Understanding Dog Boarding Costs: What to Expect
Dog boarding offers peace of mind when you need to be away from your furry friend. Whether you're traveling for business, taking a vacation, or handling an emergency, knowing your dog is safe and cared for is invaluable. But how much should you budget for this service? Let's take a closer look at the factors that influence dog boarding prices and what you can expect when booking a stay.
What Is Dog Boarding?
Dog boarding means leaving your pet at a facility, kennel, or pet hotel where trained staff provide food, exercise, and attention. These places vary widely in amenities—from basic kennels to luxury suites—and some even offer specialized care for pets with medical needs. If you'd rather not use a facility, alternatives include having friends or family care for your dog at home.
Main Factors Affecting Dog Boarding Prices
The cost of dog boarding isn't one-size-fits-all. Several factors come into play:
- Location: Urban areas usually charge more than rural ones.
- Duration: Longer stays may qualify for discounts or package rates.
- Facility Type: Basic kennels are less expensive than luxury pet hotels.
- Dog Size & Breed: Larger breeds or those needing special care often cost more.
- Additional Services: Grooming, training, play sessions, and medical care add to the price.
Average Dog Boarding Prices
The national average for dog boarding ranges from $25 to $150 per night. Most standard facilities charge between $40 and $96 per night. Here’s a breakdown by type:
- Traditional Kennels: $25–$55 per night (basic care)
- Veterinary Boarding: $30–$60 per night (includes medical supervision)
- Overnight Doggy Daycare: $55–$80 per night (more individualized attention)
- Sitter Boarding (at sitter’s or owner’s home): $25–$75 per night
If you're in a major city like New York or San Francisco, expect rates above $60 per night. Smaller cities and rural areas often offer rates as low as $30–$45 nightly.
Add-Ons and Extra Charges
You might see extra fees depending on your dog's needs or the services you choose:
- Puppy surcharge: $5–$10 more per night
- Medication administration: Adds $10–$20 daily
- One-on-one care/enrichment: Additional daily charges
- Transportation (pick-up/drop-off): Usually $10–$20 each way
- Tipping caregivers: Commonly 10%–20% of the total fee
Certain Pricing Structures—Examples
- Standard boarding: $50–$150/night; longer stays may reduce nightly rate (e.g., three nights at $114/night vs. one night at $120)
- Kennel runs: Single dog ($40), two dogs together ($69), three dogs ($93) per night
- Suite boarding: Single ($44), two dogs ($79), three dogs ($108); premium suites can go up to $75/day with discounts for multiple dogs
- Add-ons for extra dogs or special care: Typically an extra $10–$30/night per dog/service
Savings Tips & Packages
If you're looking to save money on boarding costs, try these strategies:
- Book in advance—last-minute stays can be pricier.
- Select package deals or loyalty programs if available.
- Aim for multi-pet discounts if you have more than one animal.
- Ask about military, first-time customer, or seasonal discounts.
- Compare several providers in your area before choosing.
Amenities That Increase Cost
You’ll pay more if you want luxury perks like private suites, webcams so you can check in remotely, gourmet diets, personal playtime sessions, or grooming/training add-ons. These are great if your pet needs extra attention but will increase your total bill significantly.
Diverse Options Beyond Dogs—And Special Considerations
If you have cats or other pets, many facilities also offer cat boarding (typically $30–$64/night). Exotic pets usually require special arrangements. For senior pets or those with health concerns, veterinary boarding or in-home sitting might be better options—and prices reflect the higher level of care required.
Selecting the Right Facility
- Visit in advance: Check cleanliness and staff engagement.
- Read reviews/ask around: Local pet owners and veterinarians offer valuable insights.
- Ask questions: Inquire about routines, feeding schedules, staff-to-dog ratios, amenities offered, health/safety measures (including vaccination requirements), and emergency procedures.
If your dog has special needs—medical requirements, anxiety issues—make sure the facility is equipped to handle them before booking.
A Few Final Preparation Tips Before Boarding Your Dog
- Update all vaccinations well before drop-off day.
- Tell staff about any medications/medical needs in detail.
- Double-check identification tags and microchip info are current.
- Avoid sudden dietary changes right before their stay to prevent stomach upset.
The right facility balances cost with the level of care your pet needs. With careful planning and research into local options (and by understanding what drives pricing), you'll find a solution that fits both your budget and your dog's comfort level while you're away.
