Business Details
26 Years
experience
Trusted Dog Daycare, Boarding & Grooming Services in San Carlos, CA
Smilin Dogs was founded in 2000 with a mission to provide exceptional care for dogs through innovative services. Our 17,500-square-foot facility in San Carlos, CA, offers daycare, boarding, and outdoor play at our Dog Ranch, designed to ensure every dog enjoys a safe, stimulating environment. We prioritize personalized relationships with both pets and their owners, emphasizing safety, socialization, and physical activity. Our team of experienced handlers uses positive reinforcement techniques and maintains a commitment to continuous learning, including veterinary training.Transportation services extend our reach across the San Francisco Bay Peninsula, ensuring convenience for pet owners. With over two decades of experience, we have built a reputation for excellence, earning the trust of thousands of satisfied clients whose dogs eagerly anticipate their visits.
Services
Dog Ranch
Daycare
Boarding Club
Grooming
Transportation
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- Over 20 years of experience in dog care with a proven track record of safety and satisfaction.
- 17,500-square-foot facility featuring indoor/outdoor play areas and 25-acre Dog Ranch access.
- Trained handlers use positive reinforcement and prioritize individualized attention.
- Convenient transportation services across the San Francisco Bay Peninsula.
- Comprehensive screening and socialization programs ensure a safe environment for all dogs.
What people say
Dogs come home exhausted and happy
Staff is incredibly attentive
Convenient pickup/dropoff service
Improved socialization skills
Safe and clean environment
Services
Dog Ranch
Our Dog Ranch offers 25 acres of private coastal land for off-leash play. Ideal for high-energy dogs, this service provides exploration, socialization, and exercise in a natural setting. Transportation included within designated areas.
Daycare
Daily supervised playgroups in a 17,500-square-foot facility with rubber flooring and indoor/outdoor spaces. Services include socialization, exercise, and rest, tailored to dogs' size, energy, and play style.
Boarding Club
Group-style boarding with 24/7 access to play and rest areas. Includes staff supervision, evening cuddles, and optional ranch expeditions. Requires prior daycare attendance for acclimation.
Grooming
Bath and nail trim services performed by experienced handlers. Available during daycare or boarding stays, with techniques adapted to each dog's comfort and preference.
Transportation
Complimentary air-conditioned van transportation for Dog Ranch clients. Covers areas from Burlingame to Los Altos with morning pickups and afternoon dropoffs.
People
Susana
Manager
Susana has worked at Smilin Dogs since 2016, progressing from handler to manager while completing veterinary technician school. She specializes in dog behavior and enjoys working with Malamutes.
Becca
Manager
Becca joined Smilin Dogs in 2022 after a career in politics. She oversees daily operations and enjoys working with large breeds, leveraging her experience in dog behavior and training.
Leanna
Manager
Leanna graduated from Stanford and has worked at Smilin Dogs since 2021. Her expertise includes dog ranch activities and creating engaging environments for canine well-being.
Konrad Thaler
Owner
Konrad co-founded Smilin Dogs in 2000. With a background in Bavarian farming traditions, he focuses on facility development and maintaining high standards of dog care.
Diana Ungersma
Owner
Diana co-founded Smilin Dogs after a career in tech product management. She oversees administrative operations and community engagement initiatives for the business.
Questions
What services does Smilin Dogs offer?
We provide daycare, boarding, Dog Ranch visits, grooming, and transportation. Daycare and boarding include supervised playgroups, while the Dog Ranch offers off-leash coastal exploration.
How do you ensure my dog's safety?
Our staff uses positive reinforcement training, maintains low handler-to-dog ratios, and conducts temperament screenings. All facilities feature secure enclosures and 24/7 monitoring during boarding stays.
What are the requirements for boarding?
Dogs must pass a temperament screening, attend one daycare session beforehand, and visit monthly to maintain familiarity. We require vaccination records and feeding instructions.
Do you offer transportation services?
Yes, we provide complimentary pickup/dropoff within the San Francisco Bay Peninsula during regular business hours using air-conditioned vans with individual kennels.
How are grooming services handled?
Grooming includes baths and nail trims performed by trained staff. Services are available during daycare or boarding stays, with techniques tailored to each dog's comfort level.
What areas do you serve?
We serve the San Francisco Bay Peninsula from Burlingame to Los Altos, including Redwood City, San Mateo, and Palo Alto, with transportation covering these regions.
Videos
