SmartPlay

More than a daycare.

Our elevated approach to dog daycare—one that goes beyond just playtime. We believe daycare should provide more than just a place for dogs to burn energy; it should be a space that nurtures good behavior, confidence, and positive social experiences.

With SmartPlay, your dog will enjoy a carefully structured day filled with enriching activities, proper socialization, and supervised play, all designed to reinforce good manners and build confidence. As experienced trainers, we understand how important a well-guided environment is for long-term behavioral success, and we’ve designed SmartPlay to provide just that—a safe, engaging, and supportive experience for every dog.

Join us at SmartPlay, where fun and structure come together to help your dog thrive.

Introducing SmartPlay

  • Monday-Thursday, 7:30 AM - 2:00 PM

  • We require an evaluation of all dogs prior to joining SmartPlay. This evaluation involves your dog staying with us for a full day of SmartPlay (9:00 AM – 2:00 PM). This is an essential process to assess a dog's overall behavior, temperament, and suitability for the safety and structure of our SmartPlay program.

    Please note: We are unable to accept dogs into SmartPlay who exhibit any of the following behaviors:

    • Separation Anxiety

    • Aggression

    • Fearfulness

    • Resource Guarding

    • Not Potty Trained

    • Lack of Boundaries

    For the safety and well-being of younger pups, we are unable to accommodate dogs under 6 months old in our SmartPlay program.

    Important: If during the evaluation we observe behaviors that indicate your dog may need additional support or training before joining SmartPlay, we will contact you right away. You must be readily available to pick up your dog. If you're not available, your dog will be crated or separated until you arrive for pick-up.

    Please note: This is not a training program. For training services, please email us or schedule a training evaluation.

  • Evaluation: $50

    Single Day: $50*

    Drop off Service:     +$15 (currently offering in the Heights - Jersey City only)

    *Packages available for SmartPlay members. Taxes applied at checkout.

    SmartPlay Includes:

    • Safety first! We are certified in Pet CPR and First Aid

    • Supervised by experienced trainers

    • Proper socialization

    • Enrichment activities

    • Playtime + Naps

    • Pack walks

    • Drop-off (additional $15)

    • Photo/video updates throughout the day on our Instagram @riverviewbark

    Essential Details:

    • Reservations are required 24-hours in advance for SmartPlay services and limited for 6 dogs per day. Walk-ins are not permitted as we create a stable group of dogs. This makes for a much more predictable and safer environment.

    • Evaluations require your dog to stay for a full day for our assessment. If your dog displays any behavioral concerns, we will call you for further action.

    • See Terms & Conditions for more details.

  • Safe & Controlled Environment – A structured setting where your dog can thrive.

    Proper Socialization – Guided interactions to build confidence and positive behaviors.

    Enriching Stimulation – Engaging activities that challenge both mind and body.

    Reinforcement of Basic Obedience – Everyday practice of essential skills.

    Manners & Behavior Maintenance – Encouraging polite play and respectful interactions.

    Supervision by Experienced Trainers – Expert guidance to support your dog’s development.

Book evaluation

Disclaimer

When you bring your dog in for their evaluation, we will carefully assess their suitability for our SmartPlay program. We will provide you with updates on our assessment and inform you if we think there is more benefit in joining our other services.

While we work on maintaining proper social behavior within our daycare, please note that this service is not suitable for dogs with any major behavioral concerns - training may be required prior to being admitted to SmartPlay. Please also be aware that not all dogs are suited for a dog daycare/SmartPlay environment and we will provide alternative recommendations.