Dog Boarding Temperament Test: What to Expect and How to Prepare
You found a boarding or daycare facility you like, and then they ask you to bring your dog in for an evaluation first. That is normal. It is not a test your dog can fail by being "bad," and knowing what it is makes the visit calmer for both of you.
What a Temperament Test Is
A temperament test, also called a behavior evaluation, is a short assessment some daycares and boarding facilities do before a dog can stay. Its purpose is to see how your dog handles new people, a new place and, in many facilities, other dogs. WebMD, drawing on guidance from the American Kennel Club (AKC), says most daycares and boarding facilities require one before your dog can stay.
- It protects your dog too. A group setting is a lot for some dogs, and the evaluation is how a facility decides whether a playgroup suits yours.
- It is not standardized. The format changes from one facility to the next.
- It is a good sign, not a hurdle. WebMD advises being wary of a facility that does not require one for new dogs.
How It Can Go
There is no single process. Two examples we found from individual facilities show the range: one runs a 20 to 40 minute interview with you and your dog and includes a day of daycare, and another does an evaluation first and then schedules a "day of play" to introduce the dog to a playgroup. Yours may be shorter or longer, so ask when you book.
How to Prepare
- Gather your paperwork. Vaccination records are the usual starting point. See our guide on vaccination requirements.
- Write down what staff should know. Fears, triggers, medications, health conditions and how your dog reacts to other dogs.
- Be honest about your dog. An evaluation works best when the staff knows what they are seeing. Hiding a problem does not help your dog.
- Ask how the test is run. A trainer quoted by WebMD recommends making sure the test is done with a dog of a similar temperament, play style and size to yours.
If Your Dog Does Not Pass
It is not a verdict on your dog. Some dogs are simply not suited to group play, and some facilities offer other options. One example we found suggests day boarding or working with its trainer. If the answer is no, ask what the facility can offer instead. If your dog gets anxious when you leave, our guide on boarding and separation anxiety may help.
Questions to Ask the Facility
| Question | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| How is the evaluation done, and how long does it take? | Formats differ, so you know what to plan for |
| Is it done with a dog like mine? | A test with a very different dog may not tell staff much |
| Does the price include the evaluation? | WebMD notes some extras can be charged separately, including temperament tests |
| What is the staff-to-dog ratio? | It affects how closely dogs are supervised |
| What happens if my dog gets sick or hurt? | You want a clear plan before you need one |
For more questions to ask and what to look for on a tour, see our dog boarding checklist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a dog temperament test for boarding?
It is a behavior evaluation some daycares and boarding facilities do before a dog can stay. It checks whether your dog is comfortable with new people, a new place and other dogs. WebMD, drawing on AKC guidance, says most daycares and boarding facilities require one.
Does every boarding facility do a temperament test?
No, and the format varies. Some do a short meet-and-greet, others include a trial day with a playgroup. WebMD advises being wary of a facility that does not require one for new dogs.
What if my dog does not pass?
It is not a verdict on your dog. Some facilities suggest alternatives, such as day boarding in a quieter setting or working with a trainer. Ask the facility what options it offers.
What should I bring to the evaluation?
Ask the facility, since requirements differ. A good starting point is your dog's vaccination records and any notes on fears, medications or health conditions. See our guide on vaccination requirements.
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Browse CitiesSources: WebMD: choosing a doggie daycare or boarding kennel · AKC: choosing a doggy daycare. The two facility examples come from individual facilities' published policies and are not a standard. This is general information, not veterinary or training advice.