The average price for a dog kennel per day can range widely, often falling between \$25 and \$75, but costs vary based on location, services offered, and the type of facility you choose.
Deciding where to leave your dog while you travel or work requires careful thought about safety, comfort, and, of course, cost. Kenneling your dog is a common solution, but the expense is rarely standard. This guide will help you explore the factors that influence dog boarding rates and give you a clear picture of what you might pay for daily care.
Factors Setting Dog Boarding Rates
Many things change the final price you pay for dog care. It is not just about a roof and a bowl of food. Location, services, and the facility’s reputation all play a big role in setting pet boarding fees per day.
Geographic Location’s Impact on Price
Where you live matters a lot. Big cities cost more than small towns. If you are in a major metropolitan area, expect higher prices for everything, including dog care.
- High Cost of Living Areas: Facilities here must pay more for rent and staff. This cost gets passed on to you. You will see higher local dog boarding prices.
- Rural Areas: These kennels often have lower overhead. This can lead to more affordable options. They often feature budget dog kennel rates.
Type of Facility: Kennel vs. Hotel
The type of place you choose heavily influences the daily cost for dog daycare or overnight stays.
Standard Kennels and Boarding Centers
These places offer basic care. Dogs usually have their own runs or kennels. Care is focused on safety and meeting basic needs like feeding and potty breaks.
- What to Expect: A secure, clean space. Staff generally follow a set schedule.
- Pricing: These are usually the most cost-effective. They fit well within a tighter budget.
Dog Daycare Facilities
If you just need daytime supervision, daycare is the choice. Prices are often calculated hourly or daily.
- Focus: Socialization and activity during the day. Dogs often play in supervised groups.
- Cost Note: Daily cost for dog daycare is usually less than an overnight stay, but premium daycare with extra attention costs more.
Luxury Dog Boarding (Dog Hotels)
These facilities offer a premium experience. They are often called “dog hotels.” They aim to mimic a home environment.
- Amenities: Private suites, soft bedding, TV access, and often webcams for owners to view their pets.
- Pricing: These command the highest rates. Luxury dog kennel prices can easily double or triple standard rates. Asking how much is a dog hotel per day will yield a much higher answer.
Dog Size and Breed Considerations
Kennels often base their pricing partly on the size of your dog. Bigger dogs need more space, more food, and sometimes more handling time.
- Small Dogs (under 25 lbs): Often receive the lowest rates.
- Large Dogs (over 75 lbs): Usually incur a surcharge or are priced in a higher tier.
Some kennels may also charge extra for breeds deemed “high-risk” or those requiring special handling due to temperament.
Fathoming Overnight Dog Boarding Charges
Overnight dog boarding charges cover more than just keeping the dog safe while sleeping. They include all the care provided over a 24-hour period, or across two calendar days.
Basic Overnight Boarding Fees
This is the core price. It includes:
- A designated sleeping area (kennel, run, or suite).
- Scheduled feedings with provided or owner-supplied food.
- Multiple potty breaks throughout the day.
- Basic supervision.
| Dog Size | Typical Price Range (Per Night) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small | \$25 – \$45 | Lower end for basic kennels. |
| Medium | \$35 – \$55 | Standard comfort level. |
| Large | \$45 – \$75+ | Higher costs due to space needs. |
Added Fees and Surcharges
Many standard dog boarding rates have extra charges attached for specific needs. Always check for these hidden costs when comparing dog boarding costs.
Medication Administration
If your dog needs oral medication, a small fee per administration is common. Complex injections or subcutaneous fluids cost much more.
Special Feeding Requirements
If your dog has severe allergies or requires specialized, raw, or prescription diets that the facility must prepare separately, expect a surcharge.
Potty Breaks and Playtime
Standard boarding usually includes set times for outdoor access. If you want extra, one-on-one playtime or more frequent private potty breaks, these are often sold as add-ons.
Holiday and Peak Season Surcharges
Holidays (like Christmas, Thanksgiving, and major summer weekends) see massive demand. Kennels frequently add a 20% to 50% surcharge during these peak times. Book early to avoid surprise fees.
Interpreting Daily Costs for Dog Daycare
Dog daycare is for busy owners who need their dogs looked after during work hours. While cheaper than overnight stays, the price structure is important.
Standard Daily Rates
Most daycare centers charge per full day. Some offer half-day rates, which are typically 50-60% of the full-day price.
- Standard Daycare: \$20 – \$40 per day. This usually covers supervised group play.
The Value of Bulk Packages
If you use daycare regularly, buying packages saves money. This is a key way to lower your overall daily cost for dog daycare.
- 10-Day Package: Often provides a 5% to 10% discount per day.
- Monthly Pass: Offers the deepest discount for frequent users, sometimes translating to the lowest budget dog kennel rates for recurring care.
Premium Daycare Services
Some high-end daycares offer specialized programs that increase the cost:
- Enrichment Activities: One-on-one training sessions or puzzle games cost extra.
- Small Group Play: Limiting the group size for dogs who don’t do well with large, boisterous packs costs more than open-room play.
Deciphering Luxury Dog Kennel Prices
If you consider your dog part of the family and want them pampered, you might look into a dog hotel. How much is a dog hotel per day? Expect prices from \$80 to over \$150 per night.
What Justifies High Prices?
Luxury facilities justify their high pet boarding fees per day through superior amenities and staffing ratios.
- Private Suites: These are not cages. They are room-sized spaces, often with human-quality beds, decorative themes, and sometimes even windows.
- Gourmet Meals: Some hotels offer menus cooked fresh daily, far above standard kibble.
- Staff Attention: Luxury spots maintain a much lower dog-to-staff ratio. This means more personal attention and cuddles for your pet.
- Extras: Spa services, one-on-one walks in private yards, and even bedtime tuck-ins are common inclusions that drive up the price.
When comparing dog boarding costs, a luxury stay is an experience, not just accommodation.
Budget Dog Kennel Rates vs. Full Service
Not every owner can afford the top tier. Many look for the most economical option that still ensures safety. Finding budget dog kennel rates requires research.
Where to Find Budget Options
- Local, Independent Kennels: Small, family-run boarding facilities often have lower overhead than large corporate centers.
- Veterinary Clinics: Some vets offer boarding primarily for post-surgical recovery or short stays. Their rates can be competitive if they are not focusing on luxury.
- Experienced Sitters (In-Home): While not strictly “kenneling,” using a vetted, insured sitter who hosts your dog in their home is often cheaper than traditional boarding.
Caveats for Budget Boarding
When chasing low prices, you must inspect the facility thoroughly. Safety and hygiene cannot be skipped.
- Ask About Staffing: Is the facility adequately staffed, even if they are on a budget?
- Visit Unannounced (If Allowed): Check cleanliness and the general demeanor of the dogs.
- Vaccination Records: Ensure they strictly enforce required vaccinations, regardless of the price point.
Hidden Costs and Extra Services
Beyond the base rate, several services can quickly inflate your final bill. These are crucial when calculating the total average price for a dog kennel.
Pick-up and Drop-off Fees
Some facilities offer transportation services. If you cannot bring your dog or pick them up during regular hours, expect an extra fee. Late pick-up fees are steep—often charged per minute after the closing time.
Grooming and Bathing
Many kennels offer a complimentary bath before pick-up, especially for stays longer than three days. If not included, adding a full grooming service on the day of departure will increase your final bill significantly.
Separate Fees for Socialization
If your dog is not suitable for large group play (perhaps they are shy, elderly, or reactive), facilities will charge for private yard time or one-on-one walks. This personalized attention raises the overnight dog boarding charges.
Food Costs
While many kennels provide basic food, if your dog needs something specific (e.g., grain-free, high-protein), bringing your own food is usually required. Some facilities charge a small fee to handle and serve specialized meals.
Comparing Dog Boarding Costs: A Step-by-Step Approach
To get the best value, you need a structured way of comparing dog boarding costs across different providers in your area.
Step 1: Define Your Needs Clearly
Before calling anyone, know exactly what you need:
- Duration: How many days/nights?
- Activity Level: Does your dog need constant play, or are they happy relaxing?
- Medical Needs: Are medications required?
- Space Preference: Basic run, private room, or luxury suite?
Step 2: Gather Initial Quotes
Call three types of facilities: a standard kennel, a daycare center (if staying short-term), and one luxury option. Get the baseline rate for your dog’s size. This establishes your local price range.
Step 3: Inquire About “All-Inclusive” Pricing
Ask providers directly: “What is the final price for a three-night stay, including two potty breaks a day and basic feeding?” This helps avoid confusion between a base rate and an average price for a dog kennel that includes essentials.
Step 4: Clarify Add-On Costs
Use a checklist to compare the extras you might need:
- Extra play session cost?
- Medication fee?
- Holiday surcharge?
Step 5: Factor in Location and Convenience
A cheaper kennel 45 minutes away might end up costing you more in gas and time than a slightly pricier one nearby. Convenience plays a role in the real-world cost calculation.
Health and Safety: The Non-Negotiable Cost Factor
When discussing dog boarding rates, it is vital to remember that the lowest price is not always the best value if it compromises your dog’s well-being. Investing slightly more for verifiable safety standards is often worthwhile.
Vaccinations and Health Protocols
All reputable facilities require proof of current vaccinations (Rabies, DHPP, Bordetella). Some high-end daycare centers also require a negative fecal test result within the last six months. If a facility waives these requirements to lower their budget dog kennel rates, treat it as a major red flag.
Staff Training and Ratio
The more experienced the staff, the higher the cost, but the safer the environment. Look for staff trained in pet first aid and CPR. A good ratio ensures quick response times if there is an incident during play or while resting.
Cleaning and Disinfection
Ask what cleaning products they use and how often kennels are cleaned. High turnover of dogs requires rigorous disinfection protocols to prevent the spread of illnesses like kennel cough or parvovirus.
Special Stays: Extended Trips and Senior Care
For very long stays or for dogs with special physical needs, standard overnight dog boarding charges may not apply.
Extended Stay Discounts
If you are gone for two weeks or more, ask if facilities offer discounts for long-term boarding. Some facilities cap their weekly rates, offering significant savings after the initial peak days.
Senior Dog Care
Older dogs often need specialized care, such as:
- Easier access to potty areas (fewer stairs).
- Softer bedding or orthopedic mats.
- More frequent, gentle monitoring.
Kennels that cater to seniors often charge a small premium for this dedicated, patient care, reflecting the higher staff time needed per animal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Boarding Costs
Q: Is dog daycare cheaper than overnight boarding?
A: Yes. Daily cost for dog daycare is generally lower than overnight boarding because it only covers daytime supervision, feeding, and activity, without the cost of 24-hour security and sleeping arrangements.
Q: Do I save money by bringing my own food?
A: Sometimes. While some facilities charge a small fee to handle outside food, if your dog eats a very expensive or specialized diet, bringing it yourself can prevent a facility surcharge that might exceed the convenience fee.
Q: What defines “luxury dog kennel prices” versus standard rates?
A: Luxury pricing reflects premium amenities like private suites, webcams, non-group play options, and high staff-to-dog ratios. Standard rates cover basic needs in communal or run-style settings.
Q: How far in advance should I book to get the best rates?
A: For standard times, booking 2-4 weeks out is usually fine. For major holidays (summer weekends, Christmas), book 2-3 months in advance. Booking late often means paying peak season surcharges or settling for whatever lower-priced slots remain.
Q: Are there lower local dog boarding prices for military or long-term customers?
A: Many independent kennels offer small discounts (5% to 10%) for military families, seniors, or frequent repeat customers. Always ask if they offer any loyalty programs when comparing dog boarding costs.