How to Prepare Your Dog for Boarding

A Stress-Free Guide for Pet Parents

Leaving your dog in someone else’s care can be nerve-wracking, whether it’s for a weekend getaway or an extended trip. You want to make sure your pup is comfortable, safe, and happy while you're away.

At Dirty Dog, we specialize in enrichment-based boarding, ensuring that dogs receive more than just a place to stay—they get mental stimulation, structured play, and individualized care. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare your dog for boarding so you can enjoy peace of mind while your pup enjoys their stay.

Step 1: Choose the Right Boarding Facility

Not all boarding facilities are created equal! When choosing a place for your dog, look for:

🐾 An Enrichment-Focused Approach – Does the facility provide structured activities, socialization, and mental stimulation, or just a kennel stay?
🐾 Small Playgroups & Individualized Care – Large, overcrowded playgroups can be overwhelming.
🐾 Trained & Caring Staff – A well-trained team ensures your dog is safe and engaged.
🐾 Comfortable Sleeping Arrangements – Clean, cozy spaces that help reduce stress.

At Dirty Dog, we prioritize personalized care and enrichment-based boarding to make every dog’s stay feel like a fun-filled retreat rather than a stressful separation.

Step 2: Schedule a Trial Stay or Evaluation

Dogs thrive on routine and familiarity, so introducing them to boarding before an extended stay can help ease anxiety.

✔️ Daycare Trial: If your dog has never stayed in a boarding facility, a few daycare visits beforehand can help them adjust to the environment.
✔️ Short Overnight Stay: A one-night trial can help your pup get comfortable before a longer trip.
✔️ Meet the Staff: Let your dog meet the caregivers to build trust.

At Dirty Dog, we offer free evaluations to ensure every dog is a good fit for our boarding program, making the transition stress-free for both dogs and owners.

Step 3: Pack the Essentials for Your Dog’s Stay

To keep your pup comfortable, be sure to pack:

🎒 Food & Treats: Pack enough of your dog’s regular food to avoid digestive issues.
🦴 Comfort Items: A favorite blanket, toy, or even an old T-shirt with your scent can provide reassurance.
💊 Medications & Supplements: Provide clear instructions for any medications your dog needs.
📜 Updated Vaccination Records: Most facilities (including Dirty Dog) require proof of vaccinations for safety.

Bonus Tip: Label everything to ensure nothing gets misplaced during your pup’s stay!

Step 4: Maintain a Calm & Positive Goodbye

Dogs are incredibly intuitive and can pick up on your emotions. If you’re anxious about leaving, your dog may become anxious too.

🐶 Stay Calm & Upbeat: Keep your goodbye short and positive.
🐶 No Last-Minute Panic: Avoid changing your routine drastically on the day of drop-off.
🐶 Trust the Process: Remember, boarding can be a fun and enriching experience for your pup!

At Dirty Dog, we focus on making the transition smooth and enjoyable with structured activities, social play, and plenty of one-on-one attention to keep dogs happy and engaged.

Step 5: What to Expect When Your Dog Comes Home

It’s normal for dogs to sleep more than usual after a boarding stay—it’s like coming home after summer camp! Some things to keep in mind:

✔️ Post-Boarding Nap Time: Dogs often need extra rest after days of play and enrichment.
✔️ Reintroduce Routine Gradually: Give them time to settle back into their normal schedule.
✔️ Digestive Adjustments: Excitement and changes in environment can cause temporary changes in appetite.

At Dirty Dog, we provide detailed updates about your dog’s stay, so you know exactly how they did while you were away.

Why Dirty Dog’s Enrichment Boarding Stands Out

Our enrichment-first boarding program ensures that dogs don’t just stay—they thrive during their time with us.

🏡 Comfortable, Stress-Free Environment – Cozy sleeping areas and structured daily activities.
🐶 Small Playgroups & Personalized Care – Tailored to each dog’s social and activity level.
🧩 Mental & Physical Stimulation – Daily enrichment games, scent work, and interactive play.
📷 Daily Updates & Photos – So you can stay connected while you’re away.

Want to see the difference for yourself? Book a free boarding evaluation today and let your pup experience the Dirty Dog way!