Ready for Freeplay?
A less structured but still supervised environment for socially appropriate dogs who have demonstrated safe play.
Prerequisite Met
Your dog has completed at least one structured training session and demonstrated consistent, appropriate social behavior. Now they’re ready for the next step: organic, natural play with professional oversight.
Session Logistics
Freeplay Session: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM
Who it’s for: Puppies (4-12 months) and socially appropriate adult dogs who have demonstrated safe play in at least one structured session.
Owner Options: You can stay on the observation deck or drop off your dog. Many owners appreciate the flexibility after attending the mandatory first structured session.
Environment: Less structured but still supervised, dogs practice naturally appropriate play, demo dogs present but not actively managing, capacity more flexible (2-8 dogs), learning happens organically.
2 Hours
Ample time for dogs to engage in natural play cycles with rest periods
2-8 Dogs
More flexible capacity while maintaining safety and quality interactions
1:3 Ratio
Professional handlers maintain close proximity for immediate intervention if needed
What Happens During Freeplay
The Flow
2:00 PM – Controlled Entry: Dogs arrive individually (text “Arrived” to (720) 534-5189 and wait in car). Handlers greet each dog and perform brief stress assessment. Dogs wait in calming area until showing relaxed body language.
2:15 PM – Demo Dogs Set the Tone: Our trained demo dogs (Buddy & Barnaby) enter first to model calm energy. New dogs watch and learn before participating.
2:30 PM – Natural Play Begins: Dogs are released for supervised freeplay. Handlers observe but allow natural interactions. Demo dogs participate organically as role models.
3:45 PM – Wind Down: Gradual separation to prevent frustration. Dogs are checked for stress signals before departure.
The Difference
In Freeplay Sessions, handlers take a more observational role, intervening only when necessary. This allows dogs to practice self-regulation and social negotiation skills they’ve learned in structured sessions. Think of it as “supervised independence.”
Who Can Attend
Graduates of Structured Session
Dogs who have completed at least one structured training session and demonstrated consistent, appropriate social behavior throughout.
C-SIP Graduates
Dogs who completed Phase 1 stay-and-train and are ready for group exposure with less intensive handler management.
Well-Socialized Puppies
Puppies who have shown appropriate play and self-regulation in structured sessions and are ready for more independence.
Owner Options
Stay on Observation Deck
- Weather-protected deck overlooking the play yard
- Blocked off from grassy play area for safety
- Watch your dog engage in natural play
- Learn by observing group dynamics
- Ask questions during handler breaks
Drop Off & Go
- Text “Arrived” when you pull in
- Brief 2-3 minute check-in on arrival
- Receive video clips within 24 hours
- Access written report in client portal
- Return for pickup at 4:00 PM
Demo Dogs in Freeplay
Buddy (4-year-old Chocolate Lab) and Barnaby (8-month-old Chocolate Lab) continue to model appropriate behavior during freeplay, though they participate more naturally rather than actively managing interactions. Their presence helps maintain calm energy and provides subtle guidance to newer participants.
Pricing & Packages
Drop-In
Single 2-hour session
- Pay per session
- Flexible scheduling
- Perfect for maintenance
For returning participants
6-Pack
6-Session Package
- $49.50 per session (save $33)
- Consistent social development
- Priority scheduling
Recommended for young dogs
12-Pack
12-Session Package
- $45.83 per session (save $110)
- Best value for regular attendees
- Monthly progress reports
For committed families
Safety During Freeplay
Our Protocols Don’t Change
Even though the session is less structured, our safety standards remain the same:
- High-pressure hose on-site: For emergency intervention if needed
- Multiple fence layers: Secure containment at all times
- First aid kit: Hemostatic agents, pressure bandages, emergency vet on speed dial
- Continuous supervision: Handlers maintain 10-foot proximity and watch every interaction
- Weather monitoring: Sessions canceled above 85°F or below 20°F wind chill
- Zero Level 4+ bites in 3 years: Our track record speaks for itself
Common Questions
If we’ve approved your dog for freeplay, yes. The structured session proved they can self-regulate and respond appropriately to other dogs. We wouldn’t move them to freeplay if we had concerns.
That’s perfectly fine. Many owners stay for the first few freeplay sessions, then transition to drop-off once they’re comfortable. You can also stay for part of a session and leave early—just let us know your plan.
Actually, the opposite. Freeplay allows dogs to practice the skills they’ve learned in a more natural setting. It’s like moving from driver’s ed to driving on quiet streets—they’re applying what they learned with less direct guidance. If we see any regression, we’ll recommend returning to structured sessions.
Absolutely. Some dogs benefit from a hybrid approach—freeplay most weeks with occasional structured sessions to reinforce specific skills. We can customize a plan based on your dog’s needs.
Ready to Graduate to Freeplay?
If your dog has completed a structured session with us, they’re likely ready.
