Dereham Dog Den offers a calm, structured alternative to traditional day care, designed and run by highly experienced, qualified dog trainers.

Phil and I share a clear ethos: every dog deserves positive, supportive experiences that meet their emotional and behavioural needs. We created Dereham Dog Den to provide exactly that — a safe, engaging environment where dogs can relax, learn, and enjoy their day. We personally oversee every aspect of care, ensuring each dog receives a genuine home‑from‑home experience that is enriching, comfortable and enjoyable.

Many busy day‑care settings can be overwhelming, increasing arousal and stress rather than helping dogs feel settled. Dereham Dog Den is intentionally different.

We carefully assess every dog for suitability and keep groups small. This allows us to support emotional regulation, confidence, and positive social experiences — making our day care particularly suitable for dogs who need a calmer, more considered environment.

Dogs in our care enjoy a balanced, thoughtfully structured day that includes:

• A cosy indoor home‑from‑home space with sofas, armchairs, beds and engaging toys
• Access to a secure outdoor area with a sandpit, paddling pool, climbing frame and dog house
• Regular introduction of new items and activities to keep experiences enriching
• Small, well‑managed groups to reduce stress during owner absences
• Guided social interactions that encourage calm, relaxed behaviour
• Structured enrichment activities for appropriate mental stimulation
• Planned rest periods to support settling and emotional balance

This is not a free‑for‑all play environment. Our approach mirrors the principles used in our behaviour work, helping dogs learn that calm is safe, predictable and achievable.

As specialist trainers, we can also provide tailored in‑care training for dogs who need additional support. Many of the dogs we work with experience anxiety, separation‑related stress, over‑attachment or difficulty settling when routines change.

While one‑to‑one training remains essential for long‑term progress, a calm and structured day‑care environment can reinforce learning and build confidence for the right dog.

If you’d like to explore whether our day care is a good fit, we’re always happy to talk things through — with no pressure and no assumptions.

Dereham Dog Den is here to offer thoughtful, ethical care that truly supports your dog’s wellbeing.

Location: Dereham Dog Den, 35 Yaxham Road, Dereham

Duration: 8am-4pm (later by arrangement), Tuesday-Thursday (half days available)

Cost: Monthly Membership (includes 1 day per week): £140

Ad-Hoc days: Members £35, Non-members £45

Half days: 8am-1pm: £30

Booking: Please feel free to contact me directly to discuss day care, or to arrange to come and visit us and see why Dereham Dog Den is the best place for your pup to play and make new friends.