2024
Last updated:
Our Recommended Top 20
We did the research for you!
Licensing- User Reviews
- Mystery Shopping Calls
Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored Vancouver Dog Boarding Facilities on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.
58Reviewed
42Curated
20Top Picks
Learn about our selection process.
Providers
=
Featured Provider
Rover
$10 off first booking!
Expertise.com Rating
Why choose this provider?
Rover offers doggy daycare services for pet owners throughout the local area. Its network includes thousands of pet sitters that are available to care for dogs while their owners work or travel. The service connects sitters with clients online or through its app. Customers can meet with sitters prior to booking, and services are available for a range of dogs, including high-energy puppies and dogs with special needs.
- Dog Boarding
- Puppy Care
Expertise.com Rating
Why choose this provider?
Need help contacting a Dog Boarding Facility in Vancouver? Call our Concierge team at 848-Book-Pro (848-266-5776 from 6 am - 4 pm PT | Mon - Fri). They are standing by to help you get the service you need.
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 4.0 (132)
(132)Why choose this provider?
Wet Noses & Wagging Tails is a dog boarding facility that serves pet owners and their pooches in Vancouver. It houses a 16,000 square feet play area for both indoor and outdoor activities, complete with shaded rest zones and shallow pools. Also, offer a full-size pool for pups and also lure coursingand enrichment programs as well. For boarding, its staff members offer both pick-ups and drop-offs. They accommodate both individual and multiple pet packages, which include scheduled meals and sleep-time supervision. The facility was founded by Shannon Puranen, a lifelong dog lover who also provides puppy training services.
- Daycare
- Training
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 3.5 (15)
Why choose this provider?
Enzo's Acres is a dog boarding and training facility serving clients in Vancouver and the surrounding areas. The dog boarding facility offers lodging services to pets with a focus on off- and on-leash training and socialization. Dogs are trained to acquire certain behaviors with the pet owner's command such as sitting, walking politely, and waiting at thresholds. The facility was named after a white boxer puppy that was supposed to be euthanized after they found tumors on his leg.
- Daycare
- Training
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 4.0 (50)
- Yelp
- 4.0 (15)
Why choose this provider?
Waldorf Kennels & Gardens is a pet boarding facility that serves clients in Vancouver. It provides dog boarding services that include an indoor kennel with water bowls, temperature-controlled sleeping areas, and classical music. The facility also allows pet owners to bring their own dog food, beds, blankets, and toys. Renovations were undertaken following a change of ownership in 2005, which include the addition of an agility course and the installation of Bose sound systems. Waldorf Kennels has been in the business for more than 50 years.
- Training
Why choose this provider?
The Howliday Inn is a facility that has been serving Vancouver since 1997. It offers a variety of packages for day and overnight dog boarding services, which utilize its guest rooms with beddings and toys. Dogs are allowed to socialize as much as they like in the play areas, while reserved guests can stay in private rooms. The hotel features heat, air conditioning, and an air ventilation system as well as a freezer, a refrigerator, and a microwave.
- Puppy Care
Why choose this provider?
Dog Connection Pdx is a dog daycare and boarding facility serving dogs of all breeds and ages in Vancouver. Its staff has years of experience working in dog care facilities and can handle all dogs regardless of their size and temperament. Dog Connection Pdx is located in a 7,000 square feet facility where it accommodates its canine guests for day and overnight stays. It also offers a variety of amenities and plenty of fun and fitness activities.
- Daycare
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 4.0 (41)
- Yelp
- 4.0 (4)
Why choose this provider?
Mountain View Play and Stay is a daycare and dog boarding facility in Vancouver that serves clients in the metro and the surrounding areas. It offers different suite sizes, elevated beds in indoor temperature-controlled rooms, fleece blankets, and supervised outdoor playtime within the facility's fenced yard. Additionally, it performs one-on-one personalized playtime, nail trim, and baths upon request. Mountain View Play and Stay partners with its neighbor, the Mountain View Veterinary Hospital, for necessary medical assistance.
- Daycare
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 4.0 (33)
Why choose this provider?
Dogs In the City provides dog daycare services and behavior training to pet owners in and around Vancouver. The company offers daycare packages for single-day, 5 days, 10 days, and 20 days stay. Its staff members also help a client's pet socialize and acclimate themselves with the company's other dog guests. In addition, they work on addressing behaviors such as excessive barking, jumping on people, sitting and waiting at doors, and boundary issues with people and other dogs.
- Daycare
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.5 (49)
Why choose this provider?
For more than 20 years, A Dog's Best Friend has provided boarding services for pets from the Vancouver metro. The center offers a private sleep space, bed, dishes, and a toy to chew on during their stay. Additionally, it has a private play area where dogs can interact with other boarded canines. The staff supervises these areas and can also administer medications for those with special needs. A Dog's Best Friend has been featured in Spot Magazine for its .services and amenities.
- Daycare
- First Aid / CPR
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.0 (36)
Why choose this provider?
Salmon Creek Veterinary Clinic is a pet care business that serves clients in Vancouver. It offers dog boarding services that include a temperature-controlled boarding area loaded with food, toys, blankets. The facility also provides veterinary services for its canine guests that include wellness examinations and dental services. In addition, an experienced medical staff supervises the facility. Polly L. Martin acquired Salmon Creek Veterinary Clinic on May 31, 2014. She is a member of the American Animal Hospital Association.
- First Aid / CPR
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.5 (12)
Why choose this provider?
Camp Good Puppy in Vancouver has five acres of indoor and outdoor space for dog boarding and daycare. It separates dog guests into playgroups according to their sizes, play styles, and energy levels. Its staff feeds guests twice a day, with lunch and late snacks available upon request. In addition, the company can accommodate dogs with routine medication and special dietary needs. Camp Good Puppy is a member of the International Boarding & Pet Services Association.
- Daycare
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 4.5 (29)
Why choose this provider?
Susie's Country Inn for Dogs and Cats is a professional pet daycare and boarding facility that serves residential clients in Vancouver and the surrounding areas. It offers a complete lineup of pet care services, including pet boarding and daycare, pet grooming, and pet socialization programs. Bill and Susie Osborn, the facility's owners, started their journey by renting a private space for their pet training classes. In 1993, the couple found a small facility to cater to the needs of their growing customer base.
- Cat Care
- Puppy Care
- Doggy Day Care
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 4.0 (18)
- Yelp
- 4.5 (5)
Why choose this provider?
Happy Barber Kennel is a professional pet facility catering to clients in Vancouver since 1978. Owned by Jan Fry, the dog boarding facility has heated and air-conditioned rooms for fur babies. Dogs receive professional caring services during their stay. Boarding services include the furnishing of blankets and dog walks two or three times per day in a secure and wooded acreage. Clients can bring their own food for their pets, or the pets can be fed with the facility-supplied food.
- Dog Walking
Why choose this provider?
Cascade Park Animal Hospital is a veterinary facility located in Vancouver that offers boarding services for cats and dogs, especially those with special needs. It has on-site veterinarians who can care for pets with medical problems, post-surgical physical conditions, or chronic emotional conditions. Its team of professionals also provides services such as neighborhood walks, teeth brushing, nail trimming, playtime activities, and exit baths. Cascade Park Animal Hospital has accreditation from the American Animal Hospital Association.
- Bathing / Grooming
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- 4.0 (204)
- Yelp
- 3.5 (81)
Why choose this provider?
BarkZone is a dog care facility with locations in Beaverton, Portland, and Lake Oswego. It offers several services for Vancouver pet owners, including dog boarding. Canine guests spend the day at the daycare and are only put inside their kennels or luxury suites at night. Furthermore, they constantly interact with other dogs and company staff. Optional services like daily brushes and walks are also offered. BarkZone has been serving pets and pet owners for nearly two decades.
- Training
Why choose this provider?
Montage Pet Lodge has been providing pet care services to the community of Vancouver since 1978. The facility has small and large buildings with comfortable den-like sleeping areas for pet boarding. Each boarding comes with mealtime, exercise time, and playtime in its large facility. Meanwhile, it offers standard, full-service, and a la carte options for grooming services. Montage Pet Lodge aims to help pet owners feel collected by providing professional care for their fur babies.
- Grooming
- Cat Care
Why choose this provider?
East Padden Animal Hospital is a full-service business that provides Vancouver residents with pet boarding services and veterinarian treatment. It has separate suites for dog and cat guests. The hospital provides individual runs for dog guests. Moreover, its staff walks and plays with them a minimum of three times a day. East Padden Animal Hospital donates funds and services to organizations that focus on animal welfare, such as Pet Aid of Washington and Cherish the Animals.
- Cat Care
- Puppy Care
Why choose this provider?
Townhouse Pet Care offers boarding solutions to dog and cat owners in Vancouver and other nearby metros. It provides its dog boarders with temperature-controlled areas equipped with beddings, blankets, food, and water. It also administers medications and facilitates one-on-one playtime. Its trained pet care technicians observe and record each dog's body functions to better address potential health problems. The pet care center also offers professional dog grooming services, which include shaving, bathing, nail trimming, and hygienic expressions.
- Grooming
Why choose this provider?
Tails R Waggin Doggy Day Care is a facility that has been offering daycare and overnight and weekend boarding services to pets in Vancouver and its surrounding areas since 2008. It has indoor and outdoor spaces along with playgrounds and swimming pools. Moreover, it lets the dogs staying at the facility participate in daily exercises and playtime with other dogs. Tails R Waggin Doggy Day Care also handles boredom behaviors, such as barking and chewing.
- Daycare
Compare our Top Dog Boarding Facilities
| Name | Expertise Rating | Address | Promotions | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rover | $10 off first booking! | View More | ||
| Wet Noses & Wagging Tails | 5900 Northeast 152nd Avenue, Vancouver, WA98682 | View More | ||
| Enzo’s Acres | 1519 South Parkway Avenue, Battle Ground, WA98604 | View More | ||
| Waldorf Kennels & Gardens | 16315 Northeast Union Road, Ridgefield, WA98642 | View More | ||
| The Howliday Inn | 5001 Northeast 82nd Avenue, Portland, OR97220 | View More | ||
| Dog Connection PDX | 7515 North Mississippi Avenue, Portland, OR97217 | View More | ||
| Mountain View Play & Stay | 13914 Northeast 16th Avenue, Vancouver, WA98685 | View More | ||
| Dogs In the City | 3255 Northeast Broadway, Portland, OR97232 | View More | ||
| A Dog's Best Friend | 316 Southeast Hearthwood Boulevard, Vancouver, WA98684 | View More | ||
| Salmon Creek Veterinary Clinic | 12709 Northeast Highway 99, Vancouver, WA98686 | View More | ||
| Camp Good Puppy | 20019 Northeast 68th Street, Vancouver, WA98682 | View More | ||
| Susie's Country Inn for Dogs and Cats | 7418 Northeast 159th Street, Vancouver, WA98662 | View More | ||
| Happy Barker Kennel | 27310 Northeast 9th Street, Camas, WA98607 | View More | ||
| Cascade Park Animal Hospital | 16820 Southeast McGillivray Boulevard, Vancouver, WA98683 | View More | ||
| BarkZone | 8805 Southeast Stark Street, Portland, OR97216 | View More | ||
| Montage Pet Lodge | 10200 Northeast 72nd Avenue, Vancouver, WA98686 | View More | ||
| East Padden Animal Hospital | 15721 Northeast Fourth Plain Boulevard, Vancouver, WA98682 | View More | ||
| Townhouse Pet Care | 2965 Northeast Sandy Boulevard, Portland, OR97232 | View More | ||
| Tails R Waggin Doggy Day Care | 4925 Northwest Fruit Valley Road, Vancouver, WA98660 | View More |
FAQs
Introduction
Dog boarding, sometimes referred to as doggie day care, offers pet-sitting services for dogs of varying breeds and ages. Services provided include overnight housing in temperature- and light-controlled kennels, medication administration, bathing, and feeding with veterinarian-approved food or food brought from home.
Dog boarding and doggie day care facilities provide owners with peace of mind in knowing that their pets are being cared for by licensed and trained professionals. Boarding options range from one to 30 days or longer, and many companies offer additional services, such as spa treatments and obedience training.
What is dog boarding?
Dog boarding facilities provide housing and care for dogs for short- and long-term stays. Services include kenneling, daily exercise, feeding, and grooming. While at-home pet sitting providers offer similar services, the main difference between the two is that professional facilities are licensed, and they must follow state regulations to ensure the safety of animals in their care.
What is included with dog boarding?
Services included with dog boarding can vary based on specific facility offerings, but most boarding centers offer daily exercise programs, clean, sanitized bedding, temperature-controlled housing, fresh water, and veterinarian-approved dog food. Boarding technicians also administer required medications and supplements, and many facilities offer grooming and bathing services.
Should I board my dog at the vet?
Certain veterinary offices provide boarding services, as overnight staff are readily available, and animals have immediate access to medical care. While boarding a dog at the vet is perfectly safe, some dogs are uneasy about going to the doctor, leading to anxiety and resistance at drop-off.
What is board and training for dogs?
Board and training programs for dogs combine overnight boarding with obedience training. Dogs stay at boarding facilities throughout their training programs, which typically last between one and four weeks. During their stay, dogs are trained to hinder behavior, such as jumping and pulling on leashes, and they learn basic commands, such as heel and stay.
Do dog board and train programs work?
Board and train programs have proven to be effective for many dogs, as they learn everything from basic commands to new behaviors that result in positive reinforcement. However, not all dogs respond to board and train programs, so alternative training and behavior modification courses may be necessary in some cases.
Are there any regulation requirements for dog boarding facilities?
Specific regulation requirements for dog boarding facilities can vary from state to state, but all kennel owners must obtain the appropriate licensing, and property must be zoned for kenneling. Additionally, all facilities must be designed to remain structurally sound and maintain fresh-air ventilation systems, and hot and cold running water is required.
How can I prepare my dog for boarding in a kennel or pet hotel?
Dog owners may wish to visit the facility with their pets before boarding to help them acclimate to the environment. A visit to the veterinarian is also a good idea to ensure the dog is in good health before spending time away from home. If a dog is used to sleeping with other dogs or people, owners should encourage them to sleep alone for a few nights before the stay.
What should I bring with my dog for long-term boarding?
When dropping off a dog for long-term boarding, owners should bring the following:
- Food to last the duration of the pet's stay
- Medication and supplements, if needed
- One or two favorite toys for comfort and familiarity
- Vaccination documentation
- One or two dog leashes, if required by the facility
How do I board my dog for the first time?
Before boarding a dog for the first time, it's a good idea for owners and their pets to visit the establishment to get a feel for the environment and learn about the boarding process. It's also important for dogs to be vaccinated for kennel cough, canine distemper, and rabies prior to boarding. Dog owners can also "try out" boarding facilities by placing their pets for a one-night stay to gauge their comfort levels and familiarize them with the environment.
Do dogs like boarding kennels?
Dogs are highly adaptable; however, whether they are comfortable in a boarding kennel depends on various factors. Anxiety due to missing their owners and being in an unfamiliar space may cause a dog to feel stressed. Reputable providers work hard to ensure dogs are comfortable and content during their stays.
How much is dog boarding per day?
On average, dog boarding costs between $25 and $85 per day/night. Factors that can lead to higher or lower costs include the state, additional services needed, special diets, included grooming, and included training. Weekly dog boarding costs average $150, and monthly costs are approximately $500.
How much is dog board and training per day?
Rates for dog board and training per day can vary based on specific company prices and services offered. In general, two-week programs start at around $900, but they can go significantly higher. Dog owners should confirm with dog boarding centers if single-day sessions are offered, as professional training often requires more than one session.
Do you tip for dog boarding?
It's not customary or required to tip for dog boarding or kenneling, but customers can offer tips if so inclined. It's always a good idea to check with the boarding center before providing a tip to ensure it's not against company policy.
How long can you board a dog?
Specific lengths of boarding time can vary per facility, but in general, it's recommended to board a dog for no longer than 30 days at a time. While many dogs adapt to new environments, they may also form attachments to their caregivers, leading to resistance when it is time to leave the facility.
Is it safe to board a puppy?
It's safe to board puppies that are four months of age or older. Depending on the boarding facility, dog owners may be required to bring proof of age and documentation of all puppy shots. Puppy owners should consult with their veterinarians before boarding to ensure their pets are healthy enough to be placed in a new environment.
Do dogs get sad when boarded?
Yes, it's common for some dogs to become emotional when boarded. They may miss their owners and the overall change of environment, including dietary changes, which can be jarring. However, dogs are adaptable, and quality kennels and boarding centers work hard to ensure that their needs are met through socialization and attention.
What vaccines do dogs need to be boarded?
The vaccines required for dogs to enter boarding facilities or doggy day care centers are upper respiratory or kennel cough, rabies, and canine distemper. Dogs should also be current with all other vaccines and take preventative tablets for fleas and heartworm.
Can dogs get sick from boarding?
Several factors can cause a dog to become ill during boarding. While transmittable viruses that lead to kennel cough are quite common, dogs can also get sick due to the stress of a new environment and dietary changes that lead to stomach upset. Vaccinations help prevent dogs from picking up certain viruses and bacterial infections, so owners need to ensure that all shots are up-to-date before boarding.
How long does kennel cough last after being boarded?
When a dog is exposed to kennel cough, the incubation period is approximately two to 14 days following exposure. Symptoms, such as a mild cough and nasal discharge, can last a few weeks. In most cases, kennel cough is not serious, but pet owners should schedule a veterinarian visit to rule out secondary infections.
How do I start a doggy daycare?
You should have experience with and knowledge of dog care before launching a dog daycare. Your business must comply with all state and local laws. You also need to choose what type of business formation you want. Visit the Small Business Administration website and the site for your Secretary of State’s office for guidelines, tips, advice, and resources.
Find top Dog Boarding Facilities nearby
- Portland, OR
- Tacoma, WA
- Seattle, WA
- Spokane, WA
Other top picks in your area
- Dog Grooming in Vancouver, WA
- Horse Boarding in Vancouver, WA
- Veterinarians in Vancouver, WA
