Age, vaccinations, neutering and temperament: what a good daycare will ask for, the signs your dog will love it, and how to choose a daycare you can trust.
Start with the basics
Every licensed daycare will ask for the same few things before your dog's first day. Getting them sorted early means you can book a settle-in session as soon as you're ready.
- Age: puppies can usually start from around 12 weeks, at least two weeks after their second vaccination.
- Vaccinations: core vaccines (distemper, hepatitis and parvovirus) and leptospirosis, kept up to date with boosters.
- Kennel cough: most daycares ask for the kennel cough vaccine. It's often given up the nose and lasts a year.
- Flea and worm treatment: current, on your vet's schedule.
- Neutering: many daycares ask that dogs over 12 months are neutered or spayed for group play.
Signs your dog will love it
Daycare suits sociable dogs who enjoy the company of other dogs, not just people. If your dog bounces up to friendly dogs on walks, plays well in short bursts and settles once they've had a run, they're likely to thrive.
Young, energetic dogs often benefit the most, especially if they're left alone for long days. Older dogs can enjoy it too, in a calmer group with more rest.
When daycare might not be right (yet)
Some dogs find a busy group overwhelming. That's not a failure, just information. Dogs who are very fearful of other dogs, guard toys or food intensely, or have a history of fights usually do better with a dog walker or a sitter while they build confidence.
A good daycare will tell you this honestly at the assessment, rather than taking the booking and hoping for the best.
Questions to ask any daycare
Whichever daycare you choose, these questions quickly separate the great ones from the rest.
- Can I see your animal activity licence and its star rating? In England, commercial dog daycares must be licensed by the council and are rated from 1 to 5 stars.
- How many dogs does each carer look after, and how many dogs are on site in a day?
- How are dogs grouped: by size, age, play style?
- How much rest do dogs get, and where?
- What happens if my dog is hurt or unwell?
- How will I hear how my dog's day went?
This guide is general information as of October 2026. Every dog is different, so check with your own vet about vaccinations and health.
