency in care.

Do dog daycares have webcams?
Webcam availability varies by daycare provider. However, all Camp Bow Wow locations include live webcam access in play yards as a standard part of both its daycare and overnight boarding experience, a feature that sets it apart from other providers or traditional kennels.

How do Camp Bow Wow’s webcams help with boarding anxiety?
The webcams give pet parents real-time visibility into their dog’s day, which helps ease the uncertainty that often comes with boarding for the first time or for an extended stay. Seeing a dog playing and socializing builds confidence in the care being provided.

What makes Camp Bow Wow’s overnight boarding different from a traditional kennel?
Rather than confining dogs to individual kennels for long stretches, Camp Bow Wow offers open, supervised group play throughout the day, followed by rest in a private Cabin overnight. Dog daycare is included with every overnight stay.

Can I check on my dog during an extended or long-term boarding stay?
Yes. Webcam access is available throughout a dog’s stay, whether it is a single overnight or an extended boarding period.

Young entrepreneurs will introduce the brand’s new reduced-investment prototype to Weatherford, Burleson and Granbury, Texas

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — Camp Bow Wow®, the nation’s leading dog daycare and boarding franchise and part of the Propelled Brands® family, today announced a three-unit franchise agreement that will bring its next generation of pet care facilities to Weatherford, Burleson and Granbury, Texas.

The agreement with Trinity Shields and Abigale (Abby) Freeman, of Fort Worth, marks one of the latest multi-unit commitments under Camp Bow Wow’s recently launched reduced-investment prototype, which lowers the initial investment by more than $400,000 while creating greater flexibility in site selection and accelerating multi-unit expansion. It follows the debut of similar buildouts opening in Dulles, Va. and Gallatin, Tenn.

“The momentum we’re seeing around this new prototype validates that franchise candidates are looking for smarter economics without compromising the customer experience,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer of Propelled Brands, the parent company for Camp Bow Wow. “Trinity and Abby represent exactly the kind of growth partners we want to attract. They are entrepreneurs who believe in our mission, embrace the operating model and are committed to becoming leaders in their local communities.”

A married couple and now business partners, Shields and Freeman discovered Camp Bow Wow while researching franchise opportunities and were drawn to the brand’s proven operating systems, strong unit economics, transparent culture and unwavering commitment to dog safety.

“Camp Bow Wow wasn’t just another pet care business,” said Freeman. “The brand’s values matched ours. It wasn’t about the money first. It was about the dogs, their safety and creating the best experience possible for every pet parent.”

“We also appreciated how supported we felt throughout the entire discovery process,” added Shields. “The reduced-investment prototype gives us a realistic path to grow one successful location at a time while building a business that becomes part of each community we serve.”

They intend to work closely with local veterinarians, rescue organizations and animal shelters while creating welcoming neighborhood destinations for dog daycare, boarding, grooming and enrichment services. Their first location will open in Weatherford, with the other two to follow.

For more information about franchise opportunities with Camp Bow Wow, visit www.campbowwow.com/franchising/ or contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679).

National promotion also gives pet parents a chance to win 25 free days of Day Camp and $2,500 cash

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — Camp Bow Wow, the nation’s leading dog daycare, is celebrating National Dog Day – Aug. 26 – with a gift of three free days of daycare for new Campers at participating locations nationwide. The celebration also offers pet parents the opportunity to win a grand prize of 25 free days of Day Camp and $2,500 cash.

To try Day Camp for three free days, pet parents can register online and schedule a complimentary entrance interview for their pup Aug. 15-31. During the interview, dogs are introduced to Camp’s play environment and other Campers to help them feel comfortable and confident in the space. Following a successful interview, pet parents will receive three free days of Day Camp to redeem through Nov. 15.

“Repetition and positive association are key to helping dogs feel secure in a new environment,” said Molly Jespersen, Camp Bow Wow’s training specialist. “Three free days give pups just enough exposure to build that comfort, so when it’s time for a longer stay, like holiday boarding, they’re already familiar with the space and our team.”

Customized enrichment activities at Camp Bow Wow
At Camp Bow Wow, pups spend their days in open-play packs supervised by Certified Camp Counselors, with access to enrichment activities matched to each dog’s energy level, preferences and unique personality:

• For the Social Butterfly – Play Pals keeps outgoing pups engaged through games like fetch and tug, providing extra exercise, enrichment and personalized attention.
• For the Explorer – Sniff & Seek taps into dogs’ natural curiosity with scent games, treat hunts and mentally stimulating activities that encourage them to sniff, search and discover.
• For the Cuddle Bug – Snuggle Time offers dedicated one-on-one TLC with a Certified Camp Counselor, featuring belly rubs, gentle pets and calming relaxation for pups who love extra affection.

“Our enrichment offerings are designed by our training team with every dog’s personality in mind, whether they’re social, curious or more of a cuddler,” said Jespersen. “These free days give new Campers the chance to try different activities and find exactly what makes them thrive.”

Enrichment offerings vary by location and are available as an add-on to the Day Camp experience.

Sweepstakes offers chance to win 25 free days of Day Camp and more
Camp Bow Wow is extending the National Dog Day celebration even further with a sweepstakes running Aug. 26-Sept. 30. To enter for a chance to win*, pet parents can register online at https://www.campbowwow.com/national-dog-day-2026/ and then bring their dog to Day Camp during this window. Prizes are:

• Grand prize: 25 free days of Day Camp plus a $2,500 cash prize, a combined value of $3,500.
• Second place: 25 free days of Day Camp, a $1,000 value.

For more information or to schedule an entrance interview, visit www.campbowwow.com.

*NO PURCHASE OR PAYMENT NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S. states/D.C., age 18+. Void outside the 50 U.S. states/D.C. and where prohibited. Sweepstakes starts at 12:00:01 AM ET on 08/26/26; ends at 11:59:59 PM ET on 09/30/26. For full Official Rules or how to enter, visit https://www.sweeppromo.com/CampBowWowSweepstakes.

Total ARV of all prizes: $4,500. Odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received. Limit: Two (2) Entries per person per day. Sponsor: Camp Bow Wow Franchising, Inc., 2542 Highlander Way, Carrollton, TX 75006.

The nation’s leading dog boarding franchise breaks down everything first-time boarding families need to know, from vaccines to Camper Interviews and what to pack

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — Camp Bow Wow, the nation’s leading dog boarding and daycare franchise, is helping first-time boarding families navigate the experience with confidence by outlining its complete safety checklist, including vaccine requirements, the Camper Interview process, drop-off and pick-up expectations, what to bring and how Certified Camp Counselors ensure every pup’s safety and comfort from day one.

With more dog parents choosing professional boarding, Camp Bow Wow’s play-based, safety-first approach sets a new standard for what overnight care should look like.

“We hear from pet parents every day that leaving their dog for the first time is overwhelming. Our job is to remove the uncertainty and make every pet parent feel comfortable leaving their fur baby with us,” said Molly Jespersen, training specialist at Camp Bow Wow. “Every protocol we have in place, from vaccine requirements to our Camper Interview, exists to make sure every dog in our care is safe, healthy and having a great experience.”

What Is Camp Bow Wow’s Boarding Experience?
Camp Bow Wow offers a play-based overnight boarding experience designed to feel less like a kennel and more like a vacation for your dog. Every boarding stay includes:

• All-day play in large, climate-controlled play yards with outdoor access
• Live webcams so pet parents can check in from anywhere
• Spacious, cozy Cabins with comfy cots and snuggly fleece blankets
• Dog Daycare included with every overnight stay
• Medicine administration, as needed
• Pet First Aid and CPR Certified Camp Counselors on-site
• Endless love, attention and socialization

The Complete First-Time Boarding Safety Checklist
Before a dog can enjoy their first stay at Camp Bow Wow, pet parents should confirm the following:

Vaccines Required at All Locations for All Boarding Dogs:

• DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis/Adenovirus, Parainfluenza, Parvovirus)
• Rabies vaccine
• Bordetella

Note: Additional vaccination or health requirements may vary by location. Contact your local Camp Bow Wow for specifics.

About the DHPP Vaccine: What Dog Parents Should Know
The DHPP vaccine is one of the most critical requirements for boarding and one of the most misunderstood. Here is what it covers:

• Distemper – attacks respiratory, digestive and nervous systems
• Hepatitis (Adenovirus) – affects the liver
• Parainfluenza – a major contributor to kennel cough
• Parvovirus – a highly contagious and potentially fatal viral disease

Puppies begin the DHPP series at six to eight weeks old, with two boosters at three-week intervals and a third booster one year later. Adult dogs receive boosters as recommended by their veterinarian, typically every one to three years for the Distemper and Parvovirus components.

The Camper Interview: Camp Bow Wow’s Commitment to Safety

Before any dog joins the pack for boarding, they must pass a Camper Interview, which is a structured evaluation process that determines whether Camp Bow Wow’s play-based group environment is the right fit.

Key facts about the Camper Interview:

• All breeds are welcome; Camp Bow Wow does not discriminate based on breed
• The interview helps ensure the safety and comfort of every dog in the play yard
• Dogs that are not a good fit for group play may be directed to alternative care options

What to Bring to Boarding:

• Vaccination records confirming all required vaccines are current
• Your dog’s regular food (to avoid digestive disruption) with enough to last through the visit
• Any medications your dog takes, clearly labeled with dosage instructions
• A favorite toy or blanket for comfort (optional, but encouraged)

Boarding Drop-Off and Pick-Up Tips:

• Plan to drop off before 4 p.m. to give your dog maximum time to play, eat and settle in before bedtime
• Arrive for pick-up at least 15 minutes before your Camp’s closing time

Extended Stays: What Long-Term Boarding Looks Like
Camp Bow Wow accommodates extended boarding stays for pet parents with longer travel plans.

• Many locations offer discounts for stays of 10 nights or more
• Camp Counselors provide consistent care, socialization and affection throughout the entire stay
• Pet parents can monitor their pup via live webcams at any time
• Pet parents can add on a variety of enrichments to their Campers’ stay including:
  • Play Pals: Encourages physical activity with engaging dog-friendly games like fetch, tug-of-war and obstacle courses.
  • Sniff and Seek: Provides mental stimulation through food puzzles and games such as ball pit exploration, hide and seek, scavenger hunts or other scent-based games.
  • Snuggle Time: Offers social interaction through hands-on TLC with calm activities like story or music time, extra belly rubs and head scratches.
• Dogs can enjoy a variety of grooming services including baths, blowouts, nail trims, ear cleaning and more.
• Local Camp teams work directly with families to customize extended stay logistics

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What vaccines does my dog need to board at Camp Bow Wow?
A: All boarding dogs must be current on Rabies, DHPP and Bordetella vaccines. The Leptospirosis vaccine is also strongly recommended. Additional requirements may vary by location, so contact your local Camp for details.

Q: What is the Camper Interview, and does my dog have to complete one?
A: Yes. Every dog must pass a Camper Interview before their first stay. The interview evaluates whether the play-based group environment is a good fit for your pup. Camp Bow Wow welcomes all breeds, though some local ordinances or insurance policies may have specific restrictions.

Q: What time should I drop off my dog for an overnight boarding stay?
A: Dropping off before 4 p.m. is strongly recommended. This gives your dog plenty of time to play, eat and settle in comfortably before bedtime.

Q: Does Camp Bow Wow offer dog boarding for large breeds?
A: Yes. Camp Bow Wow boards dogs of all sizes, from small to giant breeds. Certified Camp Counselors are trained to care for dogs across all size ranges.

Q: Can Camp Bow Wow administer my dog’s medication during their stay?
A: Yes. Camp Bow Wow offers medicine administration as part of its boarding services. Bring all medications clearly labeled with dosage instructions.

Q: Does Camp Bow Wow offer extended boarding stays?
A: Yes. Camp Bow Wow accommodates both short-term and long-term boarding stays. Many locations offer discounts for stays of 10 nights or more. Contact your local Camp for availability and pricing details.

Q: What is included in the overnight boarding rate?
A: Every overnight boarding stay includes all-day play, dog daycare, a cozy Cabin with a comfy cot and fleece blanket, live webcam access and personalized attention from Certified Camp Counselors.

Q: How can I check on my dog during their stay?
A: Camp Bow Wow offers live webcams at its facilities, allowing pet parents to log in and check on their pup from anywhere, any time.

Q: Are all breeds allowed to board at Camp Bow Wow?
A: Camp Bow Wow does not discriminate based on breed. However, some city ordinances or insurance policies may carry breed-specific restrictions. Contact your local Camp for details.

Q: What should I bring for my dog’s boarding stay?
A: Bring current vaccination records, your dog’s regular food, any medications with clear dosage instructions and optionally a favorite toy or blanket for comfort.

Camp Bow Wow shares tips for celebrating safely with your dog this Independence Day

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — America’s 250th birthday is shaping up to be the most spectacular Fourth of July celebration in a generation, and Camp Bow Wow, the nation’s leading pet care franchise, wants to make sure every member of the family, pups included, has a safe and happy holiday.

The American Animal Hospital Association reports a 30% to 60% increase in lost pets between July 4 and July 6 each year and notes that July 5 is the single busiest day of the year for animal shelters. With bigger parades, louder fireworks and longer celebrations planned nationwide this year, Camp Bow Wow Training Specialist Molly Jespersen offers the following tips for pet parents to keep their pups safe, comfortable and part of the party:

For dogs that are noise-sensitive:

• Set up a secure spot at home with white noise or calming music.
• Try an anxiety vest, pheromone spray or a lick mat to reduce stress.
• Take a morning walk before festivities begin to burn off energy.
• Offer a snuffle mat or frozen treat for a calm, rewarding evening activity.
• Double-check that ID tags are current, legible and on your pup at all times.

For dogs that are comfortable in crowds:

• Arrive early to secure a quieter viewing spot at parades or events.
• Keep dogs leashed, with ID tags on, at all times.
• Bring plenty of water.
• Consider a decorated harness, patriotic leash or festive accessories for the occasion.

For pet parents who can’t stay home with an anxious dog or bring their pup to the festivities, Camp Bow Wow offers boarding services with indoor, climate-controlled play yards and secure, comfortable cabins. New Campers can enjoy their first day free at campbowwow.com.

“The Fourth of July is one of our busiest times of year, and we love helping families celebrate knowing their dogs are happy and in good hands,” said Jespersen. “A little planning ahead makes all the difference for your pup, whether that’s creating a calm space at home or booking a stay with us. The goal is for everyone to have a great holiday, and dogs are no exception.”

For more information about Camp Bow Wow’s services or to find a location near you, visit www.CampBowWow.com.

New prototype, modernized brand identity and expanded revenue opportunities position pet
care leader as a prime opportunity for multi-unit operators

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — Camp Bow Wow^®, the nation’s leading doggy day care and boarding franchise, announced today a newly optimized business model designed to reduce investment costs, increase flexibility and accelerate growth among single and multi-unit franchise owners.

Building on more than 25 years as a category leader in the rapidly growing pet care industry, Camp Bow Wow’s latest evolution introduces a scalable investment model alongside its modernized brand identity. Together, these enhancements are designed to meet the needs of today’s franchise operators while positioning the brand for its next phase of expansion.

“This is one of the most significant transformations in the brand’s history,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer of Propelled Brands, parent company of Camp Bow Wow. “We’ve taken a proven concept within a growing sector and made it even more accessible and scalable for franchise candidates. From our refreshed look to a more efficient footprint and reduced investment range, everything we’ve introduced is focused on helping our franchise owners grow more profitable businesses.”

At the center of the transformation is a newly developed prototype that reduces the overall footprint and build-out requirements for new locations. Through strategic value engineering and design innovation, Camp Bow Wow has lowered the initial investment required, with a reduction of more than $400,000. The new model creates a more accessible entry point for prospective franchisees while maintaining the premium experience pet parents expect.

The new model also introduces greater flexibility in site selection and development. With a more adaptable layout, franchisees can pursue a wider range of real estate opportunities across urban, suburban and infill markets. The design is built to scale, allowing owners to adjust capacity and operations as demand grows, a key advantage for multi-unit operators looking to efficiently expand within a market.

“Camp Bow Wow’s franchise model appealed to me because it combines structure and flexibility with proven systems and clear standards while allowing owners to lead locally. It reduces risk while maintaining consistency in a trust-based business, and I was also drawn to continuous improvement through data and feedback, said Harry Samuelson, co-owner of Camp Bow Wow of Dulles, VA. “The brand continuously refines its model based on input from franchisees, employees, and customers. Strong franchisee satisfaction, including multi-unit ownership, reinforced its strength, and the care shown for both dogs and pet parents sets it apart.”

Complementing the operational updates is a full brand refresh, unveiled in mid-2025. Featuring a new logo, updated visual identity and redesigned camp interiors, the refreshed look delivers a more modern and welcoming environment that resonates with today’s pet parents while reinforcing Camp Bow Wow’s legacy of safety, trust and fun.

With its reduced investment model and refreshed brand positioning, the company is targeting accelerated expansion, particularly among experienced multi-unit operators seeking to diversify their portfolios with a proven, service-based concept.

For more information about franchise opportunities with Camp Bow Wow, visit www.campbowwow.com/franchising/ or contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679).

Leading pet care franchise invites multi-unit operators to expand portfolio with streamlined, scalable concept

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — Camp Bow Wow®, the nation’s leading doggy day care and boarding franchise, will exhibit at the Multi-Unit Franchising Conference (MUFC) at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas from March 24–27, 2026 (Booth #2223). The annual event brings together multi-unit franchise operators and entrepreneurs to exchange insights, explore emerging concepts and identify opportunities for portfolio growth.

At MUFC 2026, Camp Bow Wow will showcase its continued expansion and franchise opportunity, including its new storefront model designed to reduce build-out and startup costs, lowering overall investment while maintaining a premium experience. Targeting experienced multi-unit operators seeking a proven, pet-focused concept, the pet care leader is opening opportunities for strategic portfolio growth in high-demand markets nationwide.

“By introducing a streamlined investment model, Camp Bow Wow is making it easier for franchise owners to grow, without ever compromising the exceptional care and experiences our pet parents expect,” said Mark Jameson, chief development officer of Propelled Brands. “We’re focused on partnering with experienced multi-unit operators looking to diversify with a trusted, category-leading brand.”

The brand will welcome prospective franchisees and industry professionals to connect with Camp Bow Wow’s leadership team including Julie Turner, president of Camp Bow Wow, and experienced operators throughout the conference. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Tyler Keith, a multi-unit franchise owner of Camp Bow Wow locations in Mt. Juliet, Chattanooga, and Jacksonville, who will share insights into growing his franchise portfolio with support from parent company, Propelled Brands.

“I was a Camp Bow Wow customer for years before becoming an owner, and I saw firsthand the value the brand brings to dogs and their families,” said Keith. “Today, I get to combine that passion with building a business that not only exceeds my expectations financially, but also creates meaningful opportunities for my team and community.”

Camp Bow Wow enters MUFC 2026 following another year of strong development momentum, closing 2025 with 14 new franchise agreements and 225 locations open or operating nationwide. With its new reduced-investment model, the brand is creating a prime opportunity for entrepreneurs to enter the resilient pet care industry, and looks forward to continuing to expand its network while delivering exceptional experiences for pets and their owners.

Camp Bow Wow is currently seeking qualified franchise candidates with an emphasis on multi-unit owners as it targets continued nationwide growth. Interested prospects can visit key franchise personnel at the Multi-Unit Franchising Conference in Las Vegas, March 24–27, 2026 (Booth #2223). For more information about franchise opportunities with Camp Bow Wow, visit www.campbowwow.com/franchising/ or contact Mark Jameson (mark.jameson@propelledbrands.com or call 214.346.5679).

‘Luna’ holds top spot and ‘Willow’ debuts; Camps extend offers for free first day, free leash to honor the holiday

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — In celebration of National Puppy Day, Camp Bow Wow, a leading dog daycare and boarding provider, released its fifth annual list of the top 10 puppy names for 2026, drawn from its database of Campers between 4 months and 1 year of age at its 200-plus Camps across the U.S.

Since first unveiling its annual puppy name report in 2022, Camp Bow Wow has tracked the evolving tastes of new pet parents across the country, offering a unique window into the most popular puppy names year after year.

Leading the pack once again, Luna claimed the top spot in Camp Bow Wow’s 2026 data. Rounding out the top 10 puppy names for 2026, in order, are: Daisy, Lucy, Charlie, Milo, Cooper, Teddy, Bella, Penny and Willow.

Notable changes from 2025: Willow makes her debut in the top 10, nudging Winnie off the list, while Lucy climbs to third place, up from fifth last year.

“Choosing a name is one of the very first things a new pet parent does, and it matters more than people might think,” said Camp Bow Wow Animal Health and Behavioral Expert Erin Askeland, MSc, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA. “After five years of compiling this data, it’s fascinating to see trends emerge and evolve, and Luna continues to hold strong at the top. It checks every box for a great puppy name, which is exactly why new pet parents keep choosing it.”

Askeland offers the following guidance for new puppy parents picking the perfect name:

• Stick to two syllables. Two syllables hit the sweet spot for canine communication. These names are long enough to stand apart from everyday commands like “sit” or “stay,” yet still hold your dog’s attention.
• Avoid rhymes with common cues. Names that sound like “sit,” “stay” or “down” can cause confusion during training.
• Choose names with clear ending sounds. A crisp consonant or a bright vowel at the end of a name helps the name stand out to a puppy.
• Introduce the name with positivity. Say the name once in a happy tone and immediately reward the puppy with a treat, toy or praise. Repetition and positive reinforcement will help pups learn their name quickly.

Once a pet parent has chosen a pup’s name, Camp Bow Wow’s experts say equal attention should go toward what happens next, as the window for early socialization is brief but invaluable.

“A dog’s sensitive period for socialization falls between 3 and 14 weeks of age,” said Askeland. “During this time, puppies are particularly receptive to new experiences, and those early interactions can shape their behavior for life. But socialization doesn’t stop there. Since dog brains aren’t fully developed until 18 to 24 months, continued positive exposure is essential, especially as puppies move through fear periods where negative experiences can have a lasting impact.”

To support puppy parents during this crucial stage, Camp Bow Wow offers the Pawsitive Start Jr. Program at select locations. Designed for puppies aged 4 months to 1 year, the program provides a safe, nurturing environment where pups can build a strong foundation through socialization, skill-building and enrichment.

For dogs of all ages 4 months and older, daycare offers a structured opportunity to exercise, socialize and reinforce positive behaviors.

New dog parents are invited to celebrate National Puppy Day with a free first day of Camp. New clients who complete their Camp interview between March 23 and April 15 will also receive a free leash at select locations, while supplies last.

Visit campbowwow.com to find a Camp near you and schedule your pup’s free day.

Camp Bow Wow behavior expert reveals the 4 surprising ways dogs experience love (and the importance of this one thing) for ‘Love Your Pet Day’

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — Before you buy that heart-shaped dog bed or splurge on gourmet treats for Love Your Pet Day (Feb. 20), here’s what your dog actually wants you to know: They have zero clue what holidays mean, but they definitely know when you’re showing love in their language.

Just like humans have different love languages, dogs have their own unique ways of giving and receiving affection. According to Camp Bow Wow animal behavior expert Erin Askeland, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, understanding your dog’s love language is the secret to building an unbreakable bond, with no fancy gifts required.

The Four Canine Love Languages

• The Snuggle Bug: Not all dogs are cuddle monsters. Studies show dogs who genuinely love touch will initiate contact, stay relaxed and choose to be near you rather than ghosting to the other side of the couch. Plot twist: Most dogs aren’t fans of traditional human hugs, so if your dog tolerates your embrace but doesn’t lean in? That’s politeness, not love.
• The Foodie: For many dogs, the way to their heart is literally through their stomach. But it’s not just about the snacks. Food reinforcement creates positive emotional states, strengthens communication and can reduce stress during training or new experiences. Think of treats as your dog’s version of receiving a thoughtful gift.
• The BFF: Some dogs live for quality time, whether that’s walks, training sessions, fetch marathons or just vibing together while you binge Netflix. These shared activities provide physical exercise and social engagement, which research links to improved behavioral health and reduced anxiety. Your dog’s love language might literally be “let’s hang out.”
• The Brain Gamer: Activities like scent work, puzzle feeders and exploration are scientifically proven to improve welfare, decrease frustration and support emotional resilience. For dogs who speak this love language, mental stimulation is as important as physical exercise. They’re basically saying, “Challenge me, and I’ll love you forever.”

“Even though dogs don’t understand holidays, festivities or gifts, they definitely understand the feeling of safety, comfort and connection that comes from a strong and healthy bond with their person,” said Askeland. “Dogs are more likely to associate love with people who provide resources, positive reinforcement and calm social interaction, rather than those who offer elaborate but inconsistent gestures.”

How to Show Your Dog Love (Every Single Day)
Rather than focusing on holidays, Camp Bow Wow recommends pet parents strengthen their relationship through consistent, positive daily experiences:

• Reward-based training that builds communication and trust
• Sniff walks that let dogs explore the world at their own pace (yes, let them smell ALL the things)
• Enrichment activities like food puzzles, scatter feeding, lick mats or scent games
• Calm companionship, such as reading, working or relaxing together
• Understanding body language to respect your dog’s preferences and boundaries (consent matters in the dog world, too)

Camp Bow Wow encourages pet parents to show love in the language dogs actually understand through daily acts of care, respect and understanding that help them feel safe, secure and truly seen.

For pet parents looking to provide consistent enrichment and socialization, Camp Bow Wow offers daycare services where dogs can engage in open play, participate in enrichment activities and build positive social connections with furry friends and trusted Certified Camp Counselors.

New Campers can enjoy their first day of Camp free by signing up at campbowwow.com.

Camp Bow Wow offers timely cold-weather safety tips as severe winter weather sweeps across the U.S.

WESTMINSTER, Colo. — As a major winter storm is forecast to blanket large portions of the United States at the end of this week, Camp Bow Wow, the nation’s leading doggy day care and boarding franchise, is urging pet owners to take precautions to protect their dogs from life-threatening cold-weather hazards.

While most people know not to leave dogs outdoors in the cold, Camp Bow Wow’s animal health and behavioral expert Erin Askeland, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA, has identified 5 critical safety risks that spike during severe winter weather—and that most pet parents don’t know about.

“Many pet owners don’t realize that the biggest risks to their dogs during winter storms aren’t just the cold temperatures—it’s what’s hidden in the snow and ice,” said Camp Bow Wow’s animal health and behavioral expert Erin Askeland, CPDT-KA, CBCC-KA. “From toxic ice melt salts to disorientation that causes dogs to get lost, these issues can be prevented with the right knowledge.”

5 Critical Cold-Weather Safety Tips Every Dog Owner Must Know

1. Wipe Down Your Dog After Every Outdoor Trip

What to Know: When dogs lick their paws after walking on treated surfaces, they may ingest ice melt that is toxic and can cause severe illness or death.

What to Do: Thoroughly wipe down dogs’ paws, legs and belly when they come back inside after being in snow or going for a walk. Use a damp towel to remove all traces of ice melt chemicals before dogs have a chance to lick their paws.

2. Never Let Your Dog Off the Leash in Snow or Ice

What to Know: Extreme cold can interfere with how scents travel, which may make it harder for dogs to track smells. This makes scent-based navigation more challenging and may increase the risk of disorientation.

What to Do: Keep your dog on a leash at all times during winter weather, even in familiar areas.

3. Provide Fresh Water at All Times

What to Know: Dehydrated dogs are more likely to lick ice and eat snow, which can cause them to ingest toxic ice melt salts or antifreeze.

What to Do: Keep fresh, clean water available and accessible at all times. Check water bowls frequently to ensure they haven’t frozen if kept outdoors.

4. Never Leave Your Dog in the Car—Even with the Heater On

What to Know: Vehicles act like freezers in winter, trapping cold air inside. Dogs can freeze to death quickly, even with the heater running initially.

What to Do: Always bring your dog inside with you or leave them safely at home. There is no safe amount of time to leave a dog in a car during winter weather.

5. Keep Your Dog’s Fur Long During Winter

What to Know: A dog’s fur is their natural protective layer against cold temperatures. Shaving or cutting it too short removes this critical insulation.

What to Do: Never shave your dog’s fur during winter months. For dogs with naturally short hair, use a jacket or sweater to provide extra warmth during outdoor time. For dogs with longer hair, frequent grooming can help keep long coats healthy and easier to maintain during winter months.

What to Do If Severe Weather Prevents Outdoor Exercise
When winter storms make outdoor exercise dangerous or impossible, dogs still need physical and mental stimulation. Camp Bow Wow offers a safe, climate-controlled environment where dogs can exercise, socialize, and burn energy regardless of weather conditions.

Emergency Preparedness for Pet Owners
Before the winter storm arrives, pet owners should:

• Stock up on pet food, medications and supplies for at least one week
• Ensure dogs are wearing collars with up-to-date identification tags
• Microchip pets and update registry information
• Identify a safe, warm indoor space for pets during the storm
• Locate the nearest emergency veterinary clinic