The Best 7 Dog Boarding Centers in Vancouver
Dog boarding can be a quick, easy, and cost-effective way to help your dog stay in great shape while you’re away from home.
These establishments provide your dog with a place to stay in and staff to care for them. Some facilities also offer playtime and grooming.
We’ve compiled a list of some of the best dog boarding facilities in Vancouver to assist you in finding a fun and safe place to board your dog.
How Much Do Dog Boarding Centers Cost
The cost of boarding your dog at a dog boarding facility is determined by how long you intend to board your dog and what additional services you wish to add.
Some businesses provide spa and grooming services, while others provide long-term boarding options such as weekly and monthly stays.
When it comes to long-term boarding, you may have to spend up to CAD 2,800 per month.
We’ve listed some of the most common types of dog boarding services and their average estimated cost in the table below.
The Best Dog Boarding Centers in Vancouver
When looking for a dog boarding house, it is critical to understand what the facilities have to offer.
The best dog boarding facility should be clean and secure, and the dogs should enjoy socializing with other dogs. The staff should also provide excellent care and support.
We’ve assessed the following establishments based on the criteria below:
1. Ruff Stuff Dog Services
CRITERIA | RATING |
Facilities | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Cleanliness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Room Size | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Dogs’ Accessories | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Range of Services | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Availability | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
⮕Operating Hours | ★★★★☆ 5/5 |
⮕Dog Capacity | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Customer Service | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Ruff Stuff has been providing dog care services in Vancouver since 2003, and they are also fully licensed to operate in Richmond, North Vancouver, West Vancouver, and Squamish.
They have excellent facilities and provide services such as dog boarding and bathing. This establishment is situated on a one-acre fully fenced property, and its amenities are heated in the winter and cooled with air conditioners in the summer.
We also thought it was impressive that they provide plenty of leather couches, dog beds, and big crates for dogs, creating a pleasant and comfortable environment.
We also like that they provide clean, fresh water 24 hours a day, feed dogs twice a day, and administer medications and supplements.
Moreover, their 24-hour care and support, in our opinion, give owners peace of mind that their dogs are secure and healthy while they’re away.
Another notable feature is that they provide numerous play activities. These activities include a sand pit, balls, ropes, and multiple play spaces for dogs to run and play. In addition, they also have paddling pools for dogs to cool off in the summer!
Now, Ruff Stuff also offers pick-up and drop-off services for their clients in Angus Park. Unfortunately, this service is not available on weekends and holidays.
We also felt it’s important to mention that they charge an extra fee of CAD 20 for door-to-door pick-up and drop-off shuttle services.
Nevertheless, we like that this service is free for dogs staying for 15 nights or more. Additionally, Ruff Stuff also offers a complimentary bath.
Overall, we strongly recommend Ruff Stuff because we believe their passion for caring for dogs shines through their cozy facilities and numerous fun activities.
Pros
- Offers dog bathing services
- Clean and comfortable facilities
- Plenty of activities
- Spacious play areas
- Has a paddling pool
- Pick-up and drop-off services available
Cons
- Charges an extra fee for door-to-door services
- Peak season rates change yearly
- Doesn’t offer grooming services
Customer Reviews
Accommodating place for dogs
“Nothing but glowing things to say about this place. Fantastic place to board your dog – everyone here genuinely cares about your pet’s well being – we will bring ours back for sure then next time we go away. If you’re looking for a place to board your dog where you know they will have a good time and be loved, look no further.” -Nick B.
Helpful staff and great atmosphere
“Our dog loves daycare at Ruff Stuff so much! When I pull up in the car, she starts crying with excitement, and then yanks me up the stairs trying to get inside as fast as possible. She has the best time with her doggy friends, and I love seeing videos of her playing and getting pets all day. The staff is amazing and you can tell they really love dogs. So grateful for Ruff Stuff!” -Clea S.
2. Petite Paws Playcare
CRITERIA | RATING |
Facilities | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Cleanliness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Room Size | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Dogs’ Accessories | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Range of Services | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Availability | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
⮕Operating Hours | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
⮕Dog Capacity | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Customer Service | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Petite Paws Playcare is a dog daycare center specializing in caring for small breeds.
Some of the services they provide include drop-in daycare for CAD 40.43 per day. This service includes daily walks and a 20% discount on a second dog from the same household.
When we looked at their packages, we liked their flexibility because they offer short-term and long-term stays of up to 50 days! They also offer half-day packages beginning at CAD 126.79.
Their spa and agility service, which offers nail trimming, acclimations, and agility services, is another noteworthy aspect.
This service, in our opinion, is ideal for dogs who are afraid of having their nails trimmed because Petite Paws Playcare ensures their comfort beforehand.
We were also impressed by the spaciousness and modernity of their facilities and the adorable dog paintings on the walls.
In fact, the majority of consumers we’ve spoken to praise their services as they provide a fun and loving atmosphere that allows dogs to feel comfortable.
However, we want to point out that reservations are required because Petite Paws does not accept walk-ins. In addition, Petite Paws only accepts guests until 12:30 PM, so the latest drop-off time is a little earlier than other establishments.
We believe these terms are reasonable, so the facilities don’t get too crowded. We also like that they offer complimentary daily dog walks.
We believe Petite Paws is one of the best dog boarding centers in Vancouver due to its flexible stay packages and enjoyable facilities.
Pros
- Offer flexible stay options
- Complimentary daily dog walks
- Spacious facilities
- Taxes included in rates
Cons
- Advanced bookings are required
- Latest drop-off time is 12:30 PM
Customer Reviews
Safe and loving dog daycare
“When we adopted our 15 lb. dog, we visited all the available dog boarding and daycare services in the Olympic Village area. From the Google reviews and site visits, you’ll note that none of them are specifically designed for smaller breeds. Petite Paws’ dedication to creating a safe and loving daycare for the dogs is evident from your first meeting with them. They are professional and communicative. I would highly highly recommend them to any pet owner!.” -Tiffanie L.
Fun atmosphere
“My dog Chadley loves it here! He was nervous on his first day but now he practically claws his way through the front door. The owners, Sharon and Angela, are huge dog people and provide a loving and fun atmosphere all around. I live closer to another doggy daycare but the commute to Petite Paws is definitely worth the investment.” -Julianne K.
3. Pipsqueak Pups Doggy Daycare & Boutique
CRITERIA | RATING |
Facilities | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Cleanliness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Room Size | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Dogs’ Accessories | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Range of Services | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Availability | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
⮕Operating Hours | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
⮕Dog Capacity | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Customer Service | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Pipsqueak is a boutique-style dog daycare specializing in puppies and small dogs, and they offer a variety of services that we recommend to all dog owners.
Daycare and home boarding are two of the services they provide. These services offer numerous walks in the park and on the beach, as well as a relaxing environment by the fire.
In addition, they also provide supervised open play time, including running, playing, interacting with other dogs, and many more.
Their home boarding service costs CAD 80 per night, which we think is reasonable given that Pipsqueak provides everything from three meals daily to comfortable dog beds.
One thing that makes this place unique is its puppy training classes. In our opinion, this makes them stand out from other dog boarding centers.
These classes are designed for puppies aged ten weeks to a year and include a one-on-one training session tailored to your dog’s specific needs.
A 1.5-hour training session costs CAD 80 and includes basic cues like sit, come, and stay, as well as basic manners, social skills, and loose-leash walking.
We also found it unique that this organization sells homemade organic meatballs, and they offer free delivery within the Lower Mainland!
Unfortunately, they charge a CAD 10 fee for home boarding during long weekends. We also wish they offered bathing and grooming services so clients could have their dogs cleaned after playtime.
Nonetheless, we highly recommend Pipsqueak Pups Doggy Daycare & Boutique for small dog owners as they provide fun and active activities, making them one of the best dog boarding centers in Vancouver.
Pros
- Specializes in small dogs
- Numerous outdoor activities for dogs
- Offers puppy training classes
- Sells homemade organic meatballs
Cons
- Charges CAD 10 for home boarding during long weekends
- Does not offer bathing and grooming services
Customer Reviews
Amazing and interactive daycare
“Love this daycare! Sonia and Brian love your pup as much as you do! Elkie has been going to Pip Squeak since she was a puppy and she walks straight through the door without looking back!! She always comes home tired from a whole day of playing with dogs that are her size!.” -Jennifer H.
Excellent customer support and positive environment
“My two twin dogs Oliver and Leo have been coming here for the past year. Brian and Sonia are amazing. They take great care of my boys and I can go to work and know they are being well taken care of. I can drop off whenever I need to and always know they are there. Thankyou pipsqueak.” -Mara R.
4. Baby D’s Home
CRITERIA | RATING |
Facilities | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
⮕Cleanliness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Room Size | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Dogs’ Accessories | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Range of Services | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Availability | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Operating Hours | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Dog Capacity | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Customer Service | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Baby D’s Home is a dog daycare and spa located on W Broadway that provides grooming services. This dog boarding facility accepts all dog sizes and breeds, and we appreciate that their facilities have heaters and air conditioners.
When we looked at a typical day at their facilities, we were especially impressed that they provide dogs with multiple daily walks. This, in our opinion, keeps dogs healthy and active.
Some of the features included in their daycare services are fun games, basic training, and nap times. A full day of care at Baby D’s Home costs CAD 39, and we like that they also offer half-day stays for CAD 28.
Another noteworthy feature is that they offer grooming services. Baby D’s Home has in-house groomers with a wealth of experience, which we believe makes them trustworthy.
Do take note that Baby D’s Home charges an additional fee for late pick-ups. Their grooming prices are also determined by the size of your dog.
Regardless, the customers we spoke with reported that their dogs had a great time at Baby D’s Home. Most clients mentioned how tired their dogs were after having fun playtime all day.
On a whole, we believe Baby D’s Home is one of Vancouver’s best dog boarding facilities because they provide clean and comfortable accommodations for all dogs.
Pros
- Takes dogs on multiple walks daily
- Provides numerous activities
- Offers grooming services
- Flexible stay options
Cons
- Taxes not included in rates
- Charges CAD 15-20 for late pick-ups
Customer Reviews
Clean facilities and nice staff
“Soba and Pepper just love this place so much! Not only they have clean space and nice staffs, I like the fact that they pre-screen their customers now they make so many new doggie friends. Best thing is they have grooming service now! Pepper looks fresh and handsome! They both come home with all the energy burnt out, which is awesome! No more worries about they are being board at home. Not to mention, the price is very reasonable, highly recommended!.” -Shane W.
Great grooming services
“I already left a review before for daycare — but this time I’m leaving another review for grooming. I took my dog Kobi to get groomed today, and I was surprised he came back 3 shades… brighter! I forgot he was a white dog hahaha. They did such a great job getting the grime and mud off. And it was quick too! (under an hour) Thank you grooming team :).” -Michelle O.
5. Marpole
CRITERIA | RATING |
Facilities | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Cleanliness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Room Size | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Dogs’ Accessories | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Range of Services | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Availability | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Operating Hours | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Dog Capacity | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Customer Service | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Marpole is a fenced-in home with a large backyard where dogs can run and play, and it is open seven days a week.
They provide services such as dog daycare, overnight dog boarding, emergency accommodations and they accept last-minute check-ins as well.
We immediately noticed how passionate the owners are, as reflected by their loving and careful treatment of all the dogs in their care.
Marpole provides plenty of walks and playtime for dogs, and we especially love their online gallery of adorable dog photos.
In our opinion, this business is dependable because of its ability to accommodate last-minute and emergency boardings.
They also provide dog walking services in the Marpole, Oakridge, and Kerrisdale areas. This service costs CAD 50, and we believe it is ideal for dogs who want to play and interact with other dogs.
Although slightly expensive, most of Marpole’s clients shared how excited their dogs are whenever they arrive at this daycare. They also note how caring and patient the owners are, making the whole stay comfortable.
Despite their limited service offerings and higher prices, we felt Marpole deserved a spot on our list because their genuine love for dogs is evident in their open and welcoming services.
Pros
- Provides plenty of walks and playtime
- Offers overnight and emergency boardings
- Can accommodate last-minute boardings
Cons
- Relatively higher prices
- No grooming services
Customer Reviews
Wonderful staff
“Truffle LOVES Ken and Yvonne’s so much! He can hardly maintain his excitement when we arrive. Ken and Yvonne are so wonderful with him. They even get him to wear a raincoat on walks, which I’ve been able to manage myself.” -Christina K.
Caring and patient staff
“Ken and Yvonne are absolutely wonderful! They have helped me out so much with my schedule and I trust them with my puppy completely. They are caring, patient, and have taught Darcey so much. I would highly recommend them!.” -Elena C.
6. The Pet Shop Club
CRITERIA | RATING |
Facilities | ★★★★☆ 4.6/5 |
⮕Cleanliness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Room Size | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Dogs’ Accessories | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Range of Services | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Availability | ★★★★☆ 4.5/5 |
⮕Operating Hours | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Dog Capacity | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Customer Service | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
The Pet Shop Club is a dog boarding center that prioritizes the well-being and happiness of dogs in their care.
They make sure to place dogs at the center of their operations. What’s great about them is that by using positive reinforcement techniques and customizing their services to suit individual dogs’ needs, they create an environment where dogs can thrive.
Unlike others, the staff at The Pet Shop Club undergo training through reputable programs such as the Karen Pryor Academy and Canine Connection Training. We believe that they have more than enough knowledge and skills to bond with dogs and understand their unique behaviors and motivations.
Another pr in working with them is how they completely recognize that each dog is unique and learns differently. Thus, The Pet Shop Club offers customized services to cater to individual needs.
Whether it’s working on leash manners, providing playtime in daycare, beach runs, grooming at their spa, or enrolling in the Puppy Kindergarten Program, they tailor their services to meet the specific requirements of each dog.
Unfortunately, depending on peak hours or during holidays, they may have limited availability for dog boarding services. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak times or holidays, to secure a spot for your dog.
Pros
- Dog-Centered Approach
- Well-Trained Staff Members
- Customized Services
Cons
- May have limited availability
Customer Reviews
“The girls here are amazing! Dropped by to see if my senior Great Dane could get a quick nail trim. They squeezed him in right away! He is so anxious and the three of us could not get him to go to the back room, so they did it while he sat on my lap in the front. It was a quick, but thorough job. They were so sweet and understanding, you can tell they love what they do. Seeing their love for dogs, I’d definitely trust my pets in their care. Thanks guys!! ❤️”
“Great spa and day care. My dog enjoys it. I love that I can pick at that my dog is doing at any time through the window, unlike other day cares that are completely blocked from the eyes of the pet parent and who knows what is happening there. They are also doing some dog training during the stay at the day care.”
7. Raise the Woof
CRITERIA | RATING |
Facilities | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Cleanliness | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
⮕Room Size | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
⮕Dogs’ Accessories | ★★★★★ 5/5 |
Range of Services | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Availability | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
⮕Operating Hours | ★★★★☆ 5/5 |
⮕Dog Capacity | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Customer Service | ★★★★☆ 4/5 |
Raise the Woof is a daycare facility for dogs operated and founded by Andrea Grills and has since then been providing dogs with a fun and comfortable place to reside in.
We like that their daycare facilities have diverse and properly segregated rooms for various types of plays to ensure that each area will always be in a clean and safe environment for all dogs in the said daycare.
Aside from this, they also have treats available for their dogs along with discounted rates for those staying over for longer durations of time and with more dogs in the same household as well.
Note though that they have a strict implementation of requirements for clients looking to let their dog board in the said daycare facility along with advance bookings that must be made due to demand.
Overall, with their experienced and professional team of personnel employed, safe and comfortable facility features available for dogs to use, and an excellent variety of activities for them to do, we highly recommend interested clients to check them out.
Pros
- Comprehensively rated packages readily available
- Convenient and organized registration process
- Assistive and experienced professionals employed
Cons
- Slot limitations may be experienced
- Strict implementation of daycare requirements
Customer Reviews
Here are some reviews from their clients:
“Our doggies have been going to Raise The Woof for about a year now. Our dogs love it! They are just as happy to go as the wonderful staff are to welcome them each morning, and they come home happy, all played out, clean and ready for a good nap. Thanks Raise The Woof for being a place we can trust and that our dogs absolutely love 🐾💕🙏”
“We tested a bunch of doggy daycares, but Raise the Woof is the best! Such lovely people working there and our dogs so look forward to going to daycare a couple of times a week. We haven’t used it yet, but they also have a super reasonably priced pick-up/drop-off service! Highly recommended! :)”
FAQs about Dog Boarding Centers in Vancouver
We hope this helps you narrow down your options for where to board your dog while you’re away.
If you’re looking to adopt a new dog or you want to spend time around animals, why not check out our list of the best animal shelters in Vancouver.