The Pros and Cons of Dog Daycare in the UK

The UK has seen a major increase in the number of dog day care services over the last 5 years. Here we look at why, and the pros and cons of dog daycare in the UK. We also consider the benefits, costs and whether it’s right for every dog.

When did dog daycare become a thing?

There have always been dog kennels for when you go on holiday. But doggie day care centres? There was a massive explosion in the number of people offering these services after the pandemic in 2020. A huge number of people decided to get a dog during the pandemic when they were working from home in lockdown. But when that ended and people went back to the workplace, dog owners were then having to consider what to do about their dogs. And so the demand for dog care grew as people didn’t want to leave their dogs at home on their own. Especially as this generation of dogs knew nothing else. They were so used to having people around.

What is dog daycare?

Doggie Day Care looks after your dog for the day. So you would drop them off in the morning and pick them up at a later point in the day. Not to be confused with kennels, which technically offer more longer term care for holidays. Doggie Day care centres tend to be set up with larger play areas and staff who will interact with your dog during the day. They will be fed and walked, but will also have the opportunity to play with other dogs.

Pros and cons of dog daycare 

Pros: 

• Prevents Loneliness: Your dog will have company and won’t be left home alone for long periods of time.
• Stimulating Environment: You’ll have peace of mind knowing your dog is in an enriching and engaging environment.
• Socialisation: Your dog will have opportunities to interact with other dogs (though this should not replace formal socialisation training).
• Behaviour Training: Reputable daycare providers may reinforce good behaviour with positive reinforcement.

Cons:

• Potential Overstimulation: Some dogs might find the noise and constant activity overwhelming, leading to stress.
• Possible Bad Habits: Dogs may pick up undesirable behaviours from other dogs in the daycare.
• Cost: Dog daycare can be pricey, especially for longer stays or additional services.

How much does dog daycare cost?

Depending where you are in the UK, prices can range from £25 to £60 for a day’s care. Other charges that might be on top of this include: registration fee, dog taxi, extended hours, and overnight stays. You may get a discount if you have more than one day needing care.

What to consider when choosing?

When choosing a dog daycare, make sure the establishment is licensed and insured. It’s important to ask if the staff are trained in dog handling or behaviour. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Facility Setup: Where will your dog spend their time? Is there a quiet area for rest?
• Dog-to-Carer Ratio: How many dogs will be present, and how many carers are there to supervise?
• Emergency Procedures: What happens if there’s an emergency situation?
• Reputation and Reviews: Are there positive reviews from other dog owners, or recommendations from friends and family?

After visiting or speaking with different providers, you should get a feel for which one will be the best fit for your dog.

Is dog daycare right for every dog?

The simple answer is no. While dog daycare can be convenient for some owners, it’s not suitable for every dog. When deciding if daycare is right for your dog, consider the following factors:

• Age: Puppies may find the daycare environment overwhelming, while older dogs might prefer a quieter space.
• Temperament: Some dogs enjoy being around other dogs, while others may not be as sociable. It’s essential to know your dog’s personality before committing.
• Health: If your dog has any health concerns, you may need to discuss these with the daycare provider to ensure they can meet your dog’s needs.

Alternatives to dog daycare

If dog daycare doesn’t seem like the right fit for your dog, there are alternatives to consider:

• Pet Sitters: A pet sitter can come to your home and spend time with your dog.
• Dog Walkers: A dog walker can take your dog out for daily walks to keep them active and engaged.
• Friends and Family: If you have loved ones nearby, they might enjoy having your dog stay with them for the day.
• Working from Home: If you’re lucky enough to work from home, you can always pop in during your lunch break to check on your dog.

Final thoughts

We hope you’ve found this blog useful in weighing the pros and cons of dog daycare in the UK. Whether you choose daycare, a pet sitter, or another option, the most important thing is finding the right care for your dog. If you’d like more tips, check out our other blogs!