Camp 4 Paws is the greatest! The staff are very knowledgeable and helpful. My dog LOVES going to Camp 4 Paws. I've been bringing my dog here for nearly a year for both day care and boarding. She loves it and is very happy there. Troy and her staff are lovely. I have an 80 lb American Bulldog who is very friendly but at times can play a bit rough. They always make sure they keep an eye on her and calm her down when she needs it. Sure, having that much attention costs a little more but I'd rather have my dog be safe and happy than locked in a crate because she was too rambunctious (which is the solution at other dog kennels). She plays with a lot of dogs there regularly and has a great time. Troy has made recommendations for training (such as agility training which my dog LOVES) that have been tremendous. I've boarded dogs several places in Contra Costa and this one really is the best. read more

We have enjoyed outstanding professional and loving boading service at Camp Four Paws for the last 6 years. Like most dog lovers, our pup is a member of the family and deserves to be entertained, happy, safe and well fed/groomed during his vacation from us. He comes home happy, healthy, clean as a whistle and dog-tired from all the play. When we take him to camp, he trots right in with tail high, happy to be back at camp. Because we trust Troy and her staff with our beloved dog, we have left him there as long as 3 weeks while overseas. That's a really long time for dogs because, as you know, when you are with them it's "now", and when you are not with them, it's "forever". Despite the long stay, our dog came home happy, trim and fit, clean and ready for a long nap. I unconditionally recommend Camp Four Paws to anyone with a socialized dog that deserves top drawer care while boarding. read more

I love this place, and I wouldn't take my dog to any other dog kennel/hotel. The staff is amazing. They treat the dogs so well. Their extra services are adorable! read more

I've been bringing my dog here for over ten years and we wouldn't go anywhere else! They're attentive and sweet yet my dog comes home better disciplined than when I dropped her off. The facilities are the best you could ever find for dogs to be well cared for. The staff is very well trained and the owner is very involved and cares tremendously about her staff, clients (the dogs) and the dog parents. We love Camp Four Paws! read more

Unless you have a Stepford dog this place is not for you. Frankly, my dog gets to act like a dog. Not the owners version of a dog. Sit, stay, don't bark and shut up or you aren't welcome here. The very last time I used this place I was told my dog had to be KNEED EXTRA hard for jumping up. Well, guess what. Dogs aren't all perfectly behaved and I don't believe in abusing my baby in any way shape of form...they are dogs and get excited in new environments. Much better investment to find a trusted overnight pet sitter that actually LOVES DOGS and to give you peace of mind so you can enjoy your vacation. Make sure you interview your pet sitter well though...VERY WELL..go by your doggies intuition. they know best. read more

If your dog was taken to the vet while she was boarded, wouldn't you want to be called? Imagine the shock of going to pick up your dog and finding her wearing a cone because she had stitches? And when I asked the owner, Troy, why I wasn't notified- she said "there was nothing you could have done and we didn't want to ruin your vacation." Not your decision, Troy! read more

I was very disappointed in this place. The person that came to "interview" my pet was scared of my dog. How can you work at a dog camp and be afraid of dogs? She wouldn't even give my dog time to smell her hand and both her and her assistant came out with their hands in their pockets "because it was cold". My dog was obviously nervous, but she was nervous at the vet's office and they had no problems taking care of her. The person took the dog and started man handling and grabbing at her. We never grab at our dog, so she didn't know what to do. Unless you have a very docile dog that's used to strangers grabbing at them, that doesn't bark, and pretty much doesn't do anything, then don't bother with going here. Take your dog to Bishop Ranch Vet. They have no problems handling all kinds of dogs. I was in the waiting room for 1 1/2 hours and watched as they took care of dogs from very agressive to extremely scared. read more

I've had my dog there a few times and every time they have been great to us and the dog. We have a pitbull terrier that is nothing but a loving dog and Camp Four Paws not only was willing to board him (after an assessment of course) but they made a plan to cope with his excessive energy. Most places were afraid of his breed alone, they did not want to assess him at all. Their rates may seem high at first, but their rates include all the things you want your dog to have, like food and play time. Most of the other places we looked at, that were cheaper, charged extra for food (literally they charged extra to feed the dog), play time, time outside of the kennel, etc. When we did the math, Camp Four Paws was on par cost wise and they were open and direct about it. Also I don't have to worry if I should have spent extra to give my dog extra play time, they just play with him, its all part of the deal. I love their comment in their contract that they play with the dogs so much your dog may come home tired and go to bed right away. That might have been a bit ambitious for our dog, but he is nothing but energy to begin with. read more

I've had my dog for 2 years now, and am hesitant to 'Board' him. After 2 years, I feel like I have used all my dog sitting favors up and have been looking for a good option to use when I have to go out of town. I first brought my dog to another local kennel with great reviews and recommendations from friends. It was nice too, clean, and everything the reviews said it was. However, I could not escape the guilt I had for leaving him in an 8'10 cell for a week with only 2 walks a day (extra charges for walks and cuddle time and it wasn't even cheap to begin with). So I tried Camp Four Paws this weekend. It's a bit of a drive, it's not cheap, and there is an interview process that is extensive (which he passed with no problem). The smile on my dogs face though has made this experience worth five stars. He's exhausted from all the playing and running around. There were pictures of him playing with all the dogs on my receipt and they are posted on the web. The owner Troy seems like a true dog lover, she was there for the interview, the drop off, and today when I went to pick him up. They are open 7 days a week, so you don't have to pay an extra day if you get home on Sunday. You can choose lots of extra's (like grooming, 1x1 walks, extra treats, etc...) but for the most part everything is included that you'd want, lots and lots of play time and attention. My dog happened to need his nails trimmed, so it was convienent and a good price to have it done there. To finish up, this place is awesome, I finally feel like I can go out of town and not feel guilty about abandoning my dog or putting anyone off for having to watch them. It is worth the drive. read more

I drove over one hour to attend a "meet and greet" with this facility. Unfortunately, I was NOT at all impressed and found the manager/owner to be quite lecturing with a "know it all" attitude. My dog attends day care twice a week, and has been doing so for several months now. The person I leave my dog with is absolutely AMAZING but unfortunately is NOT available to sit for my dog while I am away on vacation and so I decided to check out this place. Needless to say, I did NOT appreciate the "Manager/Owners" insinuation that the person I choose to leave my dog with may NOT be on the up-and-up, and could quite possibly be running an illegal business. She also chose to lecture me on fleas, how I discipline my dog, etc. I feel that her behavior was unprofessional and inappropriate. I did NOT solicit her advice - and it is certainly none of her business where I choose to leave my pup. Needless to say, I won't be boarding my pup with their facility and will NOT be recommending this place to friends or family; or strangers. read more

I've been taking my Boston terroir here for 2 years, since he was a puppy. Everyone who works there has gained a relationship with my dog and has gained my trust to take care of him. These people are real dog people and go to high expenses to make sure every dog is fully taken care of individually. They understand that no dog is the same and will make sure your dog gets the type of attention they deserve. Every time I bring my dog home from camp four paws he goes into hibernation for a week. read more

Great place to leave your dog if you're going away on vacation. Kind of pricey though, but totally worth it if it's in your budget. This summer we went on a trip over a week long, so we needed a place for our doggies to stay. My heeler mix had been there before, so no worries with her, but we had since gotten a pit bull puppy and I was unsure about her getting accepted. I wasn't worried about anything on the dog's end, other than normal puppy naughtiness she is a fantastic dog, as sweet as they get and very playful with dogs of all sizes. I was concerned about the breed's reputation and whether or not she would be fairly evaluated. There is an entrance test for all dogs to determine if they have the temperament for a group setting. I I needn't have worried. I met with the owner and she told me that she had gone to classes learning about bully breeds and their specific behavior and needs. She was knowledgeable about dog body language and my pooch passed without incident. She was really friendly too, we ended up geeking-out on dog facts for a while, which I'm totally into. When our vacation was over, about three days after we initially planned on being home... airline issues....( Camp Four Paws was accommodating of this) we picked up two very happy dogs. Their whole time there was spent running and playing with the staff and other dogs. They got baths before they came home and had agility play every day. Our pitty was so muscular, we couldn't believe it! All the working out she did there really showed! Worth the price of it all was this picture they of her they took mid-air, catching a tennis ball, an expression of pure joy on her face. After talking to the staff who released them to us it was clear that my Storm and Diana were cared for the whole time. They are true dog enthusiasts who love their job and the dogs they work with. They were genuinely sad to see the dogs go. It made me feel good knowing they had fun and had people there who cared about them. read more

I read these other reviews & am shocked. I have had the exact opposite experience with Camp Four Paws, Troy and her workers. My first experience with them was when I was on vacation & my daughters friend who was watching our dog decided she wasn't going to. After getting several recommendations from friends for Camp Four Paws I called. Troy saved us!! She picked up Marley where he was & took great care of him . I have been a loyal customer ever since. My dog can't wait to get out of the car when we get there & I've always felt he was loved & taken proper care of(with lots of fun too).Yes it is a way out there & not cheap but worth it for me to know my dog is in a great place read more

Omg this place is the best!!! We have been bringing our dog here for about 8 months now for daycare and a couple of boardings. We have had the best experience with the employees and our dog is bonkers over this place. I think he's going to have a heart attack everytime he realizes he's going back. It's hilarious. This place has also helped our dog deal with some of his anxiety of being around bigger dogs (he's a little guy!) anyway I cannot imagine that any other place is better than this if you want to know that your dog is safe and having a blast. read more

I just picked up my dog Max from Camp Four Paws and he is exhausted from all the play! He is a 1.5 y/o lab / boxer mix who is very playful. He loves to chase and be chased, so I knew this was going to be a great place for him. They also post pictures on their website on a regular basis, so even though I was away for the weekend, I was able to check in and see pictures of Max playing. This made me really happy to see what a great time he was having. In regards to what a lot of the people are complaining about in their reviews, the staff was very friendly with me when I brought Max in for his assessment. They were also very straightforward about the additional cost of Max doesn't play well with other dogs and needs to be separated, or the potential for a shock collar if he's barking too much. I completely understand where they're coming from on that...the dogs are playing in a large field together most of the day (yes it's dirt, but who cares?), so if one dog is creating a problem, the situation could very quickly be out of hand and cause injury to a lot of dogs. Max has been bitten at the dog park before, where owners are supposed to be actively watching their dogs, so I appreciate the extra steps they take to keep dogs safe. And if it's my dog on the receiving end of that discipline, then so be it. And yes, it is a bit expensive, but I think it's totally worth it for the amount of play time they have, as well as the facilities available. read more

Thank you for taking such good care of BearClaus for us. We loved the pictures of him. This was like a vacation for him. The staff were wonderful with him and very courteous to us. We will be bringing Bear back again for vacation or maybe even for a day of fun. Thanks again. read more

I left my dog here a few years ago and I was nervous at first- she's shy and hates kennels. Then I saw a webcam picture of her the next day looking happy as a clam! All my fears were subsided and I felt just fine. Better yet when I picked her up, she was RELUCTANT to leave!!! Plus the owner is very professional and genuinely loves what she does. A bit far and a big pricey but if you have fears about leaving your dog, fear no more! read more

These people know dogs! 55 acres of immaculate, well thought out property and facilities. When we first arrived, there must have been 12 dogs out in a huge play corral (with a trainer). They were playing, investigating, wagging, relaxed and HAPPY. I don't think I heard more than a random bark the whole time I was there - the dogs were too busy having a good time. Our labrador, Porter, had a WONDERFUL time. We'll never go anywhere else. Troy and Nicky are fantastic. read more

This is my first 5 star review of any business. My dogs absolutely LOVE Camp Fourpaws! I like it because they get plenty of exercise and lots of love. We have 3 dogs and are very picky about who cares for them. We've tried other doggie camps and nothing compares to Camp Fourpaws. Troy and her staff and professional and just amazing people. read more

I went their facility this morning to have my yellow lab evaluated. He passed, and I got a chance to look their place over. WOW it's nice, especially for a city dog. It's in the country, lots of developed ground for your dog to play and mingle with others. I'll be back to board our dog soon. read more

Ok, I just had to respond to the woman who was complaining about a dog she adopted having been feed benadryl. I about had to laugh, most of the medications given to humans are also given to dogs. Just in different doses. My dog gets some allergies, my vet says to giver her benadryl when it's bad to reduce itching. This is very common. I've read a few posts where people are saying staff or Troy are acting a little weird, I've yet to see anyone describe what " a little weird" is. I've never had a problem with anyone acting what I'd call weird. They take care of my dog, run her, play with her, laugh with me about her. I see nothing but care and concern. My only concerns when shopping around for day care or boarding is how well my fur kid is treated. There's a reason I go back to these folks all the time. She's a happy girl, comes home tired and is extremely happy to go back and play with her human and dog friends. signed Hailers Dad - and a fan of Camp 4 Paws read more

Chuck E Cheese for dogs!! A great, beautiful place with attentive and caring staff. Troy takes a lot of time to make sure the dogs are well taken care of, starting with an evaluation of your dog's temperament, and getting information about their health and food preferences. The dogs have soooo much to do to keep them happy, with tons of toys and activities. I was amazed at how quiet it was...no plaintive howling or barking. Everyone is out playing and socializing. I interviewed other similar providers in the area, ones much closer and more convenient to my home in Livermore. Facilities that thought crating from 7pm to 7am was okay (really???? 12 hours in a crate?), others that were more interested in easy management by keeping the dogs segregated for the majority of the day, and one that has nothing but cement for the play area (not my idea of a great surface, especially for large dogs that are predisposed to joint problems). My dog is a rescue that I've only had for three months. I was extremely concerned that he would think that he had been abandoned again, wouldn't eat, and that I'd be picking up a stressed out dog after a long weekend. All unnecessary worrying. He was tired but otherwise was a 'happy camper'! I have already recommended Camp Four Paws to several friends and will definitely use them again. read more

If there were more than 5 points, I'd award them! While my dogs have a great time in a beautiful setting, they are engaged in play and other stimulating activities like Agility, walks and loving interaction with staff. I think that when they come home it is a bit of a let-down. Troy is selective about the dogs she takes (behavior) and she is personally aware of each dog's uniqueness as well as their owner's concerns. I know that any dog in her care is safe. Camp Four Paws is committed to a culture of safety, is well organized with high business ethics. They are small but elite and cost a little more but worth every penny! read more

We have been bringing our dog Chloe here for almost 5 years every time we go out of town. She is Sooooooo excited to go there that when were about 1 mile from the property she starts barking with excitement, she can't wait to see and play with her friends. We have peace of mind that she is well cared for, loved and having a great time! read more

Our lab was "interviewed" for this place and "passed with flying colors". We asked where most of their dogs come from. We were told that not many came from the surrounding neighborhoods because "people from Clayton can't afford to come here". Although we are not from Clayton, I found this to be a rude and inappropriate response. Unfortunately, after we paid over $500 for five days (and that was just for the very basics--we didn't pay for very many "add-on" treatments), our dog was returned to us with severe lesions on his neck. I was told by our dog trainer that Camp Four Paws most likely used a bark collar. I asked if our dog barked a lot (because he rarely ever barks at home). I was told that he was quiet the last couple of days but they didn't know about the first few days--but "if you need to know if he wore a bark collar, this is not the place for your dog". I paid extra $ for "puppy care" because our dog was just a year old. This was supposed to include more attention/time for puppies...yet they couldn't tell me if my dog had a bark collar on or not. This was our dog's first time at a kennel/camp and I thought I was paying all the extra $ for extraordinary care. I was extremely disappointed. I have pictures of the lesions and had to spend more $ on vet bills to take care of our dog. Camp Four Paws was completely unapologetic. read more

Camp Four Paws - Pet Training Near Me - Clayton, California

I was excited to see the Camp 4 Paws and anxious to love the place in order to have my Dog stay there on my frequent business travels. After driving quite a while to locate the Camp, we were told that the owner, Troy was not available and I could not have a tour unless my Dog was "interviewed" and "assessed" by Troy. So we made an appt for the following weekend. I was told to leave my credit card info on their files to hold an appt. The following weekend Troy cancelled my appt. So why the CC info on their files??? Totally unprofessional and poor business relations. I WILL NOT RECOMMEND THIS PLACE to any of my Dog Family friends. read more

I just got Winnie back from the evacuated area (Clayton dog park) since there was a wild fire going on not too far from Camp Four Paws. The evacuation was uneventful as far as I am concerned, but I am pretty sure a lot of dedicated work has been put in there to secure all the dogs a safe passage. I am very pleased of the outcome and appreciate Troy's and her crew's efforts. A BIG THANK YOU. I was so worried in the afternoon. I can see why some people may not like Troy because she probably acts like a strict parent. Running a group of dogs, large and small and of total different breeds and temperament with a variety of upbringing background is a no easy job. Imagine you need to run a 7x24 day care for the 3-year old, and you are accountable for their safety, health, food, life and death and have to let them roam around and play in an open space, interacting with each other. In a way dogs are no different than 3-year old except they wont grow any older than that intelligently. So I would actually do the same - be very very careful with what you choose to take on and take care of, assuming you have pretty good crew members who love animals, and a lot of them! All the issues are "management" issues and not, imho, have much to with Troy's attitude or character. It is what it is. If one dog keeps barking, all the others will follow suit, then what do you do? Dont take on a barking dog next time! Have been using her services since Winnie was born in 2008. OK, no one says Camp For Paws is cheap. People can send their dogs to Metro Dogs or any place that lock dogs up in Kennel all day. All prices are listed out on the form every time when you sign in, just check the items youwant. I thought it has clear, fair, and predictable. I hope this site is safe from the fire and god bless them all! Keep up the great work for your dog loving community!! Joe read more

My Labradoodle puppy, Cocoa, (now 11 months old) has been coming to Camp 4 Paws since December, and has had over 10 weekend to week-long stays...every time I leave town. I cannot say enough about this wonderful place. I feel like I truly have a "parenting partner" for my beloved dog! Troy is one of the most caring, honest, sweet people, and I can't say enough about her staff. Each and every person is a passionate dog lover, so professional, and genuinely caring for Cocoa. My dog literally goes crazy with joy when we pull into the parking lot! They carefully review my requests, from chow to what "chews" Cocoa might enjoy during her stay, and she is always perfectly clean for me upon pick up. This is one fabulous business and I could not be more thrilled. read more

I would NEVER take my dog to Camp Four Paws again. I found the owner had a very superior attitude and very unhelpful. Unfortunately we had no time to try and find an alternative so we had to leave our dog with her. I will definitely get a house-sitter next time. Our dog was miserable when we got it home and after three days strugging to feed it, we had to go to the vet (twice). Thanks but no thanks - you can keep your "interviews" (such **#!!) and your reams of paperwork where you sign your life away. read more

did not get a chance to physically use camp four paws but was treated very honestly and straight forward during my call to make an appt for our dog to be assessed for boarding approval , the young lady I spoke to was very kind and told me that due to our dogs breed she was not a candidate for boarding there , our dogs breed are escape artists and can and will jump tall fences as well as climb anything especially if a wild animal is within sight such as squirrel , turkey , deer etc due to their high prey instincts , I have owned this breed for over 35 years and understand fully why she is not a candidate for boarding at this facility and their honesty was refreshing and also their understanding of our breed , a lesser facility would have just taken our dog in and taken their chances ,my hats off the Camp Four Paws for your honesty and care about all that they board or choose not to board , its clear to me that the safety of all is their priority , thanks sinc The Hannah Famil read more

In addition to boarding our dogs here several times in the last 3 years, our dogs also go to 'doggie day care' here one day a week. An added bonus: because we live in their driving radius, they provide pick-up and drop-off service for a little bit extra! Because of this weekly interaction, my perspective could be helpful to others, and I can agree with all of the other positive reviewers about their raves: happy dogs, excellent staff and supervision, good judgment and conservative use of bark collars (my dogs wore them a bit in the beginning, don't need them now), dreamy facility and equipment, people who are capable of listening patiently to worried humans, cold or wet-weather clothing for dogs who need it, and more. As for the 'interview' - my dogs are people-shy, but passed the interview because they weren't people-aggressive when handled by strangers. I later met someone at a dog camp in Tahoe, who's dog was rejected at C4P (small world) - and while there in Tahoe, her dog got into a dog fight with another dog and stitches were needed. Her dog got along ok with my 2, but the C4P staff know what to look for, and I am thankful my babies are safe when they are at day care. Yet ANOTHER bonus - the constant human interaction C4P provides has really improved my dogs' social skills, and now they will approach a friendly stranger and politely sit at their feet if there is any chance to earn a treat - even when the human has a pack of other, less-polite dogs trying to grab treats. Many compliments about this, thanks to C4P!!! read more

Jeanne C - My little guy loves this place and it shows the minute we get close. The atmosphere fosters socialization and play in a large park-like setting. My comfort level while traveling is high when my dog is enjoying this facility and what it has to offer. It's not an easy business and I think Troy does a wonderful job. read more

I used to not totally enjoy vacations because I felt guilty leaving my dog behind, never feeling sure he was getting 100% quality care. Well, those days are over. My high energy dog loves this place. When I think of him while we're on vacation I smile knowing he's having a great time too. I just need to see the photos taken of him that day online and there's my proof! read more

I adopted my sweet Pug, Margie, at Camp Four Paws, and she's just perfect for me. The camp is a beautiful place to leave your beloved dog while you're away. They have huge play areas for your pet's pleasure, fun & exercise. There's no crowding and it is a quiet and safe place. They have a sweet and loving staff who obviously care about you and your dog's needs. Heavy involvement with Pug Rescue is just one way this staff shows their love of little dogs. I have left my Pug with Camp Four Paws staff many times and come back to find her happy, healthy and well loved. If we just drive or walk by she gets so excited and wants to join the other dogs at play. She's also in love with the owner who is extremely knowledgeable and can handle any emergency that may come up with your pet. I wouldn't leave Margie at any other facility. If you really love your dog, this is the place. read more

This place is wonderful! The staff is so helpful and professional. They take amazing care of my dog. My dog goes every week to daycare and he loves going there. The evaluation was very simple and I am glad that they make all the dogs go through this screening process. The owner was so friendly and kind. You could tell how much she loves dogs. The facility was clean and well matained. I would ignore the other reviews and look at this place your self since it is a gem!!!! I hgihly recommend it. read more

My dog, Bailey, has been coming for Camp Four paws for the past 4 years. What a great place for dogs!! She loves it at camp! There are so many activities for the dogs to participate in. She is always excited to arrive and pulls me to the door. It is very obvious the dogs are well taken care of, while in the care of Camp Four Paws. I especially love the picture that is sent home with your pet and to browse through the pictures online. It is so nice to be able to go on vacation and not worry about Bailey!! read more

I have been bringing my Boston Terrier Cubby to Camp Four Paws for 3 years now. When sitting around at home she just lays around all day, sitting on my lap and acts as if she's a old dog, when in fact she's only 4. When i begin to get her stuff ready for Camp she begins to jump up and down, and waits by the door until we leave. When we arrive at camp she runs to the building and can't get back there fast enough to go play, which is the best feeling knowing that she is so excited to be there. Cubby runs around and plays with the other dogs with so much excitement she acts as though she's a puppy again! ( I didn't no she had so much energy in her) When it's time for Cubby to come home from camp she always smells incredible, and looks so clean. Not to mention she sleeps for the next 2-3 days because she's so worn out from all the fun she had. I would recommend Camp Four Paws to anyone that wants there dogs to be in a safe, fun, and enjoyable atmosphere. The staff at Camp Four Paws loves each and everyone of there dogs as if they are all their own. read more

This place is the best. I can't understand the negative reviews here but suggest you call to make an appointment and drive out there and see the place for yourself. The dogs here are HAPPY. They get tons of play time and the staff is very well trained. I've had several nightmare experiences at other boarding facilities and thank my lucky stars I've found this place. My dog's behavior has even improved since he's been going to Camp Four Paws; he was a former street dog with lots of fears. Now he's a friendly, curious, playful little boy. I highly recommend this place! read more

This place is awesome! My dog knows when we are going to "CAMP" and gets really excited -- he might love them more than me! They test dogs to make sure they are safe with other dogs and have age/size/temperament based play groups. They even do rescue work and have dogs available for adoption - how COOL! read more

There simply aren't enough stars to truly capture the true value of Camp Four Paws. We have been taking our dogs there for daycare and boarding for the past 5 years. Troy and Karen and frankly any of the employees who have ever cared for our dogs there (Dana, Jad, Susanna to name just a few) are outstanding. They are compassionate people who really understand dogs. I visited many other places when I first moved back to the area and left many a tour in tears knowing I just couldn't leave my pups there. I wouldn't trust my beloved Shiloh and Finn to go anywhere other than Camp. I feel safe and secure because I know the dogs will be well cared for and the dogs love it there because they also feel safe and they really enjoy themselves there. There have also been a few occasions where circumstances arose and Troy and Karen went above and beyond to help us out of some real jams. These folks are truly the best! read more