What to Do If Your Dog Is Unhappy in Day Care or Kennels

Many dog owners eventually need to find care options such as doggy day care centres or boarding kennels for their pets. However, while some dogs delight in these environments, others may feel unhappy or anxious, leading to a stressful experience for both dog and owner.

Understanding why your dog is unhappy about spending time in day care or kennels is key to resolving the issue. This guide shares expert advice tailored for UK dog owners to help your dog feel comfortable and safe when left in care away from home.

1. Understanding Separation Anxiety

Separation anxiety is a common cause of distress in dogs left in day care or kennels. Dogs rarely spending time apart from their owners may feel particularly anxious. Signs include restlessness, excessive barking, destructive behaviour, or attempts to escape.

To help, begin conditioning your dog to tolerate being alone gradually. Dogs should ideally tolerate up to four hours of alone time with suitable comfort and entertainment. Expert-recommended techniques include desensitisation—gradually exposing your dog to short absences paired with positive rewards—and counterconditioning to replace negative associations with positive ones.

2. Recognising and Avoiding Bad Experiences

If your dog has had a previous upsetting experience at a particular facility—perhaps because their needs were not adequately met or the environment was too overwhelming—it can create lasting negative associations. Switching to a different reputable facility allows a fresh start, helping your dog form positive memories without preconceptions.

3. Choosing the Right Facility

Each dog care business operates distinctly. Some facilities are bustling and lively with many dogs and handlers offering group play and socialisation. This suits sociable and energetic dogs that thrive on constant interaction.

Alternatively, quieter, home-like kennels or day cares providing one-to-one attention may be ideal for shy, anxious, or older dogs who find busy environments daunting. When researching kennels, check:

• Staff qualifications and dog handling experience
• Facility cleanliness and safety measures
• Staff to dog ratios for personalised care
• Ability to maintain your dog’s routine including feeding and exercise

For more on locating puppies and dogs from reputable breeders, consider trusted UK sources such as the Kennel Club.

4. Gradual Introductions

Never leave your dog at a new facility for the first time without preparation. Arrange multiple visits where your dog can explore, meet staff, and observe without feeling abandoned. Bring favourite toys or bedding to create familiarity.

Start with short stays, progressively extending time away as your dog grows more confident. This positive exposure helps build trust and eases transitions.

5. Maintaining Your Dog's Routine

Dogs find comfort and security in familiar routines. Discuss your dog’s feeding schedule, exercise habits, and rest times with the staff to ensure consistency. Small changes can cause stress, so detailed communication and written instructions help maintain your dog’s well-being.

6. Ensuring Sufficient Interaction and Enrichment

Your dog should receive plenty of attention and stimulation, appropriate for their temperament. Facilities with adequate staff to afford one-to-one interaction are best, especially for anxious dogs.

Facilities should offer breaks for quiet rest alongside playtimes to prevent overstimulation. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and regular exercise can help keep your dog engaged. However, in highly anxious dogs, some toys linked to owner departures might increase stress and should be used cautiously.

7. Considering Alternatives to Day Care or Kennels

If your dog continues to find such environments distressing, alternatives may better suit their needs:

• Dog Walkers: Regular visits during your absence to provide exercise and companionship at home.
• Pet Sitters/Home Boarding: Care in a familiar setting or a home environment with fewer dogs and personalised attention.
• Trial Different Facilities: Each place has its environment and staff style; some dogs do better in smaller or uniquely tailored care.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Rushing introductions or leaving your dog abruptly in an unfamiliar place without prior visits.
• Ignoring signs of distress or anxiety, assuming the problem will resolve on its own.
• Choosing a kennel or day care environment inappropriate for your dog’s personality.
• Failing to communicate your dog’s routine and needs clearly to the staff.
• Not consulting professionals when separation anxiety or behavioural issues are severe.

When to Seek Professional Advice

If your dog exhibits persistent signs of separation anxiety—such as destructive behaviour, excessive vocalisation, or self-injury—consult your vet or a certified animal behaviourist. They may recommend behavioural therapy and, in some cases, medication to alleviate severe anxiety.

Summary

Helping your dog feel happy and secure when spending time in day care or kennels requires a tailored approach. Understanding your dog's individual needs, choosing the right facility, making gradual introductions, maintaining routine, and ensuring quality interaction can all make a big difference in your dog’s experience.

When in doubt, professional behavioural support and exploring alternatives like pet sitters or home boarding provide valuable options. With patience and care, you can help your dog feel confident and content, making time apart a positive experience for all.