Is Dog Daycare Right for Your Dog?

It’s hard not to feel guilty when you’re away at work all day and your dog is home alone.

On the other hand, most dogs just sleep when we’re gone, and they are very adaptable to our schedules, especially if they’re getting plenty of exercise and interaction while we’re home.

This post will go over how to decide if dog daycare is a good choice for your unique dog. I will also give some tips on how to choose the right daycare and how to prepare your dog for her first day.

Is daycare right for your dog?

Most dog daycares are set up so a group of 10+ dogs are playing together in an open room or yard. A couple of questions to ask yourself when thinking about finding a dog daycare include:

• How active is your dog?
• Does he like playing with other dogs?
• Does he ever play too rough?
• Is your dog stressed out while alone or does he just sleep?
• Can you afford dog daycare?
• Is your dog possessive of toys or space?

Alternatives to dog daycare could be hiring a dog walker or pet sitter, going home on your lunch break, lots of exercise before and after work, or installing a dog door to your yard.

Don’t jump to the conclusion that your dog needs to go to daycare just because you feel guilty. Some dogs love playing with groups of other dogs, while others find it stressful.

Choosing the right daycare

Since each dog daycare will be managed a little differently, it’s a good idea to visit at least two different daycares, read online reviews, and ask plenty of questions.

Jme Thomas is the executive director of Motley Zoo Animal Rescue, which also offers dog daycare and boarding services.

She gave a couple of tips for choosing the right dog daycare such as asking about the dog-to-person ratio and making sure the daycare is kept clean.

“High-quality daycares should be pretty easy to spot,” she said. “Low ratios of people to dogs is always a good sign. This means that they are more concerned about safety and erring on the side of caution, than cramming dogs in and maxing out on their profit margin.”

She said a reasonable ratio is 10 to 12 dogs per person.

Finally, she suggested asking if there are webcams so the owners can check in on the dogs throughout the day.

“This is not to say that daycares that don't have them are horrible places,” she said. “They simply may not be technologically advanced or have the know-how to get them up and going, or maintain them.”

How to prepare for the first day

Most dog daycares will require dogs to have certain vaccinations, Thomas said. This is similar to a boarding kennel.

To help set your dog up for success at daycare, Thomas said to make sure she is well socialized and comfortable being handled by strangers. Basic obedience can also help so your dog learns leash manners and commands like come and sit.

Finally, Thomas said to ask whether or not the daycare has a “crated nap time.” If so, it would be a good idea to help your dog get comfortable being in a crate for short periods at home.

After your dog's first day, Thomas said you can expect your dog to be very tired, even just from the mental exhaustion.

“Like coming home from a busy day at work.”

What do the rest of you think? Do you take your dog to daycare?

Dog daycare can be a fantastic solution for many dogs and their owners, but it's essential to ensure it's the right fit for your pet. Some dogs thrive in the social environment of daycare, enjoying the opportunity to play and interact with other dogs. However, for other dogs, the noise and activity can be overwhelming and stressful.

When considering daycare, observe how your dog reacts in social settings. Does your dog enjoy visiting the dog park or playing with other dogs during walks? If so, they might enjoy daycare. On the other hand, if your dog shows signs of anxiety or aggression around other dogs, a quieter environment like staying at home with regular visits from a dog walker might be a better choice.

Another important aspect to consider is your dog’s health and physical condition. Puppies, for instance, may have different needs compared to older dogs. Puppies might benefit more from the socialization and playtime, while older dogs might prefer a more relaxed environment. It's also crucial to consider any health issues your dog might have that could be exacerbated by the high-energy environment of a daycare.

Cost is another factor that comes into play. Dog daycare can be expensive, and it's essential to weigh the benefits against the cost. If the price is a concern, you might explore other options like hiring a pet sitter or a dog walker, which can provide personalized attention at a potentially lower cost.

Once you’ve decided that dog daycare is a good fit for your pet, the next step is to find the right facility. As mentioned earlier, visiting multiple daycares, reading online reviews, and asking detailed questions about their operations can help you make an informed decision. Additionally, consider the logistics of the daycare's location. Is it conveniently located near your home or workplace? The easier it is to drop off and pick up your dog, the more likely you are to use the service consistently.

Preparing your dog for their first day at daycare is crucial for a smooth transition. Ensure your dog is up-to-date on all required vaccinations and that they are comfortable being handled by strangers. If your dog has never been in a crate before, start crate training at home to get them used to the idea. This can help them feel more secure during naptime at daycare.

Basic obedience training is also beneficial. Commands like "sit," "stay," and "come" can help ensure your dog behaves well in a group setting and makes the daycare experience more enjoyable for everyone involved. Socialization is key, so gradually expose your dog to new environments and other dogs before their first day.

On the first day of daycare, bring your dog's favorite toys or a blanket that smells like home. This can provide comfort and help ease any anxiety they might feel. It's also a good idea to provide the daycare with detailed information about your dog’s habits, preferences, and any specific health needs.

After the first day, observe your dog's behavior closely. They might be tired from the excitement and stimulation, but they should not be overly stressed or anxious. If you notice any concerning changes in behavior, discuss them with the daycare staff to see if any adjustments can be made to improve your dog's experience.

Communication with the daycare staff is essential. Regular updates about your dog's behavior and well-being can help you understand how they are adapting to the new environment. Many high-quality daycares offer reports or even photos and videos of your dog’s day, which can be reassuring.

In addition to daycare, consider other ways to enrich your dog's day-to-day life. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular walks can provide mental and physical stimulation, reducing boredom and anxiety. A well-exercised dog is often a well-behaved dog, so ensure they get plenty of opportunities to burn off energy.

When it comes to keeping your dog safe, identification is critical. Equip your dog with custom dog tags that include your contact information. Having IDs on pet collars ensures that anyone who finds your dog can quickly get in touch with you. Additionally, a dog ID is a valuable tool to ensure your dog is always identifiable.

Dog daycare is just one of many options available to ensure your dog is happy, healthy, and well-cared for. Whether you choose daycare, hire a dog walker, or find other creative solutions, the key is to provide your dog with the physical and mental stimulation they need. Every dog is unique, and what works for one might not work for another. By paying attention to your dog’s needs and preferences, you can find the best solution to keep them content and thriving.

What do the rest of you think? Do you take your dog to daycare? What tips do you have for ensuring a positive experience?