How to Find Dog Boarding Options for Anxious Dogs Near Me

Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.

Are you traveling for the holidays or taking a summer vacation? Going out of town is an exciting change of pace for us humans. But the change in routine can be tough on our dogs. And it can be extra hard for nervous dogs who thrive on consistency. So, what’s a pet parent to do? Is dog boarding for anxious dogs even possible?

We consulted two trainers with expertise in separation anxiety to help you navigate your options. So, if you’re nervous about leaving your anxious dog, don’t worry! Here’s what to do:

Research the right accommodations
Do some pre-trip training
Prep all your dog’s supplies in advance
Leave a detailed care plan

We break down the steps so you can enjoy your holiday travels knowing your sensitive pup is in great hands.

Should You Board an Anxious Dog?

Deciding whether or not to board your anxious pup is a tough call—and it’s one without a definite “yes” or “no” answer. According to Amanda Dwyer, a certified separation anxiety pro trainer and owner of Westward Hound, pet parents must weigh the severity and type of anxiety their dog experiences. Assessing your dog’s stress levels and how they typically react to new people, places, and other dogs will help you choose a facility that best meets their needs.

Is it stressful for a dog to be boarded?

It’s not necessarily stressful for dogs to be boarded. And some nervous dogs can be okay in a kennel, provided the environment and amenities are set up to minimize stress, not amplify it.

If your dog fears new people and places, look for boarding facilities that give anxious dogs time to become comfortable before your trip. “Many offer daycare services and half days, which can be a great way to expose shy and anxious dogs gradually to the new place and staff,” Dwyer explains.

Is boarding a dog with separation anxiety possible?

Boarding dogs with separation anxiety is possible, but there are a few things to consider. For instance, you’ll want to know if the dogs will be confined to a kennel and left alone for long periods.

Dwyer points out that some small home-based operations may be able to accommodate a dog’s need to have someone home at all times. But other facilities may require dogs to be alone for long stretches of time—which can be traumatic for dogs with isolation distress.

Aleksandr Potashev iStock

How To Choose Boarding for Anxious Dogs

Since boarding facilities aren’t tied to strict regulations, you’ll encounter a wide range of standards in care. To find a boarding facility that offsets the stress of being in a strange place (and your anxiety about boarding your dog), look for the following criteria.

Low staff-to-dog ratio
Calm, quiet, and small facilities
Visual barriers between dogs
Close playgroup supervision
Lots of individualized attention and exercise
Opportunities for enrichment
Staff experienced with anxious and reactive dogs
Positive reinforcement and positive interrupters for behavior issues

What’s the staff-to-dog ratio?

First, ask about the minimum number of staff per shift and the maximum number of dogs allowed at the facility. “Experienced staff can handle a fairly large group of well-socialized dogs,” says Dwyer. “But if the ratio is too great, they won’t be able to keep up on both hygiene and play dynamics.”

You’ll also want to find out if any staff stays on-site overnight. If not, your dog will be alone for nine or more hours in the evening.

Is the facility set up to minimize stress?

Khris Erickson, a dog trainer who specializes in separation anxiety, advises getting a tour of the facility and checking out the area where your dog will be kept. The best boarding facilities for anxious dogs will be small, calm, and quiet.

“Assess the noise and activity level to see if it will be stressful,” she says. “Stay away from facilities where there is non-stop barking and large numbers of dogs in the same space.” Visual barriers are another helpful aid to keep stress to a minimum.

How are playtime and socialization coordinated?

“If dogs are allowed to socialize during their stay, I would want to know what methods are used to keep playgroups safe and enjoyable for all the dogs,” says Dwyer. She recommends asking whether playgroups are divided by size, age, and temperament.

If the boarding facility does not have dogs socialize with each other—or your dog doesn’t enjoy the company of other dogs—ask what amount of attention and exercise each dog gets daily.

Is the staff prepared to handle anxious dogs?

You can inquire about the staff’s experience in dealing with separation anxiety or other types of behavioral issues like reactivity. “During your tour, observe the staff’s interaction with the dogs, making sure they can not only handle the dogs but are also friendly and compassionate,” adds Erickson.

Do they use positive reinforcement methods?

Avoid facilities that resort to harsh methods for addressing problem behaviors. “Ideally, unwanted behaviors would be minimized with time-outs or positive interrupters instead of harsher means like loud noises or spray bottles that could make an anxious dog (or any dog) more uncomfortable,” says Dwyer.

Are the dogs given opportunities for enrichment and exercise?

Regular exercise is critical for blowing off steam and reducing stress. “Your dog should have opportunities several times a day to get out of their kennel and exercise,” says Erickson. “They should also be given enrichment items such as food puzzles and interactive toys daily—even if the owner needed to provide them.”

Other Dog Boarding Options for Anxious Dogs

Sometimes, boarding with other dogs is too overwhelming for nervous pups or unsocialized dogs who may have missed their socialization window in puppyhood. But that doesn’t mean you can never leave the house—there are alternatives to traditional boarding kennels for anxious dogs.

Pet sitters are often a great fit for dogs who don’t do well with boarding. As Dwyer points out, some sitters will also stay in your house, which may be the least stressful option. “Anxious dogs can be very sensitive to disruptions in their routines, and sometimes having someone stay in their home and walk them in familiar places can be less overwhelming than staying in a completely new environment,” she says.

Another alternative is working with a qualified trainer who offers a board and train program. This option can help anxious dogs become more resilient and confident. “If you can find a certified, positive reinforcement trainer who works with anxious dogs, that could be a great alternative to a regular boarding facility,” says Dwyer.

How Can I Help My Dog With Kennel Anxiety?

The more times you can meet with the care providers in advance, the better. Set your dog up for success by giving them enough time to get used to the facility and staff.

Erickson also suggests doing a trial stay for a half-day or overnight. That way you can see how your pup handles the environment while helping them become accustomed to it. If the boarding facility offers a live video feed, assess how your dog is doing during their short stay.

If you’re hiring a sitter, plan at least one meet-and-greet before you go out of town. Many house sitters are also dog walkers, so scheduling a few walks beforehand is a good way to acclimate your dog before leaving them.

“Try and allow the sitter to interact with your dog in ways that build a relationship, such as playing and giving the dog treats,” Erickson advises.

Reactive and anxious dog with a pet sitter

Reactive and anxious pup Roo enjoys head skritches during a trial run with her pet sitter. Image via Elizabeth Holbrook

Other ways to help your nervous pup

Both experts recommend sending your pup off with a comforting item that smells like you, such as a worn t-shirt or towel. Additional items you may want to pack for your pup include:

Anxiety aids, such as a ThunderShirt, calming collar, or calming treats
A few favorite calming toys
Their favorite bed or blanket
High-value chews, KONGs, or lick mats (provided the facility is willing to distribute them)
Veterinary and emergency contact information
Your dog’s food and feeding instructions
Medications and thorough directions for administering them

Dwyer encourages pet parents to talk with their veterinarian about their dog’s behavior and symptoms prior to traveling. Anti-anxiety meds may also be an option to ease your pup’s stress.

The more prepared you are, the easier it will be for your dog when you go out of town. Make plans with a trusted pet sitter who has experience with anxious dogs. Prepare your pet in advance, pack wisely, and project calm confidence when you leave. You’ll travel with peace of mind and come home to a happy dog!

Dog Boarding for Anxious Dogs: The Best Options for Your Fearful Pup