Sandi’s K9 Management

If you are thinking about enrolling your adult dog or puppy in a dog day care, here are a few suggestions for important details to look for and to be aware of: 

Socialization
Getting your dog around as many well-socialized adult dogs as you can find is one of the most important parts of raising a behaviorally healthy animal.  This is extremely important for the mental well-being of the dog in order for him to continue learning proper body language for safe interactions with other dogs.  Playgroups are great, but dog daycamp is even better!  Finding a day care that offers off-leash play with well-behaved adult dogs is a must.

Exercise
Wouldn’t it be nice to come home to calm and relaxed dog? Typically after a long day of work, most people are exhausted and would like to rest once they are home. That doesn’t always work out when you have a dog in the household! Sending him off to dog day care is a sure way to provide your dog with the exercise he needs to fulfill his energy level.  A day care where your dog is offered many opportunities to engage in physical activities throughout the day is important.

Manners
I’ve actually seen dogs who attend day care develop bad habits from not being positively reinforced throughout the day.  Finding a day care where your dog’s manners are reinforced so that no bad habits develop along the way is something that most people don’t think about when looking for a day care for their dog.  Although it can be hard to find, look for a day care where positive training and reinforcement is stressed, and an environment where your dog will actually have fun learning various tricks and commands!Taking these tips into account when looking for a dog day care will help to ensure that your dog develops into a behaviorally healthy companion! 

All rights reserved.  Sandi Hansen.  Sandi’s K9 Management.  2008