🐾 How to Prepare Your Pup for Their First Visit to an Indoor Dog Park

By The Barkery Dog Bar

Bringing your dog to an indoor dog park is an exciting way to let them burn energy, make new friends, and experience a whole new kind of fun. But just like a child’s first day of school, it helps to be prepared—especially if your pup has never played in an off-leash, enclosed space before.

Whether you’re gearing up for your first visit to The Barkery Dog Bar’s indoor dog park or just want to set your dog up for social success, here’s a handy guide to help you both have the best experience possible.

🐕 1. Know Your Dog’s Personality

Not all dogs are social butterflies—and that’s perfectly fine! Some pups jump right into playgroups, while others prefer a slower introduction. Before your first visit:

• Consider how your dog behaves around other dogs and new people.

• Start with small, quiet visits before peak hours if your dog is more reserved.

• Look for signs of stress like cowering, excessive barking, or tucked tails.

Tip: If you're not sure how your dog will react in a social setting, a professional training class focused on socialization can help. More on that below!

📋 2. Make Sure Vaccinations Are Up to Date

Indoor dog parks are shared environments, so for everyone’s safety, most facilities—including The Barkery—require:

• Rabies

• Bordetella (kennel cough)

• DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parvo, parainfluenza)

• Flea/tick prevention is highly encouraged.

Bring documentation on your first visit so your pup can play worry-free!

🧼 3. Freshen Up Before You Show Up

Indoor spaces mean closer quarters—and nobody wants to be the stinky dog.

✅ A quick bath or brushing can help your dog feel (and smell) their best.

✅ Trim long nails to avoid accidents.

🐾 4. Start slow at the indoor dog park

Even confident dogs can feel overwhelmed in a new space. Here’s how to make the intro smoother:

• Walk your pup around the perimeter first so they can observe from a distance.

• Let them sniff and explore at their own pace.

• Keep the first visit short and positive—think quality over quantity!

🎓 5. Consider Socialization Classes with A1K9 Academy

We’re proud to be partnering with A1K9 Academy to help ensure a safe and positive experience for all dogs at The Barkery. Their team provides expert training for our staff, and they also offer dog training classes focused on socialization and behavior.

Whether you’ve got a brand-new pup or a dog who’s learning the ropes, A1K9 Academy’s classes can help prepare your dog for indoor park play with confidence and control.

🌐 Learn more or sign up for a class at a1k9s.com

Building confidence through connection—A1K9 Academy creates a safe, joyful environment for dogs to learn, play, and thrive together.

🐶 6. Don’t Forget the Essentials

Bring these items with you on your first visit:

🦴 Your dog’s leash and collar

📄 Vaccination records

💧 A water bottle or bowl (or use provided stations)

💩 Waste bags (The Barkery will have some on hand too!)

🍻 Bonus Tip: Enjoy Yourself, Too!

While your dog is off making new friends, don’t forget—you’re here to have fun, too! At The Barkery Dog Bar, you can relax with a craft beer, grab a bite from our dog-friendly restaurant menu, and be part of a community that shares your love for dogs.

Final Thoughts

Your dog’s first indoor dog park visit should be exciting—not stressful. With a little prep, some social guidance from our friends at A1K9 Academy, and the welcoming atmosphere at The Barkery Dog Bar, you’ll both have a paw-sitive experience from the moment you walk in.

Opening late summer 2025 in South Portland, ME!

Follow us for updates at barkerydogbar.com and on Instagram @barkerydogbar 🐾