What Dogs Want is an enrichment center built just for dogs — a place where they can learn important life skills while enjoying activities that let them be dogs.

Most of our pet dogs no longer do the jobs they were originally bred for — like herding, hunting, or guarding — so they need healthy ways to express those natural instincts. At What Dogs Want, we provide safe, fun outlets for your dog’s natural behaviors, from running, digging, and swimming to problem-solving, teamwork, scent work, and creative thinking. It’s all designed to build their confidence, teach them practical skills, and keep their bodies and minds strong.

Our team of certified Family Dog Mediators — experienced dog behavior professionals — understands each dog as an individual. We create meaningful, confidence-boosting activities tailored to your dog’s unique needs, helping them learn to feel comfortable and capable in the world around them.

And we’re here for dog parents, too. We’ll help you strengthen your bond with your dog, better understand their behavior, and learn enrichment strategies to keep the progress going at home with the people they love the most — you!

Our Academy sits in the heart of central Phoenix. It’s a friendly, safe, and thoughtfully designed space, built entirely from a dog’s perspective. There are endless opportunities to explore: sniff stations, wind chimes, water features, puzzles, and even an edible garden.

What Dogs Want is the only enrichment center of its kind — a place where dogs can build skills, burn energy, and just be dogs.