How much does dog boarding cost per night?
Pet boarding costs vary widely, but most dog owners pay between $25 and $85 per night. The exact price depends on your location, the type of facility, and the services you choose. Standard kennel boarding might run $25-$45, while a luxury suite with webcams, extra playtime, and grooming could hit $60-$85. Some facilities add fees for medication administration, holiday surcharges, or early pickup. Always ask for a full breakdown before booking.
Factors that influence boarding rates
Geographic location
Prices are highest in major cities and coastal areas. Boarding in New York City or San Francisco often starts at $50-$70 per night, while smaller towns in the Midwest may offer $20-$35. Urban demand drives up costs, so consider boarding near the airport or outskirts if you’re flexible.
Type of facility
- Standard kennels: Basic runs with scheduled feeding and potty breaks. Typically $25-$45 per night.
- Pet hotels or resorts: Offer private suites, raised beds, TV, and webcam access. Expect $45-$85 per night.
- In-home boarding: Your dog stays at a caregiver’s home via services like Rover. Rates average $30-$50, but vary by host.
- Veterinary boarding: For pets needing medical care, often $40-$60 plus procedure costs. Only choose if your dog has health issues.
Additional services
- Playtime and group daycare: $5-$15 per session
- One-on-one walks: $10-$20 per walk
- Grooming or bath: $15-$40
- Medication administration: $2-$10 per dose
- Holiday surcharges: 10%-50% extra on peak dates
What to look for in a boarding facility
Safety and cleanliness
Visit beforehand. Check for clean floors, secure fencing, and comfortable bedding. Staff should be trained in pet CPR. Ask about vaccination requirements (usually rabies, DHPP, bordetella). Read recent reviews for red flags.
Exercise and enrichment
Dogs need activity. Look for at least three potty breaks and one supervised play session daily. Some facilities offer agility equipment or swimming pools. Avoid places that keep dogs crated 20+ hours.
Staff-to-dog ratio
A good ratio is 1 staffer per 10-15 dogs during play. For overnight, there should be at least one person on-site. Ask how many dogs they accept total – smaller operations often provide more attention.
Communication
Many facilities send daily photos or updates via app. In-home sitters may text. Decide if you want constant contact or just check-ins.
Tips to save on boarding costs
- Book early: Last-minute reservations may cost more.
- Choose off-peak days: Avoid weekends and holidays.
- Ask about multi-dog discounts: Many give 10-20% off for second pet.
- Consider in-home sitting: Often cheaper than kennels and your dog stays in a home environment.
- Join membership clubs: Some facilities offer packages or loyalty programs.
When boarding isn’t suitable
If your dog has severe separation anxiety, aggression, or health issues, in-home care or a vet-supervised boarding may be better. Senior dogs may need extra bedding and frequent potty breaks. Puppies under 4 months often require more monitoring; some facilities have minimum age policies. In any medical case, consult your veterinarian for advice on the best care setting.
Key Takeaway
Dog boarding costs $25-$85 per night; compare standard kennels, pet resorts, and in-home sitters to find the best value for your budget and your dog’s needs.