Frequently Asked

The questions behind the club.

The thoughtful answers to what dog parents really wonder about — PLAY, STAY, health, safety, and the philosophy that shapes every day at Pupz Club.

Play & Socialization

Why don't you offer live camera access?+

We understand why families ask. It comes from wanting to check on someone they love. We do have security cameras, but we do not provide live public camera access. Our team's focus is on actively supervising dogs, not creating a show for people to watch. Live feeds can also create unnecessary worry because short clips rarely show the full story — a loud play session, a quick correction, or a dog resting quietly can be misunderstood without context. If anything out of the ordinary happens, we will always contact you.

Why do some dogs get so excited when they arrive?+

Dogs thrive on routine, friendships, and positive experiences. Many of our members recognize our team before they even reach the front door. They know their favorite playmates are waiting inside, and they associate the club with a day full of fun, activity, and familiar faces. Watching a dog happily pull their family toward the entrance is one of the greatest compliments we can receive — it tells us they are exactly where they want to be.

Is every dog meant for group PLAY?+

No — and that is perfectly okay. Some dogs love group play for their entire lives. Others prefer quieter environments, one-on-one attention, or simply do not enjoy a busy social setting. Not being the right fit for PLAY does not mean there is anything wrong with a dog. Every dog is different, and our job is to be honest about what environment is best for them.

Can my dog pass the temperament test and later no longer be a good fit?+

Yes. Dogs continue to mature emotionally, often until around two years old or longer. As they mature, their confidence, tolerance, play style, and social preferences can change. Some dogs become more social over time. Others become more selective or less tolerant of group play. Our goal is never to label a dog as "good" or "bad." Our goal is to continually evaluate whether PLAY remains the right environment for each individual member.

Why do some dogs take breaks during PLAY?+

Great PLAY is not about how long dogs play. It is about the quality of their experience. Just like children, dogs can become tired, overstimulated, or need a few minutes to reset. Our team may give members rest breaks whenever we feel it is in the best interest of the dog or the group. A well-rested dog often has a safer, happier day than one who is pushed past their limit.

Why are dogs sometimes given a short timeout?+

A timeout is not punishment. It is simply a short reset when a dog becomes overly excited, pushy, or needs help calming their body before returning to the group. Most timeouts are brief. The goal is to help the dog rejoin PLAY in a safer and more positive way.

Why is my dog so tired after PLAY?+

A tired dog after PLAY is usually a happy dog. Social play is both physically and mentally stimulating. Dogs are not just running around — they are reading body language, practicing social skills, making choices, and interacting with friends. Just like children after a busy day at school, many dogs go home ready to rest and recharge.

Why is my dog so thirsty after PLAY?+

Dogs have access to fresh water throughout the day, and we encourage water breaks regularly. That said, some dogs are so excited during PLAY that they drink less than they normally would at home. Others pant more from activity and social excitement, which can naturally make them drink more once they settle after pickup. It is common for dogs to drink when they get home after an active day. However, if your dog seems excessively thirsty, is vomiting, acting unwell, or the thirst continues beyond what feels normal, please contact your veterinarian.

Health & Safety

Why do you require dogs to be spayed or neutered after 6 months?+

We understand that some veterinarians recommend waiting longer, especially for larger breeds. Our policy is not just about fertility — it is about group safety. As dogs mature, hormones can affect play style, mounting, frustration, territorial behavior, and how other dogs respond to them. In an open PLAY environment, those changes can create tension or conflict even in dogs who were previously doing well. Because PLAY is a group setting, our policy is designed around the safety and comfort of the entire pack.

Why can my vaccinated dog still get sick?+

Vaccinations are one of the best tools we have to protect dogs, but no vaccine can prevent every illness in every dog. Dogs in social environments are exposed to more germs, much like children in school. Vaccinated dogs are generally better protected and often experience milder illness, but respiratory bugs and stomach viruses can still happen. Some dogs have stronger immune systems than others. If a dog becomes sick frequently despite appropriate vaccinations, a highly social environment may simply not be the best fit for them. We minimize risk through vaccination requirements, cleaning protocols, health screening, and careful monitoring, but no daycare, boarding facility, dog park, or veterinary office can guarantee a completely germ-free environment.

Why do puppies need to wait after their final vaccines?+

Vaccines do not provide full protection immediately. We require puppies to wait approximately two weeks after their final required puppy vaccines before joining PLAY. This gives their immune system time to build stronger protection before entering a social environment with other dogs.

Do you accept vaccine titers?+

Yes, we accept appropriate positive titer results when applicable. Titers can be a helpful way to show existing immunity for certain vaccines, and many veterinarians recommend them when appropriate instead of automatically revaccinating. Rabies requirements must still follow New Jersey law.

What happens if dogs get into a fight?+

While serious incidents are rare, disagreements can happen in any social environment. Our team immediately separates the dogs, checks for injuries, provides any necessary first aid, and reviews what happened. When appropriate, we may review camera footage to better understand the situation. If a dog intentionally targets or dangerously attacks another member, that dog will not be allowed to return to PLAY or STAY. If an incident appears accidental, situational, or related to overstimulation, we evaluate it carefully before deciding the safest next steps. Every decision is made with the safety of all members in mind.

Stay

What accommodations do you offer for STAY?+

We offer different overnight accommodations depending on each dog's size, comfort, and needs. Larger dogs may stay in spacious enclosures. Small and medium dogs may stay in kennels with orthopedic mattresses. If a dog is used to a traditional crate or kennel setup at home, we can often accommodate that routine when appropriate. Our goal is to place each member where they will feel safest and most comfortable.

Does my dog participate in PLAY during STAY?+

Yes, when approved for group play. One of the biggest benefits of STAY at Pupz Club is that members spend the day doing what they already love — participating in PLAY with familiar friends and familiar people. By evening, they are usually ready to rest after a full day at the club.

How long can my dog STAY?+

We have cared for members staying anywhere from one night to several weeks. The right length of stay depends on the dog. Some dogs settle in quickly and do very well during longer stays. Others may become homesick, frustrated, or less tolerant of the group as the stay continues. We monitor every member closely and will contact you if we feel your dog is not adjusting well or needs a different plan.

What if my dog does not eat during STAY?+

A reduced appetite during the first day or two can happen, especially for first-time overnight guests or dogs who are adjusting to a new routine. We monitor meals carefully and will let you know if your dog is not eating normally. If refusal to eat continues or we become concerned, we will contact you to discuss next steps, which may include trying a different feeding approach, contacting your emergency contact, or seeking veterinary guidance if needed.

What happens if my dog gets sick during STAY?+

If your dog becomes ill while staying with us, we will contact you right away. Depending on the situation, we may ask you or your emergency contact to pick them up. If urgent care is needed and we cannot reach you, we may seek veterinary care according to the authorization provided in your agreement. The health and safety of every member always comes first.

Policies & Peace of Mind

Why do you ask for an emergency contact?+

Your emergency contact is important in case we cannot reach you and your dog needs to be picked up, becomes ill, or requires urgent care. This is especially important for STAY reservations, when you may be traveling or unavailable.

Why do some dogs need to leave early or take a break from the club?+

Sometimes a dog has an off day. They may be tired, overstimulated, not feeling well, or simply not acting like themselves. If we feel a member is uncomfortable, unsafe, or not benefiting from the environment that day, we may ask for pickup or recommend a break from PLAY. This is not a punishment — it is part of making thoughtful decisions based on the individual dog.

What if my dog is shy?+

Shy dogs can sometimes do very well at the club, but it depends on the dog. Some shy members gain confidence slowly with gentle introductions and familiar routines. Others may find a group environment overwhelming. During the temperament test, we look at your dog's comfort level, not just whether they "pass." Our goal is to make sure PLAY feels positive and safe for them.

What if my dog is too energetic?+

High-energy dogs often enjoy PLAY, but energy still needs to be appropriate for a group setting. We look for dogs who can respond to social cues, take direction from the team, and settle when needed. If a dog becomes too overstimulated or cannot adjust their play style, we may recommend breaks, a different schedule, or decide that group PLAY is not the right fit.

Join the Club

Ready to give your dog
the club experience?

Every new member begins with a complimentary temperament assessment so we can match your pup with the right play group.