You probably know that dog daycare services are great for dogs, and why it’s so beneficial. But is it possible for your dog to get too much of a good thing? If you just got a dog that will be in need of daycare or your schedule is changing and will require you to change up your dog’s daycare schedule, you’re probably wondering if it’s possible for your pup to spend too much time at daycare. Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer for this, because every dog is unique and has different needs. However, we’ll give you a guide to figure out how many days a week of daycare is ideal for your dog.
Does Your Dog Need Daycare?
If you’re a new pet parent that will soon be in need of dog daycare services, your first step should be figuring out whether or not your dog actually needs daycare. Some dogs simply don’t have the right temperament or exercise needs for daycare. Consider the following before scheduling a doggy daycare appointment:
- Does your dog have high energy levels and does he need a significant amount of exercise?
- Does your dog suffer from separation anxiety?
- Does he like playing with other dogs or does prefer to be on his own?
- Does your dog get destructive when left at home alone?
- Is your dog able to follow basic obedience commands?
- Has your dog been properly socialized with other dogs?
Every dog is different, which means that daycare isn’t necessary for every dog. However, if your dog is the right fit for daycare, you need to figure out how much daycare may be too much.
How Many Days Can My Dog Go to Daycare?
Unfortunately, this question doesn’t have a simple go-to answer. There are different factors that you’ll need to consider to determine how many days of daycare your dog needs.
Your Dog’s Age
Age is one of the most important factors to consider when deciding how many days a week your dog should be at daycare. A younger dog will typically require a lot more activity and exercise than an older dog. If your dog is getting older, you may want to cut down on the number of days he spends at daycare. Daycare is great, but it can also leave your pup overly tired, so keep an eye on his energy levels as he gets older.
In addition to this, an older dog may simply not enjoy the busy environment of daycare. If this is the case for your dog, you can reduce the number of days a week he’s at daycare or make his visits shorter.
Keep in mind that Fon Jon Pet Care cannot take senior campers that are older than 9 years old to ensure the safety of our campers.
Your Dog’s Personality and Temperament
Your dog’s personality and temperament will also affect how much time he should be spending at daycare. A dog that loves to spend time playing with other dogs will benefit from spending more time at daycare. However, if your dog is more reserved and generally doesn’t need a lot of exercise or stimulation, spending fewer days at daycare or only spending half a day rather than a full day may be best for him.
Your Daily Schedule
Does your typical schedule keep you busy and away from home for most of the day? Do you attend school or work full-time? If this is the case, then your dog will probably be left at home alone most of the time. Dog daycare services are a great way to make sure that he doesn’t get bored and destructive or lonely and upset.
Spending time with other dogs and our staff will help your dog get the exercise and socialization he needs even when your schedule stops you from providing it. In addition to this, you can add a walk to your dog’s daycare time to add some variety and mental stimulation to his day.
Is Your Dog in Good Health?
Your dog’s health, especially as he grows older, is also important in determining how many days he should spend at doggy daycare. At Fon Jon Pet Care, we do not take dogs with recent injuries, casts, cones, or in need of injections.
However, health also applies to dogs that are getting older and may not have the same energy levels they used to. Reducing the number of days they spend at daycare may be in their best interest. Of course, if your dog is a young, high-energy dog, he’ll probably benefit from spending plenty of time at daycare socializing and playing.
Dog Daycare Services in San Diego From Fon Jon Pet Care
The bottom line is that you know your dog best, which means that only you can determine how many days of daycare are appropriate for your dog. Although we’d love to see all of our campers all day every day, we know that isn’t ideal for all dogs! We hope our guide will help you figure out what’s ideal for your dog so he can remain happy and healthy.
Just remember that when it comes to dog daycare services, Fon Jon Pet Care is here to help. With more than 70 years of experience providing top-quality dog boarding, dog grooming, dog daycare, and dog training in San Diego County, we have what it takes to help you keep your pup healthy and happy!
If your dog isn’t currently registered with us, we welcome you to contact us or register online. You can also schedule an appointment to meet with us and get answers to any questions you may have about our services.
