Dog Boarding: How to Choose and What to Check

Leaving your dog at a dog boarding facility may be necessary for work, holidays, or family emergencies. According to ANMVI data, more than 35% of Italian pet owners use temporary boarding facilities at least once a year, in a market growing by 12% annually. Choosing the right boarding facility is not just a matter of convenience: it means ensuring your four-legged friend's safety, physical and mental wellbeing, and continuity in their daily routines.

Types of dog boarding: which one to choose

Not all boarding facilities are the same. Understanding the differences helps you identify the best solution for your dog's personality and needs.

Home boarding or in-home dog sitter

With home boarding, your dog is welcomed into a private home, often belonging to dog enthusiasts or certified trainers. Your pet lives in a domestic environment, sharing spaces with the host family and sometimes with other dogs. This option is ideal for anxious, elderly, or dogs with special needs, as it recreates a home-like setting. Average costs range from €15 to €30 per day, depending on the region and included services (extra walks, medication administration, photo/video updates).

Professional medium-to-large dog boarding kennels

Professional facilities host from 10 to more than 50 dogs at a time, with individual or shared kennels and communal areas for socialisation. They have specialist staff, rigorous health and hygiene protocols, and often a dedicated veterinarian. Prices range from €18 to €45 per day, with decreasing rates for longer stays (more than 14 days) or for multiple dogs from the same family. Some facilities offer premium packages including a swimming pool, agility, and grooming.

Summer kennel or affiliated shelter

Some municipal kennels or animal welfare associations provide temporary boarding services at subsidised prices (€8–15 per day). Quality varies greatly: always visit the facility before booking. These options may suit balanced, sociable dogs, but rarely offer cognitive stimulation or personalised attention.

What to check before booking a dog boarding facility

A detailed checklist protects you from unpleasant surprises and safeguards your dog's health.

Licences, insurance and legal requirements

Check that the facility holds:

• Health authorisation issued by the relevant local health authority (ASL)
• Public liability insurance covering damage to third parties and resident animals
• Up-to-date animal register (required by law)
• Certification of the person in charge (ENCI-recognised course or regional bodies)

Ask to see the documents: reputable facilities show them without hesitation. Be wary of anyone who is evasive or keeps putting you off.

Kennels, enclosures and spaces: size and safety

Individual kennels must comply with FEDIAF animal welfare guidelines: a minimum of 4 m² for dogs up to 15 kg, 6 m² for medium breeds, and 8–10 m² for large breeds. Check for:

• Washable, non-slip flooring (treated concrete or epoxy resin)
• A raised bed or cot, never directly on the floor
• Stainless steel bowls, separate for water and food
• Sturdy gates with double fastenings (no makeshift hooks)
• No sharp edges, protruding nails, or accessible electrical cables

Communal play areas must be fenced with netting at least 1.80 m high for large dogs, with a double escape-proof entry. Ask whether dogs are let out in groups matched by size and temperament: random mixing increases the risk of fights.

Health and hygiene protocols and disease prevention

A good boarding facility requires:

1. An up-to-date vaccination record including compulsory vaccinations (distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis, and rabies where required by the region)
2. A recent antiparasitic treatment (fleas, ticks, worms): some facilities verify this with rapid tests
3. A certificate of good health issued by a veterinarian within 5–7 days of arrival
4. A kennel cough test (Bordetella bronchiseptica) if the stay exceeds 10 days

Ask what protocol they follow if a dog shows suspicious symptoms: immediate isolation, contact with the owner, veterinary intervention. Top-tier facilities have a separate sick bay and agreements with 24-hour clinics.

Qualified staff and staff-to-dog ratio

The ideal ratio is 1 member of staff for every 8–10 dogs, dropping to 1:5 for premium facilities. Find out about:

• Staff training (ENCI-certified dog trainers, certified kennel operators)
• Shift rotas: at least 2 people must be present simultaneously during the day
• Night-time supervision or a CCTV system with alerts

Observe how staff interact with the dogs during your visit: they should be calm, use positive reinforcement, and never shout or use coercive tools.

Veterinary care and emergency management

This aspect is crucial and often underestimated.

Agreements and intervention protocols

Ask specifically about:

• The name and contact details of the affiliated veterinarian or reference clinic
• Distance from the facility (ideally under 10 km)
• Whether they are available 24 hours or by appointment only
• Who is authorised to approve urgent treatment if you cannot be reached

Some facilities have a veterinarian who visits 2–3 times a week for routine checks. Others rely on external clinics: both approaches are fine, provided the response time is quick (no more than 30 minutes in an emergency).

Medication administration and special diets

If your dog is undergoing long-term treatment (heart conditions, diabetes, allergies) or follows a veterinary diet, provide detailed written instructions. Professional boarding facilities have pre-printed forms where you can note:

1. Medication name, dosage, and precise administration times
2. How to administer it (with food, on an empty stomach, crushed)
3. Any side effects to monitor

Bring sufficient supplies in the original packaging. For special diets, provide your dog's usual food: sudden changes cause diarrhoea and gastric stress in 40% of cases, according to veterinary studies.

Costs and booking

Knowing average prices and cancellation policies will spare you disputes and unexpected expenses.

Average rates in Italy and what affects the price

Costs vary by geographic area, season, and services:

Peak periods (Christmas, Easter, July–August) see price increases of 20–30%. Book 2–3 months in advance to secure lower rates and guarantee availability.

Deposits and cancellation policies

Most boarding facilities require:

• A 30–50% deposit at the time of booking, non-refundable if you cancel within 7–15 days of arrival
• Full payment in advance or at check-in (some accept card payments, others cash only)
• A security deposit of €50–150 for any damage to the facility or other dogs, returned if everything is in order

Read the contract or internal rules carefully: they must specify mutual responsibilities, insurance cover, and complaint procedures. Keep a copy signed by both parties.

Packages and discounts for longer stays

Many facilities offer decreasing rates:

• Over 14 days: 10–15% discount
• Over 30 days: 20–25% discount
• Second dog from the same owner: 30–40% off the second dog
• Regular clients or referrals: €5–10 discount voucher for the next stay

Preparing your dog for a boarding stay

A gradual introduction reduces stress and behavioural issues.

Familiarisation visits and trial days

At least 2–3 weeks before the longer stay, arrange:

1. A get-to-know-you visit of 30–60 minutes: your dog sniffs the environment, meets the staff, and explores the play area
2. A half-day trial: leave them for 4–5 hours to test their reactions to separation, mealtimes, and interaction with other dogs
3. A full day or single overnight stay before the actual boarding period

This protocol reduces separation anxiety by 60–70%, according to certified dog trainers. If your dog has already undergone positive training, they will cope with the new experience more easily.

Personal items and comfort to bring

Bring along:

• Your dog's usual blanket or bed with your scent on it (do not wash it beforehand)
• Favourite toys (maximum 2–3; avoid valuable items that might get damaged)
• The harness and lead they normally use
• Their usual food in sufficient quantities, plus 2–3 days' extra

Avoid new foods or treats they have never tried: 25% of dogs develop stress-induced diarrhoea in the first 2–3 days of boarding, which is made worse by dietary changes.

Staying in touch with the facility during the stay

Agree in advance on:

• How often you want updates (daily, every 2–3 days, or only if there is a problem)
• Your preferred channel (WhatsApp, email, phone)
• The times when you can be reached in case of an emergency

Modern boarding facilities offer WhatsApp groups with daily photos and videos, live webcams, or dedicated apps. Ask what tools they use and test the connection before you leave.

Warning signs: when to change boarding facility

Some red flags call for immediate action.

Behavioural problems on return

If your dog shows any of the following on returning home:

• Excessive fear, trembling, or a tucked tail lasting more than 48 hours
• Sudden aggression towards people or other dogs
• Refusal to eat for more than 24 hours
• New compulsive behaviours (obsessive licking, circling)

Contact your veterinarian straight away to rule out physical or psychological trauma. Document everything and consider switching facilities. If you notice signs of allergies or gastrointestinal problems, these may be linked to poor hygiene or contact with allergens.

Poor hygiene or lack of transparency

Be wary if:

• They prevent you from visiting the facility or only show you a showcase area
• They do not provide updates despite repeated requests
• Your dog comes back dirty, with matted fur or overly long nails
• You notice fleas, ticks, or a bad smell when your dog returns

Report the facility to the relevant authorities (veterinary public health service, local council) and leave detailed reviews online to warn other pet owners.

Frequently asked questions

How far in advance should I book a dog boarding facility?

For peak periods (summer, public holidays), book at least 2–3 months ahead. For stays outside peak season, 3–4 weeks is usually sufficient. Home boarding and premium facilities fill up quickly: some accept bookings up to 6 months in advance with a minimum deposit.

Can I board my dog if they are not vaccinated?

No — all reputable boarding facilities require at least core vaccinations (distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis) to be up to date in line with the standard vaccination schedule. Some also require kennel cough prevention. This protects both your dog and the other guests: infectious outbreaks in a boarding facility can be devastating.

What happens if my dog falls ill during the stay?

The facility must contact you immediately and take your dog to the affiliated veterinarian. Veterinary costs are your responsibility, unless your contract states otherwise. Some pet insurance policies cover treatment during boarding stays: check before you travel. In the event of a serious emergency and if you cannot be reached, the facility is authorised to act to preserve the animal's life.

Is a large facility or home boarding better for an anxious dog?

For anxious, timid, or elderly dogs, home boarding is generally preferable: a domestic environment, fewer stressful stimuli, and more personalised attention. If your dog is very sociable and loves playing with other dogs, a professional facility with spacious play areas can be stimulating. Consider your dog's individual temperament: a senior dog or one with a history of separation anxiety will benefit more from a calm and familiar setting.

Choosing the right dog boarding facility takes time and care, but investing in a safe and professional facility brings peace of mind to you and wellbeing to your four-legged friend. Always remember to verify licences, visit the premises, and test the service with a short stay before committing to a longer one. If you have any concerns about health or behavioural issues, consult your veterinarian or a certified dog trainer. For more advice on caring for your dog, explore our guide on adopting a puppy and our article on parasite prevention — both essential topics during boarding stays too.