Dog boarding prices in 2026 range from $25 to $125+ per night depending on facility type, dog size, and location. The national average for standard kennel boarding is $35–$65 per night, while luxury pet hotels charge $75–$125 per night. In-home boarding via apps like Rover typically costs $30–$60 per night.
This guide is for informational purposes. Always contact providers directly for current pricing and availability.
Average Dog Boarding Prices in 2026
Dog boarding prices have risen 10–15% since 2023, driven by higher labor costs, real estate, and increased pet ownership. Here’s what you can expect to pay across different boarding types in 2026:
| Boarding Type | Nightly Rate | Weekly Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Kennel | $25–$50 | $150–$300 | Budget-conscious owners |
| Mid-Range Facility | $50–$75 | $300–$500 | Most pet owners |
| Luxury Pet Hotel | $75–$125+ | $500–$840+ | Owners wanting premium care |
| In-Home Boarding (Rover/Wag) | $30–$60 | $200–$400 | Dogs who prefer home settings |
| Dog Daycare (day only) | $20–$45/day | $100–$225/week | Working pet owners |
Source: HomeGuide, A-Z Animals, Animalo.com — June 2026 national averages. Prices vary by region and individual facility.
Types of Dog Boarding & Their Costs
Understanding the different types of dog boarding will help you match your budget to the right level of care for your pet.
1. Traditional Kennels ($25–$50/night)
Traditional kennels are the most affordable dog boarding option. Dogs stay in individual runs or cages with scheduled feeding, exercise periods, and staff check-ins. Most offer basic amenities and are fully supervised. They’re ideal for healthy adult dogs that are comfortable in structured environments.
- Individual runs or kennels
- 2–4 scheduled outdoor walks/day
- Basic food and water included
- Vaccination requirements (Bordetella, rabies, DHPP)
2. Mid-Range Dog Boarding Facilities ($50–$75/night)
Mid-range facilities offer more space, comfort, and personal attention than basic kennels. Dogs may have access to group play sessions, more comfortable sleeping areas, and additional enrichment activities. This is the most popular choice for pet owners seeking a balance of quality and value.
3. Luxury Pet Hotels ($75–$125+/night)
Luxury dog boarding facilities are essentially five-star resorts for pets. They feature private suites, real furniture, webcam access for owners, gourmet meals, spa services, and individualized care plans. Some upscale pet hotels in major cities charge over $150 per night for premium suites.
- Private suites with real beds and furniture
- Webcam access so you can check in remotely
- Spa services, grooming, and massage add-ons
- Gourmet meals and special diet accommodation
- One-on-one playtime and enrichment sessions
4. In-Home Boarding via Apps ($30–$60/night)
Services like Rover and Wag connect dog owners with local pet sitters who board dogs in their own homes. Dogs get a home-like environment and one-on-one care. Sitter rates vary widely based on experience, location, and reviews.
Dog Boarding Prices: Full Cost Breakdown
Beyond the nightly rate, dog boarding costs can add up quickly with add-ons and surcharges. Here’s a complete breakdown of what you might pay:
| Cost Item | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base nightly rate | $35–$65 | Standard facility national average |
| Large dog surcharge | +$5–$15/night | Dogs over 50 lbs often cost more |
| Holiday pricing | +$10–$25/night | Thanksgiving, Christmas, July 4th |
| Medication handling | $2–$10/dose | Per medication administered |
| Extra walks/playtime | $5–$15/session | Add-on enrichment activities |
| Grooming add-on | $25–$75 | Bath, brush, nail trim |
| Late pickup fee | $15–$30 | After designated checkout time |
| Multi-dog discount | 10–20% off | Second dog sharing a suite |
Source: HomeGuide, WoofRate, PetDecorArt — June 2026. Prices are estimates; always confirm with the facility directly.
Factors That Affect Dog Boarding Prices
Several key factors determine how much you’ll pay for dog boarding. Understanding these can help you find the best value for your budget.
Dog Size & Breed
Larger dogs generally cost more to board because they require more space, more food, and more physical staff effort during handling and play. Many facilities use tiered pricing: small (under 25 lbs), medium (25–50 lbs), and large (over 50 lbs). Giant breeds like Great Danes or Saint Bernards may incur additional fees at some facilities.
Location & City
Dog boarding prices in major urban centers like New York, Los Angeles, and San Francisco typically run 20–30% higher than the national average due to higher real estate costs and wages. Suburban and rural facilities generally offer the most competitive rates. Always search for local dog boarding options to compare nearby prices.
Duration of Stay
Many facilities offer discounted weekly or monthly rates for extended stays. If you’re boarding your dog for a week or longer, always ask about multi-night discounts — savings of 10–20% are common for stays of 7+ nights.
Season & Holidays
Peak travel periods — Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring break, and summer — command premium pricing. Holiday surcharges of $10–$25 per night are standard industry practice. Book early and ask about cancellation policies during these periods.
Special Care Needs
Dogs with medical conditions requiring medication administration, special diets, anxiety management, or senior care needs will typically incur additional fees. Always disclose your dog’s health needs upfront so facilities can provide accurate pricing.
Dog Boarding Prices by City (2026)
Dog boarding costs vary significantly by city. Here’s a snapshot of average nightly rates across major US cities based on 2026 market data:
| City | Avg. Nightly Rate | Range | Find Boarding |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York City, NY | $70–$85 | $50–$150+ | NYC Boarding |
| Los Angeles, CA | $65–$80 | $45–$130+ | LA Boarding |
| Chicago, IL | $55–$70 | $40–$110 | Chicago Boarding |
| Houston, TX | $40–$60 | $30–$90 | Houston Boarding |
| Phoenix, AZ | $40–$60 | $28–$85 | Phoenix Boarding |
| Austin, TX | $45–$65 | $32–$95 | Austin Boarding |
| Denver, CO | $50–$70 | $35–$100 | Denver Boarding |
| Miami, FL | $55–$75 | $40–$120 | Miami Boarding |
Source: HomeGuide, WoofRate, Animalo.com — June 2026 estimates. Individual facility rates vary.
How to Save Money on Dog Boarding
Dog boarding can be expensive, especially for long trips. Here are the most effective ways to reduce your costs without sacrificing your dog’s care:
- Book early for holidays — Peak-season spots fill up months in advance. Booking 2–3 months ahead often secures lower rates and avoids holiday surcharges.
- Ask about multi-night discounts — Many facilities offer 10–20% off for stays of 7+ nights. Always ask before booking.
- Consider in-home boarding — Rover and Wag sitters often charge 20–40% less than traditional kennels, and your dog gets a home environment.
- Bundle services — Some facilities offer package deals that combine boarding with grooming or training at a discount.
- Join loyalty programs — Many boarding chains offer membership cards or frequent guest programs with accumulated discounts.
- Choose off-peak dates — Shifting travel dates by a few days to avoid peak holiday windows can save $10–$25 per night.
- Compare options on HeiBob — Browse and compare local dog boarding facilities to find the best value near you.
What to Look for in a Dog Boarding Facility
Price is only one factor. Here’s what to evaluate when choosing a dog boarding provider:
- Staff-to-dog ratio: A good facility should have no more than 10–15 dogs per staff member during active supervision.
- Vaccination requirements: All reputable facilities require Bordetella, rabies, and DHPP vaccines. This protects your dog from kennel cough and other contagious diseases.
- Cleanliness: Visit in person before booking. Clean, odor-controlled facilities with separate areas for different dog sizes are a positive sign.
- Emergency protocols: Ask how they handle medical emergencies and which vet they use. 24/7 staffing is a major plus.
- Separation of dogs by size: Small dogs should not share play spaces with large breeds unless specifically introduced.
- Reviews: Check Google, Yelp, and HeiBob listings for recent reviews from verified customers.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Boarding Prices
How much does dog boarding cost per night in 2026?
Dog boarding prices in 2026 average $35–$65 per night for standard facilities nationwide. Budget kennels start around $25/night, mid-range facilities run $50–$75/night, and luxury pet hotels charge $75–$125+ per night. In-home boarding via Rover or Wag typically costs $30–$60/night.
Is $50 a night expensive for dog boarding?
No — $50 per night is close to the national average for a mid-range boarding facility in 2026. In major cities like NYC or LA, you’d be getting a budget option at that price. In smaller cities and suburban areas, $50/night often gets you above-average accommodations.
What is the cheapest dog boarding option?
The cheapest dog boarding options are traditional kennels ($25–$40/night) and in-home sitters on platforms like Rover or Wag ($30–$45/night for newer sitters with fewer reviews). Dog daycare is also budget-friendly at $20–$35/day for daytime-only care.
How much does a week of dog boarding cost?
A week of dog boarding typically costs $150–$500 depending on the facility type. Standard kennels charge $150–$300/week, mid-range facilities $300–$500/week, and luxury pet hotels $500–$840+ per week. Many facilities offer a 10–15% discount for stays of 7+ nights.
Do dog boarding facilities charge more for large dogs?
Yes — most dog boarding facilities charge $5–$15 more per night for large dogs (typically over 50 lbs). This covers the additional space, food, and handling effort required for bigger breeds. Always confirm size-based pricing when getting a quote.
How far in advance should I book dog boarding?
For regular dates, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is usually sufficient. For major holidays (Thanksgiving, Christmas, July 4th, spring break), book 4–8 weeks ahead — quality facilities sell out quickly during peak periods, and last-minute bookings may come with higher rates.
Is in-home boarding better than kennels for dogs?
It depends on your dog’s temperament. Anxious or older dogs often do better in a calm home environment with in-home boarding ($30–$60/night). High-energy dogs that love socializing may thrive in a kennel with group play sessions. Consider your dog’s personality, not just the price.
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Ready to find affordable dog boarding near you? Browse all dog boarding services on HeiBob and compare prices, reviews, and facilities in your city. Whether you need a standard kennel, luxury pet hotel, or in-home sitter, HeiBob makes it easy to find the right fit for your dog and your budget.
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