Overnight Dog Boarding Prices: Complete Guide (2025)
Key Takeaways 
- Average overnight dog boarding prices range from $30-$90 per night depending on location and facility type
- Luxury and VIP boarding options typically cost $75-$150+ per night
- Most facilities offer discounts for multi-night stays or multiple pets
- Additional services like grooming, playtime, and medication administration increase costs
- Holiday periods often see price increases of 15-30%
- Booking in advance can save 10-15% at many facilities
- Rural areas tend to be 25-40% cheaper than urban centers
- Always check vaccination requirements before booking
Introduction to Overnight Dog Boarding
Finding good care for your dog when you need to be away overnight is a critical concern for pet owners. Overnight dog boarding offers a safe, supervised environment where dogs receive proper care, meals, and attention during your absence. Unlike leaving pets with friends who might not understand their needs, professional boarding facilities employ trained staff who monitor pets and respond to any health or behavioral issues that might arise.
Dogs staying at boarding facilities benefit from regular feeding schedules and appropriate accommodation. The prices for these services vary based on several factors that we’ll explore in detail. Understanding the cost structure helps you plan your budget while ensuring your pet receives quality care.
Pet owners often wonder if boarding is worth the expense. The peace of mind knowing your dog is safe and properly cared for typically outweighs cost concerns. Canine Boarding Lodge provides specialized services that cater to various pet needs, making them a reliable option for dog owners seeking overnight care.
Factors Affecting Overnight Dog Boarding Prices
Several key factors influence how much you’ll pay for overnight dog boarding. Location plays a major role – urban facilities typically charge more than rural ones due to higher operating costs. A boarding facility in Sydney or Melbourne might charge 30-40% more than one in a smaller town.
The size of your dog matters too. Large breeds often incur higher fees because they need more space, food, and sometimes additional handling. Many facilities have tiered pricing based on weight ranges, with small dogs (under 15kg) costing less than large dogs (over 30kg).
The type of accommodation significantly impacts pricing. Basic kennels with concrete runs cost less than private rooms with raised beds, temperature control, and webcams. Luxury dog boarding options featuring memory foam beds, TV screens, and one-on-one playtime command premium prices.
Length of stay affects your total bill. Most facilities offer discounts for extended bookings. You might pay full price for the first night, then receive 10-15% off subsequent nights. During holiday periods like Christmas and Easter, expect to pay surge pricing – sometimes 20-30% higher than standard rates.
Special requirements add to costs. Dogs needing medication administration usually incur an extra $5-$10 per day. Dogs with behavioral issues requiring extra supervision or separate housing also face surcharges. Facilities offering specialized care for anxious dogs typically charge more for their expertise.
Average Overnight Dog Boarding Price Ranges
Australian pet owners can expect varying price points for overnight dog boarding depending on facility type and location. Basic kennel boarding typically ranges from $30-$50 per night. These facilities provide standard accommodations with outdoor runs, regular feeding, and basic monitoring.
Mid-range boarding facilities charge between $50-$75 per night. At this price point, your dog typically receives more spacious quarters, better bedding, increased playtime, and sometimes group play sessions with other dogs. Staff-to-dog ratios are usually more favorable, ensuring more personal attention.
Premium boarding ranges from $75-$100+ per night. These facilities offer private rooms or suites, premium bedding, multiple daily playtimes, treats, and often extra services like basic grooming. Many include webcam access so owners can check on their pets remotely.
VIP dog boarding facilities charge $100-$150+ per night. These luxury accommodations feature spacious private rooms, premium food options, multiple one-on-one play sessions, swimming pools, specialized activity areas, and sometimes even dog TV or music.
Regional price differences are substantial. Sydney and Melbourne boarding facilities charge approximately 25-40% more than equivalent services in smaller cities or towns. Queensland and Western Australia prices fall somewhere in the middle range.
Seasonal variations affect rates too. Summer holidays and Christmas periods see price increases of 15-30% due to high demand. Some facilities require minimum stay periods during peak seasons, typically 3-5 days.
Standard vs. Luxury Dog Boarding Options
Standard boarding facilities provide the essentials: a clean, safe space, regular meals, brief toilet breaks, and basic monitoring. Kennels typically feature concrete or tiled floors for easy cleaning, chain-link fencing, and basic bedding. These facilities prioritize safety and cleanliness over comfort amenities.
Dogs in standard boarding receive structured care with set feeding and exercise times. Staff regularly check on them but provide limited one-on-one interaction. These facilities work well for dogs who are independent, resilient, and adaptable to new environments.
In contrast, luxury dog boarding facilities resemble pet hotels. They feature private rooms with proper beds—sometimes even human-grade mattresses—temperature-controlled environments, sound insulation, and often ambient music. Many provide webcam access for owners to check on their pets remotely.
Luxury options include personalized care plans, multiple daily exercise sessions, playtime in specialized areas, swimming pools, agility equipment, and sometimes even spa treatments. Some facilities offer “tuck-in” services with bedtime stories and treats before sleep.
The price difference between standard and luxury options is substantial. While standard boarding might cost $30-$50 per night, luxury options start at $75 and can exceed $150 for the most exclusive services. Some luxury facilities offer personalized care packages that cater to your dog’s specific needs.
For dogs with special needs or those used to sleeping in their owner’s bed, the extra cost of luxury boarding can be worth it. Highly anxious dogs or seniors with medical concerns often benefit from the additional monitoring and comfort these facilities provide.
Additional Services and Their Costs
Most boarding facilities offer supplementary services that enhance your dog’s stay but add to the final bill. Understanding these options helps you budget accurately while ensuring your pet receives appropriate care.
Exercise add-ons are among the most popular extras. While standard packages include basic toilet breaks, additional one-on-one walks or playtime sessions typically cost $10-$20 per session. Group play options are slightly cheaper, averaging $8-$15 per session.
Grooming services represent significant add-on opportunities. Many owners appreciate having their dogs return home clean and fresh. Basic baths start at $20-$30 for small dogs and increase with size. Full grooming packages including haircuts range from $50-$100+ depending on breed and coat condition. Some facilities offer specialized grooming for specific breeds or coat types.
Administration of medications typically incurs a $5-$10 daily fee, depending on complexity and frequency. Insulin injections or complex medical regimens may cost more. Special dietary accommodations, whether for prescription foods or home-prepared meals, usually add $5-$8 per day.
Training sessions during boarding represent premium add-ons, typically ranging from $25-$50 per session. These can focus on basic obedience, behavior modification, or specialized skills.
Photo and video updates have become popular add-ons, with daily update packages costing $5-$10 per day. Some premium facilities include this in their base pricing. Transportation services—pickup and drop-off—range widely from $20-$50 depending on distance.
Mobile dog grooming services might be available at some facilities, combining convenience with professional care. These services allow your dog to receive grooming in familiar surroundings, reducing stress.
Seasonal Pricing Variations
Dog boarding prices fluctuate significantly throughout the year based on demand patterns. Understanding these seasonal variations helps you plan and potentially save money by booking during lower-cost periods.
Peak holiday seasons see the highest prices. Christmas and New Year period rates increase by 20-30% at most facilities due to extremely high demand. Many boarding kennels book out months in advance for these periods. School holiday periods, particularly summer breaks, also command premium pricing, typically 10-20% above standard rates.
Long weekends and public holidays feature shorter but significant price spikes. Easter, Labour Day, and Queen’s Birthday weekends often see 15-25% surcharges. Minimum stay requirements frequently apply during these periods, with many facilities requiring 3-4 day minimum bookings.
By contrast, off-peak seasons offer cost savings. Mid-week stays during school terms can be 10-15% cheaper than weekend rates. Some facilities offer special mid-week packages to fill empty kennels. The quietest months—typically February (after summer holidays) and late October/November (before Christmas rush)—often feature promotions and discounts to attract business.
Advance booking discounts provide another saving opportunity. Many facilities offer 5-15% discounts for bookings made more than 30 days in advance. These early booking discounts apply even during popular periods, helping offset seasonal price increases.
Last-minute cancellations sometimes create opportunities for discounted rates, though this strategy is risky during busy periods. Some facilities maintain waitlists for popular periods and offer notifications when spots become available.
Holiday dog boarding specialists sometimes offer package deals combining multiple services like boarding and grooming at better rates than purchasing separately. These packages can provide good value during high-demand periods.
Preparing Your Dog for Overnight Boarding
Proper preparation makes overnight boarding less stressful for your dog and potentially more cost-effective for you. Start by ensuring all vaccinations are current—most facilities require C5 vaccinations (covering distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza and bordetella) at minimum. Last-minute veterinary visits for overdue vaccinations add unnecessary expenses and stress.
Schedule a pre-boarding grooming session, especially for longer stays. Regular grooming before boarding prevents matting and skin issues during the stay. Dogs with clean coats require less maintenance at the facility, potentially avoiding extra grooming fees.
Pack familiar items to ease transition anxiety. A blanket or toy with home scents helps dogs settle more quickly. Some facilities allow bedding from home while others don’t for hygiene reasons—check policies beforehand. Bringing your dog’s regular food prevents digestive upset, though some premium facilities include high-quality food in their rates.
For first-time boarders, consider a trial daycare visit before overnight boarding. This familiarizes your dog with the facility, staff, and routines. Many facilities offer daycare services that serve as excellent preparation for overnight stays.
Provide detailed written instructions about your dog’s routine, preferences, and any special needs. Note feeding schedules, medication requirements, behavioral triggers, and comfort items. Clear communication helps staff provide personalized care and avoids misunderstandings that might result in extra charges.
For anxious dogs, gradual acclimation to separation helps prevent stress during boarding. Practice short separations at home in the weeks before boarding. Some owners find that specialized techniques for anxious dogs help make the boarding experience more positive.
Choosing the Right Boarding Facility
Selecting the appropriate boarding facility balances cost considerations with your dog’s specific needs. Start by researching facilities with positive reviews and proper licensing. Check inspection records where available and verify staff qualifications—facilities with certified staff may charge more but often provide better care.
Visit prospective facilities before booking. Observe cleanliness, odor control, noise levels, and general atmosphere. Check accommodation options personally rather than relying solely on website photos. Ask about staff-to-dog ratios and overnight supervision protocols. Better staffing ratios typically command higher prices but provide more attentive care.
Inquire about daily routines and exercise protocols. Quality facilities maintain structured schedules for feeding, playtime, and rest. Ask about emergency procedures and veterinary arrangements—comprehensive emergency plans indicate professional operations.
Consider your dog’s personality and needs when choosing between social daycare environments and more private boarding options. Social dogs might benefit from facilities offering group play, while anxious or older dogs may need quieter, more private accommodation.
Compare pricing structures carefully. Some facilities advertise low base rates but add numerous charges for “extras” that other kennels include as standard. Request itemized quotes for your specific situation to make accurate comparisons. Ask about discounts for longer stays, multiple pets, or off-peak periods.
Booking policies vary significantly between facilities. Some require deposits, some take full payment upfront, and cancellation policies differ widely. Understanding these financial terms helps avoid unexpected costs later.
Check if the facility offers a complete dog boarding guide or orientation for new clients. Thorough onboarding processes indicate professional operations focused on quality care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of overnight dog boarding in Australia?
The average cost ranges from $30-$90 per night depending on location, facility type, and dog size. Urban areas like Sydney and Melbourne tend to be more expensive (averaging $50-$90) than regional areas ($30-$60).
Do boarding kennels charge more for puppies?
Yes, many facilities charge extra for puppies under 1 year due to their additional supervision requirements. This puppy surcharge typically ranges from $5-$15 per night. Some kennels require specific puppy preparation before accepting young dogs.
Are there discounts for multiple dogs staying at the same facility?
Most boarding facilities offer multi-dog discounts ranging from 10-20% off the second dog’s rate. Some facilities require dogs from the same family to share accommodation to qualify for these discounts.
What vaccination requirements exist for dog boarding?
Standard requirements include the C5 vaccination covering distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and bordetella (kennel cough). Most facilities require vaccinations to be current, typically administered at least 10-14 days before boarding.
How far in advance should I book overnight boarding?
For regular periods, 2-4 weeks advance booking is usually sufficient. For peak holiday periods (Christmas, Easter, school holidays), booking 2-3 months ahead is recommended as facilities fill quickly.
Do boarding kennels provide food or should I bring my own?
Most facilities offer standard food included in the boarding rate, but allow or even encourage owners to bring their dog’s regular food to prevent digestive upset. Premium or prescription diets usually incur additional fees unless you provide them.
What happens if my dog needs medical attention during boarding?
Facilities typically require pre-authorization for veterinary care up to a specified amount. Good kennels have relationships with local veterinarians for emergency care. Medical intervention incurs additional costs beyond the boarding fees.
Can I visit the boarding facility before making a reservation?
Most reputable facilities not only allow but encourage pre-booking visits during designated hours. These tours help you assess the environment and determine if it suits your dog’s needs.
Is holiday boarding more expensive than regular overnight boarding?
Yes, holiday periods typically see price increases of 15-30% due to high demand. Christmas, Easter, and school holidays are the most expensive periods for dog boarding.
What’s the difference between standard and luxury dog boarding prices?
Standard boarding ranges from $30-$50 per night, while luxury boarding starts at $75 and can exceed $150 for premium services. Luxury options include better accommodation, more personal attention, and additional amenities.
Finding the right overnight boarding solution requires balancing budget considerations with your dog’s specific needs. By understanding pricing structures and preparing properly, you can ensure your pet receives appropriate care during your absence without unnecessary expenses. Whether you choose standard kennels or luxury boarding options, the peace of mind knowing your dog is safe and well-cared for makes the investment worthwhile.
For more boarding tips, visit Canine Boarding Lodge on Facebook.
For grooming advice, follow Canine Glamour on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
