In a statement to customers, owner Sara Broetje explained the difficult decision, citing an inability to secure a workable lease renewal and increasing costs. "Although this may feel abrupt, please know that this was not an easy decision," she wrote. "Due to our inability to secure a workable lease renewal coupled with increasing costs of doing business, it became clear this was sadly our only choice."
The Dog Society was an ambitious project, launched in February 2022 with the goal of creating a true "puptopia" in San Diego. Transforming an 8,500-square-foot former furniture store, it was designed to be a one-stop destination for dog lovers, offering both services and social spaces under one roof. The facility featured indoor and outdoor play areas, a beer garden, shuffleboard, cornhole, putt-putt golf, and a café serving coffee, kombucha, and casual fare. It was envisioned as more than just a pet care business - it aimed to build a community where people and their dogs could connect.
"We all share a love for our pups, and we hope to create a sense of community, belonging, and connection for friends and family here - whether they're on two legs or four,” Broetje said in 2022 when the business first opened. The concept quickly gained a loyal following, drawing dog owners from across the city who embraced its blend of entertainment, relaxation, and pet services.
While The Dog Society's current chapter is coming to an end, Broetje expressed optimism for a potential future revival. “It is my hope that we can re-open at a different location sometime in the future,” she wrote. For now, the closure marks the end of an ambitious effort to redefine pet-friendly spaces in San Diego, but its impact on the community - and the possibility of a future return - remains to be seen.
The facility, which , will cease operations in two phases: the bar and café will close on February 16, while dog daycare, boarding, and grooming will end on March 2. Customers with outstanding balances or account credits will be contacted beginning the week of March 3 as The Dog Society finalizes its closure process. Those with questions can reach out via phone at 619.780.0235 or email at [email protected].
The Dog Society is located at 6331 University Avenue in San Diego's Rolando neighborhood. For more information, visit dogsocietysd.com.
