Originally published in January 2015. Updated in October 2026.
Doggy day care can be helpful for some busy families, but the right choice depends on your dog. Despite this article’s original title, group day care is not the perfect solution for every dog.
Start with your dog’s needs
Choose a provider that assesses your dog individually, including their age, health, temperament and comfort around other dogs. A quieter arrangement may suit a dog who finds group play stressful.
Questions to ask a provider
Visit first. Ask about staff training, supervision, group selection, rest areas, hygiene, vaccination requirements and emergency procedures. Find out how staff recognise when a dog needs space and how they report concerns to owners.
Support beyond day care
If your dog struggles when left alone, ask your vet and a qualified behaviour professional for an individual plan. Day care should not be presented as a cure for separation anxiety.
Our in-home behaviour consultations can help you understand your dog’s needs and plan suitable training.
Further reading: SPCA New Zealand’s guidance on assessing day care suitability. The provider descriptions in the original 2015 article have been retired because those details have not been verified as current.
Cover photograph: a Jordan Dog Training group training session, not a day care facility.
Justin Jordan is a dog behaviourist and the founder of Jordan Dog Training, a family-owned Brisbane business. With more than 35 years of experience in the pet industry, Justin and his team help families with puppy training, everyday manners and behaviour concerns.
