Dog Boarding Cost: 5 Service Types & Price Breakdown
Understanding the true cost of boarding your furry friend while you're away
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Understanding Dog Boarding Costs: What to Expect When Leaving Your Pet
When planning a trip without your furry friend, understanding dog boarding costs becomes essential for budgeting purposes. On average, dog boarding costs between $40-$50 per night, but this figure can vary significantly depending on your location, the type of boarding facility you choose, and the specific services included.
As a pet parent, you have several options when it comes to boarding your dog, each with different price points and levels of care. This comprehensive guide will break down the costs associated with different boarding options to help you make the best decision for both your pet and your wallet.
Average Dog Boarding Costs by Service Type
The type of boarding service you select will be the primary factor determining how much you’ll pay. From basic kennels to luxury in-home care, here’s what you can expect to pay for different boarding options:
| Service Type | Per Day/Night | Per Week | Per 2-Weeks | Per Month |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boarding with a sitter | $25 â $45 | $150 â $270 | $300 â $540 | $750 â $1,350 |
| Home boarding | $45 â $75 | $270 â $450 | $540 â $900 | $1,350 â $2,250 |
| Kennels | $25 â $55 | $140 â $175 | $280 â $350 | $750 â $1,650 |
| Veterinary clinics | $30 â $60 | $160 â $320 | $320 â $640 | $900 â $1,800 |
| Overnight daycare | $55 â $80 | $330 â $480 | $660 â $960 | $1,650 â $2,400 |
Traditional Dog Kennels: The Budget-Friendly Option
Dog kennels represent the most traditional and typically most affordable boarding option for pet parents. Kennel boarding generally costs between $25 and $55 per night, making it an economical choice for many dog owners.
At a traditional kennel, your dog will receive basic care that includes:
- Regular feeding and fresh water
- Daily walks or scheduled outdoor time
- Basic supervision and care
- A kennel or cage with bedding for sleeping
Many kennels offer weekly discounts for extended stays, which can be beneficial if you’re planning a longer vacation. While kennels provide essential care, they typically offer fewer personalized services than other boarding options. However, most facilities do provide add-on services for an additional fee:
- Extra walks or playtime
- One-on-one attention
- Special feeding arrangements
- Administration of medications
In-Home Boarding with a Sitter: Personalized Care
Boarding your dog with a pet sitter in their home offers a more personalized experience than a traditional kennel. This option typically costs between $25 and $45 per night, making it comparable to kennel boarding but with a more home-like environment.
When your dog stays with a sitter, they benefit from:
- A home environment rather than a cage
- More personalized attention
- Potentially fewer other dogs around (less stressful for some pets)
- Flexible scheduling and care routines
Many pet parents prefer this option for dogs who may experience anxiety in kennel environments or for those who need more personalized care. Sitters on platforms like Rover often have reviews from previous clients, helping you gauge the quality of care your pet will receive.
Home Boarding: Premium Care in Your Dog’s Familiar Environment
Home boarding, where a sitter stays in your home with your dog, represents a premium boarding option. This service typically costs between $45 and $75 per night, making it one of the more expensive boarding choices.
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The higher cost comes with significant benefits:
- Your dog stays in their familiar environment
- Maintained routine and regular schedule
- Personalized one-on-one care
- Home security while you’re away (occupied house)
- Plant watering and mail collection as added benefits
This option is ideal for dogs who experience separation anxiety or those who don’t adapt well to new environments. It’s also beneficial for dogs with special needs who require consistent routines and familiar surroundings.
Veterinary Clinics: Medical Supervision for Special Needs
Some veterinary clinics offer boarding services, typically costing between $30 and $60 per night. This option provides the added benefit of medical supervision, making it ideal for senior dogs or those with health conditions.
Boarding at a veterinary clinic typically includes:
- Regular monitoring by trained veterinary staff
- Immediate medical attention if needed
- Proper administration of medications
- Basic care including feeding, walking, and supervision
While veterinary clinics may not offer the same comforts as home boarding or even some kennels, the medical supervision makes this option worth considering for dogs with health concerns.
Overnight Daycare: Social and Active Boarding
Overnight daycare facilities combine the social aspects of daycare with overnight boarding services. This premium option costs between $55 and $80 per night, making it the most expensive standard boarding option.
The higher cost includes benefits such as:
- Extended playtime with other dogs
- More staff interaction and supervision
- Larger play areas and activities
- More comfortable sleeping arrangements
This option is ideal for highly social, active dogs who enjoy playing with other pets. The additional stimulation can help prevent boredom and anxiety while you’re away.
Additional Fees and Services: Understanding the Full Cost
When budgeting for dog boarding, it’s important to consider additional fees that may not be included in the base rate. Depending on the boarding provider, these extras can significantly impact the total cost:
Common Additional Fees
- Puppy care: +$6-10 per night (for dogs under 1 year)
- Additional dogs: +$40 per night (when boarding multiple pets)
- Multi-pet care: +$23 per pet per night (for mixed pet types)
- Medication administration: +$5-15 per day
- Bathing and grooming: +$8-30 per service
- Extended playtime: +$5-15 per session
- Pick-up and drop-off: +$10-25 each way
Holiday Rate Increases
Many boarding facilities and sitters charge premium rates during holiday periods, typically adding $10-20 per night to the standard rate. Common holidays with increased rates include:
- New Year’s Eve and Day
- Memorial Day weekend
- Fourth of July
- Labor Day weekend
- Thanksgiving
- Christmas Eve and Day
These rate increases reflect the higher demand during these periods and the fact that sitters are working during holidays when they might otherwise be with their own families.
Geographic Cost Variations: Location Matters
Where you live significantly impacts boarding costs. Major metropolitan areas typically charge higher rates than rural locations due to higher operating costs and increased demand.
For example, in Chicago as of May 2025, the median cost of dog boarding is $50 per night, with rates ranging from $26 to $66 per night depending on the sitter’s qualifications and amenities. Boarding your dog for a week in Chicago typically costs around $350.
Urban centers like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles generally have the highest boarding rates nationwide, while rural areas and smaller cities offer more affordable options.
How to Choose the Right Boarding Option for Your Dog
Selecting the right boarding option involves balancing cost with your dog’s specific needs and temperament. Consider these factors when making your decision:
Your Dog’s Personality and Needs
- Social dogs may thrive in kennel or daycare environments with other pets
- Anxious dogs might do better with in-home boarding or a house sitter
- Senior dogs or those with health issues might need the supervision of a vet clinic
- Dogs with special diets or medication needs require sitters comfortable with these responsibilities
Your Budget
Be realistic about what you can afford, especially for longer trips. Consider:
- The total length of stay
- Any holiday rate increases
- Additional services your dog might need
- Available discounts for longer stays
Booking in Advance
Popular boarding options, especially during peak travel seasons, often book up quickly. Securing your dog’s boarding well in advance can sometimes result in early booking discounts and ensures you get your preferred option.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Boarding
Q: How far in advance should I book dog boarding?
A: For regular weekends, booking 2-3 weeks in advance is usually sufficient. For holiday periods, aim to book 1-2 months ahead as these times fill up quickly.
Q: What should I pack for my dog’s boarding stay?
A: Typically, you should bring your dog’s food, medications, a favorite toy or blanket for comfort, and any special treats. Always include detailed feeding instructions and emergency contact information.
Q: Can I board dogs that aren’t spayed or neutered?
A: Many facilities accept unaltered dogs, but some have restrictions or charge additional fees. Always disclose this information when booking.
Q: Do boarding facilities require vaccinations?
A: Yes, most require proof of current rabies, distemper, and Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccinations. Some may also require canine influenza vaccines.
Q: What happens if my dog needs medical attention while boarding?
A: Reputable facilities will have protocols for emergencies, including contacting you and taking your dog to a veterinarian if necessary. Discuss this before boarding.
Q: Are there discounts available for multiple dogs or extended stays?
A: Many facilities offer multi-pet discounts (typically 10-20% off the second pet) and reduced rates for stays longer than a week.
Final Considerations: Value vs. Cost in Dog Boarding
When evaluating boarding options, consider the total value rather than focusing solely on the nightly rate. A slightly more expensive option that better suits your dog’s temperament may provide greater peace of mind and a better experience for your pet.
Remember that your dog’s comfort and safety while you’re away should be the primary consideration. By understanding the different boarding options and their associated costs, you can make an informed decision that works for both your pet and your budget.
References
- https://www.rover.com/blog/how-much-does-dog-boarding-cost/
- https://www.rover.com/blog/chicago-dog-boarding-prices/
- https://www.rover.com/chicago–il–dog-boarding/
- https://support.rover.com/hc/en-us/articles/207960126-How-much-does-it-cost-to-book-a-sitter-or-dog-walker
- https://www.petcareins.com/blog/dog-sitting-rates-how-much-should-you-charge
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