After working in Dog Daycares for most of my life I have had an inside look into the workings of dog daycares. From the staff training, services offered, pricing and most importantly canine behavior. Working in the daycares is a huge reason why I am a dog trainer. Below I will use my knowledge as a dog trainer and expiernece working in dog daycares to Breakdown Dog Daycare.
Benefits to Dog Daycare
Socialization
When done correctly this can be the factor between dogs being social or anti-social. Dogs who are anti-social can lead to dog reactivity, anxiety and aggression toward other dogs. It is important to remember that not every dog likes to play with other dogs but that doesn’t mean early and consistent socialization is bad as they can learn to tolerate other dogs.
Learning Social Cues
Social cues can include but are not limited to: Play bows, barking, chasing, humping, jumping, etc.
Exercise
Dogs need both mental and physical exercise. When there is a lack of exercise many problem behaviors become apparent. Dog Daycares can offer that exercise (mainly physical). This is great for dog parents who may not have as much time to exercise their dog.
Create Independence
Allowing your dog to go to a fun place not only allows them to be social and play with friends. But it also prevents separation anxiety and creates independence. When it comes to boarding your dog when you go on vacation it is key to have a place for them to go they love so you and them can have a stress free vacation.
Should my Dog Go to Daycare?
Puppies
Socialization is critical for young puppies, without positive exposure to other dogs in an off leash environment they can develop anxiety, fear or aggression
Adolescent Dogs
Teenage dogs can be about as fun as teenage kids. Without constructive time they can get destructive.
High Energy Breeds
Labs, Pits, German Shepard’s, Dalmatians, Jack Russell and other hyper dogs that need to run day care is good for you.
Working Dogs (Not ALL)
Without the stimulation some can present behavioral issues
What dogs are NOT Good
Very Anxious Puppies
Fearful Adult Dogs
Dog Reactive or Aggressive Dogs
Tips for Doing Daycare
- Drop your dog and leave ASAP- Just like kids dropping off at daycare make it short and sweet. Do Not Drag it out.
- Give your dog time to adjust- a little time to adjust is usually what most dogs need when starting to go to daycare, it is normal.
- Don’t binge watch the webcam- Just look for a minute and then get off, don’t hover or obsess.
- Don’t sweat the small stuff – sometimes (although proper supervision and sanitary ways would prevent this) they can come home with kennel cough or a scratch its normal.
- Do some homework to help your dog-help by determining what your dog needs and how to treat it daycare may not be the answer.
