Dogtopia seeks land use approval for expansion in Denver area

The Westminster City Council held a study session on August 18, 2025, focusing on the proposed land use for a local Dogtopia facility. The meeting began with a presentation from the facility's management, highlighting their operations and community contributions.

The Dogtopia facility, which has been operational for three and a half years, features rubberized flooring and individual rooms designed for different dog temperaments and sizes. The facility categorizes dogs into three groups: toy box dogs (under 25 pounds), energetic "rompers," and older dogs who prefer a calmer environment. The management emphasized the importance of safety and quality care, noting their Top Dog certification, which only 20% of Dogtopia locations achieve.

The facility currently accommodates up to 110 dogs, with an average attendance of about 90 dogs twice a week. The management reported a strong tax base of approximately $800,000 and a high net promoter score of 92, indicating customer satisfaction. They also mentioned the presence of webcams in the facility, allowing pet owners to monitor their dogs remotely.

A significant part of the discussion revolved around the land use application for the facility. The management expressed the need for a Planned Development Plan (PDP) to ensure that the land use is tied to the property rather than the business owner. This would allow for continuity in operations should the ownership change in the future. Council members raised questions regarding the implications of this arrangement, particularly concerning the approval process for new owners.

The meeting concluded with a consensus among council members regarding the approval of the land use application, with further discussions anticipated to finalize the details. The management also highlighted their commitment to community service, having raised over $3 million for training service dogs for veterans and other causes.

Overall, the session underscored the facility's role in the community and the importance of establishing a stable operational framework for future growth and service continuity.