CHICAGO — Move over, humans. Chicago’s luxury pet industry is on the rise — with high-end dog salons, full-service canine hotels, and fashion boutiques catering to the city’s most pampered pups.
The city recently landed in the top 10 of Forbes’ “Best Cities for Dogs” 2025 list, thanks to its abundance of pet-friendly apartments, over 30 dog parks, and more than 16,000 square feet of open dog space.
Here’s a closer look at three standout Chicago-based businesses redefining what it means to live a five-star dog life.
Temple of the Dog: Grooming Meets Compassion in Logan Square
Founded in 2012 by Tara Evangelist, Temple of the Dog is far more than a grooming salon. Inspired by her late Labrador Mickey, Evangelist built a space that emphasizes certified grooming expertise, compassion, and safety.
“There’s no license required to be a dog groomer in Illinois, but that’s not good enough for us,” Evangelist said. “We want our groomers to have formal training and experience to keep dogs safe and healthy.”
With 10 certified groomers on staff, Temple of the Dog offers advanced services like medicated baths, allergy treatments, and early detection of skin or dental issues. The salon also prioritizes breed-specific care and is often the first line of health observation for many pet owners.
Despite the growth of dog-friendly amenities, Evangelist says she’d love to see more summer patios open to pups:
“Compared to other cities, Chicago is pretty welcoming — but there’s still room to grow.”
DOG. Hotel | Daycare: The ‘Neiman Marcus’ of Pet Hospitality
At DOG. Hotel | Daycare, luxury is the standard. With two locations including a new facility in Lakeshore East, owner Bridget Lyons has turned pet boarding into a white-glove experience.
“This is not a Walmart. We are a Neiman Marcus,” Lyons said.
The 11,000-square-foot space features:
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24/7 in-person care
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In-suite webcams
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Air purification systems
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Biodegradable, eco-conscious design
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No hidden fees for early or late pick-up
Clients can also take advantage of Luxe Pet Transportation and Yard Bark Social, two new services that expand the brand’s presence in the lifestyle space.
With return customers and concierge-level care, DOG. has carved a niche as Chicago’s go-to luxury pet resort.
Tails in the City: Designer Style Meets Dog Treat Heaven
For more than two decades, Tails in the City has dressed Chicago’s pets in high-end dog fashion. From cashmere sweaters to Swarovski-studded collars, the Gold Coast boutique is the ultimate destination for stylish pups.
Co-founded by fashion retail veterans Philip and Bruce Haas, the shop sources exclusive products from Italy, New York, California, and the UK, offering a “good, better, best” range to fit every budget.
“Our customers want the latest. Whether it’s a Chewy Vuiton squeaky toy or a handmade Italian snow suit — we’ve got it,” Haas said.
And the boutique’s standout feature?
A treat table that looks like a French patisserie, offering freshly baked, holiday-themed dog treats that keep both pets and owners coming back.
Would you splurge on a Swarovski collar or 24/7 dog concierge care? Have you tried a dog hotel in Chicago?
Share your pup’s luxury story at ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
