The Bark Yard

The Bark Yard runs dog daycare and boarding in South Portland, Maine, at 2112 Broadway, and also offers grooming and training. Care is built around small, fully supervised playgroups matched by size, age, and play style rather than one large open room. The facility is Fear Free certified, and its team works with 100% fear-free, force-free handling.

Services offered

• Daycare with small, supervised playgroups
• Boarding and lodging in cabins
• Grooming
• Training, including puppy preschool
• Solo and hybrid camper programs for dogs who do better one-on-one

What sets it apart

Not every dog wants a crowd. The solo and hybrid camper programs give dogs who prefer human company, or one steady dog buddy, a full day without the group scene. That makes this a reasonable option for dogs who have struggled at large open-play daycares. Enrichment is part of the daily schedule too: sniff walks, agility, a ball pit, a slat mill, and a sensory space. Owners get daily report cards and photo updates rather than waiting until pickup for news.

Private suites, indoor play areas, and outdoor space are all on site. Grooming and training happen in the same building, so a care day and a grooming appointment don't have to mean two stops. Regulars can join the Top Dog membership, which comes with perks and priority booking.

Practical details

Published rates run from $57 to $92 per day, depending on the program and how often a dog attends. Booking is handled online through thebarkyard.me. The Bark Yard can also be reached at 207-864-4954 or frontdesk@thebarkyard.me, and it posts updates on Facebook and Instagram.