Is dog boarding stressful for dogs - what every pet parent should know
Introduction: What Is Dog Boarding?
Dog boarding is a service that provides overnight care for your dog while you're away—whether for work, vacations, or emergencies. Unlike pet sitting, dog boarding offers structured care, supervision, socialization, and a safe environment tailored to dogs’ needs. But a common concern remains: Is dog boarding stressful for dogs? In this guide, we’ll explore the emotional impact of boarding, how to reduce stress, and how to ensure your pup has a safe, positive experience at a reputable dog boarding facility.
Does Dog Boarding Cause Stress in Dogs?
Dogs are creatures of habit and comfort. Being placed in a new environment away from their people and routine can cause stress. According to studies from the National Library of Medicine, unfamiliar surroundings can lead to changes in appetite, increased vocalization (barking and whining), pacing, or other signs of anxiety. While dog boarding isn't inherently traumatic, it can be stressful without proper preparation and care. Most dogs, however, adjust quickly when supported by experienced caregivers in a well-managed facility.
Separation Anxiety and Dog Boarding
Separation anxiety is a common behavioral issue among dogs. It’s triggered when a dog is separated from their human family—their pack. Symptoms may include whining, destructive behavior, excessive pacing, or even escape attempts. For dogs with severe separation anxiety, dog boarding can add to their stress, especially if the facility isn’t trained to support dogs’ behavioral needs.
At BratPak Dog Kamp, we rely on a deep expertise in dog behavior and socialization to take a proactive approach to easing this anxiety. We gradually introduce dogs to our environment through a professional assessment, short daycare visits or overnight stays, if necessary, before extended boarding. Every dog is different and our goal is to help your dog feel safe, loved, and confident while in our care.
Alternatives to Dog Boarding
Not every dog is a perfect fit for a boarding environment. Like people, every dog is different and you should consider things like their personality, age, social skills, and energy level when deciding which care option is best. Here are a few alternatives:
In-home pet sitting: A sitter cares for your dog at home. I’m all for hiring sitters to stay in your home “IF” both you “AND” your dog know the person well and have a strong trust in them. Your dog will always be most comfortable in their own home, but if they don’t know the sitter well, you may still have problems. It’s best to be sure your dog knows the person well and feels comfortable with them staying in your home. You should also ensure the pet sitter has some experience with dealing with separation anxiety in dogs.
Stay-with-family or friends: Familiar people can provide comfort, but it’s best if they stay in your home, if possible. If your dog is not already comfortable with both that friend AND their home, you could still be in for some serious challenges. Be especially cautious if that other person has other pets in their home.
Travel with your dog: We all would love to take our pup with us when we travel, but most of the time that’s just not feasible, especially with large dogs. In addition, when you travel, you’re often out of your hotel room working, dining, or doing activities. That means you’d have to leave your dog crated in your hotel room for most of the time. If that’s the case, now you’re dealing with an anxious dog alone in an unfamiliar hotel room—not a good option.
How to Choose the Right Dog Boarding Facility
Choosing the right facility is key to a positive dog boarding experience. After researching a TON of different facilities, including some of the largest franchises in the country, trust me when I say that not all dog boarding facilities are the same. When evaluating different facilities, you should look for:
A clean, well-maintained environment
Compassionate, trained staff
Ample supervised playtime and socialization, ideally at no additional cost
Safety protocols and emergency care plans
All-inclusive pricing to avoid hidden costs
Webcam or livestream access so you can easily check in on your pup
Good communication from the staff via texts, photos, and/or social media posts
Always visit beforehand, ask plenty of questions, discuss with other local dog lovers, and read reviews on sites like Google or Yelp. The best facilities will gladly provide whatever information you need and offer a tour of their facility.
How to Prepare Your Dog for Boarding
The best boarding facilities will help you in setting your dog up for success during their boarding, which means reducing their stress and making them more comfortable. Just a little bit of planning and effort can make a world of difference in your dog’s boarding stay. Here are some options to help your dog’s transition:
Visit the facility at least once with your dog prior to boarding. Start with short visits and work up the duration. The more times your dog comes and goes from a facility, the more they understand that it’s a safe place and that you’ll be returning for them soon. You may even want to schedule one overnight visit to introduce your dog to their overnight routine.
Ask the staff is you can bring a comfort item like their favorite toy, blanket, or a t-shirt that smells like you. A familiar scent goes a LONG way to easing a dog’s anxiety.
As you visit the facility in preparation for their boarding stay, establish a familiar drop-off and pick-up routine. Say a certain word or phrase when you leave your house (“Wanna go to BratPak?”), bring treats when you pick up, etc. You want to make the experience as happy and positive as possible for your pup.
Consider calming aids or vet-approved medications for anxious dogs. One off-the-shelf option to consider is CBD oil, which should be given about an hour before leaving your house.
Preparation not only reduces stress—it builds your dog’s confidence for future stays.
What to Expect When Bringing Your Dog Home
Most dogs return to their normal routine quickly when they return to their home. However, it’s normal for them to:
Sleep more (boarding is mentally and physically exhausting!)
Be extra clingy or follow you around (now that they have you back, they want to stay close).
Show minor behavior shifts for a day or two (eating habits and potty schedule, for example).
Conclusion: Can Dog Boarding Be a Positive Experience?
Absolutely! With thoughtful preparation and the right facility, dog boarding can be enriching, safe, and even fun for your pup. Most dogs enjoy the social interaction and attention they receive—and many return excited for their next visit.
Bottom line--Dog boarding shouldn’t be stressful for your dog. With the right planning and support, it can be a tail-wagging good time for both dogs and their humans.