How Much Does It Cost to Board a Dog? Full Guide by Day, Week & Month
Whether you’re heading out for a weekend wedding or jetting off on a month-long sabbatical, there’s one pressing question every dog owner must face: Who’s going to take care of the dog? And more importantly—how much will it cost to board a dog while you’re away?
Dog boarding is a safe, convenient option that offers professional care for your furry best friend, but prices can vary wildly based on location, amenities, duration, and even your dog’s breed or temperament. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer the most common pet parent question: How much does it cost to board a dog?
🏷️ Quick Answer: Dog Boarding Cost Summary
| Duration | Average Cost (US) |
|---|---|
| Overnight | $25 – $85 per night |
| 1 Week | $175 – $595 |
| 1 Month | $600 – $2,500+ |
| Luxury Boarding | $75 – $200+ per night |
📊 Factors That Affect Dog Boarding Prices
📍 1. Location
Boarding rates in major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco tend to be higher than in rural areas. For example:
- LA average: $60/night
- Midwest small town: $30–40/night
🏨 2. Type of Facility
- Traditional Kennels: Budget-friendly, often cage-style
- Pet Resorts: Premium services, spa treatments, training, webcams
- In-Home Boarding: Hosted by a pet sitter in a home environment
- Veterinary Boarding: Great for pets with medical needs
🐕 3. Dog Size & Breed
Larger dogs or breeds that need more exercise (think Huskies, German Shepherds) may cost more.
⏱️ 4. Duration
- How much does it cost to board a dog for a week?
Usually $200–$500 depending on extras. - How much does it cost to board a dog for a month?
Expect $1,000+ in a metropolitan area with premium care.
🧼 5. Add-ons & Extras
- Grooming: $20–$100
- Training: $50–$150 per session
- Medication Admin: $5–$10/day
- Webcam Access: $5–$15/day
- One-on-one Playtime: $10–$25/session
💰 Cost Breakdown by Duration
📅 1. How Much Does It Cost to Board a Dog Overnight?
A single night at a standard kennel typically costs $25–$60. For a luxury pet hotel, this can shoot up to $80–$200 per night, depending on the location and amenities.
✅ Includes: Basic feeding, bathroom breaks, and a crate or kennel
❌ Doesn’t include: Playgroups, walks, grooming
📆 2. How Much Does It Cost to Board a Dog for a Week?
Weekly rates often come with discounts. Expect to pay:
- Basic boarding: $175–$350/week
- Premium boarding: $500–$700/week
It’s often best to book early during holidays or summer vacations, as prices spike during these periods.
📆 3. How Much Does It Cost to Board a Dog for a Month?
Monthly rates vary:
- Standard Kennel: $600–$1,200
- Luxury or training-inclusive: $2,000–$3,000+
Tip: Some facilities offer discounted monthly packages or “doggy dorm” rates—great for long-term travel or if you’re relocating.
🏨 Dog Boarding Options Compared
| Boarding Type | Avg Cost | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Kennel | $30–$50/night | Budget travelers |
| Pet Resort | $60–$120/night | Spoiled pups (and their parents) |
| In-Home Boarding | $40–$75/night | Dogs with anxiety, senior pets |
| Vet Boarding | $50–$100/night | Medical needs or post-surgery care |
📍 Dog Boarding Cost in Major U.S. Cities
| City | Avg Daily Cost |
|---|---|
| New York, NY | $60 – $110 |
| Los Angeles, CA | $55 – $90 |
| Chicago, IL | $50 – $85 |
| Houston, TX | $40 – $70 |
| Miami, FL | $45 – $75 |
| Seattle, WA | $50 – $90 |
| Atlanta, GA | $35 – $65 |
Prices sourced from local boarding facilities and Rover.com.
🛏️ What’s Included in Dog Boarding?
Typical boarding packages include:
- Safe sleeping area
- Scheduled feeding
- Potty breaks
- Minimal staff interaction
- Basic monitoring
Luxury packages may offer:
- Doggy suites with TVs
- Organic meals
- Pup massages
- Training sessions
- Instagram photo updates
🐾 Dog Boarding vs. Pet Sitting: What’s Cheaper?
| Service | Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Boarding | $25–$85/day | 24/7 supervision | Can be stressful for shy dogs |
| Pet Sitting | $20–$70/day | Home comfort for your dog | Limited to sitter’s schedule |
If you’re wondering “how much to board a dog” vs. hiring a sitter, boarding is often safer for social dogs, while pet sitting is great for pups who love their home turf.
💡 Tips to Save Money on Dog Boarding
- Book early – Avoid holiday premiums
- Ask about loyalty discounts – Frequent stays may earn credits
- Bring your own food – Saves $5–$15/day
- Skip extras – Webcam and walks can add up
- Try trial nights – To test the waters before a long stay
📋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
❓ How much does it cost to board a dog at PetSmart?
PetSmart’s PetsHotel services range from $40–$90/night depending on location and suite type.
❓ Is it cheaper to board 2 dogs?
Yes, many places offer multi-pet discounts (e.g., 20% off the second dog).
❓ How much does it cost to board a dog with medical needs?
Veterinary boarding starts around $60–$100/day.
❓ Can I board my dog for free?
Some non-profits or Humane Society branches offer emergency short-term boarding. Also try asking family or trading services with friends.
❓ Is it okay to board a dog for a month?
Yes, but choose facilities with enrichment, daily walks, and updates. Long-term boarding works best for adaptable, well-socialized dogs.
🧳 Packing List for Boarding
Before dropping off your dog, don’t forget:
- Food (pre-portioned)
- Medicine with instructions
- Favorite toy or blanket
- Emergency contacts
- Vaccination records
- Collar with tags
Some facilities require a temperament test beforehand—especially if group play is involved.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Dog Boarding Is an Investment in Peace of Mind
So, how much does it cost to board a dog? It varies—but the peace of mind knowing your dog is safe, cared for, and maybe even pampered, is worth every penny.
Whether you’re booking for a single overnight stay, a full week of vacation, or a month-long adventure, understanding the true cost of dog boarding helps you plan ahead—and sniff out the best options for your pup.
🔗 Top 10 Reference Domains
- https://www.rover.com – Pet sitters & boarding cost guides
- https://www.akc.org – American Kennel Club care articles
- https://www.petsmart.com – Pricing for PetsHotel
- https://www.petmd.com – Health and boarding tips
- https://www.humanesociety.org – Emergency boarding and resources
- https://www.vetstreet.com – Boarding vs. sitting pros/cons
- https://www.cesarsway.com – Boarding advice and dog psychology
- https://www.bringfido.com – Dog travel and boarding reviews
- https://www.wagwalking.com – Dog boarding and walking cost insights
- https://www.thesprucepets.com – Pet parenting how-tos and price breakdowns