Best Dog Daycares in Pittsburgh

Frequently Asked Questions

• Introduction

  It can be stressful for dog parents to leave their fur babies alone at home while they’re away. They worry about their pooch being anxious, lonely, bored, and destructive. Plus, safety is a concern, along with the fear that their dog will leave unwelcome surprises for them in their home. If that describes you, dog daycare may be the solution.

  
  

  Doggie daycare can help socialize your pup while ensuring that they have care, exercise, regular potty breaks, and safe supervision. Dog owners who use doggy daycare services provide additional reasons for their choice. It can offer a better quality of life for their four-legged friends, keep homes free of pet messes, and help with canine health and physical fitness.

• What is a dog daycare?

  Dog daycare is on-site, supervised daily care for dogs. Pet owners bring their animals to the daycare location on their way to work, then return at the end of the day to pick them up. There are commercial doggie daycare facilities and private, in-home options. Commercial daycare businesses usually have more staff and more dog clients than private ones.

• What happens at doggy daycare?

  Reputable, well-rated dog daycare operations typically offer several activities for the dogs they care for. That includes walks, playtime, naps, dog food, and water. Some providers also offer companionship, snuggles, and special options, such as dispensing medication, grooming, and training. When choosing a doggy daycare, ask about all the available services and whether visits or video observation are available.

• Should I take my dog to daycare?

  Answers to the following questions can help you decide on doggie daycare services.
  

  • Are you away from home for several hours most days of the week?
  • Does your pup engage in destructive behavior while you’re gone?
  • Is your pooch crated for several hours every day?
  • Does your dog walker report issues?

  These concerns may indicate the need for doggy daycare.
  

• How much is doggy daycare per day?

  Rates vary, depending on location, demand, and competition. But the national average typically ranges from $25 to $40 per day. Half-day rates may also be available. Commercial dog daycare centers commonly charge a bit more than in-home providers. Many facilities offer price breaks on weekly and monthly packages as well as discounts to multiple dog families.  
  

• How do I know if my dog likes daycare?

  The following are signs your pup likes doggy daycare. She falls asleep on the ride home, exhausted from a full day of activity or she quivers with excitement when you mention the daycare and is beside herself with joy leaving the house. Also look to see if your pup exhibits positive body language at the daycare — like a wagging tail that means they're eager to see everyone.

• How do I prepare my dog for daycare?

  They’ll be around other dogs all day, playing and interacting. So, take your pup to a dog park several times for an introduction to dog language with other canines. Bring your fur baby to the daycare to meet the staff before using the service. Plus, walk your pup before drop-off and be upbeat and positive to avoid stress.