Dog Boarding Fees in the UK: What to Expect, What to Avoid, and How We Help You Save

Thinking about booking a dog boarding holiday in Norwich, or maybe you’re curious about prices and bargains in places like Leeds or Birmingham? Whether you’re new to pet boarding or just want to know you’re getting good value, understanding dog boarding fees is important. No one wants nasty surprises when the bill comes! Let’s talk about what dog boarding usually costs in the UK, what you should watch out for, and clever ways to help you save money while keeping your pooch happy.

What’s Included in the Price? Understanding Typical Dog Boarding Costs

Dog boarding fees can vary quite a lot across the country. In Norwich and nearby areas like Earlham and Cambridge, you’ll often find prices per night ranging from £20 to £35 for one dog. Here’s what this usually covers:

• A secure room or suite for your dog to sleep and relax in
• Daily walks and playtime with trained staff
• Meals (sometimes you need to bring your own dog’s food, so do check in advance)
• Regular cleaning and fresh bedding

For cities like London or Manchester, prices can climb to £40 or more per night, especially if you’re after luxury suites or specialist care. Out in smaller towns, fees might drop closer to £18 for basic kennels. Here’s a quick table comparing example prices:

Remember, prices often go up during school holidays or over Christmas, so it’s wise to book early and ask about seasonal rates. Always ask for a clear breakdown of what’s included in the nightly rate.

Extra Charges to Watch Out For

It’s not just the nightly fee you need to budget for. Some boarding places add charges that can catch you off guard:

• Medication: If your dog needs tablets or special treatments, some places add £2–£5 per administration.
• Out-of-hours pick up: Bringing your dog home in the evening or on Sundays might cost extra, sometimes as much as £10–£15.
• Special diets: If you forget to bring your own food, you might be charged for meals, especially for raw or allergen-free diets.
• Photo updates: Some places send daily photos of your dog lovely for peace of mind, but these can cost an extra £3–£7 per day in some kennels.

Not all charges are a red flag, but it’s smart to ask for these details up front. The best kennels are always transparent and happy to go through costs and options with you.

How to Spot Value (and Not Just Cheap Deals)

Of course, everyone wants to save money. But cheap isn’t always cheerful when it comes to your dog’s happiness and safety. Look out for signs of proper value:

• Staff to dog ratio: In Norwich and nearby cities, top boarding centres have 1 staff member for every 5–8 dogs, meaning your pet gets real attention.
• Room size and cleanliness: Ask how big the suites are. Some offer spacious 3×2 metre rooms, and daily disinfecting routines.
• Activity schedule: Are there real walks, group play, and plenty of attention? A proper daily plan, like three play sessions and a quiet rest hour, is a good sign.
• Reviews and photo evidence: Real customer photos and good reviews on places from Leeds to Portsmouth give you peace of mind.

If a service is far cheaper than others in your area, ask why. Sometimes it’s fine, but make sure your furry friend’s welfare isn’t at risk from cramped rooms or overstretched staff.

Ways to Save Money Without Sacrificing Quality

Worried about the cost? Here are a few helpful tricks for Norwich and other UK regions:

• Multi-dog discounts: Many kennels knock off up to 20% for the second or third dog staying together.
• Off-peak booking: Board during school terms or midweek if you can prices can be much lower.
• Bring your own food and bedding: It keeps your dog comfy and can dodge extra charges.
• Ask about loyalty or referral schemes: Some offer free nights after a few stays or if you recommend a friend.

Our goal is always to help you find trusted, good-value boarding options whether you live in Norwich, Earlham, Brighton or further afield. Drop us a message if you need honest advice on comparing fees in your city or want help sifting through the fine print!