Dog Boarding Checklist: What to Bring and Ask Before You Book
Dropping your dog off at boarding for the first time is stressful for both of you. The good news: almost every bad boarding experience comes down to the same few things — not asking the right questions upfront, or forgetting something your dog actually needs. This checklist covers both.
What to Pack for Your Dog's Stay
- Food — bring more than you think you need, in the original bag or clearly labeled container. Sudden food changes cause stomach upset.
- Medications — with written dosage and timing instructions, even if you've already told staff verbally.
- Leash and collar — with current ID tags. Some facilities use their own leashes for walks, but drop-off/pickup usually needs yours.
- A familiar item — a blanket, bed, or toy that smells like home. It genuinely helps anxious dogs settle in faster.
- Vaccination records — even if you emailed them ahead of time, bring a physical or digital copy just in case.
- Emergency contact info — yours, plus a backup person who can make decisions if you're unreachable.
Questions to Ask Before You Book
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| What's the staff-to-dog ratio? | Lower ratios mean more supervision and faster response if something's wrong |
| What does a typical day look like? | Reveals how much actual attention and exercise your dog gets, not just kennel time |
| Are dogs grouped by size/temperament? | Prevents a nervous small dog from being housed near large, high-energy dogs |
| What vaccinations are required? | A facility with no requirements is a red flag, not a convenience |
| What's the emergency protocol? | You want a named nearby vet, not "we'll figure it out" |
| What if my dog won't eat or seems stressed? | Good facilities monitor this and call you — bad ones don't notice until pickup |
Many facilities also evaluate your dog first. See our guide to the dog boarding temperament test.
What to Check When You Tour the Facility
- Ask to see where dogs actually sleep and play — not just the lobby. If they hesitate, that's your answer.
- Look at the flooring and cleanliness in the play areas, not just the front desk.
- Notice the noise level and dogs' body language — relaxed dogs vs. dogs pacing or barking nonstop tells you a lot.
- Check if webcams are available — not required, but a good sign of a facility that's comfortable being watched.
How Far in Advance Should You Book?
Book at least 2–3 weeks ahead for regular travel. For major holidays — Thanksgiving, Christmas, and peak summer weeks — book 1–2 months out. Good facilities fill up fast during those windows, and last-minute options are often the ones you'd want to avoid anyway.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I pack for my dog's boarding stay?
Your dog's regular food (extra), medications with written instructions, a favorite blanket or toy, a leash and collar with ID tags, and vaccination records if the facility doesn't already have them.
What questions should I ask a boarding facility before booking?
Staff-to-dog ratios, what a typical day looks like, vaccination requirements, emergency protocols, how dogs are grouped, and what happens if your dog won't eat or seems stressed.
How many days before boarding should I book?
2–3 weeks ahead for regular travel, 1–2 months ahead for major holidays and peak summer weeks.
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