Doggy daycare costs $25 to $45 per day or $20 to $30 per half-day on average for one dog, depending on your location and the demand. Extra fees typically apply for dogs that need medication or special handling. Some facilities also offer add-on services like grooming and behavior training.

Many dog daycare facilities offer a free trial session to see how your dog interacts with the staff and other dogs. Once you confirm the daycare is a good fit for your dog, consider buying a multiple day package, as most dog daycare facilities offer discounted rates when buying packs of 5 to 20+ days.

If your dog does not do well at daycare or around other dogs, consider an in-home pet sitter near you instead.

Yes, doggy daycare is good for most dogs, especially dogs that deal with separation anxiety and dogs that enjoy interacting with other dogs and people. Daycare is a safe, supervised environment that allows dogs to play, exercise, socialize with other dogs and humans, and have multiple opportunities to go to the bathroom outside while you are away from home.

Signs confirming your dog likes daycare:

• They get excited when you mention going to daycare.
• They perk up when they arrive at the daycare facility.
• They seem relaxed and happy when you take them home.

Most dog daycare facilities require proof of up-to-date Rabies, Distemper, and Bordetella vaccinations. Your dog must also be flea- and tick-free. Some daycares also require topical flea and tick protection during the warmer months.

Pet insurance does not typically cover daycare services. Your policy may cover the vaccinations required for dog daycare, and accident coverage if your dog gets sick or injured during its stay at the daycare facility. Check with your insurance provider for the specific policy details.

When searching for a dog daycare service near you, be sure to:

• Choose a daycare company that is licensed, bonded, insured, and has been in business 5+ years.
• Look for members of professional organizations such as the International Association of Professional Dog Daycare Owners (IAPO), the Professional Animal Care Certification Council (PACCC), and the International Boarding & Pet Services Association (IBPSA).
• Look for consistently positive reviews of their service on HomeGuide and Google.
• Ask for references with contact information and follow up with previous clients for their feedback.
• Request a trial visit to tour the facility and give your dog a chance to interact with the staff and other dogs.

Consider asking the following questions to ensure you find the best dog daycare near you:

• How long have you been in business?
• Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?
• What kind of training does the daycare staff have?
• Does any of the staff have dog CPR certification?
• Can I tour the facility?
• Do you have a webcam so I can see my dog during the day?
• What do I need to bring with my dog when I drop him off?
• Will my dog have water and treats? Do I need to bring food for my dog?
• What kinds of activities do you engage the dogs in?
• What do you do if my dog gets injured or sick while at daycare?
• How do you handle senior dogs or dogs with disabilities?
• Is my dog required to be spayed or neutered?
• What vaccinations do you require?
• Do you separate dogs by size?
• What is included in your standard rate?
• Do you offer grooming or training services?
• How much in advance do I need to schedule?
• What are your pick-up and drop-off hours?
• Do you provide a report at the end of the day?
• Do you have any discounts or package deals?