Dog Boarding Cost Calculator
Calculate the total cost of boarding your dog at a kennel, pet hotel, or luxury resort, including nightly rates, peak holiday surcharges, extra playtime, and departure baths.
Calculated Dog Expenses
Dog Boarding Rate Formula
Total Boarding Cost = (Nights * Base Rate) + (Nights * Holiday Surcharge) + (Nights * Playtime/Med Fees) + Departure Bath- Base Nightly Rate: Standard kennel suite, luxury suite, or private run accommodations.
- Holiday Surcharges: Peak seasonal rate increases (typically $5–$15/night during Thanksgiving, Christmas, Memorial Day).
- Activity Add-Ons: Extra 30-minute one-on-one play sessions, puzzle kong treats, or medication dosing fees.
- Departure Services: Exit bath, nail trim, and brush-out before pickup.
Step-by-Step Worked Example
Calculation Steps:
- Base Stay: 7 nights * $50 = $350
- Holiday Surcharge Total: 7 nights * $10 = $70
- Extra Playtime Total: 7 nights * $5 = $35
- Departure Bath: $35
- Total Add-Ons: $70 + $35 + $35 = $140
- Grand Total Boarding Expense: $350 + $140 = $490
- Effective Nightly Cost: $490 / 7 = $70 / night
How to Use This Calculator
- 1Enter the number of nights your dog will stay at the boarding facility.
- 2Input the base nightly kennel or suite rate.
- 3Add holiday peak surcharges if traveling over major school breaks or holidays.
- 4Include daily add-on play sessions, medication fees, and exit baths.
Assumptions & Limitations
- Boarding facilities require up-to-date Rabies, DHPP, and Bordetella (kennel cough) vaccinations.
- Pickup past checkout hours (e.g. afternoon pickup) may incur a half-day daycare charge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost to board a dog per night in the US?
Standard commercial kennel boarding averages $40 to $65 per night, while luxury pet hotels with private cameras, webcams, and spacious suites range from $75 to $120 per night.
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