Home Boarding vs Kennels: Cost, Welfare and Suitability
The choice between home boarding and a boarding kennel depends on your dog's temperament, routine, and socialisation history. Home boarding offers a quieter, family environment; kennels offer professional staffing, veterinary access, and regulated facilities. Both require an Animal Activity Licence. This guide helps you decide.
How home boarding works
A licensed home boarder takes dogs into their own home. Regulations limit the number of dogs to a maximum of three from no more than three different households at any one time. The dog lives as part of the household rather than in a kennel run.
How kennels work
Boarding kennels house dogs in individual or paired accommodation — typically runs with indoor sleeping areas and outdoor exercise space. Staff are on-site, and larger facilities may have 24-hour cover. Kennels can handle more dogs and have more robust emergency protocols.
Cost comparison
Home boarding typically costs slightly more than kennels per night, reflecting the limited capacity and more intensive care. According to our UK price data, the national median nightly rate for home boarding is higher than for kennel accommodation. Use our comparison tool for local rates.
Which suits an anxious dog?
Dogs with separation anxiety or a history of stress in group environments often do better in home boarding, where the environment is quieter and more predictable. However, an anxious dog that has not been previously exposed to unfamiliar dogs or homes may find the change of environment equally stressful.
See our guide to boarding an anxious dog for a full discussion.
Questions to ask both types of provider
Regardless of setting: What is your emergency protocol? How do you handle medical needs? What is your vaccination requirement? Do you have experience with my dog's breed or size? Can I visit before booking?