How Much Does It Cost to Board a Dog? A Comprehensive Pricing Guide

Planning a vacation or a weekend getaway? That’s wonderful! But if you’re a dog parent, you’ve probably asked yourself: “How much does it cost to board a dog?” It’s one of those questions that can make your wallet feel a little lighter, but the good news is that understanding dog boarding costs doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, there’s something out there for every pet parent and every budget.

Dog boarding costs vary wildly depending on where you live, what type of facility you choose, and what services you need. We’re talking anywhere from $25 to $100+ per night, and that’s just the baseline. Add in special services like grooming, training, or medication administration, and you could be looking at premium pricing. The key is knowing what to expect and finding the option that works best for your furry best friend and your bank account.

In this guide, we’ll break down all the factors that influence dog boarding prices, explore different boarding options, and help you make an informed decision about where to leave your pup while you’re away. Let’s dive in!

Average Dog Boarding Costs

So what’s the real price tag on dog boarding? The national average for dog boarding typically ranges from $30 to $60 per night for standard boarding services. However, this can vary significantly based on your geographic location and the type of facility you select.

In major metropolitan areas like New York City, Los Angeles, and San Francisco, expect to pay premium prices—often $75 to $100+ per night for quality facilities. Rural areas and smaller towns might offer more budget-friendly options in the $20 to $40 per night range. The cost difference reflects not just location but also facility quality, staff expertise, and amenities offered.

For extended stays (like week-long boarding), many facilities offer discounted rates. You might see price breaks that reduce the daily rate by 10-20% if you’re boarding your dog for seven consecutive days or more. It’s always worth asking about weekly or monthly rates when you contact a facility.

Factors That Affect Boarding Prices

Understanding what influences boarding costs can help you navigate the pricing landscape more effectively. Several key factors determine whether your dog’s stay will be budget-friendly or more expensive:

• Dog Size: Larger dogs typically cost more to board than smaller breeds. A Great Dane will usually have a higher nightly rate than a Chihuahua because larger dogs require more food, space, and sometimes more attention during playtime.
• Geographic Location: Urban areas consistently charge more than rural regions. Coastal cities and major tech hubs have particularly high boarding costs due to increased demand and higher operating expenses.
• Facility Type: Luxury boarding facilities with amenities like swimming pools, webcams, and individual suites cost significantly more than basic kennels. The difference can be substantial—sometimes doubling or tripling the base rate.
• Season: Peak travel seasons (holidays, summer vacation) drive prices up. If you’re boarding during Thanksgiving, Christmas, or spring break, expect to pay premium rates or face limited availability.
• Special Needs: Dogs requiring medication, special diets, or behavioral management typically incur additional fees. Senior dogs or those with anxiety may need extra attention, which facilities charge for accordingly.
• Facility Reputation: Highly-rated facilities with excellent reviews command higher prices. Pet parents are willing to pay more for peace of mind and quality care.

Understanding these factors helps explain why your friend’s boarding costs might be completely different from yours, even if you live in the same state!

Types of Dog Boarding Options

Not all boarding is created equal. Here are the main options available to dog parents:

Traditional Kennels and Boarding Facilities

Traditional kennels are the most common boarding option and typically the most affordable. Dogs stay in individual runs or kennels, usually with scheduled group play sessions. These facilities range from basic to upscale, with prices reflecting the quality of accommodations and care. Expect to pay $30-$60 per night for standard kennel boarding. Many traditional facilities are run by experienced professionals and adhere to strict health and safety standards.

Luxury Boarding Facilities

Luxury boarding is the Ritz-Carlton of dog care. These facilities feature private suites, webcams so you can watch your pup, gourmet meals, spa services, and extensive playtime. Some even offer training sessions during your dog’s stay! Luxury boarding typically costs $75-$150+ per night. If your dog struggles when you’re away, understanding whether dogs get bored can help you decide if premium amenities are worth the investment.

In-Home Boarding

Some pet sitters offer in-home boarding where your dog stays at their house alongside their own pets. This option provides a home environment and personalized attention. Costs vary widely but typically range from $40-$100 per night. This can be an excellent middle ground between traditional boarding and hiring a dedicated pet sitter.

Pet Sitter Services

If you prefer your dog to stay home, professional pet sitters visit your house to provide care. Dog sitter costs depend on visit frequency and duration, but typically range from $20-$60 per visit. For more details on compensation, check out our guide on how much to pay a dog sitter.

Additional Services and Add-Ons

Beyond basic boarding, facilities often offer additional services that can increase your total cost:

• Grooming Services: Professional grooming during boarding adds $30-$75 depending on your dog’s size and coat type. Many facilities offer bath and brush services or full grooming packages.
• Training: Behavioral training or obedience work during boarding costs $50-$150+ per day. This is a great way to work on specific behaviors while you’re away.
• Medication Administration: If your dog requires medication, expect to pay an additional $5-$15 per day. Some facilities charge per medication rather than per day.
• Special Diets: Providing your dog’s special food costs $10-$25 extra per day. Facilities may charge a handling fee for administering specialized nutrition.
• Webcam Access: Many facilities offer live streaming for an additional $10-$20 for your entire stay. This gives you peace of mind and lets you check in on your pup.
• Pickup and Drop-Off: Some facilities charge transportation fees ($15-$50) if you need them to pick up or deliver your dog.
• Overnight Supervision: Premium overnight care with staff present throughout the night costs extra, typically $20-$50 per night.

These add-ons can quickly accumulate, so factor them into your budget when planning your trip.

Money-Saving Tips for Dog Boarding

Ready to reduce your boarding expenses? Here are practical strategies to keep costs down:

Book in Advance

Facilities often offer discounts for early bookings, especially during off-peak seasons. Booking three months ahead might save you 10-15% compared to last-minute reservations.

Negotiate Weekly or Monthly Rates

Most facilities will negotiate on price for extended stays. If you’re boarding your dog for a full week or longer, ask about special rates. You could save 20-30% compared to nightly rates.

Join Loyalty Programs

Many boarding facilities offer loyalty programs or punch cards. After five or ten stays, you might get a free boarding day or significant discount.

Consider Home Boarding During Off-Season

Pet sitters and home boarders often have lower rates during non-peak seasons. If your vacation timing is flexible, traveling during slower periods can save you money.

Share Boarding with Friends

Some facilities offer group discounts when multiple dogs from the same household or friend group are boarded simultaneously. It’s worth asking!

DIY Some Services

Bathe and groom your dog before boarding to avoid facility grooming fees. Prepare medications in advance to avoid administration charges. These small steps can save $50-$100.

Use Pet Sitters for Short Trips

For trips under three days, hiring a pet sitter to care for your dog at home is often cheaper than traditional boarding. Your dog also avoids the stress of a new environment.

How to Choose the Right Boarding Facility

Price is just one factor in choosing a boarding facility. Here’s what else to consider:

Visit in Person

Never book a facility without visiting first. Check cleanliness, observe staff interactions with dogs, and ensure the environment is safe and well-maintained. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, keep looking.

Check References and Reviews

Read online reviews on Google, Yelp, and the facility’s website. Ask for references from current clients. Consistent positive feedback is a good sign.

Verify Health and Safety Standards

Ensure the facility requires current vaccinations for all dogs, maintains clean facilities, and has proper emergency protocols. Check if they’re accredited by the ASPCA or similar organizations.

Understand Their Policies

Ask about cancellation policies, what happens if your dog gets sick, how they handle behavioral issues, and their emergency procedures. Clear policies protect both you and your pet.

Meet the Staff

Knowledgeable, caring staff makes all the difference. Ask about their training, experience with dogs, and how they handle anxious or senior dogs. Staff who ask detailed questions about your dog’s needs are usually a good bet.

Consider Your Dog’s Personality

If your dog is highly social, a facility with lots of group playtime might be ideal. If your dog is anxious, understanding how long dogs can be left alone helps you choose between facilities or home care. Some dogs do better in home environments, while others thrive in facility settings.

Trial Runs

Before committing to a week-long boarding stay, do a trial run with a shorter visit. This helps your dog adjust and gives you confidence in the facility.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the average price for boarding a dog for one week?

A week of dog boarding typically costs $210-$420 for standard facilities ($30-$60 per night). Luxury facilities might run $525-$1,050+ per week. Many facilities offer weekly discounts that reduce per-night rates by 10-20%.

Is it cheaper to hire a dog sitter or use a boarding facility?

It depends on frequency and duration. For trips under four days, pet sitters are usually cheaper since they charge per visit rather than nightly rates. For longer trips, boarding facilities often become more economical, especially if they offer weekly discounts.

Do dog boarding prices increase during holidays?

Absolutely. During peak travel periods (Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring break), boarding facilities often charge 25-50% more than regular rates. Book early if you need holiday boarding, as availability fills up quickly.

Are there any hidden fees I should know about?

Always ask about potential extra charges: late pickup fees, medication administration, special diet handling, grooming, training, and transportation. Get a complete price quote in writing before committing.

Can I board multiple dogs together to save money?

Some facilities offer discounts for multiple dogs from the same household. The discount typically ranges from 10-25% for the second dog. Always confirm this before booking.

What should I bring when I board my dog?

Bring your dog’s regular food, medications, favorite toys or blanket (for comfort), vaccination records, and emergency contact information. Some facilities provide food, but using your dog’s regular diet prevents digestive upset.

How can I help my dog adjust to boarding?

Visit the facility beforehand so your dog becomes familiar with the environment. Leave something with your scent, maintain your dog’s routine as much as possible, and stay calm during drop-off. Consider asking about training services to keep your dog mentally engaged.

What if my dog has special needs or medical conditions?

Inform the facility immediately about any health conditions, medications, or behavioral issues. Some facilities specialize in senior dogs or dogs with anxiety. Facilities that ask detailed health questions and have medical protocols in place are preferable. Be prepared to pay additional fees for special care.

Is boarding stressful for dogs?

Some dogs experience stress during boarding, while others thrive in the social environment. Trial stays help you gauge your dog’s comfort level. If your dog has severe separation anxiety, discuss alternatives like home pet sitting or in-home boarding with your veterinarian.

How do I know if a boarding facility is reputable?

Check for positive reviews, visit in person, verify staff credentials, confirm vaccination requirements, and ask for references. The American Kennel Club provides resources for finding quality facilities. Don’t book based on price alone—quality care is worth the investment.

Can I board a dog with behavioral issues?

Many facilities can accommodate dogs with behavioral challenges, though some may charge additional fees or require behavioral consultation. Be honest about your dog’s behavior during booking. Facilities offering specialized dog training might be particularly helpful for dogs with behavioral concerns.