Average Dog Boarding Rates: A 2026 Snapshot

The average nightly cost for dog boarding typically falls between $35 and $70, which translates to weekly rates of approximately $245 to $490. These national averages for boarding rates for dogs can vary significantly based on your location and the level of service you choose. Data from the American Pet Products Association's 2022-2023 National Pet Owners Survey indicates an average annual cost of $274 for kennel boarding for dogs, which helps contextualize the overall expense for pet owners over a year. The price for boarding dogs often reflects different tiers of care, from basic accommodations to premium, all-inclusive packages.

Price Comparison: Standard vs. Luxury vs. In-Home

To better understand the pet boarding prices available, it's helpful to compare the most common types of facilities. The dog boarding prices per day are directly tied to the level of amenities and personal attention provided.

Facility Type Average Nightly Cost Best For
Standard Kennel $35 - $50 Budget-conscious owners, socialized dogs
Luxury Pet Hotel $75 - $100+ Anxious dogs, high-energy dogs, owners wanting premium amenities
In-Home Boarding $40 - $65 Dogs who do poorly in kennel environments, seniors

A standard kennel provides a safe, clean, and supervised environment with all the essentials. Luxury pet hotels offer an enriched experience with more space and activities, while in-home boarding provides a personalized, home-like setting that can be ideal for certain dogs.

How Location Impacts Your Bill (Urban vs. Rural)

Boarding facilities in major metropolitan areas often have higher rates due to increased real estate costs, higher labor wages, and greater demand. It's not uncommon to see nightly rates of $55-$85 in a large city. In contrast, facilities in rural or suburban areas may offer more competitive pricing, with rates often falling in the $35-$50 range for comparable services. This geographic difference is one of the most significant factors influencing the base price of boarding.

What's Included? Understanding Different Types of Boarding Facilities

The term dog boarding facility encompasses several distinct models of care, each offering a different level of service at a corresponding price point. Knowing what is a dog boarding facility in practice can help you align your expectations with the services provided, ensuring your pet receives the appropriate level of care.

Standard Dog Kennels: The Basics

A standard kennel for dog boarding focuses on providing core services in a safe and sanitary environment. This typically includes a secure individual enclosure, regular feeding and fresh water, and supervised time in a designated area for potty breaks. Good facilities meet foundational standards for safety and sanitation. While many boarding kennels are not required to have federal licensing, the Animal Welfare Act (AWA) sets a benchmark for humane care. It requires regulated facilities to be structurally sound and kept in good repair to prevent injury, establishing a professional standard for the dog kennel boarding industry.

Pet Hotels & Luxury Resorts: Premium Amenities

Luxury dog boarding facilities, often called a dog hotel, are designed to provide an enriched, resort-like experience. Amenities may include private suites with comfortable bedding, webcams for owners to check in, supervised group play sessions in large indoor or outdoor parks, swimming pools, and even spa services like grooming. The higher cost of luxury dog boarding generally covers an increased staff-to-dog ratio and a more stimulating environment. As noted in the American Veterinary Medical Association's care guidelines, environmental enrichment and adequate exercise are important for meeting a dog's behavioral needs, features that are often standard at these premium facilities.

In-Home Boarding: A Personalized Approach

In-home dog boarding involves your dog staying in a private residence with a caregiver. This model can offer a less stressful environment than a traditional kennel, with more personal attention and a familiar home-like setting. This approach is often well-suited for older dogs or those with mild anxiety. However, the level of oversight may be less structured compared to a commercial facility, so it's important to vet the caregiver and their home environment thoroughly. The cost of home boarding for dogs is often comparable to standard kennels.

Veterinary Boarding: Medical Supervision

For dogs with ongoing health issues, post-operative needs, or those requiring regular medication, boarding at a veterinary clinic is a specialized option. This service prioritizes health and safety over amenities, ensuring that trained veterinary staff are on hand to administer treatments and monitor the dog's condition. For dogs with specific health requirements, boarding at a facility with direct veterinary oversight aligns with the AVMA's emphasis on ensuring all animals receive appropriate and timely medical care.

Key Factors That Influence the Final Cost of Boarding Dogs

Beyond the base nightly rate, several factors can significantly affect the final cost of boarding dogs. Understanding these variables will help you budget accurately and choose the services that best fit your pet's needs for overnight dog care.

Dog Size and Breed

The size of your dog often plays a role in the pricing structure. Larger dogs require more spacious enclosures and consume more food, which can lead to higher fees. Some facilities may charge an additional $5 to $10 per night for large or giant breeds. Additionally, a small number of facilities might have surcharges for specific breeds that they feel require more experienced handling, though this is less common.

Duration of Stay (Weekly/Monthly Discounts)

Many facilities offer discounts for extended stays, making boarding more affordable for longer trips. It's common to see a 10% discount for a stay of seven nights or more. If you need to board your dog for a longer period, it's worth asking about weekly or monthly packages. The average cost to board a dog for a week can be more economical with these discounts, and facilities often have special flat rates that answer the question of how much to board a dog for a month.

Add-On Services (Grooming, Training, Special Diets)

Most boarding facilities offer a menu of à la carte pet boarding services that can enhance your dog's stay. These add-ons allow you to customize their experience but will increase the final bill. Common options include:

  • Grooming: Baths, nail trims, and full haircuts (Price: $25 - $80+)
  • Individual Playtime: One-on-one fetch or cuddle sessions with a staff member (Price: $10 - $15 per session)
  • Group Play Sessions: Supervised socialization with other dogs (Price: $15 - $25 per day)
  • Training Refreshers: Sessions to reinforce basic commands (Price: $30 - $50 per session)
  • Special Dietary Accommodations: Preparing owner-provided food, such as raw or home-cooked meals (Price: $3 - $5 per day)

Health & Medical Needs (Medication Administration)

If your dog requires medication, such as pills, eye drops, or injections, expect an additional fee. This charge, typically $5 to $10 per day, compensates the trained staff for the responsibility and time required for proper administration. Health and safety are also paramount, which is why vaccination requirements are non-negotiable. According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), reputable boarding facilities require core vaccines (like rabies, distemper, parvovirus) and often non-core vaccines like Bordetella bronchiseptica (the cause of kennel cough) based on a dog's risk of exposure in a social environment. This policy helps protect all dogs at the facility. Information about the dog vaccination for kennel cough is a key part of understanding what vaccines do dogs need for boarding.

FAQ - Common Questions About Boarding Costs

How much does it cost to board a dog for a week?

The cost to board a dog for a week typically ranges from $245 to $490. This is based on average nightly rates of $35 to $70. Many facilities offer a discount for weekly stays, often around 10-15% off the total price. Luxury facilities can cost significantly more, potentially exceeding $700 for a seven-day stay. Always confirm pricing and any available packages directly with the facility.

What vaccines do dogs need for boarding?

Most boarding facilities require proof of vaccination for rabies, DHPP (distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus), and Bordetella (kennel cough). The AVMA considers rabies and DHPP core vaccines for all dogs, while Bordetella is a non-core vaccine recommended for social situations like boarding. Some facilities may also require vaccines for canine influenza or leptospirosis depending on regional risk. Consult your veterinarian to ensure your dog is up to date.

How much to board a dog for a month?

Boarding a dog for a month can cost anywhere from $900 to $1,800 or more. Facilities often provide significant discounts for long-term stays, sometimes offering a flat monthly rate. This rate typically covers standard care, but additional services like grooming or training will be extra. For extended stays, it is crucial to discuss all costs and care routines with the facility manager beforehand to avoid surprises.

Is luxury dog boarding worth it?

Luxury dog boarding can be worth the extra cost if your dog benefits from amenities like private suites, constant human interaction, or specialized activities like swimming. It is particularly beneficial for anxious dogs or those with high energy levels who thrive with more enrichment. However, for a well-adjusted, calm dog, a clean and safe standard kennel may be perfectly sufficient. The value depends entirely on your dog's individual personality and needs.

Are there discounts for multiple dogs?

Yes, most boarding facilities offer a multi-pet discount, typically 10-25% off the second or third dog. This discount usually applies if the dogs can be safely housed in the same enclosure. Sharing a space can also reduce stress for bonded pairs. Always inquire about the specific multi-dog policy when booking, as the discount structure can vary between facilities.

Limitations, Alternatives, and Professional Guidance

Research Limitations

It is important to acknowledge that even in the best facilities, a kennel environment can be inherently stressful for some dogs compared to being at home. Peer-reviewed research confirms this, showing that dogs often exhibit significantly higher cortisol (stress hormone) levels in kennels compared to their home environment, especially during the initial days. Individual dogs react differently based on their temperament, past experiences, and socialization, so what works well for one dog may not be suitable for another.

Alternative Approaches

If you believe a traditional kennel is not the right fit for your dog, there are several alternatives to consider. These include in-home boarding, hiring a pet sitter to stay in your home, or using a service like Rover or Wag to find a local caregiver. These options allow your dog to remain in a familiar or home-like environment, which can reduce anxiety. For dogs that must be boarded, some studies suggest that factors like social housing can help mitigate stress. A study published by the NIH found that pair-housed dogs showed significant declines in stress-related behaviors and cortisol levels.

Professional Consultation

When in doubt, it is always wise to consult your veterinarian. They can provide guidance on the best boarding solution, especially if your dog has anxiety or specific medical conditions. Many professionals recommend a trial day or a single overnight stay at a facility before a long trip to help your dog acclimate to the new environment. Don't hesitate to request a thorough tour of any facility you're considering and ask the staff about their experience with anxious or special-needs dogs.

Conclusion

To summarize the key takeaways, the average cost of boarding dogs is between $35 and $70 per night, but the final price is shaped by location, facility type, your dog's size, and any add-on services you select. The best choice ultimately depends on a careful balance between your budget and your dog's individual needs. A higher price can mean more amenities and personalized attention, but it doesn't always guarantee a better experience for every dog. A clean, safe, and well-run standard kennel can be an excellent option for a well-socialized and confident pet.

For pet owners, choosing the right facility is about more than just price. To help you make the best choice, explore our guide on '7 Key Things to Look for in a Dog Boarding Facility.' For pet business owners, if you run a pet care business and want to streamline your pricing and services, discover how Animalo can help you manage your operations efficiently. Consider exploring our platform to see how we can support your business.

References

  1. American Pet Products Association (APPA) - Pet Industry Spending Report: https://www.iii.org/table-archive/22355
  2. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) - Vaccinations: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/petcare/vaccinations
  3. NIH - Assessing the welfare of kennelled dogs—A review of animal-based measures: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7126575/
  4. NIH - Evaluating pair versus solitary housing in kennelled domestic dogs: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5574456/
  5. USDA - Animal Welfare Act (AWA) Guidelines: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/animalwelfare/downloads/ACBlueBookAWA508compversion.pdf
  6. American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) - Companion Animal Care Guidelines: https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/avma-policies/companion-animal-care-guidelines