Is Doggy Day Care Bad for My Puppy?

A doggy day care center operates much like a child's day care center. Dog owners leave their pets at a canine day care center for several hours during the day. The services offered at a doggy day care are somewhat extensive, from pet sitting to grooming and socialization. For some dog owners, there are many benefits to using a doggy day care.

  1. Benefits

    • Doggy day care centers are ideal for dogs that spend many hours of the day alone without any attention. Leaving a dog alone consistently can lead to behavioral problems such as howling, whining and the destruction of a home. Doggy day care is ideal, then, for owners who work throughout the day but are reluctant to leave their dogs at home alone. Benefits of taking a dog to a doggy day care center include allowing the dog to gain interaction with other dogs and humans, a large space to run and play, and a calmer pet -- not to mention a home intact.

    Non-Ideal Candidates

    • There are some instances whereby taking a dog to a doggy day care center is less than ideal. In some cases, a fearful or easily intimidated dog may regress further and become more fearful and timid. Aggressive or undersocialized dogs are also not ideal candidates for doggy day care, as these types of dogs may act out their aggression or display dangerous behavior due to unfamiliar surroundings. Other dogs that are not ideal candidates for doggy day care include ill dogs and dogs that suffer from separation anxiety.

    How to Use Doggy Day Care

    • The amount of time a dog spends at a doggy day care center is the owner's decision. Owners with high-energy dogs may choose to use a doggy day care center on a daily basis for increased social exposure and exercise. Other owners may choose to drop off their dog one to two days a week. However, most active and friendly dogs can benefit from regular doggy day care attendance.

    Choose Wisely

    • It is important to choose wisely when considering doggy day care centers. Choose a doggy day care that requires an interview and assessment prior to admitting the dog into the program, as this process allows the staff to assess whether a dog is a good fit for the center. Be comfortable with the entrance requirements and avoid over-vaccinating simply to ensure enrollment. Gather as much information as possible, such as the training background of the staff, the services provided, the process of determining playgroups, and the quality and quantity of doggy treats provided.