Dog Kennel Cost

• A basic dog boarding facility -- which usually has indoor kennels with cement floors attached to outdoor runs enclosed by chain-link fencing -- usually costs $12 to $26 per day.
• A boutique-style dog boarding facility -- which sometimes offers a dog daycare option for an additional cost and often has features such as heated floors, piped-in classical music and sometimes televisions -- usually costs $22 to $55 per day.
• A very high-end boarding facility, such as a dog retreat with home-like private bungalows or an urban dog hotel -- with amenities such as rugs, real furniture, art, plasma televisions and premium food -- usually costs $40 to $110 per day.
• Many boarding facilities charge by weight or size -- as much as 50 percent more for a dog that weighs more than 80 pounds or requires a large suite.

• Boarding facilities usually offer a dedicated space, such as a kennel, room or suite, for the dog or for dogs from the same family. There is a sleeping area with a bed, and sometimes access to the outdoors. If not, regular potty breaks, walks and outdoor time will be included. The dog should get at least one exercise session daily.

• Most boarding facilities offer walks, one-on-one playtime with a staff member or group play with other dogs for $5 each and up. And boutique and high-end dog boarding facilities sometimes offer luxury add-ons such as dog spa treatments or even steak dinners, for $25 and up.
• Many boarding facilities charge extra for a bath at the end of the stay -- about $7 and up.
• Many facilities offer grooming and training services.
• Many facilities charge $2 or more extra per dose for administering medication.
• Some boarding facilities require additional vaccinations, usually for kennel cough.

• Many boarding facilities offer a discounted rate of 25 percent or more for a second dog from the same household staying in the same enclosure.
• Tip: Some dog owners save money by trading pet sitting services with a neighbor or friend. But use caution, because a dog might be more likely to escape or get injured in a non-professional setting.

• To find a boarding facility, ask fellow dog owners, your groomer, your veterinarian or the staff at your pet store. The American Boarding Kennel Association offers pet service locator.
• Tip: When you find a boarding facility, visit to make sure it is clean and odor-free and adequately sized. Also make sure that fences and gates are sturdy and well-maintained and check out the sleeping quarters and exercise areas. The American Boarding Kennel Association has a guide to what to look for in a pet care facility.
• Dog boarding facilities usually require that dogs be up-to-date on vaccinations and on a flea and tick preventative.
• Tip: If your dog has been known to dig under or jump over fences, make sure to tell the staff so they can take precautions to prevent escape. It might be wise to have your pet microchipped. The Humane Society of the United States provides information about microchipping, which usually costs between $35 and $75.

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