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Dog Boarding Singapore | Doggy Daycare Guide

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Introduction to Doggy Daycare

Doggy daycare, also known as dog boarding, is where you send your dog to enjoy a safe and engaging environment while you’re away. These centres offer activities like playtime, socialisation with other dogs, structured walks, and mental stimulation games to keep your dog happy and healthy, giving you peace of mind.

The benefits of doggy daycare are numerous for both you and your dog. Your dog gets to enjoy social interactions, physical exercise, and engaging activities, while you benefit from knowing your dog is well cared for in a stimulating environment. This can help reduce your stress and free up your time, allowing you to focus on other responsibilities. However, these benefits are only realised if the daycare operations are managed correctly.

Due Diligence: Ensuring Quality in Dog Daycare Selection

It’s important to note that the doggy daycare industry is not heavily regulated, much like the dog training industry. Nparks maintains a list of licensed facilities (see list of Nparks Licensed Boarding Facilities) but the barrier to entry is low. This means that anyone can easily set up a daycare and have it licensed. 

This places the responsibility of selecting a quality daycare on pet owners. Sending your dog to a low-quality daycare could be detrimental to their well-being. In this article, we aim to equip you with the knowledge to assess and decide on the daycare that would benefit your dog the most, ensuring the best possible outcome for your furry friend. 

Introducing Our Animal Training Centre (ATC)

If you’re already familiar with the key considerations for selecting a board and train service or a dog training school, where your dog can not only receive new skills but also enjoy enrichment activities, we invite you to check out our new Animal Training Centre (ATC). Our facility offers intensive day training sessions, which include comprehensive skills transfer to ensure that the training benefits both your dog and you, enhancing your bond and communication. These are excellent alternatives to board and train, boarding and doggy daycare services!

Checkout the sneak peeks below to have a sensing of what you can expect when you send your dog over to us!

Sneak Peak (Setting Up)

Setting up shop prior to the soft launch

Quick Tour (Our Facility)

A quick walk through of our facility

Even if you’ve already decided on a service that you’re planning to engage, we encourage you to thoroughly review this guide before choosing any service that involves leaving your dog, including board and train programs, daycare, or boarding facilities. Making an informed decision will ensure your dog receives the highest standard of care and training.

Reasons to Send Your Dog to Doggy Daycare

Sending your dog to daycare offers a host of benefits that contribute to their overall well-being. When managed properly, doggy daycare provides your furry friend with valuable social interactions, physical exercise, and mental stimulation. Let’s take a closer look at each benefit and how they can positively impact your dog.

Social Interactions

Dogs are social creatures that thrive on interaction with others. Just like us, they need to build and maintain social skills. At daycare, your dog will have the chance to play with other dogs, which helps them develop these essential skills. For instance, if your dog tends to be shy or has trouble with social cues, regular playtime with other dogs helps them become more comfortable and confident in social settings.

Physical Exercise

Exercise is key to keeping your dog healthy and happy. Daycare provides plenty of opportunities for your dog to run, play, and stay active. Imagine your dog racing around a spacious play area, chasing after balls or engaging in interactive games. This kind of physical activity is great for burning off excess energy and keeping your dog fit.

Mental Stimulation

A good daycare ensures that your dog’s mind is just as active as their body. They might participate in puzzle games or other activities that challenge their intellect. Importantly, a well-run daycare balances mental stimulation with rest, catering to each dog’s unique needs. For example, while some dogs might thrive on interactive play, others may need quieter times to recharge. A quality daycare will understand and adapt to these needs.

Specialized Training Opportunities

Some daycares offer specialised training, which can be especially helpful for dogs with specific behavioural challenges. For example, if your dog shows fear-based reactivity towards other dogs, a daycare with a trained professional can use desensitisation techniques to help your dog gradually overcome their fear. Similarly, for dogs with frustration issues, the daycare can implement controlled sessions that help build tolerance and self-control, often involving interactions with other dogs in a structured manner.

Managing Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety in dogs is a serious condition characterised by intense stress when a dog is left alone. This anxiety can lead to destructive behaviors, excessive barking, and other signs of distress. For dogs with separation anxiety, it’s crucial to remain below their anxiety threshold, which means ensuring they are in an environment where they feel safe and secure, with humans nearby to provide comfort.

Doggy daycare, boarding, or board and train facilities can be valuable resources in managing separation anxiety. By being in a well-supervised setting, your dog can avoid the panic that comes with being left alone, helping to prevent escalation of anxiety. These environments offer consistent human presence and structured social interactions, which can help your dog feel more at ease and reduce stress in the long term.

If your dog struggles with separation anxiety, consider exploring these care options as part of your management plan.

Potential Issues if Daycare Operations is Poorly Managed

While doggy daycare can be a great experience for your dog, poor management can lead to several serious issues. Here’s what to be aware of:

Negative Experience for the Dog

If a daycare is poorly managed, your dog might face constant stress, such as enduring endless barking from other dogs. This can make their time at daycare uncomfortable and anxiety-provoking, reducing the overall benefit of their stay.

Increased Fear of Other Dogs

Inadequate management of dog interactions can lead to negative experiences. For example, if aggressive or overly dominant dogs are not closely supervised, your dog might develop a heightened fear or reactivity towards other dogs. This newly expressed behaviour can spiral into full-blown dog reactivity, potentially requiring behaviour modification and affecting your dog’s future social interactions.

Fear of Humans

If staff handle dogs poorly or abusively, it can result in a deep-seated fear of humans. This is a serious issue because it can lead to increased reactivity or aggression towards people, which often requires extensive behaviour modification

Injuries

Poor supervision and inadequate understanding of dog behaviour can result in fights or accidents. For instance, if two dogs start to argue and the handler doesn’t step in quickly enough, your dog could end up injured. A competent handler must not only intervene promptly but also recognise and address potential conflicts before they escalate. To be able to intervene early, the handler must be very well-versed with dog body language and recognise the stressors early.

Spread of Diseases

Without strict health protocols, diseases and parasites can spread among dogs. For example, if unvaccinated dogs are allowed in, they might carry illnesses or worms that could affect others.

Considerations Before Engaging a Doggy Daycare

Choosing a daycare that prioritises effective management and your dog’s well-being is crucial. A responsible facility will implement proper measures to prevent these issues, ensuring a positive and safe experience for your dog.

This section will step down the different considerations that you should take note of when deciding to engage a daycare or dog boarding service.

When choosing a doggy daycare, several factors should be considered to ensure the best care for your pet.

Key Skills of Effective Dog Handlers

The skillset of handlers at a doggy daycare is crucial to your dog’s experience, impacting their well-being and safety. Here’s what to look for:

  1. Understanding Dog Body Language Handlers should be adept at reading dog body language to maintain a safe environment. They need to recognize signs of stress—such as lip licking or a tense posture—and intervene proactively to prevent escalation. This might involve redirecting attention or providing a safe retreat.
  2. Knowledge of Social Interaction Dynamics Effective handlers understand that dog behaviour is influenced by complex social interactions rather than simple dominance theories. They should be aware that dominance can shift based on various factors:
  3. De-escalating Aggressive Behavior When aggression occurs, handlers need to act quickly to de-escalate the situation. They should identify early signs of aggression and separate the dogs swiftly to prevent injuries and further stress.

Overall, skilled handlers are essential for ensuring a positive and secure environment at a doggy daycare, significantly affecting the quality of care your dog receives.

Strong Dog Acceptance Policy

When you’re selecting a doggy daycare or boarding service, it’s crucial to ensure they have a clear dog acceptance policy in place. A facility with a strong policy will focus on key aspects to ensure a safe and positive environment for your dog.

  1. Assessment of Dog Behavior Before Acceptance Prior to accepting a dog into the daycare, a comprehensive assessment ensures compatibility and identifies specific needs. Important steps include:
    • Behavioural Evaluation: Assess the dog’s socialisation skills, reactivity, and overall temperament to determine how well it will integrate with other dogs and adapt to the daycare environment.
    • Health and Vaccination Checks: Confirm that the dog’s vaccinations are current and that it is free from contagious diseases to protect all dogs in the daycare.
    • Owner Consultation: Discuss the dog’s history, behavioural quirks, and any special needs or concerns with the owner.
  2. Managing the Number of Dogs Effective crowd control is essential for maintaining a comfortable environment. Key considerations are:
    • Capacity Limits: Follow guidelines for space, such as providing 75–100 square feet per dog in play areas to avoid overcrowding.
    • Staff-to-Dog Ratio: Maintain a ratio of 1 staff member for every 10–15 dogs to ensure proper supervision.
    • Space Management: Design play areas with separate zones for different activities and energy levels, allowing space for both active play and quiet rest.

Adhering to these policies helps prevent overcrowding and reduces the risk of negative experiences for your dog, ensuring a positive and secure daycare experience.

Ethical Dog Handling Techniques

As you consider a doggy daycare service, think about how they handle dog behaviour ethically. The way they manage and address behavioral issues reflects their commitment to the humane treatment and overall well-being of your canine companion. Here’s why this is so important:

  • Positive Reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques to encourage desirable behaviours and build trust. Reward good behaviour with treats, praise, and attention.
  • Avoidance of Punishment: Refrain from using punishment or negative reinforcement, which can lead to fear and anxiety in dogs. Focus instead on redirecting and rewarding positive behaviours.
  • Professional Training: Ensure that handlers have professional training in canine behaviour management and ethics to address behavioural issues effectively and compassionately.

For strategies on eliminating poor behaviour, see our article on steps to remove undesired behaviour.

Effective Management of Dog Interactions

When evaluating a doggy daycare, pay close attention to how they supervise dog interactions. Effective management of these interactions directly impacts your dog’s safety and happiness. Proper supervision ensures that:

  1. Safety and Prevention of Conflict: Effective supervision helps prevent conflicts and aggressive behaviour. By monitoring play closely, handlers can quickly address signs of stress or tension among dogs before they escalate into serious issues. This proactive approach reduces the risk of fights and injuries, keeping your dog safe.
  2. Positive Socialisation: Supervised interactions support positive socialisation experiences for dogs. When handlers are present, they can guide play and reinforce good behaviour, helping dogs learn appropriate social skills and build positive relationships with other dogs. This enhances your dog’s confidence and enjoyment during their time at daycare.
  3. Comfort and Well-Being: Continuous supervision ensures that all dogs, including those who may be more sensitive or less confident, are comfortable and feel secure. Handlers can provide immediate assistance if a dog appears overwhelmed or uncomfortable, maintaining a supportive and stress-free environment.
  4. Quick Response to Issues: With effective supervision, any emerging issues, such as excessive barking or signs of distress, can be addressed promptly. This immediate response helps prevent minor issues from becoming significant problems, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable experience for all dogs.

In summary, diligent supervision of dog interactions is a key factor in creating a safe, engaging, and supportive environment at a doggy daycare. It not only safeguards your dog’s physical health but also supports their emotional well-being and social development.

Suitable Structure and Amenities

When you’re choosing a doggy daycare, the facility’s structure and amenities are crucial for your dog’s comfort and well-being. A well-designed daycare not only meets your dog’s physical and emotional needs but also improves their overall experience. Here’s what you should look for:

  1. Enrichment:
    • Walks: Opt for daycares that provide individual walks with a maximum of two dogs per handler. Avoid facilities that rely on group walks (a.k.a, pack walks), as these can lead to discomfort, stress, and inadequate supervision, potentially causing distress for your dog.
  2. Resting Areas and Space Setup:
    • Resting Areas: Ensure there are designated spots where dogs can retreat for breaks.
    • Space Management: The facility should have areas to isolate stressed or rowdy dogs, maintaining a calm environment.
    • Outdoor Areas: Look for facilities with grassy outdoor spaces for play and bathroom needs.
    • Separation Rooms: Confirm the availability of separate rooms for dogs that do not get along to prevent conflicts.
  3. Training and Communication:
    • Training Programs: If available, check the qualifications of the trainers and the training services offered.
    • Updates: Facilities that provide regular updates through WhatsApp or live cameras offer transparency, allowing you to monitor your dog’s well-being and activities.
  4. Location, Accessibility, Transportation
    • Location: The daycare should be conveniently located and accessible to ensure easy drop-offs and pick-ups.
    • Accessibility: Check if the facility is accessible for both you and your dog, including parking and entry points.
    • Transportation Services: Some daycares offer transportation to and from the facility. This can be particularly useful if you have a busy schedule or need a convenient option.

Evaluating these elements will help ensure that your chosen daycare supports a positive, safe, and enriching environment for your dog.

Strong Dog Boarding Operations

When selecting a dog boarding facility, it’s important to understand the differences between group housing and kennel management. Knowing these differences will help you choose the option that best suits your dog’s needs and preferences.When choosing a dog boarding facility, it’s important to understand the differences between group housing and kennel management:

  1. Group Housing:
    • Benefits: Allows dogs to socialise and play, which is great for social development and energy release.
    • Challenges: Requires constant supervision to prevent conflicts and manage interactions, which can be costly due to the need for additional staff.
  2. Kennel Management:
    • Benefits: Provides individual space for each dog, reducing the risk of conflicts and stress. Allows for tailored care and can be monitored effectively using CCTV, reducing the need for overnight staff.
    • Challenges: Less social interaction between dogs, which might not be ideal for dogs that thrive on being around others.

Group housing supports social interaction but demands intensive supervision, while kennel management ensures safety and controlled environments with CCTV monitoring. Choose a facility based on your dog’s needs and temperament, and ensure they have a well-managed approach to supervision for a safe and comfortable stay.

Feasible Cost without compromising Quality

When considering dog boarding or daycare in Singapore, it’s essential to understand the costs involved. Prices can vary widely based on the level of care and amenities offered. Typically, you can expect to pay between $50 to $150 per day for doggy daycare services and $130 – $180 per stay for overnight boarding.

At Pet Coach SG, we believe in the principle of “you get what you pay for.” Investing in quality care for your furry companion ensures they receive the best possible attention and support. This means skilled handlers, clean and well-maintained facilities, and comprehensive safety protocols.

For instance, when we send our dogs to daycare or overnight boarding, we look for services in the $90 – $160 per stay range. This cost reflects the level of care and attention our dogs receive, including professional handling, safe and comfortable accommodations, and engaging activities to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Choosing a reputable and well-reviewed daycare or boarding facility can make all the difference in your dog’s experience. While it might be tempting to opt for cheaper alternatives, it’s important to consider the potential trade-offs in terms of quality and safety. By prioritising quality, you ensure that your furry friend is in the best possible hands, allowing you to have peace of mind while you’re away.

If you have any questions or need further recommendations, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help ensure your dog has the best possible care.

Our Personal Doggy Daycare Checklist

In the previous sections, we have discussed various considerations to keep in mind when selecting a doggy daycare or boarding facility. From evaluating handler skill sets to understanding the structure and amenities of the facility, these factors are crucial in ensuring your dog’s safety, comfort, and overall well-being.

Now that you have a solid foundation of what to look for, we have condensed this information into a concise checklist for your convenience and reference. This checklist will help you ensure that all essential aspects are covered, maximising the benefits of your dog’s boarding experience while minimising potential negative implications.

  1. Qualified and Experienced Handlers
    • Handlers must be proficient in reading canine body language.
    • Handlers must understand and apply canine social interaction theory.
    • Handlers must be knowledgeable in dog behaviour and apply this knowledge to manage and mitigate negative behaviours.
  2. Transparent Management Practices
    • Conducts thorough assessments of dogs’ behaviour before acceptance (red flag if not).
    • Maintains clear protocols for managing excessive barking, dog fights, and misbehaving behaviours.
    • Adheres to capacity limits (1 dog per 50-75 square feet) to ensure comfort and safety.
  3. Comprehensive Safety Protocols
    • Provides structured enrichment activities and quality pet walks.
    • Offers designated resting areas and space to isolate rowdy or stressed dogs.
    • Utilises updates via WhatsApp or live cameras for transparency.
  4. Adequate Exercise and Socialization Opportunities
    • Ensures regular, quality pet walks with a maximum ratio of 1 handler to 2 dogs.
    • Avoids pack walks due to issues like speed discrepancy and potential discomfort.
  5. Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities
    • Keeps the environment clean and ensures all areas are well-maintained.
  6. Positive Reviews and Testimonials
    • Has positive feedback and testimonials from other pet owners to confirm reliability and quality.
  7. Boarding Operations
    • Uses kennels only for nighttime rest, with no overcrowding.
    • Trainers are familiar with shelter management practices.
    • Provides overnight supervision by trained staff who meet handler skillset and situation management criteria.

This checklist will help ensure that your dog receives the highest standard of care and comfort, optimising their boarding experience and minimising potential issues.

Doggy Daycare that Meets Our Checklist

We have identified two doggy daycares in Singapore that meet our rigorous checklist:

Tails Up

Tails Up excels in providing a structured and engaging environment for dogs. Their highly trained handlers, certified in Fear Free practices, and the founder’s diploma in dog behaviour from Temasek Polytechnic ensure expert care. Each dog is assessed to ensure they are a right match before boarding. The facilities feature an outdoor grass patch, separate rooms for dogs, and 24/7 monitoring and support.

Puppy Colours

Puppy Colours, spearheaded by a professional dog trainer, ensures that management and protocols are grounded in a deep understanding of dog behavioural sciences. They provide a safe and comfortable daycare environment with staff on-site during operational hours. Their skilled handlers excel in behaviour modification and social interactions, ensuring a positive experience for all dogs.

Alternatives to Consider

Our Animal Training Centre (ATC)

For a standout alternative to conventional board and train programs, consider our Animal Training Centre (ATC). At ATC, your dog will experience a unique blend of training and enrichment. Our specialised programs go beyond typical training by incorporating engaging activities that enhance your dog’s overall experience and development. With intensive day training sessions, including seven training sessions and a comprehensive skills transfer on the eighth, we ensure that both your dog and you are well-prepared for a more rewarding relationship.

Independent Pet Sitters

For personalised care, you may consider independent pet sitters, available through applications like Pawshake and PetBacker. These professionals offer tailored services but may or may not adhere to our checklist. For recommendations on independent freelancers who meet our rigorous standards, reach out to us directly for more details.

The Best Experience for Your Furry Friend

Ultimately, every pet owner wants the best for their furry companion. Choosing the right doggy daycare is a personal decision, shaped by each family’s unique goals and values. By using the checklist provided, you can minimise the chances of encountering negative experiences and maximise the positive aspects of your dog’s time away from home.

With the right knowledge and preparation, you can ensure that your furry friend enjoys a safe, comfortable, and enriching environment. This guide is designed to equip you with the information needed to make an informed decision before entrusting the care of your dog to a third party.

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help ensure the best experience for your beloved pet.

Thank you for taking the time to consider these important factors in your decision-making process. We wish you and your dog all the best in finding the perfect daycare or training solution that meets your needs. May your furry friend enjoy a safe, enriching, and happy experience!

Picture of Qiai Chong (Chief Behaviourist)

Qiai Chong (Chief Behaviourist)

With over a decade of study in the animal behaviour and welfare sciences, Qiai earned her Masters from the University of Edinburgh and has since devoted herself to the welfare and behaviour of pets. She has worked as an animal behaviourist since, and her expertise lies in addressing pet behavioural issues such as fears, phobias, anxiety and aggression.

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