How to Choose a Great Dog Daycare

 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