What Impacts the Price of Dog Boarding in the UK?
The day rates and overnight fees for your dog accommodation can vary based on things like location, size/breed, amenities, vet services and the level of individualised care. As you estimate costs:
- Ask what’s included – Food, walks, playgroup time vary greatly
- Check holiday/peak fees – Surcharges like at Christmas can add 25-50%+
- Mind the extras – Extra walks, medications or pickup fees boost real spend
- Compare location rates – Costs usually higher in big cities like London
To help give price ranges you can expect to pay in 2024 across common UK dog boarding options, check the overview below.
Dog Boarding Costs by Type of UK Kennel or Carer
Traditional Boarding Kennels: £15-35 per night average
In Home Dog Boarding: £25-100+ per night average
Dog Sitting Visits: £10-15 per 30-minute visit
Doggy Daycare: £15-25 per full day average
Note these are general ranges – prices depend on many factors like location, peak times, your dog’s needs etc. Below we break down pricing in more detail by accommodation type.
Traditional Dog Boarding Kennel Pricing
Convenient kennels provide secure, climate-controlled boarding facilities with various amenities. Costs vary by desirability of features. Dogs sleep in individual pens or cages lined with cosy beds. Staff provide feeding, walks and relief breaks. Some have veterinary personnel on-site too.
What Impacts Traditional Boarding Kennel Pricing?
Key factors that influence cost:
- Location & Popularity – Central London kennels charge a premium
- Peak Times/Holidays – Expect surcharges for holidays like Christmas/Easter
- Suite Size/Features – More space and niceties command higher rates
- Group Play Time – Social “playgroup” time usually an added fee
- Premium Services – Some offer grooming, training, vet exams for extra
How Much are Traditional Dog Boarding Kennels in the UK?
Average Costs:
- Outer London Kennels: £20-30 per night
- Central London Kennels: £30-45 per night
- Non-London Kennels: £15-25 per night
- Peak Surcharges: +£5-15 extra per night
Traditional Kennel Price Considerations
- Multi-dog discount potential
- Typical pick up fees: £10-15
- Peak booking deposits: £25-50
- Half-day rates may be available
So for a 7-night stay at a popular central London kennel over a Christmas holiday with optional playtime, fees for one dog may total £350-500+ for the week.
Home Dog Boarding Costs
For a more intimate and home-like stay, home boarding places your dog in a small group in an experienced pet sitter’s home. Your dog sleeps in home areas and enjoys walks, cuddles and play. Prices rise for peak holidays.
What Impacts Home Boarding Pricing?
Key aspects that change rates:
- Sitter’s Location & Home Features – Country/garden settings or amenity-rich homes cost more
- Level of Individual Care – More 1-on-1 focus versus small groups also raises rates
- Holiday Surcharges – Like kennels, home boarders boost holiday peak rates
- Home Pick Ups – Some offer pick up/drop offs for £10-20
How Much Does In-Home Dog Boarding Cost in the UK?
Average Home Boarding Rates:
- Outer London Area: £30-60 per night
- Central London: £50-100 per night
- Non-London Areas: £25-50 per night
- Holiday Surcharges: +£10-30 per night
So a 10-day Christmas holiday stay including optional pickups could run £550-800+ for one dog.
Dog Sitting, Walking and Daycare Costs
For pet parents gone just part of the day or needing a break, dog sitters provide home visits for walks, play sessions, feeding and more. Sitters may also stay overnight in your home. Separately, daycare centres offer safe social play.
Typical Dog Sitting and Dog Walker Rates
Average Dog Sitting Visit Charges:
- 30-Minute Home Visit: £12-15
- 1-Hour Home Visit: £15-22
Average Dog Walker Rates:
- 30-Minute Group Walk: £10-15 per dog
- 1-Hour Group Walk: £12-18 per dog
Note most daycare facilities charge by the full day only.
Average Doggy Daycare Full-Day Rates:
- Outer London Area: £20-30
- Central London: £25-40
- Non-London Areas: £15-25
So even just a few 30-minute midday dog sitter visits while you work or travel can add up to over £100 per week. But some pets relish staying in their own home environment versus kennels.
Questions to Ask About Real Costs of Dog Boarding
While the price ranges above provide an idea of average dog boarding rates in 2024, your actual total bill can vary based on amenities, vet services and more. As you estimate costs:
What Boarding Services Do Your Quoted Rates Include?
Define what day fees include (and don’t include). Many bundle in food, walks and basic play times but some “extras” like medications, premium bedding or grooming or drop-off fees may carry charges.
Do You Offer Multi-Dog or Long-Stay Discounts?
Some kennels give 5-15% discounts if boarding multiple dogs from the same home. Others reduce rates marginally for long stays of 14+ days.
How Much are Your Pickup/Dropoff Fees?
If shuttle service is important to easily send your dog off stress-free, understand if home pickup/delivery carries a fee. Some kennels charge £10-25 each way.
What Rate Changes Should I Expect on Holidays Like Christmas or Easter?
Nearly all boarders bump up holiday demand rates – but the premium can range from +25% up to 50% extra or more. Check their holiday schedule.
Doing your homework on real dog accommodation rates helps estimate costs accurately as you consider overnight boarding versus home stays in your pup’s best interest!
Key Takeaways – Estimating Dog Boarding Costs in the UK
Getting reliable overnight or daytime pet care while you work or holiday carries a cost, but many options exist across the UK to meet your dog’s unique needs and budget. As you compare quality kennels, home boarders and dog walkers or sitters in your desired location:
- Ask what’s included – Food, walks etc. vary greatly by provider so clarify what daily fees cover
- Check holiday rates – Most charge 25-50%+ extra for Christmas, Easter and other peak demand stays
- Consider all real costs – Extra services, medication fees, premium suites etc. boost overall spend
- Don’t forget location rates – Big city boarding tends to carry a significant premium
While trusting a beloved pet to another’s care always requires due diligence – asking the right questions helps set realistic rate expectations. This allows you to focus on choosing the ideal care fit and peace of mind for your dog’s health, safety and happiness when boarding away from home.
Are you considering boarding your dog while you are away on holiday or a work trip? With so many options like kennels, home boarders, and sitters available, how do you know what’s a fair price to pay to keep your furry friend happy and cared for? This guide breaks down average UK dog boarding rates in 2024 so you can budget and compare rates confidently.