How Much Does Dog Boarding Cost?

The average cost to board a dog ranges between $18 and $120 a day, depending on the kind of facility you choose.³^,⁴ Whether you’re going on a trip and your pup can’t tag along or you’re just looking to get your dog out of the house, boarding can be a great option when you need to take a break. Like veterinary care, boarding costs vary from city to city. Some dog boarding services will pass on their overhead costs — building maintenance, taxes, and other fees — to pet parents so it’s important to do your homework! Here’s what you can expect while looking for a reliable dog boarding service.

At a Glance: How Much Does It Cost to Board a Dog?

There are various options to board your dog: kennels, dog hotels, daycares, veterinary care, and dog sitters. As you can imagine, each offers very different experiences that may or may not fit your budget. Many boarding services offer very basic care while others are basically luxury retreats for the four legged friend. Some facilities, like dog sitters, can be limited to where you live. Here are the national averages for the most common facilities.³^,⁴

Take a moment to jot down what you need and want while your pup is away. Now that you have your list in hand, let’s figure out what the different facilities are like.

Dog kennels vs. dog hotels

A dog kennel is the standard type of dog boarding where your dog’s basic needs are met: food, water, shelter, and playtime. Dog kennels tend to be the most prevalent and the least expensive option for pet parents. Some kennels can be as low as $15 a night, while others can charge up to $60 a night, so expect to spend somewhere close to $400 if you’re gone for a week.³^,⁴

On the other hand, dog hotels have all these amenities plus other perks like a dog bed, a free roam environment with 24-hour supervision, and other services for you to choose from. For example, some hotels offer personalized luxury suites, on-site grooming, and training classes. The average base rate for dog hotels may be $50, but it can easily cost up to $120 a night for the most luxurious hotel.³^,⁴

Veterinary boarding

Another option available is to board your dog at a local veterinarian. Veterinarian boarding fees can range from as low as $20 a night to as high as $55. This is a good middle-of-the-road budget option for you if your dog takes medication daily or requires additional professional care. You can trust vets to manage ongoing dietary and medical care, especially for senior dogs who need extra love.⁵

Ask your vet if they offer these services and what amenities the charges include. Some veterinarians offer discounts for extended stays or multiple dogs.⁵

Additional costs when boarding

There may be additional costs to board your dog you should be mindful of, including optional services or fees for the care of your dog. Some examples include:

• Food: While you will be providing your dog’s food, some facilities offer gourmet meals for dogs for an additional fee. Note that you’ll be charged if you don’t provide your pup their own food.⁶
• Training: Opt to enroll your dog in a training course while you’re away to get the most for your money and teach them a new skill.
• Grooming: Have a long-haired pup? Some dog hotels have groomers on-site who can spruce up your dog before you come home.
• Collection: This is a lesser known service where the borders pick up your dog from your home and drop them off after their stay. Ask your potential boarding service if they offer this benefit to learn more about their individual fees.
• Medication: Some kennels may charge you for administering medication if you choose not to board your dog at a vet. Be sure to get answers about this before booking to avoid surprise fees.
• Multiple Dogs: Many dog boarding services offer discounts when you board more than one dog at the same time. For example, the first dog may cost $22 per night but boarding a second dog could be reduced to $18.
• Behavioral Issues: Your daily rate may rise if your dog needs to be secluded due to aggression or other behavioral concerns. This is because of the additional care taken by the staff to protect themselves and the other animals.

Be sure to get a detailed list of all fees during your visit of the facility if it isn’t listed alongside your quote. Otherwise, you may blow past your budget.

Alternatives to Dog Boarding

Leaving your dog with strangers overnight can feel daunting, but there are other options if you’re unable or unwilling to spend money on a dog boarding service without the individualized care other providers can give.

Dog sitters

Dog sitters, or “in-home dog boarding,” can cost as little as $20 an hour but some sitters charge as much as $100 in major cities. Hiring a dog sitter is a great way to ensure your dog gets the personal attention they deserve. Most dog sitters require you to keep the dog in their home while others don’t. Shop around by asking family and friends who they recommend. Remember to screen these folks and arrange an in-person meeting with the sitter and your pup with your supervision to see how they and your dog interact with one another to ensure your pet’s safety.

Doggy daycare

Day boarding — often called “doggy daycare” — may also be an option for folks who don’t need someone to watch their dog overnight. Day boarding services can charge as little as $3 per hour for one dog. Some facilities offer packages for weekly visits and multi-pet households that can cost up to $500.⁶ Pet parents who work long hours or live in apartments may find doggy daycares can help their dogs get exercise, socialize with other dogs, and get the special attention they need.

What To Look For in a Dog Boarding Service: A Checklist

It’s your responsibility to ensure your dog gets the most positive experience possible, so do your homework! Here’s a quick checklist to help you find the best place for your family pet.

1. ✔️   Make a wish list for the experience your dog needs.
2. ✔️   Google facilities in your area that offer what you want.
3. ✔️   Get multiple quotes from facilities in your area.
4. ✔️   Choose the best quote and book a time to visit the facility.
5. ✔️   If you find the right place, prepare your dog for their stay.

Proceed with caution as you narrow down your search. If possible, get your quotes in person so you can have a tour of the facilities and meet the staff.⁷ Ask questions about how often the kennels are cleaned and what the procedures are for preventing communicable diseases, like kennel cough.⁷ Most dog boarders require proof of vaccinations (e.g., rabies) but it doesn’t hurt to ask.

Preparing for dog boarding

Once you settle on a dog sitter or a boarding service, it’s time to prepare your dog for their time apart from you. Gather items that will make their separation anxiety easier to deal with like blankets or a t-shirt with your scent.⁷ A responsible caretaker will typically require these items before taking your pup into their care, so be prepared to provide their preferred bedding, snacks, and toys.

Write out your dog's normal schedule, especially when they eat and take walks. This step is critical to avoid behavioral issues while also keeping your dog to their established routine. Provide the boarding service all the medications and supplements they need, along with care instructions. Lastly, give the boarding service your veterinarian's contact information. This helps make sure all the humans involved understand what to do and who to reach in the case of emergencies.

Preparing for Emergencies? A Dog Insurance Policy Can Help

Pet parents may have anxiety about leaving their companions with strangers; they may be fearful of illness or injury. Consider a MetLife dog insurance policy, which can cover the cost of emergency visits.¹^,² Get a quote today to see how affordable it is to be fully prepared, especially when you’re away.