Pros and Cons of Dog Daycare

Have you been spending more time away from your dog than you like? Whether you work full-time, or your schedule is jam-packed for another reason, your dog needs some attention. Having your dog spend all day alone in the house bored, with nothing to do leaves them craving play and stimulation. Dog daycare is designed to relieve situations such as these. Let’s take a look at the positive and negative aspects of daycare for dogs.

Pros of Dog Daycare

1. Prevents Separation Anxiety

If separation anxiety is a problem in your home, you understand what it’s like to have a dog that acts out because they feel alone and miss you. Dogs who experience separation anxiety can do destructive things. Keeping your pup in dog daycare can help to remedy or avoid this situation altogether.

2. Provides a Socialization Opportunity

Taking your pup to dog daycare gives them the opportunity to interact socially with other dogs. Dog daycare also provides an environment that is mentally stimulating to your canine. Instead of being alone, your dog has plenty of playmates.

3. Gives Your Dog Exercise

While you are spending your day fast at work, your dog will be getting plenty of exercise. If you work a lot, this is especially helpful. You won’t have to spend a lot of time exercising your dog right when you get home. You won’t have to worry about your dog becoming a couch potato, or potentially obese. Through exercising with other dogs, they also will become mentally engaged with their surroundings.

4. Some Provide Training

There is a reason that puppy kindergarten has become so popular. Some doggie daycares offer training classes. One-on-one training is often available. This is particularly helpful if your dog has a behavior issue that you haven’t been able to solve yet.

5. Most Are Flexible

Most dog daycares will work with you in regard to your personal schedule. Full days or half days are usually an option. The good news is that if you live in the city, there are likely many doggie daycare options around you.

Cons of Dog Daycare

• Your dog may or may not like going into a noisy and unfamiliar environment. It could feel like too much for your dog, simply because of the number of dogs present.
• There is no personalized care at a dog daycare facility. Some dogs only feel comfortable when they are the only dog being cared for.
• Not all dog daycares are alike. Doing your due diligence ahead of time will ensure that you have chosen one that will give your dog the best care available.
• Exposing your dog to other dogs at a dog daycare center means they can possibly get sick with illnesses such as kennel cough and fleas.
• There is also a possibility that your pup could develop bad behaviors from being around other dogs.
• Dog daycare is not cheap. Putting your dog in daycare full-time will cost you a pretty penny.

Takeaway

Dog daycare does have its positive and negative aspects. If money is an issue, maybe look into other options for your pup. However, if you suspect that your dog is feeling lonely and in need of exercise, dog daycare is a great step to take.