Why Dogs Get Stomach Upsets in Boarding Kennels – Causes & Prevention

If you ever place your dog in a commercial kennel while you are away on holiday or unable to care for them, it is essential to ensure their stay is as calm and comfortable as possible. Minimising changes to their familiar routine can greatly reduce stress and health problems. While many dogs enjoy the novelty of boarding kennels—taking in new sights, receiving attention, and socialising with other dogs—some dogs find it stressful, which can affect their wellbeing and digestion.

A common issue for dogs in boarding kennels is digestive upset, often presenting as diarrhoea or vomiting. Sometimes this occurs briefly on the first day and then resolves, but in more sensitive dogs or prolonged stays, it can persist. Knowing the causes and how to prevent these issues helps maintain your dog's health and happiness during boarding.

1. Dietary Changes Cause Upsets in Sensitive Dogs

Many boarding kennels provide meals as part of the boarding fee, but these will usually be their standard food rather than your dog's usual diet. Sudden changes in diet are a well-known cause of digestive disturbance in dogs of all ages and breeds. A different brand, ingredients, or feeding schedule can trigger stomach upset, especially in dogs with delicate stomachs or food sensitivities.

To help prevent this, it is strongly advised to supply the kennel with your dog's regular food or provide extra allowance to cover this expense. Maintaining a consistent diet reduces the chance of gastrointestinal disturbances and the discomfort or mess of diarrhoea during boarding.

2. Stress and Anxiety Impact Digestion

Boarding kennels introduce many potential stressors unfamiliar to your dog: separation from their owner, new surroundings, noises, and interaction with unfamiliar dogs and people. Stress triggers physiological responses, including changes in gut motility, leading to diarrhoea or vomiting. Dogs who are shy, anxious, or not used to change may be particularly vulnerable.

Choosing a kennel that provides a calm environment, such as a smaller facility with fewer dogs, consistent routines for feeding and walks, and attentive care, can reduce stress. If your dog consistently struggles with boarding stress, consider alternatives like in-home pet sitting for their comfort and welfare.

3. Disrupted Routine and Exercise Affect Stomach Health

Dogs thrive on routine. Changes to their daily schedule — from altered feeding times, walk frequency, and exercise intensity — can unsettle their digestive system. For example, a dog accustomed to regular energetic walks may react poorly to confinement or less activity in boarding.

When arranging boarding, inform the kennel about your dog’s usual exercise routine and feeding schedule. Ask if they can accommodate it as much as possible to minimise disruption and promote wellbeing.

4. Exposure to Infectious Agents in Group Settings

Boarding kennels by nature bring together many dogs in close quarters, which can facilitate the spread of contagious illnesses such as parvovirus, kennel cough, or intestinal infections. Cleanliness and hygiene are crucial to reduce these risks. Most reputable kennels require up-to-date vaccinations and will not accept visibly sick dogs.

Ask about the kennel's protocols for disease prevention, isolation of unwell animals, and veterinary care in case your dog becomes ill while boarded. Knowing this can reassure you and ensure your pet receives prompt treatment if needed.

5. Water Source and Quality Can Influence Digestion

Sometimes even the water supplied in a boarding kennel might differ in taste or mineral content from what your dog is used to at home. This can cause mild digestive disturbances, particularly in sensitive dogs.

If possible, provide bottled water or request the kennel to use your dog’s usual water source to keep things familiar.

6. Hidden or Underlying Health Problems During Boarding

Pre-existing health issues such as inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, or infections can make your dog more susceptible to tummy upsets, especially if boarding-related stress worsens them. Occasionally, stomach problems may first appear during boarding but might be coincidental to the stay.

Ensure you inform the kennel of any veterinary diagnoses or ongoing treatments and leave detailed care instructions. A responsible kennel will have plans in place for veterinary treatment, which you should confirm in advance.

Conclusion: Helping Your Dog Enjoy a Healthy Boarding Experience

Boarding kennels offer a useful service, but some dogs develop stomach upsets due to diet changes, stress, disrupted routines, exposure to infections, water differences, or underlying health conditions. Being proactive by supplying your dog’s regular food and water, choosing a calm, reputable kennel, providing detailed health information, and understanding the kennel's health policies can significantly reduce the risk of digestive issues.

If your dog is prone to boarding stress or repeated tummy upsets, discuss with your vet and consider in-home care or trusted pet sitters. Your dog deserves a comfortable, happy stay, even when you are away.

For help finding a puppy or a dog, always look for reputable breeders or responsible adoption organisations. This ensures healthy pets and supports ethical ownership.