What about dog daycare?

Doggy daycare has become a popular option for exercising and socializing puppies, but it’s important to recognize that it’s not a substitute for proper socialization and training. While daycare can be a great fit for certain dogs, many facilities operate as unstructured, free-for-all play areas. This can overstimulate or overwhelm many dogs—especially puppies—and not all staff are trained to recognize subtle signs of stress or discomfort. Without skilled supervision, necessary interventions may be missed. It’s also worth noting that not every dog thrives in a daycare environment.

Contrary to popular belief, dogs are not inherently “pack” animals. They are highly social, but that does not mean that putting a group of them together guarantees that they will all get along. Many dogs also “age out” of daycare. As they age, most dogs become increasingly selective of who they accept into their social group. These dogs may display more resource guarding or reactivity in such settings.

While daycare can provide some level of socialization and exercise, it doesn’t address the full spectrum of experiences necessary for a well-adjusted dog. Puppies are often exposed to a large variety of personalities and play styles at daycare, which can be overwhelming and may not allow them the opportunity to decompress. Daycare settings typically don’t introduce puppies to the diverse sounds, textures, and sights they’ll encounter in life. Undesirable behaviors may also be picked up from the other dogs in the group. Dog daycare by itself does not address behavioral issues, and the degree of supervision and expertise varies widely depending on the facility. Close quarters also increase the risk of illness, such as kennel cough.

Having worked in a dog daycare, I’ve seen firsthand how experiences can differ. While some dogs love it, many don’t. Dogs that don’t actively cause problems may still be accepted into daycare- regardless of their comfort level. It was not uncommon for dogs to sit quietly in a corner all day, avoiding interaction. Unfortunately, staff usually have limited options to support these dogs in feeling more at ease. It takes time for a new dog to come out of their shell, but some never feel comfortable enough to do so. The amount of time a dog spends in daycare—both daily and weekly—is another crucial factor. Dogs attending 8 hours a day, 5 days a week, can experience overwhelm, frustration, or anxiety over time. I’ve observed dogs transform from happy, playful pups to reactive, stressed individuals due to excessive time in daycare environments. Constant activity can lead to increased stress levels. Even dogs who initially thrive in constant activity can become stressed, as they may lack an “off switch” to regulate their arousal levels.

Doggy daycare can be a valuable tool, but it’s important to assess whether it’s truly the right fit for your dog’s unique needs and temperament. It does not replace formal training. Balance is key: socialization, rest, and structured learning are all essential components for a happy, healthy canine life.