Dog Playgroups
Dog Playgroups in Lower Merion and Havertown
Pick-up and drop-off at your home
60 minutes of off-leash play in our private, fully fenced yard
Small, thoughtfully matched playgroups
Fresh water, treats (with your permission) , toys and supervision
Regular updates and adorable photos
Ongoing assessments to keep play safe and positive
Dogs are pack animals and enjoy the socialization and time spent playing with other dogs.
playgroups Starting at $60 per PLAYDATE PER household
Dogs are social by nature, and our Playgroups are designed to bring out their very best! We thoughtfully match dogs based on energy level and play style, then supervise their time together in a safe, secure private yard where they can romp and play freely.
Our playgroup dogs often form life long friendships -and because we truly partner with pet parents, the same compatible dogs play together for many years.
Groups are small, no more than 12 dogs, so everyone gets the attention and guidance they need to stay safe and have fun. With our high human-to-dog ratio, we offer a level of supervision and engagement that typical dog daycares can not match.
Playgroups are more than just exercise. They build confidence, strengthen social skills and help dogs to return home feeling relaxed, happy and fulfilled. Our clients often tell us that Playgroup days are their dogs’ absolute favorite days of the week!
Playgroups are 60 minutes in the yard and include round trip transportation.
We absolutely love Ilene and her team at Dog Gone Walking. Going to playgroup is clearly Ellie’s favorite time of the week. All of the walkers treat Ellie like a member of the family We especially love the photos so we can see how much fun she is having.
– Ellie, (Amy)
Dog Playgroup Pricing
Second dog from the same household: additional $15.
Each playgroup experience includes
Round-trip transportation from your home
Small, thoughtfully matched playgroups with a maximum of five dogs per caregiver.
One full hour of supervised play in a secure private yard
Ongoing observation and assessment
Thoughtful matching by size, energy level, personality, and play style
Photos and an update through our client app
A happy, tired dog returned safely home
Playgroup participation is based on suitability, safety, scheduling, and compatibility with the existing group.
Every dog is evaluated before being added to a playgroup.
Contact us for the final household rate and to learn whether your dog may be a good fit.
Dog Playgroup Benefits for your Dog
Socialization in a Safe Space
Dogs build confidence and improve social skills without the chaos of overcrowded dog parks and strangers.
Tailored Group Dynamics
Freedom to Play Off-Leash
Burns Energy
Reliable Routine
Natural Enrichment
Benefits to you
Peace of Mind
Better Behavior at Home
Trust in Professional Dog Walkers
Saves You Time
Safe Alternative to Daycare
No More Guilt
Feel Like a Rockstar Dog Parent
– Felix (Allison)
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Playgroups
How much does a Dog Playgroup cost?
Dog Playgroups start at $60 per playdate, per household. The service includes round-trip transportation and 60 minutes of supervised play in a secure private yard.
An additional fee of $15 will be added for the second dog in the household.
How long is a playgroup?
Dogs spend approximately 60 minutes playing in the yard. Transportation to and from your home is included in the service.
How many dogs are in each playgroup?
Playgroups range in size from 3 dogs to 12 dogs with a maximum of five dogs per caregiver.
How do you decide which dogs play together?
We get to know each dog and match participants according to factors such as energy level, size, temperament, confidence, and play style. The goal is to form compatible groups where dogs can build positive, lasting relationships.
Is every dog eligible for playgroup?
No. Playgroup is appropriate only for dogs who can participate safely and comfortably in a supervised group setting. We evaluate each dog before confirming placement and continue assessing the dog’s experience after participation begins.
Is transportation included?
Yes. We pick participating dogs up from their homes, transport them to the private play yard, and return them home after playtime.
How is a playgroup different from dog daycare?
Our playgroups are smaller and more personalized than a typical large daycare environment. Dogs play for a defined period in a secure private yard and are matched with familiar, compatible dogs rather than spending an entire day in a high-volume facility. We have the highest human to dog ratio in the area with a maximum of five dogs per caregiver at any given time. You will often find us on a typical playgroup day with no more than three dogs to one care giver in the yard.
Will my dog be supervised?
Yes. Playgroups are actively supervised. Team members monitor behavior, energy levels, interactions, and group dynamics throughout the session. We have the highest human to dog ratio in the area with a maximum of five dogs per caregiver at any given time. You will often find us on a typical playgroup day with no more than three dogs to one care giver in the yard.
What areas do you serve?
Dog Playgroups are available for qualifying clients in Lower Merion and Havertown, including Ardmore, Bala Cynwyd, Belmont Hills, Bryn Mawr, Gladwyne, Haverford, Havertown, Merion, Narberth, Penn Valley, and Wynnewood.
How do I find out whether my dog qualifies?
Complete the new-client form and tell us about your dog’s age, size, personality, social history, activity level, and play style. Book your phone call and together we will review the information and discuss the next step in the assessment process. We will set up an in person meet & greet during our call if it feels like a good fit.
Did you know?
Pet taxi services as well as supply pick-up and delivery to your home are available for our clients. Appointment at the vet, groomer, need a lift to or from day care and you’re not available to take your pet?
No problem.
Need food, treats, new collar or leash, special toy to keep them busy and don’t have time to stop on your way home? Just let us know. Behavior situation troubling you and looking for a suggestion or tool to assist you? Just ask.
Ready to join the pack?
Find out if your dog qualifies today!
Reinforcing commands like sit, stay, heel, look, and come can boost your dog’s confidence and reduce stress. During walks and playgroups, we can support the training you do at home or introduce the basics if your pup is just starting out. With extra personal attention and mental stimulation, Dog Gone Walking helps your dog build trust, stay engaged, and adapt better in social situations.