What is the Barnyard Dog Den?

The Dog Den is a fully indoor, dog play space in Northwich. It’s clean, safe, mud‑free, and perfect for dogs who need a secure environment to run, play, and explore.

 

The Dog Den also includes our self service dog wash, available to use at any time, without booking, during our opening hours.

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Following a successful launch, we have now introduced some Private play sessions for you and your dogs to complement the social play session concept.  The Private sessions are bookable for dogs from the same household and the play area will be exclusively yours for the session time.  Please note that the self service dog wash will be available throughout the entire day so there may be other dogs in the building at the time of your private play session. 

 

Do I need to book?

The Dog Wash does not require advance booking — you can simply turn up and use it any time during our opening hours.  There may be a short wait for the facility if there is another dog being pampered at the time.

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For the Indoor Dog Play Area, we recommend booking in advance to make sure your preferred time is available. The Dog Den is a large indoor space and can safely accommodate a number of dogs at any one time, so depending on bookings there may be availability throughout the day for last‑minute walk‑ins.  Please note that if you require a Private session in the play area, the only way to guarantee that is by pre-booking online.  Private play sessions are available Monday - Saturday at select timings.  Note that the Dog wash is open throughout the day which is in the same building and therefore there may be other dogs present at a private play session, just not in the play area itself.

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If you’re planning a specific time or visiting during busier periods, booking ahead is the best way to secure your session.

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Can I use the Dog Wash without booking the Indoor Dog Play Area?

Yes absolutely — the Dog Wash can be used completely independently of the indoor dog play area and is available at any time during our opening hours. You do not need to book in advance, although there may occasionally be a short wait if it’s already in use when you arrive.

Just pop in, head straight to the Dog Wash room, and make yourself at home. The wash station is in its own dedicated space, offering a safe, secure, and comfortable environment for you and your dog to freshen up after a walk, a play session, or a muddy adventure.

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Last entry into the Dog Wash will be approx 20 minutes before closing time to enable you sufficient time to spend with your dogs before we close our doors.

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Please note however that there will be other dogs in the building generally. 

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Is the Dog Den wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the entire Dog Den is fully wheelchair accessible, including the entrance, play area, and surrounding facilities. We want every visitor to feel welcome and comfortable in the space. If you require any assistance during your visit, please don’t hesitate to ask a member of our team — we’re always happy to help.

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Can reactive dogs use the Dog Den?

Our main socialisation sessions are open to all dogs and are not private use. Because these sessions involve multiple dogs from multiple households sharing the space, they are not suitable for reactive dogs for the health and safety of both your dog and the other dogs attending.

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We have introduced private sessions daily, which will allow reactive dogs to enjoy the Dog Den play area in a calm, controlled environment without the presence of unfamiliar dogs in the play area itself however please note that the Dog wash is open to other visitors throughout the day including through private session times  These visitors and their dogs will not have access to the play area itself but may be in the same building using the dog wash facilities. 

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We want every dog to have a positive experience, so if your dog is reactive, anxious, or needs a quieter environment, please keep an eye out for our private session options.

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What if my dog becomes aggressive or overwhelmed?

If your dog becomes aggressive, overly stressed, or overwhelmed at any point, please remove them from the Dog Den immediately for everyone’s safety and welfare — including your dog’s. Taking a short break outside or ending the session early is sometimes the kindest option.

If you need any assistance or support, our team is always nearby and happy to help.  Our team may ask you to leave with your dog if appropriate action is not taken in some situations.

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Do you allow dogs covered by the Dangerous Dogs Act?

No, unfortunately not sorry. For insurance and safety reasons, and due to all of our facilities being indoor and open to other members of the public we cannot allow any dog prohibited or restricted under the Dangerous Dogs Act 1991 (as amended) which therefore includes XL Bullies.  This includes for use of the Indoor, DIY Dog Wash as it is in the same premises as the indoor dog play area.  We respectfully request that you do not challenge or ask our team members to allow entry.

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Can I bring more than one dog?

The Dog Den is a spacious indoor environment designed to safely accommodate multiple dogs at once.  We anticipate that the space can comfortably host up to 10-12 larger dogs, depending on temperament and activity levels.  All dogs attending our open, public sessions must be comfortable in the company of other dogs that they do not know.

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Private sessions are available for up to 8 dogs from one household.

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Do you offer a discount for more than 1 dog?

We offer a discount for up to 4 dogs from the same household / under the supervision of one responsible adult during the group sessions.  Please see our 'Pricing' Page for more details.  If you are bringing more than one dog, please remember:

• You remain fully responsible for the supervision, behaviour, and control of all dogs in your care throughout your session and at all times whilst in the Dog Den.

• You must be able to safely manage and control every dog you bring into the Dog Den at all times.

• If at any point you feel unable to maintain control, you must take appropriate action to ensure safety for all users.

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This helps us keep the Dog Den a safe, enjoyable, and welcoming space for every dog and owner who visits.

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We offer a pricing structure for Private sessions dependant on the number of dogs from one household.

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Who is responsible for my dog while using the Dog Den?

You are responsible for your dog(s) at all times while using the Dog Den. Owners — or the nominated responsible adult — are fully accountable for their dog’s behaviour, safety, and any damage caused during your visit. This includes ensuring your dog is supervised, under control, and using the space safely throughout your session.

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​Can I leave my dog in the Dog Den unattended?

No Sorry. Dogs must be supervised at all times and must never be left unattended anywhere on the premises.  Our Staff are not responsible for the supervision of your dogs and you must be able to keep them under control at all times.

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Can my dog attend public sessions if they are in season?

Unfortunately, no. For the safety, wellbeing, and comfort of your dog and others, we ask that you do not attend if your dog is in season. Hormonal changes can affect behaviour, stress levels, and interactions with other dogs, so it’s best to wait until her season has fully finished before visiting the Dog Den.

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Do I need to clean up after my dog?

Yes please — this is essential for the health and safety of you, your dog, and all other users of the facility.  Cleaning materials and bins are provided inside the play area, and we kindly ask that you also clean up after your dog outside the premises.  Dog waste from outside the premises needs to be removed by you. 

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We would really appreciate it if you could encourage your dog to go to the toilet before entering the Dog Den to help reduce accidents and keep the space as clean and sanitised as possible. Please keep an eye on your dog during your session and, if you think they may need the toilet, take them outside promptly.

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We understand that accidents can happen. If they do, please clean up after your dog and let a member of our team know so we can ensure the area is appropriately sanitised for the next visitors.

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Failure to assist with cleaning up after your dog(s) may result in being asked to leave the play area and could lead to refusal of future use of the facilities. Please also respect our team members if they request your assistance regarding your dog.

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Is the equipment safe?

All of the equipment in the Dog Den has been specifically chosen and designed for safe dog use. However, it’s important that owners ensure their dogs use the equipment appropriately and safely during their session.

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Use of the Dog Den, its equipment, and the Dog Wash is at your own risk.

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We take pride in maintaining a clean, hygienic, and well‑kept environment. All toys, play items, and facilities are regularly checked, cleaned, and sanitised using dog‑safe products to ensure the highest standards of safety and comfort for every visitor.

 

Vaccinations and Flea Treatments

In line with veterinary advice, we recommend that all dogs visiting the Dog Den are up to date with their vaccinations and flea treatments. This helps keep the environment safe, healthy, and comfortable for every dog who uses our facilities.

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Please respect other users and do not visit if your dog has fleas or shows any signs of them. This includes excessive scratching, visible fleas, flea dirt, or any symptoms that may indicate an infestation.

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Keeping the Dog Den clean and hygienic is a shared responsibility, and we really appreciate your support in helping us maintain a safe space for all dogs and owners.

 

Collars, Harnesses, and ID Tags

All dogs must wear a collar or harness with an ID tag while visiting the Dog Den.
This isn’t just our rule — it’s a legal requirement under the UK Control of Dogs Order 1992, which states that any dog in a public place must wear a collar with the name and address of the owner displayed (an ID tag is the most common way to meet this requirement).   This helps ensure your dog’s safety and supports responsible ownership while using our facilities.

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Forgot your dog’s ID tag?

If you’ve forgotten your dog’s ID tag, don’t worry — you won’t miss out on your play session. ID tags are available to purchase in store at Barnyard Pet & Equestrian Supplies, and we can engrave them on site within a couple of minutes. This means your dog can meet the UK legal requirement and still enjoy their time in the Dog Den without delay.

 

​Is my dog required to be on a lead?

Yes at certain times and places — we ask that all dogs are kept on a lead when entering and exiting the Dog Den, as well as in any public transit areas inside the building.

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The entrance to the play area is through a double‑gated safety area. Please ensure that both gates are fully closed before letting your dog off their lead.  At the end of your session, please put your dog back on their lead before opening the gates to exit.

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The same lead requirements apply when entering and leaving the Dog Wash area.

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These steps help keep all dogs safe and prevent accidental escapes.

 

What if I forget treats or poo bags?

Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered.  We keep a small selection of essential items available to purchase inside the Dog Den, including treats and poo bags, so your session can go ahead without any stress.  You’ll also find our full pet shop, Barnyard Pet & Equestrian Supplies, right next door (during their opening hours), where you can pick up everything you could possibly need for your dog. Even if you’re all stocked up, feel free to pop in and have a browse.
Dogs are always welcome in store.

 

Can photographs / videos be taken?

Yes — you’re very welcome to take photographs of your own dog enjoying their time in the Dog Den. We know how lovely it is to capture those happy moments.

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However, if there are children present, please ensure they are not included in any photographs, unless they are your own children. This is to protect everyone’s privacy and comfort.

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If, for any reason, you would prefer no photographs to be taken during your session, please let a member of our team know.  We will do our best to make other participants aware wherever it is reasonably possible.

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We may also take photos for use on our social media pages / marketing purposes to showcase the fun at the Dog Den. If this is something you’re uncomfortable with, just let us know — we’re always happy to respect your wishes.

 

Are children allowed in the Dog Den?

Yes, children are welcome in the Dog Den. However, there must always be an adult aged 18 or over who is responsible for — and able to remain in full control of — your dog(s) at all times while inside the Dog Den, including when using the Dog Wash.

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Children must also be supervised closely throughout your visit, especially during open, public sessions. For everyone’s safety, we accept no responsibility for your dogs or the children in your care.

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Please note that there is likely to be dogs from other families taking part in the sessions. 

 

Is there parking on site?

Yes, we have parking available for visitors. However, please be aware that you are responsible for the safe transit of your dogs from your vehicle into the Dog Den. The parking area is not enclosed or fenced, so we kindly ask that you keep your dog(s) secure and under control when entering and leaving the premises.

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We take no responsible for any damage or loss in relation to your vehicle while it is on site.

 

Cancellations and Late Entry

If you arrive late for your booked time slot, you may still be allowed entry up to 10 minutes after the start of your session. However, the session cannot be extended, and we’re unable to offer refunds for late arrivals.  You will still be required to leave at the designated time from your session.

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For pre‑booked sessions, you may reschedule your booking up to 24 hours before your session time. After this point no changes can be made.  Bookings are non refundable.

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This helps us keep the Dog Den running smoothly and ensures fairness for all visitors.

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What do I need to bring?

You’ll need to bring yourself, your dog, treats, poo bags, and any training aids you may like to use during your session.

Water is provided inside the Dog Den.

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We do provide poo bags inside the play area in case of emergency, however we kindly ask that you also bring your own so you can clean up after your dog outside if needed.

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To help us keep the Dog Den as clean and sanitised as possible, we would really appreciate it if you could encourage your dog to go to the toilet outside before entering. Please keep an eye on your dog during your session and, if you notice signs that they may need the toilet, quickly take them outside.

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We understand that accidents can happen. If they do, please clean up after your dog and notify a member of our team so we can ensure the area is appropriately sanitised and ready for the next visitors.

 

Do you offer private hire?

While our Dog Den Play Area is based around a concept of socialisation for both dogs and humans, we understand that some of you would like to have fun with just your own family dogs so we have introduced some Private sessions throughout each day and specific times.  Please check out the Book Online page for full availability.  Our staff will still be on hand throughout those sessions should you require assistance.  Please note however that the Dog Den also has our Self Service Dog Wash inside, which is in its own area but this does mean that there may be other dogs in the building at the time of your session, albeit they will not have access to the play area which is fenced and double gated.  We do not guarantee therefore that there will not be other dogs present.