Boarding Your Dog During the Holidays: How to Make It a Positive Experience

The holidays are busy – travel, parties, family events, and all the chaos in between. For many dog owners, that means making arrangements for their pup while they’re away. Whether you’re heading out of town or simply need some extra help during the season, boarding can be a safe and stress-free option when done right.

Here’s a guide to the different ways you can board your dog, what to look for, and how to help your pup enjoy their stay.

Different Ways to Board Your Dog

1. Traditional Boarding Facilities

These are your classic kennels or pet resorts. They usually offer:

• Private or semi-private runs

  
  

• Play groups or supervised play sessions

  
  

• Add-on services like extra walks, enrichment, or baths

  
  

Best for: Social dogs, dogs who like routine, and owners who want structured supervision.

2. In-Home Boarding

Your dog stays inside a person’s home instead of a kennel-style setup. This often means:

• More one-on-one attention

  
  

• A quieter, homey environment

  
  

• Smaller guest numbers

Best for: Dogs who get overwhelmed easily, need a low-stress environment, or prefer a cozy, home-like setting.

3. Stay-With-the-Trainer Boarding

Some trainers offer boarding with built-in enrichment or refresher training. Dogs get structure, mental exercise, and practice with manners during their stay.

Best for: High-energy dogs, puppies, or dogs whose owners want to maintain training progress.

4. Pet Sitter or House-Sitting

Instead of your dog going somewhere, someone comes to your home. This option can include:

• Daily visits

  
  

• Overnight stays

  
  

• Full-time house sitting

Best for: Dogs who struggle with new environments or need to keep the same routine.

Tips to Make Holiday Boarding a Smooth, Positive Experience

1. Book Early

Holiday boarding fills up fast, often months ahead. The sooner you plan, the more options you’ll have.

2. Schedule a Trial Stay

A short overnight or daycare day helps your dog:

• Get familiar with the environment

  
  

• Meet the staff

  
  

• Learn the routine

It sets them up for success during the longer holiday stay.

3. Pack Comfort Items

A few familiar things go a long way in helping your dog feel relaxed. Consider including:

• Their favorite blanket or bed

  
  

• A well-loved toy

  
  

• Something that smells like home

  
  

(Just make sure the facility allows personal items.)

4. Send Their Regular Food

Sudden diet changes can cause upset stomachs, especially during stressful times. Pack enough food for the entire stay, plus a little extra just in case.

5. Share Clear Care Instructions

Include anything important for your dog’s routine:

• Feeding schedule

  
  

• Medication details

  
  

• Behavioral quirks

  
  

• What helps them settle

The more the staff knows, the better they can support your pup.

6. Keep Goodbyes Short and Sweet

Long, emotional goodbyes can raise your dog’s stress level. Stay calm and confident, your dog will follow your lead.

7. Don’t Overwhelm Them When They Come Home

Give your dog time to decompress after their stay. Keep the first day home low-key so they can settle back into familiar surroundings.

How to Choose the Right Boarding Option

Ask yourself:

• Does my dog do well around new people and dogs?

  
  

• Do they prefer calm or active environments?

  
  

• Do they need extra structure or training support?

  
  

• What makes me feel most comfortable?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best setup is the one that fits your dog’s personality and your peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: A Little Prep Goes a Long Way

Holiday boarding doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right planning, your dog can have a fun, comfortable experience while you enjoy time with family or travel. Explore your options early, do a trial run, and communicate clearly with whoever is caring for your pup.

This season is hectic enough. Let boarding be one thing you can feel good about checking off your list.