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Dogs need socialization at an early age to develop good behaviors. A dog exposed to many things young is likelier to be calm, well-mannered, controlled, confident, less fearful, and more sociable. Suppose a dog is exposed to unknown stimuli later in life. In that case, they are more likely to be aggressive, overstimulated, fearful, uncertain, and neurotic.

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What is socialization?

Technically, socialization refers to introducing puppies to other social species. More commonly, socialization is used to describe the exposure of puppies to an assortment of stimuli and experiences they might encounter in their adult lives. This exposure is like a vaccination for physical disease-by providing safe, controlled social exposures to unfamiliar people and situations, we inoculate them from developing fearful behavior.

During socialization, puppies become acclimated or habituated to various stimuli and situations. Puppies learn social skills during carefully controlled, safe interactions with people, dogs, and other animals. They also learn how to explore their world.

While dogs can and do experience social learning throughout their lifetimes, puppies are maximally primed for socialization between the ages of 3-14 weeks of age. This period is called the ''sensitive period for socialization". Initial socialization begins when a puppy is still with his mother and littermates-puppies naturally encounter many sounds and sights in their early environment.

"...puppies are maximally primed for socialization between the ages of 3-14 weeks of age."

How do I socialize my puppy correctly?

Once your puppy joins your family, you must continue to provide opportunities for socialization. Puppies must have various positive, pleasant experiences in novel situations and be protected from fear-provoking conditions. Remember that this is a sensitive period for the puppy. Exposures must be done carefully, so the puppy remains calm and interested in engaging and does not become frightened or overwhelmed.

As a guideline, bring your puppy to a new place at least twice weekly. Allow your puppy to explore at his own comfortable pace. Bring tasty treats and some exciting toys to occupy him. This is the time to help your puppy learn about city streets and open parks. Let him experience bicycles and cars driving by and bring him into pet-friendly shops. Introduce cats and horses if they will be part of his life

Perhaps most importantly, let your puppy meet various people every week, including men and women, young and old. Find people with hats and canes. Introduce children that are old enough to be quiet and gentle with dogs. Give treats to people that want to meet your puppy, and then allow the puppy to approach at his own pace. Ask strangers to roll or toss treats to your puppy, and not to reach toward him to pet him but let him choose to approach when he is comfortable.

If a treat is offered and your puppy takes it very tentatively or approaches and then backs away before eating the treat, he may be fearful. You might create more fear if you continue to coax him with food this way. Instead, stop the interaction and try again another time, and ask the stranger to sit down and toss the treat without reaching or making eye contact.

For some puppies, every stimulus may seem overwhelming. If your puppy does not eat or play during a socialization session, he is telling you he is frightened. Take your puppy out of the situation and plan for a quieter session. Never force your puppy to 'face his fears' or thrust him into new situations when he seems panicked or fearful, as it may worsen the fear. Ask your veterinarian or behaviorist for some guidance. You must not continue to expose your puppy to situations that cause a fear response.

Is it safe to take my puppy out in public at such a young age?

Yes! There is a misconception that puppies must complete their full set of vaccinations before being socialized. Unfortunately, by the time your puppy finishes the vaccination series, the sensitive period for socialization will be almost over.

There is always a concern about the risks of taking a puppy out of his home before he is fully vaccinated because he may be exposed to an infectious disease before the protective immunity develops. However, the benefits gained from these early public experiences usually outweigh the risk of illness; without these experiences, the risk of developing permanent fears or anxiety is a serious concern.

You can minimize your puppy's health risks by having healthy people or pets visit him in his home or meeting in a neutral place where other dogs are not often walked. If you follow your veterinarian's recommended vaccination schedule, taking your puppy for walks along the sidewalk and avoiding neighborhood parks where stools and urine might accumulate is generally safe. The risk of missing socialization opportunities is very serious and should be carefully balanced with concerns about physical illness.

"The risk of missing socialization opportunities is very serious and should be carefully balanced with concerns about physical illness."

What is habituation?

Habituation happens when a puppy grows accustomed to stimuli through repeated exposure at levels that do not produce fear. We experience habituation regularly in our lives. For example, if you move to a home near a railroad crossing, you might notice every train passing by at first. Within a short time, you will barely notice the sound-it will be another neutral noise in the background.

Similarly, puppies habituate to stimuli in the environment if they are not overwhelming. Habituation cannot occur if a puppy is frightened. If he shows concern by looking away, leaning away, moving away, hesitating to explore, and hesitating to approach, or exhibiting strong avoidance, bring him to a place where he feels safe and seek professional guidance. You may need to arrange a desensitization to certain scary stimuli.

What is desensitization?

Desensitization refers to deliberately but very carefully and systematically exposing your puppy to a stimulus at such a low level that he is not frightened. Once he is relaxed with the low level of exposure, the intensity can be slightly increased. When done correctly, desensitization will help your puppy habituate to something that might seem a little scary. Desensitization is the primary behavior modification technique used to treat fears in dogs of any age. If your puppy exhibits a high level of fear, it is best to seek professional guidance so the desensitization process can be done correctly.

For example, suppose your puppy is afraid of the coffee grinder:

Keep him in another room while you grind the coffee. Have a helper play with him or feed him treats. Keep the grinding duration short-just a few seconds.

After a few sessions, grind for a few more seconds. If your puppy is easily able to play and take treats, then move him a bit closer to the grinder but reduce the duration of the noise. Then gradually increase the duration of the noise.

These steps are quite small! Start small, watch for signs your puppy may feel overwhelmed or fearful, and only progress at his comfort level.

Do other factors contribute to a social, calm, and confident dog?

Puppy selection
Personality traits are determined by many factors, including genetics, the behavior and health of the mother, access to adequate nutrition during development, and the environment from shortly before birth until maturity. Many of these influences occur before you meet your puppy and may be unknown to you.

If you meet one or both parents, you may get some insight into the traits your puppy may inherit. If both parents are calm, your puppy is more likely to be calm.

If you adopt a purebred dog, you can select a breed known for being calm. Although there is a great deal of variation within a breed, some breed tendencies exist. Investigate the breeds that interest you and learn about their temperaments.

Early handling
Puppies stimulated and handled from birth to five weeks of age are more confident, social, exploratory, faster-maturing, and able to handle stress better as they develop. Puppies obtained from a breeder or foster home, where they have had frequent contact and interaction with people, are likely to be more social and less fearful as they develop. Puppies that spend a lot of time in a pet store, alone in a kennel, or confined to a cage may be at a disadvantage; introduce handling gradually and be aware of signs your puppy is distressed or overwhelmed.

Puppy assessment
Research shows that it is very difficult to fully predict the future behavior of a dog. Many puppy aptitude and personality tests have been developed, but to date, they mainly provide guidelines rather than guarantees. Personality can change over. It seems that puppies who are fearful and/or easily frustrated may be likely to continue exhibiting these traits into adulthood. If you hope for a calm, confident dog, look for a puppy interested in meeting people and exploring novel objects. If you select a puppy that is shy or retreats from new stimuli, be prepared to start the socialization process immediately. You must keep all exposures comfortable enough that your puppy is not routinely frightened. Do not hesitate to seek professional guidance so that your puppy has the best chance of maturing into a calm and social dog.

"Research shows that it is very difficult to fully predict the future behavior of a dog."

What is the best age to obtain a new puppy?

Since a puppy's interactions with his mother and littermates positively impact developing social skills, a puppy should remain with his mother and littermates until he is 7-10 weeks of age.

Even if your puppy is over 14 weeks, after the sensitive period of socialization is over, regular social interactions should continue throughout adulthood to ensure social skills remain strong and your older puppy can still acclimate to new stimuli.

What else can I do to assist my puppy's social development?

Ask your veterinarian to help you find a puppy socialization class. Suitable classes provide opportunities to interact with other people and dogs in a low-risk environment. Puppy socialization classes help puppies learn social manners, including the important skills of ignoring as well as politely greeting people and other dogs.

Find a class with a strong safety protocol where:

Puppies must be up to date on vaccinations and boosters and free of intestinal parasites

Puppies must have been in their new home for at least ten days and have appeared healthy since during this time

Classes are held indoors, in a room that can easily be cleaned and disinfected

These steps will also reduce the risks of disease transmission.

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Puppy Behavior and Training - Socialization and Fear Prevention | VCA Animal Hospitals

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This is the period in a puppy's life where it develops relationships with other living beings and also learns how to behave and act in new experiences. While socialization takes place throughout the first year of life, the first 12 -16 weeks seem to be the most important time for young puppies to learn about their environment.

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Dogs can offer emotional benefits to their owners and others. Many dogs are in tune with their owner's emotions and know when they are not feeling right. With a person's dog with them in public spaces, it can be easier for them to function. It is also helpful for the dog to be with its owner to reduce separation anxiety if it struggles.

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Many people leave their pets behind on vacation because they cannot go. These policies should change because research shows that 85 percent of pet owners think their pets are family. This fact is evidence that more places should allow pets. Suppose 85 percent of people see their pets as family. In that case, the no-pet policies tell people they do not want their family with them on vacation.

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Key points

The majority of pet owners in North America consider their dogs to be family members.

In most courts, dogs are considered to be property for matters such as divorces.

In only six states and one Canadian province is welfare of the dog to be considered in cases of custody.

A recent court ruling in Colombia identified a dog as a family member equivalent to a son or daughter.

Is your family completely human?

Over recent years, it has become clear that pet dogs (and, to a lesser extent, cats) are counted as family members. Dogs are treated much like children and the American Veterinary Medical Association found that 85 percent of dog owners think of their pets as family. Some research finds even higher percentages (up to 94 percent).

Multi-Species Families

The fact that dogs are so often viewed as an integral part of the family unit has led some behavioral researchers, such as Andrea Laurent-Simpson of Southern Methodist University, to speak of the concept of multi-species families. She defines these as "a newly diversified, non-traditional family structure" which includes pets as members. She goes on to say, "Dogs and cats within the American family have a profound impact on things like fertility considerations, the parent-child relationship, family finances, involvement of extended family members, and the household structure itself."

Many researchers believe that this identification of dogs as equivalent to family members is partially responsible for the diminished birth rate in the United States. The nationwide birth rate fell significantly between 2007 and 2022, dropping from 14.3 births per thousand people to 11.1 (that is nearly a 23 percent reduction), according to data from the Center for Disease Control. The situation is significant enough that Pope Francis has accused families that are childless but own pet dogs of being selfish and perhaps sinful.

Sometimes Government Responds

Researchers who study personal relationships clearly recognize that the trend toward considering pets as part of the family is socially significant, however, the legal system, and governmental regulations seem to be lagging behind. In 2005, when Hurricane Katrina was approaching, according to a survey by the Fritz Institute, nearly half of New Orleans residents refused to evacuate without their pets. Instead, many stayed behind to face the hurricane in order to protect their animals. Faced with such a dramatic example, in 2006, Congress passed the PETS Act, authorizing FEMA to rescue, care for, and provide shelter for household pets during an emergency. However, family and custodial law have not been so quick to recognize the psychological reality of the multi-species family, although some changes are beginning to appear.

Dogs as Property

Consider the current state of divorce laws. In the United States, Canada, and most European countries, pets are generally categorized as property. Therefore, in a divorce, pets are distributed in the same manner as household goods. The ruling by a Canadian judge, Justice Richard Danyliuk, in Saskatoon, Canada exemplified this viewpoint when he was asked to determine custody of two dogs following the separation of a couple.

In his decision, he said, "Many dogs are treated as members of the family with whom they live, but after all is said and done, a dog is a dog. By law, it is property...and enjoys no familial rights." In his judgment, he then went on to make several points.

"In Canada, we tend not to purchase our children from breeders."

"We tend not to breed our children with other humans to ensure good bloodlines, nor do we charge for such services."

"When our children are seriously ill, we generally do not engage in an economic cost/benefit analysis to see whether the children are to receive medical treatment, receive nothing, or even have their lives ended to prevent suffering."

"When our children act improperly, even seriously and violently, we generally do not muzzle them or even put them to death for repeated transgressions."

He then went on to warn that the couple was taking a substantial risk in pursuing this matter in court. "Both parties should bear in mind that if the court cannot reach a decision on where the dogs go, it is open to the court under the legislation to order them sold and the proceeds split-something I am sure that neither party wants."

Emotionally Bonded, Not Just Owned

In a few venues, the legal situation is changing. New York, Alaska, California, Illinois, Maine, and New Hampshire have recognized the scientific findings confirming the emotional bond between pet owners and their dogs. They also have recognized that the existing laws stand in stark contrast with the way child custody is awarded. Most states determine child custody via a "best interest" analysis-namely, what is best for the child. When this concept is applied to the custody of a dog, it involves considering factors such as each person's ability and willingness to care for the pet, the relationship a child in the family may have with the pet, the relationship of the pet to various other family members, and additional factors associated with the well-being and safety of the animal.

Similar legal changes are occurring in Canada. In March of this year, British Columbia modified its Family Law Act (the same one that is used to determine who gets custody of children in a divorce) to take into account similar welfare considerations when determining where a pet dog will go following divorce.

Dogs as Children

Considering what is best for the dog is not the same as recognizing dogs as part of a multi-species family unit, although it is an important starting point. A major step in declaring a dog part of a family has been taken, not in North America, but in Colombia. The case involved Jader Alexis Castaño, a rector at a Colombian university, who lost his dog Simona in a divorce ruling. His former wife, Lina María Ochoa, only allowed him rare visits with Simona, and Castaño felt that his "hija perruna," or "dog child" (as he often referred to her), was "emotionally affected" when they had to part after their infrequent visits.

Last year, Castaño sued his former wife, demanding scheduled visits with Simona. He claimed that the dog was part of the "family's nucleus," and his inability to visit with his dog was causing emotional distress to both him and the dog. The Colombian court decided to treat this issue as analogous to any other custody case involving a child, where the matter at issue was shared custody after marital separation.

The surprising outcome was that the Bogota Superior Court ruled that Simona, a dog, had indeed been an official member of a "multi-species family" before the marriage was dissolved. That meant Castaño was entitled to scheduled visits with the dog. This was the first time a Colombian court had ruled that an animal can be considered a member of the family "if it is treated as such by its owners." Whether or not the dog is to be treated the same as a human daughter is unclear, but her familial membership has been legally recognized.

I am reminded of one of my grandfather's sayings, "Blood makes you related-love makes you family."

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Could Dogs Be Legally Considered Members of the Family?

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Recent decisions may legitimize multi-species families.

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It is a struggle for many pet owners to be able to travel due to their pet-owning responsibilities. There are numerous opportunities to make fur babies comfortable while their owners are away, such as daycares, dog sitters, and boarding facilities. Even though these places exist, they cost a significant amount of money. I know this firsthand because I work at a doggy daycare and boarding facility. Our rates are $35 for daycare and $55 for boarding. While this can be doable for a bit, these prices add up quickly, and many people need help to afford it. With more lenient pet policies in public places, more people will save money bringing their pets on vacation.

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Dog Boarding Cost

The average cost charged by dog boarding kennels is $30 to $50 per night with most pet owners spending $40. Weekly boarding rates start at $150, while monthly prices cost $500 on average. The best boarding option for your dog will depend mainly on what's available in your area and your personal preferences.

It happens to the best of us-we have to go out of town, and there's no one to look after the dog. A dog boarding service within your budget with trained staff that cater to your pet's needs can be found within a matter of minutes on HomeGuide. Here's everything you need to know about pet boarding prices.

Average Dog Boarding Rates

Average dog boarding rates are $25 per day, $40 per night, $150 per week, or $500 per month, depending on where you live, the size of your dog, and how long of a stay your pet needs.

Many boarding kennels offer special rates for 5-, 10- and 25-day stays and have discounts up to 50% when boarding multiple dogs.

Staff member at dog boarding kennel plays with several dogs

Dog Boarding Cost Per Day

The average cost to board a dog by day is $18 to $30, or about $15 for a 4-hour half-day. You drop your dog off in the morning, and he gets to play with other dogs his size, with a quiet time in his own kennel over the lunch period.

Most dog boarding kennels require you to pick up your pet by 6 p.m. or you'll be charged an additional fee. If you don't show up on time, some places lock the doors at 6 p.m. and charge you for having to board your dog for the night.

Dog Boarding Cost Per Night

The cost to board a dog overnight is about $40, but prices range from $25 to $55+, depending on the size of the room you want your dog to sleep in. Some dog boarding kennels charge $55 to $100 per night for the luxury of having a raised bed and a TV and DVD player with theme-based décor.

Large and small dogs in a pet boarding facility

Cost of Boarding a Dog for a Week

Average dog boarding rates run about $140 to $175 per week for the typical kennel, with luxury dog hotels charging between $525 and $675. The rates to board a dog for a week go up with different choices in "suite" sizes and amenities.

Cost to Board A Dog for a Month

Monthly dog boarding rates are $460 to $720 in a kennel or $950 to $2,600 in a luxury dog hotel, plus extra costs for whatever additional services you wish your dog to have. Long-term doggy daycare packages cost $2,000 to $3,000 for 6 months.

Dog Boarding Rates For Multiple Dogs

Many dog owners need to board multiple dogs, or need dog boarding for more than one night. For this reason, you'll find dog boarding kennels offering discounted rates of 10% to 50% off for each additional dog or for boarding for more than one night. Discounts are especially common for smaller dogs that can share a room or crate.

German shepard coming out of pool at doggie daycare with other dogs

Dog Boarding Prices for Package Deals

Dog boarding kennels usually offer discounted rates for 5-, 10- and 25-day packages:

Packages are an excellent investment for dog owners who are frequently traveling for work or have a long vacation coming up soon.

Dog Boarding Prices By Type

Dog Kennel Prices

Dog kennel rates cost $25 to $55 per night on average. A dog kennel is a traditional boarding facility that includes meals, water, daily walks, playtime, and a personal crate with bedding to sleep inside.

German shepard relaxing in dog boarding kennel

Dog Hotel Prices

Luxury dog boarding hotels cost between $75 and $95 per night which include spa services, large dog "suites," a swimming pool, online webcams, gourmet food, and large outdoor play areas. Other dog boarding kennels may offer these upgrades for an additional $15 to $20 per night. For example, Sparta Pet Palazzo offers these amenities on a per night basis:

10 x 7 room with leather loveseat and TV - $75

16 x 13 room with a private bed, webcam, and TV - $85

20 x 20 room with webcam, leather sofa, and TV - $95

How Much Does Doggy Daycare Cost?

Doggy daycare costs about $18 to $30 per day or $15 to $16 for a 4-hour half day. Long-term doggy daycare packages cost $2,000 to $3,000 for 6 months and $5,000 to $6,000 for a year. Instead of leaving your dog at home while you work or go shopping, consider doggy daycare.

Doggy daycare facility with toys play gyms and secluded areas

In-Home Dog Boarding Cost

In-home boarding is another solution whereby your dog stays with a dog sitter in the sitter's home until you're back. Sitters are typically background checked, and prices range from $15 to $50 per day or night depending on the experience and qualifications of the dog sitter.

In-home boarding can give you the comfort of knowing your dog is being loved and has a comfortable home to stay in rather than living with strangers and sleeping in a locked dog or kennel alone every night. Many sitters register with the National Association of Professional Pet Sitters or Pet Sitters International.

Dog Sitting Cost

Pet sitting is another option where professionals will watch your dog at your home for you for $70 per night for one dog, and only $5 more if you have two dogs. Dog visits are an option for dogs who are safe to leave home alone as long as someone checks in on them every four hours or so for a bathroom break and some cuddles. Dog sitting costs about $25 per 30-minute visit.

While in-home dog care might feel uncomfortable to some because of giving a stranger access to your home, having someone stop by can be much less intimidating for the dog than having to stay in a crate or small room overnight elsewhere. Some house-sitting services exchange dog sitting services for being able to stay in your home for the duration, like Trusted House Sitters.

Hospital & Vet Boarding Costs

Dog boarding rates at a hospital or animal clinic don't seem to be much different to boarding a dog anywhere else, costing about $35 to $45 a night if the dog has no medical problems, and $40 to $55 if s/he has medical issues or needs to be isolated because of behavioral issues.

Many animal hospitals, infirmaries, and veterinarians will offer boarding services as well, though the price tends to be a bit higher since that same space could be used for a sick pet. However, many dog owners feel more comfortable keeping their dog under the supervision of trained, experienced animal hospital or veterinary clinic staff.

Additional Dog Boarding Fees

Dog Boarding and Training Cost

Dog boarding and training costs $1,600 for a four-week block or $500 to $1,000 per week. Dogs learn how to perform basic obedience tasks like walking without pulling, and the commands sit, stay, come, drop, etc.

Dog playing outside at an overnight dog boarding hotel

Boarding and Grooming or Pet Spa

Sometimes you can drop your dog off for a few days and also get all their grooming done at the same time. Dog grooming prices start at $15 up to a full groom for around $50. Services include shampooing, nail clipping, and anal gland expression. Many dog boarding kennels provide add-on services-some are complimentary and included in the boarding price, while others offer them for an additional cost.

Special Needs Doggie Day Care

Some dog boarding kennels will offer specialized care for dogs who are nonsocial or need extra medical care while boarding which can cost $45/day and $55/night.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does PetSmart charge for boarding?

PetSmart dog boarding rates vary by location but typically run $30 to $55 per night, depending on the room type and the factors mentioned above. PetSmart often offers discounts, such as one night free if you need a multi-night stay. However, be sure to check online reviews for this service.

How Much Does It Cost to Board a Dog for 5 Days?

Dog boarding kennels charge about $100 to $125 to board your dog at a 5-day rate. Dog daycare is included for free in most boarding packages, and you can pay more for extra play or cuddle time.

How Do I Prepare My Dog For Boarding?

When preparing to take your dog to the kennel, remember to:

Be up to date on their vaccinations. Vaccinations need to be given no less than seven days before boarding.

Write a list of any special instructions you may have for your kennel regarding feeding times, portions for food, medical needs, your local vet's phone number, and where you can be reached.

Bag up each serving size of your dog's food and label it with your dog's name for the length of their stay.

Pack your dog's leashes.

Make sure your dog has a name tag.

Label medications with your dog's name.

Drop your dog off in the morning so s/he can become accustomed to the other dogs boarding with him.

Don't forget to pack your dog's favorite toys. An old t-shirt that smells like you can also make for a great cuddle toy!

What Vaccinations Do Dogs Need For Boarding?

Dogs need proof of vaccination for Distemper, Parvo, and Bordetella (kennel cough) annually and Rabies every 1-3 years. Puppies must be ten days past their final round of distemper/parvo vaccination before kennels will accept them for boarding. Vaccinations need to be given no less than seven days before boarding. If this is the dog's first Bordetella vaccination, it must be given two weeks before boarding.

How Long Before Boarding Does Dog Need a Bordetella Shot?

In general, puppies can receive injectable Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccines between 6 and 8 weeks of age and booster shots when they're 10 to 12 weeks old. Adult dogs generally need booster vaccines for Bordetella in intervals of six months to a year. If this is the dog's first Bordetella vaccination, it must be given two weeks before boarding.

How Old Does a Dog Have to be for Boarding?

For all breeds of dogs, most certified dog kennels require the dog to be at least 4 months old (12 to 16 weeks) old because incoming puppies need to have had their first round of adult shots at 12 weeks, followed by the second round at around 16 weeks.

What is the Difference Between Dog Sitting and Boarding?

The difference between dog sitting and boarding is the length of stay and attention of care. Dog boarding is like a hotel, where it's typically an overnight stay at a kennel where your dog is around other dogs. On the other hand, a dog sitter will watch your pet at your home, or theirs. Also, they may just stop by to care for your pets two or three times per day.

While in-home dog care might feel uncomfortable to some because of giving a stranger access to your home, having someone stop by can be much less intimidating for the dog than having to stay in a crate or small room overnight with other dogs around. If you are one of those dog owners who would rather your dog be in his or her own home while you are out of town, you may want to check out local dog sitters near you.

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2023 Dog Boarding Costs | Day, Night, Week & Month Kennel Rates

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Dog boarding costs $40 per night on average, with rates ranging from $25 to $85. Doggy daycare prices are $25 per day, while overnight hotels are $75 a night.