Average Boarding Rates for Dogs: What Your Local Doggy Daycare Owner Wants You to Know

Headed out of town? The first thing any of us dog parents think about is, "Okay, but what about the dog?" When you're looking for a great place for them to stay, the average boarding rates for dogs usually fall between $40 to $70 per night. Of course, that number can swing quite a bit depending on what kind of vacation you want for your pup.

Your Quick Guide to Dog Boarding Costs

As someone who runs a dog daycare, the number one question I get is, "Okay, what's this going to cost me?" It's a totally fair question. You want a safe, happy place for your best friend, but you also need it to fit your budget. I always tell folks to remember, you're not just paying for a kennel—you're investing in your own peace of mind.

Think of it like booking your own vacation. You can get a standard room that covers the basics, or you can spring for a suite with all the bells and whistles. Dog boarding is pretty much the same.

Understanding the Different Tiers of Care

On the more affordable end, you'll find basic kennel stays. These typically cover the essentials: a safe space, food, water, and regular potty breaks. As you start looking at standard or luxury options, you'll see a lot more perks that make their stay feel more like a real vacation.

These upgrades can include things like:

• Group play sessions with other dogs (my favorite part of the day!)

• Individual cuddle time with a staff member

• Spacious private suites, sometimes with webcams so you can check in on them

The key takeaway is this: A higher nightly rate often means more personalized attention, better amenities, and a more fun environment for your dog. It's all about matching the service level to your dog's personality and needs.

To give you a clearer picture, here’s a quick breakdown of what you can typically expect to pay for different levels of care across the country.

At a Glance Average Daily Dog Boarding Rates

Service Level	Average Daily Rate	What's Usually Included
Basic	$30 - $50	A standard kennel, meals, water, and scheduled potty breaks. Minimal one-on-one interaction.
Standard	$40 - $70	A more comfortable space, group playtime, and some individual attention from staff.
Luxury	$75 - $100+	Private suite, webcam access, specialized activities, spa treatments, and premium food options.

These figures are a great starting point, but just remember that prices will shift based on your location and the specific facility you're looking at.

The infographic below really helps visualize the cost differences between basic, standard, and luxury boarding options.

As you can see, the jump from a basic stay to a luxury one is pretty big, but it directly reflects the value and amenities you’re getting. My goal here is to help you make sense of these prices so you can feel totally confident when you pick the perfect home-away-from-home for your dog.

What Really Influences Your Final Bill

Ever wonder why one kennel charges $35 a night while the one down the street is asking for $75? I can promise you it’s not just a random number we pull out of a hat. The final price tag is a direct reflection of the level of care, comfort, and attention your dog is going to get. The average boarding rates for dogs are just a starting point; the real story is in the details.

It's a lot like booking a hotel for yourself. A basic room gives you the essentials, but a luxury suite with a view, room service, and spa access comes at a different price point. We operate on a very similar principle.

Key Factors in Boarding Prices

A few core things will make that nightly rate tick up or down. Your dog's size is a big one. It just makes sense that a Great Dane needs more space and more food than a tiny Chihuahua, so most places (including ours) tier their pricing by weight or breed.

The type of accommodation you pick matters, too. A standard, clean run is going to be your most economical choice. But these days, many facilities offer everything up to private "suites" with comfy beds, extra elbow room, and even webcams so you can peek in on your pup from your phone. How cool is that?

The Role of Add-On Services

Here's where you get to customize your dog's stay and make it truly special. The base rate almost always covers the lodging, feeding, and basic potty breaks. But nearly every facility offers a menu of optional services for an extra fee to really pamper your pooch.

Common add-ons you'll see include:

• One-on-one Playtime: Dedicated time with a staff member for a game of fetch or some good old-fashioned belly rubs.

• Medication Administration: If your dog needs daily pills or injections, trained staff can manage their schedule so you don't have to worry.

• Special Diets: For pups with sensitive stomachs or specific dietary needs.

• Grooming: A bath, brush-out, or nail trim so they come home looking and smelling fresh.

Remember, these services allow you to tailor the experience to your dog’s specific needs, ensuring they are not just housed, but truly cared for. It's about building the perfect stay for their personality.

A lot of these same pricing ideas carry over to doggy daycare. If you're curious, you can learn more in our friendly guide to dog daycare prices near you. Knowing what goes into the cost helps you understand exactly where your money is going and avoids any sticker shock when you get the final bill.

How Location Affects Boarding Prices

Ever notice how a simple cup of coffee costs more in a big city than in a small town? The exact same principle applies to average boarding rates for dogs. Where you live is one of the biggest factors in determining what you'll pay.

It really just boils down to the cost of doing business. A boarding facility in a high-rent, bustling urban area has way more overhead—from property costs to staff wages—than a kennel out in a quiet, rural spot. That difference gets passed on to the customer. It's a reality for any small business owner!

A Look at Our Local Area

Since my facility is based near King of Prussia, I can give you a real-world look at how this plays out in the greater Philadelphia suburbs. We're a perfect example. Being so close to a major city means demand is high and pet parents like you expect top-notch care. Still, our rates are often more manageable than what you might find for a similar service right in Center City Philly.

This local trend is a small piece of a much larger puzzle. The pet care industry is absolutely booming. Globally, it's estimated to be a USD 20 billion market, and it’s only expected to grow from there. The United States has the biggest slice of that pie, which says a lot about how much we adore our furry family members. You can dig into more of these numbers and what they mean for pet owners by checking out some of the latest pet boarding industry statistics on Dogster.com.

The key takeaway is simple: your zip code plays a big role in your dog boarding budget. A little research into your local market can help you find the perfect balance between quality care and a fair price.

The True Value Behind the Nightly Rate

When you see a nightly rate for dog boarding, it's easy to just see it as paying for a space for your dog to sleep. But from my side of the counter, I can tell you you're really investing in peace of mind. The true value is tucked away in all the things you don't necessarily see on an itemized bill.

It’s about the people who will be caring for your furry family member. A great facility pours resources into building a team that's trained in everything from canine body language to pet first aid. We're not just dog lovers; we're professionals who know how to manage group play safely and spot the subtle signs that a dog might be feeling stressed or unwell.

What Your Investment Really Covers

Beyond the staff, that nightly rate supports the entire ecosystem of care. It’s the behind-the-scenes work that keeps your dog healthy, happy, and safe.

This includes things like:

• Strict Cleaning Protocols: We’re constantly cleaning play areas, kennels, and food bowls with pet-safe disinfectants to prevent the spread of illness. It's a non-stop job!

• Secure Fencing and Safety Measures: This means maintaining high, dig-proof fences and double-gated entryways to stop any adventurous pups from making a great escape.

• Structured Socialization: We don't just throw dogs together. Playgroups are carefully created based on size and temperament, and they are always under constant supervision to make sure interactions stay positive and fun for everyone.

The bottom line is this: A higher standard of care requires a significant investment in staff, safety, and sanitation. When you choose a reputable facility, your payment directly supports these crucial elements.

The demand for this level of professional care is growing, and fast. The global pet boarding market was valued at about USD 9.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to nearly double by 2035. This boom shows just how many pet parents are looking for quality, reliable care for their dogs. You can learn more about the expanding pet boarding market on MetatechInsights.com.

So, while the average boarding rates for dogs can seem like a big expense, understanding the value packed into that price helps you make the best choice for your beloved companion.

Choosing the Right Stay for Your Dog

Finding the perfect home-away-from-home for your pup can feel like a huge task, but I promise it doesn't have to be! As a facility owner myself, my best advice is to look beyond the price tag. The real goal is finding a place where you feel completely confident your dog will be safe, loved, and genuinely happy.

The absolute best way to get that peace of mind? Take an in-person tour. This is your chance to play detective and see everything for yourself. Take a good sniff and a good look around: Is it clean and well-maintained? Do the dogs currently staying there seem relaxed and engaged, or are they stressed and barking their heads off?

Your Facility Tour Checklist

When you visit, come prepared with a list of questions. This shows the staff you’re a serious pet parent and gives you a solid way to compare different places fairly. Don't be shy about it, either—a great facility will be proud to answer every single one of your questions.

Here are the essentials you'll want to cover:

• Vaccinations: What vaccinations do you require for all dogs? You should hear them mention Rabies, DHLPP, and Bordetella at a minimum.

• Emergency Plan: What’s your procedure if a dog gets sick or injured? Do you have a partnership with a local vet for emergencies?

• Staffing: What is your staff-to-dog ratio, especially during group playtime? What kind of training does your team receive?

• Daily Routine: Can you walk me through a typical day? I want to know everything from the first morning potty break to when the lights go out.

Remember, you are your dog's best advocate. Trust your gut. If a place just feels "off" or the staff seems annoyed by your questions, it's not the right fit, no matter how good the price is.

The pet boarding industry is booming, with the global market valued at USD 8.62 billion in 2024. This growth means you have more options than ever, from no-frills kennels to luxury pet resorts. It also makes doing your homework that much more important.

For a deeper dive, check out our guide on finding the perfect dog boarding spot near you. Getting a handle on costs is one thing, but it's just as crucial to be up-to-date on essential dog care resources to ensure your pet's well-being. When you make an informed choice, you can truly relax on your trip, knowing your best friend is having a great vacation of their own.

Common Questions About Dog Boarding

As a dog lover who runs a boarding business, I get a lot of fantastic questions from fellow pet parents. Thinking ahead is the best way to ensure a smooth and happy stay for your dog, so I'm always happy to share what I've learned over the years.

Let's dig into some of the most common questions I hear.

Do I Have to Pay More for a Large Dog?

In many cases, yes. A lot of facilities, including my own, have different pricing tiers based on a dog's size or weight. It's not just about the space they need; larger breeds often eat more and can sometimes require more hands-on attention from our team.

Think about it: a Great Dane's suite will naturally need to be much bigger than a Chihuahua's! The best approach is to always ask about a facility's pricing structure upfront, as some places may offer a single flat rate for all dogs.

Are Holiday Boarding Rates More Expensive?

You can almost always expect to pay a premium for boarding during peak holidays—think Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the 4th of July. This "peak pricing" is standard in the industry. It all comes down to incredibly high demand and the need for extra staff to make sure every dog is safe, comfortable, and having a blast.

My biggest piece of advice: Book your holiday stays as far in advance as possible! Seriously. Spots can fill up months ahead of time, and you don't want to be left scrambling at the last minute.

What Is the Difference Between Dog Boarding and Pet Sitting?

This is a great question! The two get mixed up all the time.

Dog boarding is when your dog stays at a dedicated commercial facility, like a kennel or a pet resort. They'll be in a structured, supervised environment with other dogs, which is fantastic for social pups who love to play.

Pet sitting, on the other hand, is when someone either comes to your home to care for your dog or your dog stays in the sitter’s private residence. This can be a wonderful alternative for anxious dogs, seniors, or those who just do better in a quiet, familiar setting. The right choice really boils down to your dog's unique personality and needs.

And no matter where they stay, it's crucial to understand what shots dogs need to be boarded to keep everyone safe.

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At Pawcation, we're here to answer any other questions you might have and provide a loving, safe home-away-from-home for your best friend. Learn more about our services at https://pawcation.co.