Is my Dog Suitable for Home Boarding?

Is your dog suited to staying in a sitter’s home? Here’s how to determine if home boarding is the right choice and what steps you can take to prepare your pet for a successful stay.

Signs Your Dog is Suitable for Home Boarding

• Friendly with People and Other Pets: Dogs staying in a sitter’s home will likely come into contact with new people and possibly other animals. A dog that enjoys socialising and is comfortable around new faces will likely settle in well.
• Comfortable in New Environments: Some dogs adapt easily to new surroundings, while others may struggle with change. If your dog has previously stayed at a friend’s or family member’s house without issue, home boarding may be a good option.
• House-Trained: To ensure a smooth experience, dogs should be house-trained and accustomed to spending time indoors without accidents.
• Can Be Left Alone for Short Periods: Even in a sitter’s home, there may be times when your dog is left alone briefly. A dog that is comfortable being alone for short periods is more likely to cope well in a home boarding environment.

• Not Prone to Excessive Barking or Destructive Behaviour: Excessive barking or chewing can be a challenge for sitters. If your dog has a history of destructive behaviour, it may be worth addressing these issues before considering home boarding.

   

Preparing Your Dog for Home Boarding

If your dog meets most of the criteria but could use some preparation, consider these steps:

• Trial Stays: Arrange a short overnight stay with a friend or sitter to gauge how your dog adapts to being in a new home.
• Crate Training: If your dog is crate-trained, this can provide them with a familiar and safe space during their stay.
• Socialisation Training: Gradually introduce your dog to new environments, people, and pets to build their confidence.
• Practice Being Apart: If your dog struggles with separation, practice short departures to help them become more independent.

Alternatives to Home Boarding

If home boarding isn’t the best fit, there are other options to consider:

• Pet Sitting at Your Home: A sitter can stay in your home or visit daily to care for your pet in their familiar surroundings with Housesitting or Home Visits.
• Doggy Daycare: A good choice for social dogs that thrive in a group setting during the day.
• Professional Kennels: Some dogs do better in structured kennel environments with staff trained to manage different personalities and needs.

Dog Boarding vs. Kennels: What’s the Difference?

Dog kennels are commercial boarding facilities that house multiple dogs, often in separate pens or rooms with scheduled exercise time. In contrast, home boarding means your dog stays in a pet sitter’s home, enjoying a more familiar and personalised environment.

Some dogs may find kennels stressful due to noise, unfamiliar smells, and limited one-on-one attention. On the other hand, home boarding is ideal for dogs who prefer a quieter setting with more human interaction. Many sitters work from home, provide individualised care, and limit the number of pets they take in—reducing exposure to illnesses like kennel cough.

To ensure home boarding is a good fit, arrange a meet and greet with the sitter and consider a short trial stay. Bringing familiar items like a blanket or toy can help ease the transition. Transparency about your dog's needs and routine will ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.

Final Thoughts

Every dog is unique, and the key to a successful boarding experience is understanding their individual needs. By assessing your dog’s suitability and taking steps to prepare, you can ensure they have a positive and stress-free stay with a sitter. If home boarding isn’t the best fit, explore alternative care options that will keep your pet happy and comfortable while you're away.

Need to book your dog in for boarding with a Pawshake sitter? Enquire about their Add-On Services and set your dog up in style!