Dog boarders in the UK

Dog boarding is overnight care for your dog while you're away. It splits broadly into home boarding (your dog stays in someone's house, usually with one or two other dogs) and kennels (your dog has a run at a dedicated boarding facility). People search for boarders when a holiday is coming up, when a work trip lands at short notice, or when a hospital stay rules out home care.

The right boarder gives you the kind of trip where you stop worrying after the first photo update. The wrong one casts a shadow over the whole holiday, so it's worth doing the work upfront.

What to look for in a dog boarder

• A council animal-activity licence covering home boarding or boarding kennels (these are separate licence categories)
• Public liability insurance, usually £2m to £5m of cover
• A proper meet-and-greet before booking, ideally with a trial overnight
• Clear policy on dog numbers - home boarders should typically take no more than three dogs at a time (excluding their own)
• For kennels, individual runs of decent size with covered outdoor access
• Daily walks or off-lead time in addition to garden access
• A clear emergency and vet protocol
• Photo and message updates while you're away
• Vaccination and kennel cough requirements in writing

Typical UK pricing

Home boarding runs £25 to £50 per night in most of the UK, with central London at £40 to £80. Kennels tend to be £20 to £40 per night. Larger breeds, multiple dogs from the same household, or peak holiday periods (Christmas, Easter, summer school holidays) usually carry a 10 to 25 percent premium. Most boarders charge for the day of drop-off and pickup as full days, so a Friday-to-Sunday trip is three nights, not two.

Questions to ask before booking

• How many dogs do you have at one time, including your own?
• Will my dog be alone at any point, and for how long?
• What's your daily routine - walks, garden time, feeding, rest?
• How do you handle dogs that don't get on?
• What's your emergency procedure, and which vet do you use?
• Are you licensed by the council, and what's your star rating?
• Can I see proof of insurance?
• What happens if my dog gets ill or refuses to eat?

Red flags to avoid

• No licence, or evasive answers about licensing
• Boarders taking more than three or four dogs in a domestic setting
• No meet-and-greet, or pressure to book sight unseen
• Crates used routinely rather than for rest
• No vet protocol or emergency contact plan
• Reluctance to send photos or updates

DEFRA 2018 licensing - what it means

Both home boarding and boarding kennels have needed a council animal-activity licence in England since the 2018 regulations. Home boarders are inspected in their own home and need to show that the layout, garden, and dog count meet welfare standards. Kennels are inspected against tighter standards around run size, drainage, ventilation, and isolation areas for sick dogs. Each licensee is rated one to five stars, with the rating determining renewal frequency. The same applies via local authorities in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. If a boarder can't show you their licence and rating, walk away.

FAQ

How much does dog boarding cost per night in the UK?

Home boarding is typically £25 to £50 per night, with central London at £40 to £80. Kennels sit at £20 to £40 per night. Holiday peaks add 10 to 25 percent.

What's the difference between home boarding and kennels?

Home boarding is in someone's house, usually with one to three dogs, and feels like a holiday with another family. Kennels are dedicated facilities with individual runs - cleaner, more structured, often better for dogs who don't enjoy other dogs in their space.

Do boarders need a council licence?

Yes. In England, both home boarders and kennels need an animal-activity licence under the 2018 regulations. Always ask to see it, with the star rating, before booking.

Can I send my dog with their own bed and food?

Yes, and most boarders prefer it. Familiar bedding helps your dog settle, and a sudden food change on top of being away from home often causes stomach upset. Bring enough food for the whole stay plus an extra day.

How do boarders handle dogs that don't get on?

Good home boarders won't take a second dog that isn't a match for the dogs already booked. Kennels keep dogs in separate runs and only mix at owners' request. Either way, dogs should be separated at feed times and rest times.

What vaccinations does my dog need to board?

Standard DHPP and leptospirosis, almost always kennel cough (often required at least 14 days before stay), and an up-to-date worming and flea record. Some boarders ask for proof of dental check or annual vet visit.

What if my dog gets ill while I'm away?

A licensed boarder has a written emergency protocol. They take your dog to either their nominated vet or yours, contact you, and the cost goes via you (or your insurance) unless covered by the boarder's policy. Confirm this in writing before the stay.

Should I leave a contact number while I'm away?

Yes, plus a backup contact in case you're unreachable. A good boarder won't bother you with small things but you want to be reachable for anything serious.