Discover the Uk's Best Dog Boarding Services - Trusted, Licensed & Loving Care
Ensuring your dog receives attentive care in your absence is crucial for their well-being and your peace of mind. Professional dog sitting services across the UK offer personalized in-home care, allowing your pet to remain in their familiar environment while receiving dedicated attention. These services connect you with experienced, vetted sitters who provide companionship, feeding, exercise, and any special care your dog may require. With flexible scheduling and tailored services, professional dog sitters ensure your canine companion stays happy and comfortable, reducing stress and maintaining their routine while you're away.
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Not Sure Which Dog Boarding Service Is Right for Your Dog?
Choosing the right dog boarding provider can make a huge difference to your dog's comfort, happiness, and wellbeing while you're away. Whether you're considering home boarding, boarding kennels, or specialist care services, it's important to understand what to look for before making a booking.
Our comprehensive guide explains:
✔ Home boarding vs boarding kennels
✔ Licensing requirements and welfare standards
✔ What qualifications and experience to look for
✔ Typical dog boarding costs in the UK
✔ Questions to ask before booking
✔ How to prepare your dog for boarding
✔ Signs of a reputable boarding provider
✔ Red flags and warning signs to avoid
✔ Frequently asked questions from dog owners
👉 Read our complete guide to choosing the best dog boarding service for your dog.
Complete Guide to Choosing Safe and Trusted Dog Boarding Services
Finding the right dog boarding company is one of the most important decisions for any dog owner. Whether you are planning a holiday, business trip, weekend away, or need emergency pet care, choosing a professional and trustworthy dog boarding service gives you peace of mind while ensuring your dog remains safe, comfortable, and happy.
At Manor House Dogs, we help dog owners discover trusted dog boarding kennels, luxury dog hotels, home boarding services, puppy boarding providers, and professional pet care businesses throughout the UK.
If you are searching for the best dog boarding company near you, this guide explains exactly what to look for, which questions to ask, and how to choose the right boarding environment for your dog.
Browse trusted UK dog Boarding services here:
Why Choosing the Right Dog Boarding Company Matters
A professional dog boarding company provides more than simply a place for dogs to stay. Quality boarding services help dogs feel secure, cared for, exercised, and emotionally comfortable while owners are away.
The right dog boarding provider can help:
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Reduce stress and anxiety
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Maintain your dog’s routine
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Provide exercise and socialisation
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Ensure proper feeding and medication
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Keep dogs safe and supervised
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Offer emergency support if needed
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Provide updates and communication for owners
Choosing the wrong boarding environment may lead to stress, illness, anxiety, or behavioural problems.
What to Look for in a Dog Boarding Company
1. Licensing and Insurance
Always choose a licensed and insured dog boarding provider.
Professional boarding companies should:
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Hold local authority boarding licenses
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Meet UK welfare regulations
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Have public liability insurance
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Follow health and safety procedures
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Maintain secure facilities
Licensed facilities are inspected and must meet animal welfare standards.
2. Cleanliness and Hygiene
A clean boarding environment is essential.
Look for:
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Clean sleeping areas
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Fresh water availability
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Sanitised feeding bowls
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Proper waste management
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Ventilation and temperature control
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Safe exercise spaces
Poor hygiene may increase the risk of illness and infections.
3. Staff Experience and Dog Handling
Experienced staff are critical when choosing dog boarding.
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Look for businesses where staff:
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Understand canine behaviour
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Are experienced with nervous dogs
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Know emergency procedures
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Can administer medication if required
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Use calm handling techniques
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Prioritise dog welfare
Dogs should be treated kindly, patiently, and professionally.
4. Safety and Security
Dog boarding facilities should have strong safety measures.
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Check for:
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Secure fencing
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Supervised play areas
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Safe sleeping accommodation
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Emergency veterinary procedures
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Vaccination policies
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Controlled dog introductions
Security is especially important for anxious dogs and escape-prone breeds.
5. Exercise and Enrichment
Dogs need regular stimulation and exercise while boarding.
Ask whether the boarding company provides:
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Daily walks
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Play sessions
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Social interaction
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Mental stimulation
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Individual attention
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Enrichment activities
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Bored or under-stimulated dogs may become anxious during longer stays.
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Social media presence
6. Home Boarding vs Kennels
Different dogs suit different boarding environments.
Home Dog Boarding
Home boarding provides care within a family home.
Benefits include:
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Home environment
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Smaller numbers of dogs
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More one-to-one attention
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Comfortable surroundings
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Ideal for nervous dogs
Dog Boarding Kennels
Kennels often provide:
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Professional facilities
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Larger exercise areas
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Structured routines
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Staff supervision
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Specialist care
The best choice depends on your dog’s personality and needs.
7. Reviews and Recommendations
Always check customer reviews before booking.
Look for comments about:
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Dog happiness
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Cleanliness
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Staff communication
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Reliability
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Safety
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Updates during stays
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Nervous dog care
Positive reviews and repeat customers are strong indicators of quality care.
Questions to Ask a Dog Boarding Company
Before booking dog boarding services, ask:
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Are you licensed and insured?
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Can I visit before booking?
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How many dogs do you care for?
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What exercise routines do dogs receive?
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Can you administer medication?
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What vaccinations are required?
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How do you manage nervous dogs?
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Are dogs supervised overnight?
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What happens in emergencies?
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Do owners receive updates during stays?
These questions help ensure your dog receives safe and professional care.
Signs of a Good Dog Boarding Company
A reputable boarding provider will:
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Welcome visits
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Maintain clean facilities
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Ask detailed questions about your dog
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Prioritise safety
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Offer clear pricing
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Communicate professionally
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Provide updates during stays
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Focus on dog welfare
Trustworthy businesses are transparent and organised.
Warning Signs to Avoid
Avoid boarding providers who:
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Refuse visits
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Have poor cleanliness
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Overcrowd dogs
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Lack licensing
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Provide vague answers
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Have negative reviews
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Use harsh handling methods
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Lack emergency procedures
If something feels wrong, continue your search.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog Boarding Services
How do I choose the best dog boarding company?
Choose licensed boarding providers with positive reviews, experienced staff, secure facilities, and clean environments.
What is the difference between home boarding and kennels?
Home boarding takes place within a private home, while kennels operate from dedicated boarding facilities.
Are dog boarding kennels safe?
Licensed and well-managed kennels are designed to provide safe accommodation, supervision, exercise, and care.
How much does dog boarding cost in the UK?
Prices vary depending on location, accommodation type, dog size, and services included.
Can dog boarding companies give medication?
Many professional boarding providers can administer medication when required.
What vaccinations are needed for dog boarding?
Most boarding providers require up-to-date vaccinations including kennel cough protection.
Can anxious dogs stay in boarding facilities?
Yes. Many experienced boarding providers specialise in nervous or anxious dogs.
Should I do a trial stay before boarding?
Short trial stays can help dogs become familiar with the environment before longer bookings.
Do dog boarding companies provide updates?
Many modern boarding businesses provide photos, videos, and updates during stays.
How far in advance should I book dog boarding?
Popular dog boarding services often book up months in advance during holidays.
Why Choose Manor House Dogs?
Manor House Dogs helps owners discover trusted dog boarding services, home boarding providers, luxury dog hotels, dog walkers, trainers, and pet care professionals throughout the UK.
Our directory helps you:
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Compare local dog boarding companies
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Discover trusted boarding providers
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Read customer reviews
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Find puppy-friendly boarding
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Explore luxury dog boarding services
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Connect with professional pet businesses
Stay & Play Pet Sit
Newlands Ln, Chichester PO193AS
07813978316
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Pet Sitting | House Sitting | Chichester | West Sussex | Hampshire | East Sussex Stay & Play Pet Sit offers Professional House and Pet Sitting across the South Coast of England. Experience, Insurance, Canine First Aid and DBS Checked ensure a trustworthy service to keep your home safe and your pets loved. Contact us for more information TODAY!
Kate's K9 Companions
45 Winterbourne Rd, Chichester, PO196PA
07980604062
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KatesK9Companions is fully licensed, insured and DBS Checked Kate is registered with the APDW etc and is Dog first aid trained.
Kate understands how important it is to know that your dog is happy and well cared for when you’re not around. Her aim is to provide you with the peace of mind that comes from knowing that your dog is in the best possible hands, being loved and cherished in your absence.
Deere-Hounds
Portfield Cl, Chichester, PO197AZ
07494 312096
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I offer a personal dog walking and pet sitting service tailored to you & your beloved family dogs in Chichester, West Sussex area. Contact me for dog walking, dog and house sitting, feeding, cuddles, love & attention - whatever required! Fully Insured, DBS Checked & Dog First Aid Trained ~ Peace of mind your pets are in safe care.
Dog Vision | Home Boarding For Dogs
19 Elmliegh, Midhurst, GU299EZ
07990857486
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🏠 Dog Home Boarding based in Midhurst. 5🌟 Licensed by Chichester DC. 23/02147/HBD_06. ✅️Professional & Experienced. ✅️Canine First Aid. ✅️DBS. ✅Qualified.📅To book your dog's holiday please 📧 carla@dogvision.co.uk 📞DM, Call or WhatsApp on 07990857486.
Carleton Canine Center
Ford Rd, Ford, Arundel, BN180BH
01903 883116
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Here at Carleton Canine Centre, our aim is to provide the very best service for you and your dog’s requirements, where individual care & cleanliness are our number one priority. Carleton Canine Centre is a small run business which has been established since 2001. its Boarding Kennels are set in beautiful rolling West Sussex countryside ,but is only minutes from Ford Station rail network, (A pet collection and delivery service is also available.) All the staff at Carleton Canine Centre are genuine animal lovers. We love to see happy animals and aim to provide safe, comfortable and fun havens for your pets.Please take time to view our gallery and read our conditions of boarding carefully. Carleton Canine Centre
Amberley Boarding Ltd
Amberley House, Woodmancote Ln, Hambrook, Chichester PO188UL
01243 573671
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Amberley Boarding Kennels is family owned by the Appleby’s, and run with Amy with her team who you may all be familiar with. Working together we manage and maintain 5 acres of fields and woodland, the perfect home from home for your dogs.
Sharon's Happy Paws Doggy Day Care & Spa
29 Little Dippers, Pulborough , RH202DB
07851253476
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At Sharon's Happy Paws Doggy Day Care and Spa in Pulborough, we offer a "home from home" experience for your furry friend. Whether it's daytime play, socialising, or overnight boarding, we provide a comfortable, loving and secure environment that feels just like home. Our small group walks ensure your dog gets the exercise and attention they need while having fun with new friends. I provide a personalised service from my own home, your dog will be spoilt, loved, have fun and play, so that you can enjoy and focus on your day with peace of mind. Photos and videos sent daily to keep you up to date with your little friend. I can also arrange for your dog to be groomed whilst in my care so that you don't have to.
Harrys Hounds Dog Walking & Dog Home Boarding
Adversane Ln, Adversane, Billingshurst, RH149EG
07850345640
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For over 5 years, we have been serving the pets and families in the local area, in and around Bury, Pulborough and other areas of West Sussex. Services include: Dog Walking, Dog Daycare and Overnight Boarding throughout West Sussex.
Pawsitivity Dog Daycare, Boarding & Walking
Wills Cl, Yapton, Ford, Arundel BN18 0NW
07505262288
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Pawsitivity came from our love of everything to do with dogs. Myself and my partner have always been a dog owners and love training dogs with positive reinforcement methods. We are also experienced fosters for a rescue called Angmering Paws & Companions4life that save dogs from kill shelters in Romania. My dogs have always been used to living with other dogs and love having new pack members!! They will have full run of my garden, lots of games and chill-out time.
Woof Terrace
6 Lloyd Goring Cl, Angmering, Littlehampton BN16 4LQ
07436108822
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We are Woof Terrace aka Aidan & Sarah. We provide home dog boarding and daycare in Angmering Village. Please call us or email enquiries@woofterrace.co.uk for bookings and info.
