About K9 University Chicago

K9 University Chicago is a full-service dog care and training facility located at 2945 West Lake Street in Chicago’s East Garfield Park neighborhood. Founded in 1992 and serving Chicago families for more than 30 years, K9U offers dog daycare, overnight boarding, professional training, grooming, and a door-to-door shuttle service from a single location. Every program at K9U is built on positive reinforcement, the science-based approach that builds trust between dogs and their owners without force or fear.

K9 University Chicago serves dog owners across Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, including families in Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Logan Square, the Loop, the West Loop, River North, Bucktown, Lakeview, and dozens of other neighborhoods reached by the K9U shuttle. The facility has served thousands of Chicago families since opening its doors.

K9 University Chicago: Key Facts

Our Story and Mission

Ruby Madrigal founded K9 University Chicago driven by a lifelong love of dogs and a belief that every dog deserves a safe place to play, learn, and grow. What began as a home-based pet sitting service for friends evolved into one of Chicago’s largest and most respected dog care facilities: employing more than 40 people and serving thousands of Chicago families over more than 30 years.

In 2003, K9 University Chicago moved into a dedicated facility on West Lake Street, merging with the dog training program that had operated since 1992 under the K9 University name. The K9U facility was purchased outright in 2016 with continued investment in outdoor play surfaces, expanded boarding and grooming areas, and a new training center opened in 2018.

K9 University Chicago’s mission is straightforward: every dog in Chicago deserves a safe place to play, learn, and grow. That means welcoming every breed, age, and temperament, including reactive dogs, senior dogs, anxious dogs, and dogs that other facilities have turned away.

Services at K9 University Chicago

K9 University Chicago is Chicago’s most comprehensive dog care facility under one roof. Every service listed below is available at the single K9U location. Shuttle pickup and drop-off extends access to families across Chicago who cannot travel to the facility directly.

Dog Daycare

K9 University Chicago’s dog daycare program gives dogs a full day of supervised play, socialization, and structured activity. Dogs are grouped by size, temperament, and energy level, not just breed, to ensure safe, appropriate interactions throughout the day. Handlers actively supervise all play areas and are trained to read body language and de-escalate before problems develop.

Daycare at K9U is structured to tire dogs out in the right way. More than 100 K9U clients have specifically mentioned coming home to a ‘perfectly tired dog’, calm and happy rather than wound up. That outcome is the result of combining physical play with mental stimulation throughout the day.

Daycare is available for:

• Standard dogs in group daycare
• Reactive dogs: K9U offers a specialized daycare program for dogs that struggle in typical group settings. See the Reactive Dogs section below
• Unspayed female dogs: K9U accommodates unspayed females with appropriate supervision and separation procedures
• Senior dogs: modified daycare designed for older dogs with gentler activity and closer supervision
• Daycamp
• Unneutered male and unspayed female dogs are accepted

Daycare can be combined with the K9U shuttle service for pickup and drop-off, or with add-on individual activities and training sessions during the day.

See the Dog Daycare page: k9uchicago.com/dog-daycare/

Dog Boarding

K9 University Chicago provides overnight boarding in a climate-controlled, 24-hour supervised facility. Dogs are not left alone overnight. The boarding program accommodates dogs of all breeds, ages, and temperaments, including dogs with behavioral needs that standard kennels often decline.

Boarding options include:

• Standard overnight boarding
• Board and Train: dogs board at K9U while working with a trainer during their stay. This is one of the most effective formats for behavioral improvement because training is reinforced consistently throughout the day, not just during scheduled sessions
• Puppy Board and Train: a board-and-train program specifically designed for puppies during the critical early socialization window
• Emergency and last-minute boarding: K9U accepts urgent boarding requests with advance notice
• Senior dog boarding: modified accommodations for dogs with mobility, health, or age-related needs
• Deluxe Comfort Boarding: K9U’s premium boarding option for dogs that do best in a quieter, more private environment. Deluxe kennels are fully enclosed to provide calm, room-like separation from the standard boarding area. Well-suited for anxious dogs, sensitive dogs, and families boarding two dogs together

A common question from first-time boarders is whether their dog will feel abandoned. Dogs at K9U are in an active, social environment with consistent staff attention throughout the day. Many clients report their dogs are so comfortable that they pull toward the door to go back in when picked up.

See the Dog Boarding page: k9uchicago.com/dog-boarding/

Dog Training

Dog training is K9 University Chicago’s founding service and the area where its depth of experience runs deepest. K9U training is built on positive reinforcement, rewarding the behaviors owners want to see with treats, praise, or play rather than punishment. This approach builds dogs that behave reliably because they want to, not because they fear consequences, and it forms the foundation of every session, class, and board-and-train program at K9U.

Group classes (ongoing enrollment):

• Stress Free Puppy: new program designed to build confidence in young puppies using low-stress, reward-based methods
• Puppy Confidence Building Workshop
• Puppy Play: weekly play sessions for puppies up to 6 months for early socialization. Registration required. First 3 sessions are free.
• Puppy Training: structured early training for basic manners and socialization
• Basic Obedience: sit, down, stay, come, and leash manners for dogs of any age
• Intermediate Obedience: builds on basics with off-leash reliability, distance commands, and real-world distraction training
• Dog Off Leash Obedience: advanced off-leash control for reliable dogs ready for the next level.
• Loose Leash Walking Class: focused program for dogs that pull, lunge, or struggle on leash.
• Dog Group Social Rehab: structured reintroduction to group settings for dogs that have had negative social experiences
• Canine Good Citizen (CGC) Training: prepares dogs for the AKC Canine Good Citizen certification, a standard of good manners recognized nationwide
• Introduction to K9 Nose Work: scent detection sport that challenges a dog’s mind, ideal for high-drive, anxious, or reactive dogs who need a job
• Dog Agility Training: beginner through competition-level indoor agility using K9U’s dedicated agility course. Teaches jumps, tunnels, weave poles, contact obstacles, and sequencing. Builds focus, physical fitness, and handler communication

Custom training programs (one-on-one and intensive):

• Private Lessons: individualized sessions with a K9U trainer, available for dogs at any level Address specific behaviors, obedience foundations, or handler communication. In-facility and in-home options available
• Day Training (Day Camp Academy): your dog trains with a K9U trainer during a full daycare day. No scheduling required from the owner beyond drop-off. Ideal for working professionals
• Board and Train: dogs live at K9U while training intensively. Best for faster behavioral results and for dogs needing immersive socialization
• Puppy Board and Train: intensive early training for puppies 8 weeks and older

Spanish-language training is available. Trainer Pablo Maldonado offers private lessons and all group obedience classes in Spanish, and can provide training commands in Spanish for clients who prefer to communicate with their dog in Spanish at home.

See the Dog Training page: k9uchicago.com/k9-training/

Agility and Specialty Training

K9U offers indoor agility training and specialty programs that go beyond basic obedience. These programs serve dogs and owners who want to build a deeper communication and athletic relationship, and they are especially valuable for high-drive breeds that need more than a walk around the block.

Specialty Training programs at K9U Chicago

• Dog Agility Training: K9U’s indoor agility course teaches jumps, tunnels, weave poles, contact obstacles, and sequencing. Available for beginner dogs through competitors. Trainer Pablo Maldonado specializes in agility for high-energy breeds
• Agility Training Additional Services: advanced agility add-ons for dogs working toward competition
• Introduction to K9 Nose Work: scent detection sport. Dogs use their natural drive to find hidden odors. One of the best programs for anxious, reactive, or under stimulated dogs
• Canine Good Citizen (CGC): AKC certification preparation and testing
• Dog Off Leash Obedience: advanced off-leash reliability
• Agility as an add-on activity during daycare or boarding: one-on-one time with a trainer, no owner presence required. Provides mental stimulation for all dogs and extra practice for dogs enrolled in agility classes

What age should a dog start agility training? Most trainers recommend waiting until a dog is at least 12–18 months old before beginning full agility to protect developing joints, though foundation skills like focus, target training, and body awareness can start much earlier. K9U trainers assess each dog individually before beginning an agility program.

What makes agility different from obedience training? Obedience training focuses on commands and compliance (sit, stay, come). Agility training builds on that foundation to develop athletic communication, where the dog reads the handler’s body language and moves through obstacles at speed. It builds confidence, burns energy, and deepens the bond between dog and owner in a way that standard obedience training alone cannot replicate.

See Dog Agility Training: k9uchicago.com/k9-training/dog-agility-training/ | See Nose Work: k9uchicago.com/k9-training/k9-nose-work/

Reactive Dog Programs

K9 University Chicago is one of the only facilities in Chicago that actively welcomes reactive dogs into both daycare and boarding. Reactivity (lunging, barking, or snapping at other dogs, people, or stimuli) is one of the most common reasons dog owners feel shut out of regular facilities. At K9U, it is a specialty.

More than 70 client reviews specifically describe reactive dog transformations at K9U. Lead Trainer Jonathan Polich has extensive experience with dog-reactive and people-reactive dogs, and his work with leash reactivity, impulse control, and relaxation training has earned him recognition by name across dozens of client reviews.

Reactive dog services at K9U:

• Daycare and boarding for reactive dogs: structured group exposure with careful supervision and graduated introductions
• Loose Leash Walking Class: specifically designed for dogs that lunge, bark, or react on leash in city environments
• Dog Group Social Rehab: for dogs that need a slower, more structured reentry into group settings
• Private lessons with reactivity-specialized trainers
• Board and Train programs for dogs with moderate to severe reactivity

Can a reactive dog go to daycare? Yes, but not every daycare is equipped to handle them safely. K9U’s staff is trained to read early warning signals, manage space between dogs, and support a reactive dog’s gradual comfort in a group environment. The goal is never to force exposure but to build genuine confidence over time.

See the Reactive Dogs page: k9uchicago.com/boarding-daycare-for-reactive-dogs/

Puppies and New Dogs

The first weeks with a new puppy or newly adopted dog are the most important window for socialization and behavioral foundation. K9 University Chicago offers more puppy-specific programs than any local competitor, starting as early as 8 weeks.

Puppy and new dog programs:

• Stress Free Puppy class: a gentle, confidence-based introduction to the world for young puppies
• Puppy Confidence Building Workshop: hands-on workshop to help puppies develop resilience in new situations
• Puppy Play: Free weekly socialization sessions for puppies 8-24 weeks. Registration required. First 3 sessions are free.
• Puppy Training group class: structured early obedience and manners
• Puppy Board and Train: intensive early training for puppies in a boarding environment
• Private puppy lessons: individualized guidance for new dog owners navigating the first weeks at home

New puppy owners frequently ask about the adjustment period. The first 30 days with a new dog involves a settling-in process that affects sleep, appetite, and behavior. K9U trainers can walk new owners through what to expect, how to establish routine, and when to seek additional support. The first 3 Puppy Play sessions are free. Registration required.

Owners of newly adopted dogs often face different challenges than new puppy owners. A dog that has changed homes may take weeks to show their true personality, and some arrive with unknown history or behavioral sensitivities. K9U’s trainers work with these owners and their dogs to build a stable foundation regardless of background.

See Puppy Training: k9uchicago.com/k9-training/puppy-training/ | See Puppy Play: k9uchicago.com/k9-training/free-puppy-play/

Senior Dog Care

Older dogs have different needs than younger ones: and those needs are often underserved by standard daycare and boarding facilities. K9 University Chicago offers dedicated senior dog daycare and boarding with modified activity levels, closer staff monitoring, and accommodations for dogs with mobility challenges, joint sensitivity, or health conditions.

Senior dog services at K9U:

• Senior dog daycare: calmer environment with gentler play, appropriate pacing, and attentive handlers
• Senior dog boarding: extended supervised stays with monitoring for dogs that need extra attention
• Individual activities add-on: one-on-one time with a handler during a stay, ideal for senior dogs that tire quickly in group settings

Is dog daycare good for senior dogs? For many older dogs, the socialization and mental stimulation of daycare is genuinely beneficial, preventing boredom and cognitive decline that can accelerate with isolation. The key is an environment that paces activity appropriately and watches for fatigue, overheating, and mobility struggles. K9U’s senior dog program is built around those specific concerns.

See Senior Dog Daycare and Boarding: k9uchicago.com/senior-dog-daycare-boarding-chicago/

Dog Grooming

K9 University Chicago offers professional dog grooming for all breeds and coat types at the same facility as daycare, boarding, and training. This makes grooming easy to combine with a daycare visit without an extra trip.

Grooming services include:

• Full grooming (bath, dry, haircut, nail trim, ear cleaning)
• Bath and brush
• Nail trimming
• Breed-specific styling

K9U groomers are experienced working with anxious, reactive and sensitive dogs. The co-location with daycare means groomers understand dog behavior and can use patience and positive handling techniques for dogs that struggle in grooming environments.

Grooming can be booked as a standalone appointment, combined with a daycare day, or added to a shuttle pickup and drop-off.

See Dog Grooming: k9uchicago.com/dog-grooming/

Dog Shuttle Service: Pickup and Drop-Off

K9 University Chicago operates a door-to-door dog shuttle service for daycare and boarding clients across Chicago. This is one of K9U’s most distinctive offerings and is consistently mentioned by clients as a major reason they chose K9U over other facilities.

The shuttle runs Monday through Friday, with morning pickup and afternoon drop-off routes. Reservations are required 24 hours in advance. Dogs must eliminate before pickup. The shuttle is operated by K9U’s own drivers, who build relationships with the dogs on their routes and are frequently praised by name in client reviews.

K9U Dog Shuttle Chicago Coverage Areas

Neighborhoods outside this list may also be available. Contact K9U directly to confirm coverage.

Is a dog shuttle service safe? K9U’s shuttle has operated for years with a dedicated team of drivers who know the dogs on their routes by name. Dogs are transported to and from the same facility they attend regularly, with drivers who understand each dog’s temperament and routine. Many clients report their dogs are more excited to see the shuttle van than to see almost anything else.

See Dog Shuttle: k9uchicago.com/dog-pickup-drop-off/

What K9 University Chicago Does Not Offer

K9 University Chicago focuses exclusively on dog care and training. K9U does not offer the following services:

• Dog walking services: K9U does not provide individual dog walking. The shuttle service transports dogs to and from the K9U facility for daycare or boarding, which is different from a dog walking service.
• Self-service dog washing: K9U does not have self-service bathing stations. Grooming is performed by professional K9U groomers.
• Swimming or hydrotherapy: K9U does not offer a pool or hydrotherapy services.
• Service dog training is not offered.
• K9 University is not a shelter. Dogs cannot be surrendered at the facility.
• Rental space for unsupervised play time is not available.
• Clients cannot remain in the group play area while their dog is in daycare.
• Isolated boarding for sick or contagious dogs is not available.

Who K9 University Chicago Serves

K9U serves dog owners across Chicago and surrounding neighborhoods. Every breed, every age, and every temperament is welcome. Below is a guide to the types of dogs and owners K9U works with most often.

New Puppy Owners

If you just brought home a puppy, the first 16 weeks are the most critical window for socialization. K9U’s Puppy Play sessions are free and open every week for puppies 8–16 weeks old. Structured puppy classes, the Stress Free Puppy program, and private lessons help new owners build the right foundation from day one. Puppies that start at K9U early often become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs.

Owners of Newly Adopted Dogs

A newly adopted dog may take weeks to settle into a new home and show their true personality. K9U’s trainers are experienced working with dogs that have had difficult starts or unknown histories. The approach is patient and individualized: never rushed.

Working Professionals

If your dog spends the day alone while you work, K9U daycare solves that problem. The K9U shuttle picks your dog up in the morning and delivers them home in the afternoon. No schedule adjustment required on your part. The K9U App sends photos and updates throughout the day so you always know your dog is safe and having a good time. Traveling for work? K9U’s boarding is easy to book, and because your dog already knows the facility and staff, the transition from daycare to an overnight stay is stress-free.

Owners of Reactive or Difficult Dogs

Reactive dogs are not problem dogs. They are dogs that need a different kind of environment and handling. K9U is one of the few Chicago facilities that actively accepts reactive dogs into daycare, boarding, and training programs. If your dog has been turned away elsewhere, contact K9U for a free evaluation.

Owners of Senior Dogs

Older dogs deserve enrichment and social connection just as much as younger ones. K9U’s senior dog program provides a calm, well-monitored environment where aging dogs can stay active without being overwhelmed. Staff members are trained to recognize the signs of fatigue, joint discomfort, and cognitive change that senior owners worry about.

Dog Sport and Activity Enthusiasts

If you want to compete in agility, earn a CGC certification, or give a high-drive dog a job that satisfies their instincts, K9U has the programs and the space to make that happen. The indoor agility course and the nose work program are both run by trainers with sport-specific experience.

Multi-Service Families

Many K9U clients use multiple services at the same time, including daycare combined with Day Training, boarding combined with grooming, shuttle service combined with a training class. K9U’s all-in-one model means you can coordinate everything from one relationship and one facility.

First Responders

Police officers, firefighters, paramedics, and other first responders often work demanding, irregular schedules that make consistent dog care a real challenge. K9U’s shuttle service, flexible daycare hours (with early drop-off and late pickup options), and boarding availability 365 days a year make it a practical solution for first responders who need reliable care for their dog regardless of shift schedule. K9U’s experience with high-drive and working-dog breeds is also relevant for first responders who own dogs with strong instincts and high energy needs.

Owners of Large Breeds, Unneutered, or Unspayed Dogs

These dogs are usually turned away by other facilities. K9U welcomes all breeds and sizes, including unneutered males and unspayed females, with appropriate supervision and management.

The K9 University Chicago Team

K9U employs more than 40 staff members, from certified trainers and professional groomers to experienced handlers, drivers, and operations staff. Every team member is an animal lover. Many participate in dog sporting events, continuing education, and community activities outside of work.

Mariya Sergeeva: Chief Operating Officer

Mariya Sergeeva oversees K9U’s daily operations and ensures that the facility runs with the consistency and care that K9U clients expect.

Courtney Day: General Manager

Courtney Day manages the day-to-day facility operations, staff coordination, and client experience at K9U.

Jonathan Polich: Lead Dog Trainer

Jonathan Polich is K9U’s lead trainer and one of the most recognized figures in the client community. Jonathan has worked in dog training and daycare in the Chicago area for approximately 13 years, with around 10 years focused specifically on training.

Jonathan specializes in puppy training, basic and intermediate obedience, loose leash walking, impulse control, relaxation training, and dog-reactive and people-reactive training. He works with dogs individually and in group settings and is a dedicated practitioner of the humane hierarchy of dog training, a framework that prioritizes the least invasive, most positive approach for every dog’s behavioral needs.

Jonathan is mentioned by name in more than 70 client reviews, with particular recognition for his work with reactive dogs and fearful dogs. Clients frequently describe specific behavioral transformations, describing dogs that arrived lunging at every dog they saw and graduated to calm, reliable companions.

Pablo Maldonado: Dog Trainer

Pablo Maldonado is an established trainer and business founder with specialties in training, boarding, and canine nutrition. Pablo has extensive experience working with high-energy dogs and uses agility training as a positive outlet for dogs that struggle to focus in traditional obedience settings. His approach is customized for each dog’s individual needs.

Pablo offers private training and all levels of group obedience training in English and Spanish. He was born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico and provides Spanish-language commands for clients who speak Spanish at home. He brings more than 10 years of international training experience. Pablo is also active in board-and-train programs.

Joshua D. Johnson: Dog Trainer

Joshua D. Johnson brings more than nine years of professional dog training experience to K9U, with specializations in obedience, behavior modification, and high-drive working dogs. He holds the Animal Behavior College Dog Training Certification. He has worked with family companions, service dogs, and sport competitors across a wide range of training challenges.

Joshua’s training approach blends precision and clarity with results-driven methods focused on lasting behavioral change.

Professional Grooming Team

K9U’s grooming team handles all breeds and coat types at the facility. Grooming appointments can be booked as a standalone service, combined with a daycare visit, or scheduled with shuttle transportation to and from the client’s home.

The K9U Transport Team

K9U’s shuttle drivers are a critical part of the client experience. Many regular clients know their drivers by name and describe pickup as a highlight of their dog’s day. K9U’s transport team is responsible for the safe, punctual, and friendly pickup and drop-off of dogs across dozens of Chicago neighborhoods every weekday. Drivers are K9U employees who know their regular clients and their dogs by name.

See the full team: k9uchicago.com/about-k9-university-chicago/k9-university-chicago-team/

Training Philosophy and Methodology

K9U training is built on positive reinforcement, rewarding the behaviors owners want to see with treats, praise, or play rather than punishment. This approach builds dogs that behave reliably because they want to, not because they fear consequences, and it forms the foundation of every session, class, and board-and-train program at K9U.

What Positive Reinforcement Means in Practice

Positive reinforcement training works by rewarding the behaviors you want to see, using treats, praise, play, or anything the dog finds motivating: rather than correcting or punishing the behaviors you do not want. When a dog is rewarded for sitting, that dog learns that sitting is a good idea and will sit more readily in the future. When unwanted behaviors are ignored or redirected rather than punished, those behaviors tend to fade over time as the dog discovers that they do not produce good outcomes.

This approach has strong scientific support and produces dogs that behave reliably because they want to, not because they fear consequences. It also builds trust between dogs and their handlers: a quality K9U trainers identify as foundational to any lasting behavioral change.

The Humane Hierarchy

K9U’s lead trainer Jonathan Polich is a practitioner of the humane hierarchy of dog training: a framework used by professional trainers that outlines a sequence of interventions from least invasive to most. The hierarchy guides trainers to exhaust positive, low-stress options before ever considering aversive methods. At K9U, the hierarchy means that a dog presenting a behavior problem will first have its environment and health considered, then be supported with antecedent modifications and positive reinforcement, before any change in approach is considered. Aversive methods are not used.

How Each Dog Is Assessed

Every new dog at K9U goes through a free evaluation before beginning daycare or boarding. This evaluation allows K9U staff to assess the dog’s temperament, social comfort level, and any behavioral needs before placing the dog in a group. The evaluation is the first step in understanding what type of environment and program will set the dog up for success.

Communication With Owners

K9U’s training programs are built on the understanding that the dog’s progress at the facility is only part of the picture. The other part is the owner. K9U trainers communicate clearly about what the dog is doing, what is working, and what owners can do at home to reinforce progress. K9U sends frequent photo and video updates throughout the day via text, email, and the K9U App.

Safety in Group Settings

When dogs play together in a group, clear signals and active management are essential. K9U handlers monitor play areas continuously, read early body language signals, and intervene before tension escalates. Dogs are grouped by size, energy level, and temperament: not just by breed: and those groupings are reassessed as dogs’ comfort levels change over time.

The K9U Facility

K9 University Chicago is located at 2945 West Lake Street in Chicago’s East Garfield Park neighborhood. The facility includes 14,000 square feet of indoor space and approximately 20,000 square feet of outdoor play areas.

Indoor Spaces

The indoor facility is climate-controlled year-round, maintaining comfortable temperatures for dogs in both summer heat and Chicago winters. Indoor areas include group play spaces, boarding areas, training rooms, and the dedicated west training center opened in 2018 for classes and private sessions. K9U also has a dedicated indoor agility course for agility classes and individual training.

Outdoor Play Areas

The outdoor play areas feature K9 Grass surfacing installed in 2017, which provides a clean, comfortable, and sanitary surface for outdoor play. New playground equipment is available for dogs to explore, climb, and interact with under handler supervision. The outdoor spaces are used throughout the day for group play, individual activity, and bathroom breaks.

On-Site Dog Park

K9U has an on-site enclosed dog park available exclusively to clients. This is a private, supervised space, not a public park. Dogs using K9U’s on-site park are part of the K9U client community and have passed K9U’s evaluation process. The park is open for supervised Open Play on Saturdays from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, and for Puppy Play on Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM.

Health and Sanitation

The K9U facility is cleaned daily by a dedicated overnight cleaning crew. Sanitation practices include regular surface cleaning of all play areas, boarding spaces, and high-contact surfaces. Vaccination records are required for all dogs using the facility.

Vaccination Requirements

All dogs must be current on the following vaccinations: Leptospirosis, Rabies, Distemper/Parvo (DHPP), Bordetella, and a negative fecal test within the past year.

Supervision and Staffing

K9U maintains a ratio of 1 staff member per 15 dogs during daycare and group play. The facility is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Boarding dogs are never left alone overnight.

Location and Access

K9 University Chicago is located at 2945 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60612: in the East Garfield Park neighborhood on the city’s west side. The facility is accessible by car with nearby free street parking, and is served by the K9U shuttle from dozens of Chicago neighborhoods. The facility is not a drop-in location: all visits are scheduled through the online booking portal or by phone, K9U accepts last-minute reservations.

Technology and the K9U App

K9 University Chicago uses the Gingr platform for client management and online booking, and has a dedicated K9 University App available for both iOS and Android.

The K9 University App

The K9 University App lets owners manage reservations, view their dog’s profile, and receive updates from the facility. Dog owners who travel for work or spend long days in meetings consistently cite the daily photo and video updates as one of the most valuable parts of using K9U. Knowing what your dog is doing: and that they are happy and safe: changes the experience of leaving your dog for the day.

Download the K9U App: App Store and Google Play. See k9uchicago.com/k9u-app/

Regular Report Cards

K9U provides daily photo and video updates for dogs in daycare and boarding. More than 40 client reviews mention these updates as a standout feature: one that they did not find consistently at other facilities. The updates create a record of your dog’s day, and clients frequently share them with family members who want to check in on their pet.

Online Booking

Reservations for daycare, boarding, and training can be made online through the Gingr client portal at k9uchicago.portal.gingrapp.com. New clients register through the portal and can book a free daycare  as their first step. K9U evaluates all new dogs during their first daycare visit.

Emergency Contact and Communication

During a dog’s stay, any incident or health concern is communicated to the owner directly. K9U is reachable by phone, by text at the same number, or by email at K9u@k9uchicago.com.

How K9U Works: From First Contact to Regular Client

If you have never used K9 University Chicago before, here is what the process looks like from the beginning.

Step 1: Register Online

New clients register through the K9U client portal at k9uchicago.portal.gingrapp.com or in K9 University App. Registration takes a few minutes and requires your dog’s basic information and vaccination records.

Step 2: Free Evaluation

All new dogs receive a free evaluation during their first daycare or boarding stay. The evaluation allows K9U staff to meet your dog, assess their temperament and social comfort level, and determine the best group placement and program fit. This step protects every dog in the facility, including yours. K9U recommends scheduling a free daycare visit before a boarding stay to confirm the facility is a good fit for your dog.

Step 3: During the Day

Dogs spend the day in supervised group play, with activity levels and groupings appropriate to their temperament and energy. Photo and video updates will be sent via text or email for all daycare and day camp clients. All report cards can also be found on the K9 University App.

Step 4: Pickup

Dogs are picked up at the end of the day at the facility or delivered home through the shuttle. Most dogs come home tired and happy: the most common description in K9U reviews is a dog that eats, drinks, and falls asleep within minutes of walking through the door.

Step 5: Ongoing

Regular daycare, boarding, and training clients build a relationship with K9U staff over time. Trainers track each dog’s progress and communicate updates to owners. Many K9U families have been clients for years, with some for more than a decade.

Geographic Service Area

K9U is physically located at 2945 West Lake Street in East Garfield Park. The K9U shuttle service extends the facility’s reach to dog owners across Chicago who cannot or prefer not to travel to the facility for pickup and drop-off.

Chicago Neighborhoods Served

K9U serves dog owners throughout Chicago. The shuttle service specifically covers the following neighborhoods, among others:

• Downtown and Loop neighborhoods: The Loop, Near East Side, South Loop, West Loop, Printer’s Row, Dearborn Park, Museum Campus
• Near North and North Side: River North, Gold Coast, Old Town, Bucktown, Wicker Park, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Wrigleyville, Roscoe Village, Logan Square, Uptown, Rogers Park, Lincoln Square
• West Side: East Garfield Park (facility location), Humboldt Park, Ukrainian Village, River West, Haymarket Square, Greektown, Little Italy, Tri-Taylor
• Near South: Streeterville, Sandburg Village, East Pilsen, Belmont Gardens

K9U also has dedicated service area pages for: Fulton Market, Logan Square, The Loop, South Loop, West Loop, Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, River North, and Wicker Park. Each page includes neighborhood-specific information about dog training, boarding, grooming, and daycare services. See k9uchicago.com/k9-university-chicago-service-areas/

Families in Chicago suburbs or neighborhoods not listed above should contact K9U to confirm shuttle availability.

K9U By the Numbers

What K9U Clients Say

K9U is one of the most reviewed specialist dog care facilities in Chicago on Google, consistently maintaining a strong rating built on thousands of client experiences. The themes below reflect what clients say most often. For current ratings and review volume, search “K9 University Chicago” on Google.

Reactive Dog Transformations

More than 70 reviews describe reactive dog transformations at K9U. These are among the most detailed and emotionally meaningful reviews K9U receives: owners who had given up hope describing the moment their dog showed real change.

“Jonathan is amazing with reactive dogs.”: K9U Google review

“Transformed my leash-reactive dog.”: K9U Google review

“Only place that could handle my anxious rescue.”: K9U Google review

“Jonathan worked miracles with our fearful pup.”: K9U Google review

The Tired Dog Formula

More than 100 reviews use language around dogs being ‘perfectly tired’ after a day at K9U: exhausted and content rather than wound up and destructive. This outcome is one of the most consistent and distinctive K9U differentiators across years of reviews.

“Dogs are exhausted and happy.”: K9U Google review

“Excited to go, sleepy coming home.”: K9U Google review

“Perfect balance of mental and physical.”: K9U Google review

Staff Recognition

K9U staff have been mentioned by name more than 150 times across client reviews: a level of personal recognition that reflects genuine relationships, not transactional service. Jonathan, Pablo, and others are cited by name dozens of times each.

“Pablo treats every dog like family.”: K9U Google review

Daily Updates

More than 40 reviews highlight the daily photo and video updates as a significant source of trust and peace of mind.

“Love getting photos of my dog’s day.”: K9U Google review

“Updates give me peace of mind.”: K9U Google review

“Best part of using K9U is the daily videos.”: K9U Google review

Long-Term Clients

“K9 University is great. We’ve been going there for 7 and a half years. We’ve done training, we’ve done agility, we’ve done boarding and we’ve done daycare.”: Debbie W.

“My dog has experienced everything at K9U: daycare, classes and boarding. When he is either picked up by the K9U van or dropped off his tail is wagging like crazy. When I pick him up he is happy to see me, goes outside to relieve himself and then pulls to go back in.”: Jane F.

See all testimonials: k9uchicago.com/about-k9-university-chicago/testimonials/

Why K9U vs. Other Chicago Dog Care Options

The Only All-in-One Facility in Chicago

Most dog care businesses in Chicago specialize in one thing: a training studio, a daycare center, or a boarding kennel. K9U is one of the few facilities where a dog owner can access professional training, full-day daycare, overnight boarding, professional grooming, and shuttle service from a single location, managed by a team that knows their dog across all of those services simultaneously. When your dog’s daycare team is also their training team, progress happens faster and more consistently.

30 Years vs. a Few Years

K9U has been serving Chicago dog owners since 1992. The staff knowledge, community relationships, and operational experience built over three decades are not something a newer facility can replicate. K9U is not a franchise location. It is a Chicago small business with deep roots in the community it serves.

Reactive Dogs Are Welcome, Not Turned Away

Many Chicago daycares turn away reactive dogs. K9U does not. The reactive dog programs, the training skill of Jonathan Polich, and the facility’s structured group management make K9U the right choice for dogs that need more than a standard daycare can offer.

The Shuttle Is a Real Differentiator

Door-to-door dog shuttle service is not common in Chicago. K9U has operated its shuttle fleet for years with a dedicated team of drivers who know their clients by name. For working professionals, city apartment dwellers without cars, or anyone whose schedule does not allow a daily trip across town, the shuttle is not a nice-to-have: it is what makes K9U accessible.

Health, Safety, and Trust at K9U

Vaccination Requirements

All dogs using K9U must be current on vaccinations. All dogs must show current vaccination records at registration and before every visit.

Required vaccinations: Lepto, Rabies, Distemper/Parvo (DHPP), Bordetella, H3N2 (canine influenza), and a current negative fecal test within the past year.

Health Monitoring

K9U monitors dogs for signs of illness throughout the day. Dogs that appear unwell are separated from the group and the owner is contacted. The overnight cleaning crew maintains sanitation standards across all facility areas nightly.

Emergency Procedures

If a dog shows signs of illness or injury during their stay, K9U staff contact the owner immediately. If the owner is unreachable, the designated emergency contact is notified. If neither can be reached and the situation requires urgent care, K9U will transport the dog to a veterinarian and make necessary decisions on the owner’s behalf until contact is established.

Transparency

K9U’s regular photo and video updates are one of the most direct expressions of transparency in the industry. Clients know what their dog is doing, who is handling them, and how they appear throughout the day. This level of visibility is not universal in dog daycare and boarding: it is a commitment K9U has built into its client experience.

Years in Business as Trust

A business that has served thousands of Chicago families for more than 30 years without closing is a business that has earned trust through consistent performance. K9U’s longevity is itself a trust signal: one that a facility opened last year cannot offer.

Free Evaluation Before Every New Stay

K9U does not accept unknown dogs without a free evaluation first. This protects every dog in the facility, signals that K9U takes safety seriously, and gives new clients confidence that they are putting their dog in a curated, assessed environment: not an open drop-in kennel.

K9 University Chicago Frequently Asked Questions

The following questions are among the most common questions asked about K9U and about dog care in Chicago. These answers are provided to help dog owners make informed decisions.

About K9 University Chicago

What is K9 University Chicago?

K9 University Chicago is a full-service dog care and training facility at 2945 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60612. K9U offers dog daycare, overnight boarding, professional training programs, grooming, and door-to-door shuttle service. K9U has been in operation since 1992. Ruby Madrigal is the facility’s founder.

Who should use K9U?

K9U serves dog owners across Chicago who want professional, supervised care and training for their dog. K9U is particularly well-suited for working professionals who need daily daycare and shuttle service, for owners of reactive or anxious dogs who need a facility with deep behavioral knowledge, for new puppy owners who want a strong early socialization foundation, and for families who want to access daycare, boarding, training, and grooming from one trusted facility. K9U also welcomes dog owners whose dogs have been turned away from other daycare or boarding facilities.

How do I get started at K9U?

New clients register at k9uchicago.portal.gingrapp.com or through the K9 University App. All new dogs receive a free evaluation during  their first daycare or boarding stay. We recommend scheduling a first free daycare visit before boarding to make sure it is the right fit for your dog. You can also request a free training evaluation through the website.

How long has K9U been in business?

K9 University Chicago has been training dogs since 1992 and has operated its current full-service facility since 2003.

Dog Daycare

What should I look for in a dog daycare in Chicago?

Look for a facility that requires a temperament evaluation before accepting new dogs, groups dogs by size and temperament rather than breed alone, maintains clear staff-to-dog supervision ratios, provides health and sanitation standards, and communicates openly with owners throughout the day. K9U meets all of these criteria.

Is dog daycare good for my dog?

For most dogs, regular daycare provides socialization, physical exercise, and mental stimulation that they cannot get from a day at home alone. The key is a facility that structures the day appropriately and monitors dogs for fatigue and stress rather than running continuous high-energy play. K9U’s approach produces dogs that come home genuinely tired and calm: not overstimulated.

What are the disadvantages of dog daycare?

Some dogs do not thrive in group settings: particularly very shy, anxious, or reactive dogs in facilities not equipped to manage them. Dogs in group daycare also have exposure to other dogs, which carries some health risk if vaccination and sanitation standards are not strictly enforced. At K9U, these risks are managed through the evaluation process, vaccination requirements, active supervision, and daily sanitation. For dogs that struggle with group settings, K9U’s individual activity options and reactive dog programs provide alternatives.

Can reactive dogs go to daycare?

Yes: at the right facility. Reactive dogs need a daycare environment where staff are trained to read early warning signals, manage proximity between dogs carefully, and support gradual exposure rather than overwhelming the dog. K9U has a dedicated reactive dog daycare program. Contact K9U for a free evaluation to determine whether group daycare is the right fit for your dog and, if so, how to structure it.

Dog Boarding

Do dogs feel abandoned when boarded?

This is one of the most emotionally charged questions dog owners ask, and the honest answer is: it depends on the facility and the dog. Dogs in an active, well-staffed boarding environment with familiar handlers, daily exercise, and social engagement generally adapt well. Dogs that are left alone in a kennel without human interaction do struggle. At K9U, boarding dogs are in the same active environment as daycare dogs during the day: with handlers they recognize, social time, and regular activity. Many K9U boarding clients describe picking up a dog that is clearly happy to be retrieved, but just as clearly had a good time.

What is board and train?

Board and train is a program where your dog lives at the training facility while working with a trainer during their stay. It is one of the most efficient formats for behavioral change because training is reinforced consistently throughout every day: not just in a one-hour weekly session. K9U’s board and train programs are available for puppies and adult dogs, and are particularly effective for dogs with significant behavioral goals or for owners with limited time for training at home.

What should I bring when boarding my dog?

Bring your dog’s own food: K9U feeds boarding dogs according to their regular schedule using what you provide. Also bring a name tag and collar for identification. Let K9U staff know about any special dietary needs, medications, or behavioral notes at check-in. K9U provides bedding and enrichment. Medication administration is available during the stay on request. Optional bedtime treats (Frozen Peanut Butter Kong, Milk-Bone Cookie, or Peanut Butter Lick Mat) can be added as a paid extra. To ensure speedy and accurate check in, especially during busy holidays time, clients should complete the pre-check form to confirm all feeding and medication instructions are correct and all belongings are logged in the system.

Puppies and New Dogs

When should a puppy start socialization classes?

The critical socialization window for puppies is roughly 3 to 16 weeks of age. During this period, positive exposure to new people, animals, environments, and sounds shapes a dog’s behavioral foundation more than at any other time in their life. The first 3 Puppy Play sessions are free for puppies up to 6 months old. Starting socialization within the first few weeks after a puppy comes home gives the greatest long-term benefit.

What vaccinations does my puppy need before daycare?

K9U requires puppies to have age-appropriate vaccinations before attending daycare or socialization classes. Specific vaccine needs depend on the puppy’s age and where they are in their schedule.

For Puppy Play, only the first round of booster vaccines and a current fecal test are required. The full vaccination series does not need to be complete.

What should I do in the first 30 days with a new dog?

The first month with a new dog is primarily about establishing routine, building trust, and setting behavioral expectations before patterns become habits. Key priorities are consistent feeding and sleep schedules, controlled socialization with people and other dogs, basic house manners and leash introduction, and identifying any behavioral sensitivities early. K9U trainers offer private lessons for new dog owners navigating the first weeks: contact K9U to schedule a consultation.

Reactive Dogs

What should I not do with a reactive dog?

Avoid forcing a reactive dog into close contact with triggers before they are ready. Punishing reactive behavior: yelling, leash corrections, or collar corrections: tends to increase arousal and anxiety rather than reduce it, often making reactivity worse over time. Flooding: placing the dog in continuous proximity to triggers without allowing them to escape: is also harmful. The most effective approach is gradual, controlled exposure with positive reinforcement, at a distance the dog can handle without reacting. K9U’s reactive dog programs and private lessons with Jonathan Polich use exactly this approach.

Can a reactive dog be trained?

Yes. Reactivity is a behavior pattern driven by anxiety, arousal, or past negative experience: not a permanent personality trait. With patient, consistent positive reinforcement training, most reactive dogs make significant improvement. The timeline depends on the severity of the reactivity, the consistency of the training, and how long the pattern has been reinforced. K9U has documented more than 70 reactive dog transformations in client reviews alone.

Senior Dogs

Is dog daycare good for senior dogs?

For many senior dogs, the social engagement and mild physical activity of daycare prevents the cognitive and physical decline that comes with isolation and boredom. The key is a facility that manages activity level appropriately for an aging dog: with access to rest, gentler play groupings, and staff who recognize fatigue and discomfort. K9U’s senior dog daycare program is specifically designed for this. It is not the same high-intensity environment as standard daycare.

What should a senior dog care facility offer?

A quality senior dog facility should provide temperature control, non-slip surfaces, rest areas away from high-energy dogs, staff trained to recognize aging-related behavioral changes, and clear communication with owners about anything unusual observed during a stay. K9U’s senior dog program addresses all of these.

Dog Shuttle

Is a dog shuttle service safe?

K9U’s shuttle is operated by K9U’s own staff: not a third-party service. Drivers know the dogs on their route, many by name, and have often built relationships over years of regular pickups. Dogs are transported to a facility they know, with staff they recognize. The shuttle is a familiar, positive part of many dogs’ weekly routine.

How does the K9U shuttle work?

The shuttle operates Monday through Friday. Pickup routes run in the morning between 6:00 AM and 8:30 AM. Drop-off routes run in the afternoon between 1:30 PM and 4:00 PM. Reservations require 24 hours notice. Your dog should eliminate before pickup. Specific pickup and drop-off times within those windows are coordinated by the K9U transport team when you schedule. Contact K9U by phone or through the client portal to set up shuttle service.

What areas does the K9U shuttle cover?

Uptown, Rogers Park, and many others. See the full coverage list and map at k9uchicago.com/dog-pickup-drop-off/ Neighborhoods outside the standard coverage area may also be available: contact K9U to confirm.

Dog Training

What age should a dog start training?

Training can begin from the moment a puppy comes home: as early as 8 weeks old. Early training focuses on socialization, basic manners, and building a positive relationship with learning. Adult and senior dogs also benefit from training. There is no age at which training stops being effective, though older dogs may take longer to form new habits.

What is the difference between private lessons and group classes?

Private lessons give you and your dog one-on-one time with a trainer, focused entirely on your specific goals and your dog’s individual needs. They are the best option for dogs with specific behavioral issues, for owners who want personalized guidance, or for dogs that are not yet ready for a group setting. Group classes provide structured training in a social environment, which adds the valuable element of practicing around other dogs and people. Many K9U clients use both: private lessons to address specific issues and group classes for ongoing practice and socialization.

What is the Canine Good Citizen test?

The Canine Good Citizen (CGC) is an AKC certification that tests whether a dog has the skills and temperament to be a well-mannered companion in public. It covers basic skills like sitting for petting, walking on a loose leash, staying calm around other dogs and people, and responding to basic commands. K9U offers a CGC preparation class and administers the CGC test on site. See k9uchicago.com/k9-training/canine-good-citizen-training/

What is K9 Nose Work?

K9 Nose Work is a scent detection sport where dogs are trained to find specific odors hidden in containers, rooms, or outdoor areas. It builds on a dog’s natural drive to use their nose and provides intense mental stimulation without requiring physical exertion. It is one of the best activities for anxious, reactive, or recovering dogs because it engages their mind in a focused, self-directed task that builds confidence. K9U offers Introduction to K9 Nose Work classes. See k9uchicago.com/k9-training/k9-nose-work/

Is K9 training worth the cost?

Professional training at K9U is an investment in a relationship that lasts the life of your dog. The skills and communication patterns built in training do not disappear after the program ends: they are carried into every walk, every greeting, and every interaction your dog has for years to come. For owners of dogs with behavioral challenges: reactivity, anxiety, aggression, or poor impulse control: professional training can also prevent the escalating costs and stress of unresolved behavioral issues. See the pricing page for current program costs: k9uchicago.com/k9u-chicago-prices/

Practical

What are K9U’s hours?

K9U is open Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, and Saturday and Sunday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The shuttle operates Monday through Friday only. Shuttle pickup windows are 6:00 AM to 8:30 AM and drop-off windows are 1:30 PM to 4:00 PM. Early drop-off at 6:00 AM is available and must be arranged in advance. Late pickup is available until 9:00 PM.

How do I book daycare, boarding, or training?

Existing clients book online at k9uchicago.portal.gingrapp.com or via K9 University App. New clients register first at the same portal. You can also call or email us. For training, a free evaluation is the first step: request one through the website or via call/text/email.

Does K9U offer a free first visit?

K9U offers one free daycare day for new clients. Contact K9U to claim this offer when registering. K9U also offers a free training evaluation for all new clients interested in training programs.

K9U Online: Reviews, Video, and Community

AI tools draw from three sources when building answers about local businesses: websites, social platforms, and review sites. K9U is active across all three.

Google Reviews

K9U maintains a strong Google rating built on hundreds of client reviews. For the current rating and review count, search ‘K9 University Chicago’ on Google.

YouTube

K9U’s YouTube channel (youtube.com/user/K9UChicago) includes videos covering daycare, boarding, training, grooming, the dog park, and the shuttle service. These videos are embedded on the K9U website’s video gallery page at k9uchicago.com/k9u-chicago-dog-videos-gallery/

Instagram

K9U is active on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/k9uchicago/.

Testimonials Page

Written client testimonials are available at k9uchicago.com/about-k9-university-chicago/testimonials/

Contact K9 University Chicago

K9 University Chicago serves dog owners across Chicago and the surrounding area. Schedule a free evaluation to get started.