Dog Boarding Cost: A Comprehensive Guide to Planning and Budgeting

Planning for dog boarding costs can be overwhelming, but understanding the factors that influence the price can help you make informed decisions.

Dog boarding costs vary depending on factors such as location, services offered, and facility type.

In the US, the average cost of dog boarding is around $75 per day for a standard stay. This cost can range from $50 to $150 per day, depending on the facility and services.

Factors that can increase the cost of dog boarding include add-on services like grooming, training, and medication administration.

The cost of boarding a dog can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the length of stay, type of facility, and services provided.

On average, dog boarding kennels charge about $100 to $125 to board your dog for 5 days, with dog daycare included for free in most boarding packages.

The average daily dog boarding rate is $25, with some facilities charging up to $55 per night, while luxury dog boarding hotels can cost between $75 and $95 per night.

Dog boarding rates can also depend on the number of dogs you have, with some facilities charging the same daily amount for all dogs, while others may give you a discount if you board multiple dogs.

Here's a breakdown of the average cost of boarding a dog for different lengths of stay:

In-home dog boarding can range from $10 to $15 per hour or $45 to $75 per night, while dog kennels can cost between $18 and $60 per night.

Additional fees can add up quickly when boarding your dog, so it's essential to understand what you might be charged for. Some boarding services offer gourmet meals for dogs, which can cost extra.

If you don't provide your dog's food, you'll be charged for the service. This can be a surprise expense, so be sure to ask about it when inquiring about boarding costs. I've seen this happen to friends who didn't realize they'd be charged for food.

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Training courses are another optional service that can be pricey. Enrolling your dog in a training course can be a great way to teach them a new skill, but it's essential to factor in the cost.

Grooming services are also available at some dog hotels, which can be a convenient option for dogs with long hair. Some facilities have on-site groomers who can give your dog a trim before you pick them up.

Collection services, where the boarding staff pick up your dog from your home and drop them off after their stay, may also incur an extra fee. This can be a convenient option, but it's essential to ask about the cost.

If your dog requires medication, some kennels may charge you for administering it, so be sure to ask about this before booking. This can be a significant expense, so it's crucial to factor it in.

Some boarding services offer discounts for boarding multiple dogs at the same time. For example, the first dog might cost $22 per night, but the second dog could be reduced to $18.

If your dog has behavioral issues, such as aggression, the daily rate may increase due to the additional care taken by the staff. This can be a significant expense, so it's essential to disclose any behavioral concerns when inquiring about boarding costs.

Here are some additional fees to consider:

Dog boarding costs can vary depending on several factors, including the length of stay and the type of facility. The average cost to board a dog for 5 days is around $100 to $125.

Daytime playtime with other dogs is often included in the cost, but you may be able to add extra play or cuddle time for a fee. Some boarding services offer special rates for longer stays, such as 10- or 25-day stays, and may even offer discounts for boarding multiple dogs.

The average cost of dog boarding is around $35 per night, which can add up quickly if you're boarding your dog for an extended period. You can expect to pay around $25 per day, $40 per night, or $150 per week, depending on the facility and the length of your dog's stay.

Some factors that can drive up the cost of dog boarding include the size of the space your dog needs, the number of dogs you have, and the type of facility you choose. For example, in-home boarding can range from no-frills kennels to luxurious hotel-like rooms with elevated beds and TVs.

Here's a breakdown of the average costs for 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.

You can consider asking a trusted friend or family member to dog sit for you, as this can be a cost-effective alternative to traditional dog boarding.

Having your dog stay with a friend or family member can also provide them with the individualized care they need, as they can establish a routine and bond with your dog.

In some cases, you might be able to ask your veterinarian for recommendations on dog sitters or pet care services that offer more personalized attention.

A dog sitter can provide your dog with the exercise and attention they need while you're away, which can be especially important for high-energy breeds.

You can also consider hiring a dog walker to take your dog out for a walk during the day, which can help to reduce anxiety and provide them with some much-needed exercise.

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When you're considering dog boarding, it's essential to factor in the costs. Average dog boarding rates run about $140 to $175 per week for the typical kennel.

Luxury dog hotels, on the other hand, can be quite pricey, with rates ranging from $525 to $675 per week.

A unique perspective: In-home Dog Boarding Rates

Planning for a month-long trip can be a challenge, especially when it comes to your furry friend. Monthly dog boarding rates can range from $460 to $720 in a kennel or $950 to $2,600 in a luxury dog hotel, plus extra costs for additional services.

To give you a better idea, here are some estimated monthly costs for dog boarding:

Keep in mind that these rates may vary depending on the facility and your dog's specific needs. If you're considering long-term doggy daycare, be prepared for costs ranging from $2,000 to $3,000 for 6 months.

Booking time wisely is crucial to avoid extra costs. Holidays like Easter, Christmas, and New Year have additional rates per dog and night, ranging from $5 to $10.

If you plan to leave your dog behind during the busy summer season, it's essential to book early.

If you're looking for an affordable option, dog kennels can be as low as $15 a night, making them a great choice for budget-conscious pet parents.

Some dog kennels charge up to $60 a night, so you should budget around $400 for a week-long stay.

Dog hotels, on the other hand, come with a higher price tag, with an average base rate of $50 a night.

For the most luxurious dog hotels, prices can easily exceed $120 a night, making them a splurge for many pet owners.

The cost of boarding a dog can vary significantly depending on the type of facility and services offered. Luxury dog boarding hotels can cost between $75 and $95 per night.

PetSmart dog boarding rates are generally more affordable, ranging from $30 to $55 per night. They often offer discounts for multi-night stays.

If you're looking for a more budget-friendly option, dog kennels can cost between $18 and $60 per night. In-home dog boarding or dog sitting services can also be a good option, with prices ranging from $10 to $15 per hour or $45 to $75 per night.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated costs for boarding a dog for a week:

Keep in mind that these are just estimates, and the actual cost may vary depending on the specific facility and services chosen.

It's essential to do your homework before reserving a dog boarding service. This means asking for recommendations from friends, family, veterinarian, or groomer, and checking out facilities before booking a stay.

A facility unwilling to accommodate a site visit is a major red flag. Look for a clean and well-maintained exterior and interior, and make sure staff have training certificates or belong to a professional association.

You should also observe how your dog responds to the environment and people during a site visit. If your dog is acting weird, it may be due to unfamiliarity, in which case taking them to doggy daycare at the facility can help them get used to the new environment.

Special Needs Day Care is a great option for dogs that require extra attention or medical care. Some facilities offer specialized care for nonsocial dogs or those with medical needs, which can cost up to $55/night.

You should prepare your dog for specialized care by researching facilities that offer these services. This will help ensure your dog receives the best care possible.

In-Home Care offers a comfortable and homey experience for your furry friend. Prices for in-home boarding range from $15 to $50 per day or night, depending on the experience and qualifications of the dog sitter.

You can rest assured that sitters are typically background checked for your peace of mind. Many sitters register with reputable organizations like the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters International.

Suggestion: Dog Boarding in Home

Start by asking for recommendations from friends, family, your veterinarian, or groomer to find a good dog boarding facility.

A starting point is to check the IBPSA member directory to find organizations committed to high standards of care.

This is an unregulated industry, so it's essential to do your own research and check out facilities before booking a stay.

Red flags include a facility unwilling to accommodate a site visit, a shabby exterior, or a dirty interior.

Make sure the boarding facility staff have training and look for certificates of training hung on the walls.

If you don't see certificates, ask if they're certified or belong to a professional association, like the American Kennel Club (AKC).

Consider scheduling a visit to the facility to see how your dog responds to the environment and people.

You'll notice if your pup is acting weird, and it's up to you to decipher whether it's because your dog dislikes the facility or just the unfamiliar place.

If your dog is wary, taking them to a few days of doggy daycare at the facility may help them get used to the new environment.

Ideally, you want to find a boarding facility within your budget that's a safe and happy place for your pup to stay.

Additional reading: Dog Obedience Training Petsmart

Posting a task for dog boarding is a great way to find a suitable facility for your pet. It's free and takes only a minute to post a task on our platform.

You'll get a personalized quote to ease your worries about your pet's stay. Our platform allows you to post a task with your price in mind, then get offers from qualified dog boarding experts.

To get started, make sure you have a clear idea of the dog boarding price list and what factors affect average dog boarding costs. This will help you negotiate a fair price for your pet's stay.

Before posting a task, check if the facility you're interested in has the necessary qualifications and reviews. You can also ask about their experience with dogs of your pet's age and breed.

Here are some things to check when booking a dog boarding service:

By posting a task and doing your research, you can find a great facility for your pet and have peace of mind while you're away.