
How to Choose a Great Dog Daycare
- Tara Cunha
- Jun 19
- 3 min read
Choosing the right daycare can make all the difference in your dog’s behavior, mood, and overall well-being. Whether you have a high-energy pup or a mellow snuggler, here’s what to look for — and why it matters.
✅ 1. Enrichment-Focused Programming
The best daycares offer more than just free play. Dogs need mental stimulation, problem-solving, and variety to stay sharp and satisfied. Look for programs that include:
Scent games, puzzle feeders, and brain challenges that tap into natural instincts
Confidence-building activities like agility, tunnels, and obstacle courses
Themed enrichment days, to bring out the sillies and welcome parent involvement. These also make the best photos.
Small group learning time for deeper engagement and social skill building
Access to optional, individualized programs for dogs who need extra enrichment, coaching, or personalized bonding with staff like “Dogs on Sniffari,” “Clever Canine” training, or “Crafty Canine” art projects
🛑 Red flag: If enrichment is treated like a luxury add-on or only offered once in a while, it's not a true enrichment-based facility. Enrichment should be part of the daily rhythm.
✅ 2. Trained, Engaged, and Certified Staff
It’s not just about loving dogs — it’s about knowing dogs. A quality daycare should have staff who are:
Certified in Fear Free handling, pet CPR/first aid, and canine behavior
Trained to read body language and intervene safely and appropriately
Hands-on and engaged in play and redirection, not standing off to the side
Skilled in helping nervous, shy, or reactive dogs adjust to the group
🛑 Red flag: Staff who are distracted, on their phones, or unable to explain behavior management practices may pose a safety risk.
✅ 3. Safe, Clean, Crate-Free, and Thoughtfully Designed
Cleanliness and safety are non-negotiable. Look for a facility that offers:
Separate play areas for different sizes, temperaments, or energy levels
Non-slip flooring, secure fencing, and climate-controlled indoor space
Daily sanitization protocols for all play areas, toys, and water bowls
Crate-free care during the day, allowing dogs to move freely and rest comfortably without confinement
Quiet rest zones where dogs can decompress and nap when needed
Parent transparency — you should be welcome to tour the facility and see exactly where your dog will play, rest, and learn throughout the day
🛑 Red flag: If the space smells bad, looks dirty, or you’re discouraged from viewing where dogs spend their time, it’s not the right fit.
✅ 4. Structured Introductions and Evaluations
A responsible daycare doesn’t just toss new dogs into the group. Instead, they:
Require a trial day or temperament test before your dog joins group play
Introduce new dogs slowly to assess compatibility
Adjust groups based on behavior, not just breed or size
Have clear policies for managing overexcitement or unwanted behavior
🛑 Red flag: If there’s no formal evaluation or onboarding process, be cautious.
✅ 5. Clear, Honest Communication
Trust is key when you’re leaving your pup in someone else’s care. A great daycare will:
Provide daily updates, especially during a dog’s first few visits
Share photos or videos via social media or a parent portal
Be upfront about pricing, policies, and optional services
Let you know immediately if your dog is injured, struggling, or not adjusting well
🛑 Red flag: If asking questions feels like a bother, or updates are vague or inconsistent, that’s a problem.
✅ 6. Your Dog’s Reaction
Sometimes the best feedback comes from the dog. After a few visits, ask yourself:
Does your dog seem excited to go to daycare?
Do they return home tired but content, not stressed or overly exhausted?
Have you noticed improved social skills or confidence over time?
🛑 Red flag: If your dog hides, resists going, or consistently comes home anxious, it’s worth rethinking your choice.
✅ 7. Bonus Factors That Set the Best Apart
Some extra touches that elevate a daycare from good to great:
Family-owned or local operations with hands-on leadership and personalized care
Celebration of birthdays, gotcha days, or milestone moments
Themed weeks or monthly activities to keep dogs mentally and socially engaged
A pace that matches your dog’s energy level — whether wild and playful or slow and steady
Open houses, community events, transparent tours, and visible spaces that let you see exactly where your dog spends their day
Comments