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About Dogtown · Gloucester, MA
From the Founder & Owner
Northshore Dogtown was built on the belief that quality dog care should be thoughtful, structured, and rooted in respect for the individual dog.
I opened Dogtown because I wanted something different for my own dog, Kiara - a place that felt safe, intentional, and grounded in understanding rather than chaos or one-size-fits-all care.
Every decision we make is guided by how a dog feels in our care. We focus on balance, play paired with rest, social time paired with enrichment, and freedom paired with structure. Some dogs thrive in big, energetic groups, while others feel most confident in smaller circles. Our job is to notice those differences and honor them.
At Dogtown, we’re not here to simply tire dogs out. We’re here to help dogs build confidence, practice healthy social skills, and feel calm and fulfilled when they go home. We use kind, modern handling, take the time to know every dog personally, and treat each one as if they were our own.
Dogtown is more than a business to me - it’s a community built on trust, transparency, and a deep love for dogs. My goal has always been simple: to create a place where dogs feel safe being themselves, and where owners feel completely confident leaving them in our care.
Manuela
Founder & Owner, Northshore Dogtown
Our approach
Professional care for your pet.
At Dogtown in Gloucester, MA, we create the ultimate experience for your dog with tailored playgroups matched by size and temperament. We create a nurturing environment where each pup is part of a small group, ensuring socialization without overwhelm.
Our 10,000 sq. ft. facility offers plenty of space to play, relax and thrive, always under the watchful care of our trained staff who prioritize safety and fun. Our expert grooming services keep your dog or cat looking and feeling their best with baths, trims and more. Trust Dogtown for a joyful, personalized experience, every single day.
The team
People who know every dog by name.
Certified handlers run every playgroup, and the same faces greet your dog at drop-off, on walks and in the Academy. Small groups mean they have time for belly rubs.
The facility
10,000 square feet on Eastern Ave.
Indoor play floors, an outdoor turf yard with pools and platforms, a grooming studio, a cat room, overnight suites, a sensory garden for Academy days and the Pup Van out front.
Business hours
Drop-off & pick-up windows
Evaluations: Monday – Friday between 6:30 and 9:30 AM, by appointment.
Google reviews
What pet parents say
Real reviews from pet parents across the North Shore, straight from Google.
Had a great visit? Leave us a review on Google
In the community
Proud to support Cape Ann.
Dogtown sponsors and stands with the local organizations that look after animals and the people who love them.
Next step
Ready for a tail-wagging day?
Book online in a few taps, send the customer inquiry, or come see the facility for yourself. Every dog starts with a free evaluation. No evaluation needed for grooming.
- 01Free evaluationWeekdays 6:30 – 9:30 AM
- 02Book a dayOnline, in the app or by phone
- 03Play, rest, repeatReport card at pick-up
