How much does doggy daycare cost?

Daycare for dogs can be a paw-fect option for some pet parents. Weekly commitments or work may mean their beloved bark babies have to be left home alone for hours each day, but doggy daycare can offer an alternative. With some dog daycare places offering their pick-up service, this can be one less thing for pup parents to worry about each day.

But, how much does doggy daycare cost? We’ve done our usual digging for you to find out how much daycare for dogs costs and whether there are any possible alternatives if dog daycare isn’t right for your hound.

Why do pet parents use doggy daycare?

As much as we adore our fur family, we sadly can’t be with them 24/7. Many of us have full-time jobs to afford treats and toys for our beloved bark babies. If it isn’t work, life comes with many other commitments that won’t allow for canine company, this is where doggy daycare comes in.

If you’re out for the day or multiple times during the week, some pet parents prefer their huggable hounds to be in the company of other pooches and people. Rather than leave them at home alone all day, daycare for dogs offers a great chance for pups to spend the day with other doggos all under the supervision of an animal care expert.

For city dwellers, the average cost will be much higher than those in the countryside. You may also be expected to sit on a waiting list before a space becomes available for your pupper.

If you need to be away overnight, some doggy daycare places offer boarding as well. Do bear in mind, that overnight stays (if it’s an option) will cost more on top of a full day’s care. Speaking of cost, is there a doggy daycare average cost?

How much does doggy daycare cost?

Doggy daycare prices will vary mostly by your location, the amount of time they’re there each week or month, and if they require any special care. An overall average in the US, according to a 2021 survey, a doggy daycare cost per day was around $40 (find out the cost of doggy daycare in NYC here). In the UK, you’d be looking at about £25 a day, but in Australia, the average price is about $80AUS a day.

Doggy daycare costs per month will reach a different amount depending on how much time they’re there. Some places offer discounted prices if you’re able to commit to a certain number of days each month. However, the odd day here and there will likely add up.

Doggy daycare alternatives

If you don’t think doggy daycare or boarding is suitable for your pooch, we have a couple of alternative options: Dog boarding and in-house pet sitting. There are many different pros and cons to dog boarding and pet sitting. Every pup parent situation is unique and what works well for one family might not be right for another. 

Dog boarding 

As mentioned above, some doggy daycare centers offer this as part of their package. Rather than send your hound away for a few hours a day, some pet parents may choose for them to have an extended sleepover. Like daycare for dogs, they’ll be monitored and cared for by professional animal handlers who will make sure they’re fed, walked, and socialized every day. Should anything happen to your pupper, they’ll be able to contact a vet on your behalf.

An in-house pet sitter

Hmmm if only there were a pet-sitting website and app that allowed pet parents to find free animal care when they need to be away from home…

Pets are happiest at home, and vets agree! Sometimes, we pet parents have to be away from home which can be unnerving for both you and your pooch. If you’re a pup parent to a rescue dog, an elderly hound who needs round-the-clock care, or you’re pup is by nature a nervous dog, adding boarding or daycare to the going away equation can make the experience unnecessarily stressful.

TrustedHousesitters members have unlimited access to pet loving sitters from around the globe. Every sitter is verified by us before they can even start their first sit. Your pup can remain in the safety and familiarity of their own home and routine whilst you’re away. Our sitters are more than just daily feeders, they’re here to care, cuddle, and comfort your fur family until you’re back.

With a one-time annual fee, you’ll save yourself both money and anxiety knowing your pup and home are being cared for by a trusted sitter. If you’re not a member and you’re curious, have a look at our list of currently available sitters right now. Even more curious-er? Pursue our different membership plans to see which works best for you and your bark baby.