There's no single best way to look after a dog while you're away. A confident, sociable young dog might love a week at a busy kennel, while an older or anxious dog may be much happier at home with a sitter. Here's how the main options compare.
Boarding kennels
Your dog stays at a kennel or boarding facility, usually in their own run or room, with set times for meals, walks and play.
Good for: confident dogs, longer trips, and dogs who need supervision around the clock.
Things to know:
- Most kennels ask for up-to-date vaccinations, often including kennel cough. Check what they need well before your trip.
- Popular kennels book up early around holidays.
- A new place with lots of barking can be stressful for some dogs. A trial night before a long stay helps.
Ask: How much time do dogs spend outside their kennel? Are staff on site overnight? What happens if a dog gets sick?
Pet sitters
A sitter looks after your dog in your home. Some visit a few times a day; others stay overnight.
Good for: older dogs, anxious dogs, dogs with medical needs, and homes with several pets.
Things to know:
- Your dog keeps their usual routine, bed and surroundings.
- Drop-in visits suit cats and independent dogs better than dogs who don't like being alone.
- Overnight sitting usually costs more than kennels, especially for one dog. For several pets, it can work out cheaper.
Ask: Are you insured and bonded? Can you give references? What will you do if my dog becomes ill?
Doggy daycare
Daycare is for the daytime only: your dog spends the day playing and resting with other dogs, and comes home in the evening.
Good for: sociable, energetic dogs whose owners work long days.
Things to know:
- Most daycares assess dogs before accepting them, and some don't take dogs who aren't spayed or neutered.
- It's not ideal for dogs who are nervous around other dogs. A dog walker may suit them better.
- Many daycares also offer overnight boarding, which helps if your dog already knows the place.
How to choose
Think about your dog first:
- Do they enjoy other dogs? Daycare and kennels are social; a sitter is calmer.
- How do they cope with change? Dogs who struggle with new places do better at home.
- Do they need medication or special care? Ask exactly who gives it, and when.
- How long will you be away? For a day, daycare or a walker; for a week or more, boarding or a sitter.
Whichever you choose, visit first, ask lots of questions, and try a short stay before a long one.
Find pet boarding, pet sitters and doggy daycare near you.