The Best Dog Kennels and Boarding in Brisbane
Updated 18 March 2023
Summary
- When you leave your home for a holiday, business, or an unplanned emergency trip, boarding kennels become an essential service.
- Leaving your dog behind can be daunting, but dog boarding is a service provided by professionals who prioritise your pet.
- Our guide to the top Brisbane dog boarding kennels has all the information about what to look for, how much it costs and shortlists trusted dog kennels that stand out.
How Much do Dog Kennels Cost Per Day? What Does it Cover?
Know this first: The cost of your dog’s stay will be determined by its size. Dog sizes are commonly divided into four categories: small, medium, large, and extra-large.
- Small dogs weighing less than 10kg: $25 to $50 per day
- Medium dogs weighing 11kg to 20kg: $30 to $55 per day
- Large dogs weighing 21kg to 39kg: $30 to $65 per day
- Extra-large dogs weighing 40kg or more: $35 to $70 per day
Other factors that influence cost include:
1. The boarding you choose
The type of boarding you choose for your dog will also influence the total cost, with options including standard dog kennels, deluxe/executive suits, and luxury suites.
- Standard dog kennels can differ in price depending on your dog’s size, ranging from $25 for small dogs to $70 for extra-large dogs per day.
- Deluxe/executive suites are also priced differently based on the size of your dog, ranging from $56 to $73 per day.
- Luxury suites also vary based on the size of your dog and can range from $76 to $160 per day.
2. Peak periods
Peak periods have additional rates of boarding per dog per day. Peak periods include school holidays, public holidays, and generally between January and February.
On top of the standard daily prices, additional fees during peak periods can range from $5 to $30.
3. Extra services, such as:
- Grooming: Most dog boarding facilities provide dog grooming services for your pet before returning them to you. Dog grooming typically costs between $18 to $25, and most kennels will charge you based on the size of your dog. Some facilities provide free grooming after your pet has been with them for a specific time.
- Medications: If your dog has any medical needs and requires daily medication such as pills, injections, wound treatment, and so on, you can expect to pay between $1 and $5 per administration.
- Playtime: Playtime is usually included in the price of your pet’s stay at a facility; however, some facilities charge an extra fee for playtime. This might be anywhere from $7.50 to $20.
- Bush/adventure walks: If your dog is very adventurous, some kennels will provide this as an extra service. You should anticipate between $25 and $32 for these walks.
- Brushing: Most kennels offer this as an extra service and will charge between $6 and $7.50 per session.
- Collection: Most facilities will charge an additional fee for picking up and/or dropping off pets. Depending on your location, one-way pick-up or drop-off can cost anywhere from $25 to $60. In addition, most facilities will charge you an additional fee of up to $50 for pick-ups and drop-offs outside office hours.
Questions to Ask When Making a Booking
- What is included in the cost of your pet’s stay? For example, what type of food they offer, how much food, daily exercise, and playtime.
- How will the price be affected if you book more than one dog? Most facilities will offer discounted prices if you book multiple dogs at a time.
- When are you required to pay? Some facilities may require you to pay in full when booking, especially during peak times, while others will only ask for deposits to secure bookings. Other facilities do not expect you to pay until the end of your pet’s stay, so this is very important to ask.
- What is the cancellation policy? Plans change, so make sure you know what you’re liable for, including any fees associated with last-minute cancellations or changes to the reservation.
- What are the vaccination and health requirements? Don’t be refused entry at the door right before you head out of Brisbane – ensure you understand the facility’s health and vaccination requirements to prevent any last-minute surprises or issues.
How Can I Get the Best Price?
- Avoiding peak periods – Dog kennels charge the most during these times, so if you can schedule your pet’s stay outside of school and public holidays, you can avoid paying the higher peak rates.
- Look for discounted costs – If you have several pets that need to be boarded, finding a facility that offers discounted prices for each subsequent dog after the first is key. Some establishments also provide long-term stay discounts.
- Find a local boarding kennel – this way, if you need your pet picked up or dropped off, you won’t have to pay the extra fees associated with living out of town.
- Compare prices and services: Our guide is designed to help you shortlist boarding facilities to compare their prices, services, and accommodations. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price (for example, if you have more than one pet) or inquire about current promotions or discounts.
- Read reviews and get recommendations: Beyond local Google reviews, we suggest asking friends, family, or your vet for recommendations on reputable boarding facilities.
Five Must-Know Facts about Dog Kennels and Boarding
- Many dog boarding facilities require dogs to be vaccinated to the C5 level, which is the optimal veterinarian requirement. C5 protects against distemper, hepatitis, parvovirus, parainfluenza, and bordetella bronchiseptica. In most cases, dogs will also be required to have been treated for fleas and ticks. Some facilities may require a vaccination certificate before or upon arrival.
- During peak times, kennels might be booked months in advance. If you know when you will be away from home, it is best not to wait to make a reservation.
- There is a minimum age requirement for dogs in dog kennels. Most dog kennels will not accept puppies under six months; however, this can vary. Other dog kennels will also have a maximum age restriction of 12 years old, particularly if it is your dog’s first time in a dog kennel.
- Most dog kennels require that pets be desexed, and many facilities will refuse to accept pets that are not. Kennels that accept pets that have not been desexed may charge additional fees.
- Dog kennels will typically refuse restricted dog breeds. Other dogs who have been declared ‘dangerous’ and have demonstrated aggressiveness towards people or other dogs will also likely be denied.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I pay for the dog boarding service?
Accepted payment methods include cash, EFTPOS, Visa and Mastercard. Payment methods will vary depending on which boarding kennel you choose, but almost all of the dog kennels we spoke to in Brisbane accept debit and credit card.
What is included in the rates?
For many dog kennels, the rates they charge include food supply, fresh and drinkable water access, playtime, and clean bedding.
Is there an extra charge if I bring my dog’s food?
This will depend on the dog kennel you choose, as some do not charge an additional fee for you to provide your food, but others may. On the other hand, some kennels may offer you a discounted price if you bring your food.
What happens if my dog gets sick while I am away?
If your dog becomes ill, you will be contacted. Some kennels will have a veterinarian on-site to care for sick or injured pets. Other kennels that do not have an on-site veterinarian will contact their local veterinarian. As the dog’s owner, you will be responsible for any vet bills.
What is kennel cough?
Airborne bacterial and viral infections cause kennel cough. The likelihood of your dog getting kennel cough increases in kennels because of the many dogs that pass through. Dog owners must know that while vaccines are available to protect against kennel cough, they do not completely protect your dog from getting the disease. The vaccines are designed to lower the likelihood of your pet developing severe forms of the illness. The C5 vaccine does not entirely protect against canine cough and is akin to receiving the flu shot because you still risk getting sick.
Will my dog be safe around the other dogs?
In most kennels, dogs’ playtimes are supervised by workers, and they are intermingled with other dogs of comparable sizes and temperaments. Some kennels have a no-mixing policy for certain breeds, such as German Shepherds, Staffies, and Jack Russells, which is for the safety of the other dogs and the workers.
Can I inspect the kennels before booking my dog in?
Yes – most kennels allow this and even encourage you to arrange a tour through their facilities during open hours.
Map of Best Brisbane Dog Kennels and Boarding Options
Our Top Rated Brisbane Dog Kennels and Boarding Options
Kedron Veterinary Clinic
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.9/5
- Address: 75 Leckie Road, Kedron 4031
- Website: Kedron Veterinary Clinic
- Contact number: 07 3857 1785
- Email address: info@kedronvet.com.au
What customers like:
- Compassionate staff, sensitive and loving to all animals in their care.
- Clinic is family owned.
- Highly reliable and go above and beyond to help clients.
- Minimising stress and making the boarding experience more enjoyable for the companion animal.
Services offered (but not limited to): Clinical procedures, vaccination, dog boarding, dog grooming, hydro bathing, pet microchipping, puppy preschool.
Paddington Pups
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.6/5
- Address: 12 Parkview St, Milton 4064
- Website: Paddington Pups
- Contact number: 07 3369 0699
- Email address: info@paddingtonpups.com.au
What customers like:
- Take pride in caring for the pups (big and small)
- Facility is always clean and well-maintained.
- Provide options for photos, grooming, and birthday parties, making it a one-stop shop for all things ‘doggy’.
- Trying to make a positive global impact and is in partnership with B1G1 to give back to those needing support – dogs or humans alike.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog boarding, dog daycare, grooming, hydro bathing.
Kip Brisbane Pet Resort
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.8/5
- Address: 353 Narangba Rd, Kurwongbah 4503
- Website: Kip Brisbane Pet Resort
- Contact number: 1800 951 926
- Email address: brisbane@kip.com.au
What customers like:
- Provide daily update emails with photos and videos of the dog’s playtime.
- Friendly, understanding, caring and loving to all pets.
- Knows exactly how to put anxious dogs at ease.
- Services are excellent and well-priced.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog boarding, dog daycare, and cat boarding.
Brisbane Pet Motel
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.6/5
- Address: 2290 Sandgate Road, Boondall 4034
- Website: Brisbane Pet Motel
- Contact number: 07 3265 2492
- Email address: info@bpet.com.au
What customers like:
- Affordable prices.
- Staff are friendly and loving to all dogs.
- Dogs come home happy and tired from playing.
- They offer a 10% discount for stays over 14 days and 15% for stays over 20 days.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog kennel boarding and cattery.
Oz Wagtails (Daycare Only)
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.5/5
- Address: Unit 1/28 Sumners Road Darra 4076
- Website: Oz Wagtails
- Contact number: 07 3279 6199
- Email address: training@wagtails.com.au
What customers like:
- Experienced and professional trainers.
- Uses a positive training method that makes the dog more confident and well-mannered.
- Online shop offers quality dog necessities such as food, treats, grooming supplies, leashes, collars and more.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog daycare, dog training and dog grooming.
Coltrandi
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.7/5
- Address: 694 Grassdale Rd, Gumdale QLD 4154
- Website: Coltrandi
- Contact number: 07 3245 3411
- Email address: col@coltrandi.com
What customers like:
- Training programs are offered.
- Shows genuine care to dogs and treats them as if they own them.
- Apart from dog boarding, they also have grooming and hydrobath services available for their dog clients.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog boarding, cat boarding, dog training, grooming and hydrobath.
Acacia Ridge Pet Resort
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.5/5
- Address: 102 Sherbrooke Road, Willawong 4110
- Website: Acacia Ridge Pet Resort
- Contact number: 07 3372 7674
- Email address: info@acaciaridgepetresort.com.au
What customers like:
- Genuinely caring and wonderful with the pets.
- The dogs always have the best time and come home smelling great.
- Dogs are well taken care of, as if they were the staff’s own.
- They have a FAQ page noting the things that the pet parents need to know before making a booking.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog boarding, cat boarding, pet taxi, and grooming.
Fido & Felix Gumdale Boarding Kennels & Cattery
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.5/5
- Address: 957 New Cleveland Road, Gumdale 4154
- Website: Fido & Felix Gumdale Boarding Kennels & Cattery
- Contact number: 07 3823 1066
What customers like:
- Even after a long-term boarding, dogs are in high spirits and are well fed.
- The staff assures the owners that their dogs are in good hands.
- Staff remember each dog well as well as their needs, no matter how long it has been between stays.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog boarding and cat boarding.
Brisbane Boarding Kennels
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.8/5
- Address: 305-311 Boundary Rd, Narangba, 4504
- Website: Brisbane Boarding Kennels
- Contact number: 07 3888 4643
- Email address: enquiries@brisbaneboarding.com.au
What customers like:
- Dogs come home happy after socialising with other dogs.
- They have a great kennel facility, and the staff are genuinely caring.
- The daycare is situated in a convenient location, close to the main road.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog kennel boarding, cattery and small animal accommodation.
Moggill Pet Motel
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.3/5
- Address: 564 Kangaroo Gully Rd, Anstead 4070
- Website: Moggill Pet Motel
- Contact number: 07 3202 6264
- Email address: moggillpetmotel@bigpond.com.au
What customers like:
- Dogs come home clean, happy, healthy, exercised, well-socialised and well-fed.
- Pet taxi services are offered to collect and return dogs.
- Premium dog food and special care offered at no extra cost for stays longer than one night.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog boarding kennels for small to large dogs, cattery, deluxe dog units, special care facility, grooming and small animal pet boarding.
The Pet Chalet
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.7/5
- Address: 50 Carbine Rd Upper Brookfield 4069
- Website: The Pet Chalet
- Contact number: 07 3374 1664
- Email address: admin@petchalet.com.au
What customers like:
- Caring staff.
- Customer focus is as equally important as the animal’s welfare.
- Service includes pick-up and drop-off..
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog accommodation, cat accommodation, executive suite and pet transportation.
Shady Acres Pet Resort
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.3/5
- Address: 755 Mount Cotton Road, 4157
- Website: Shady Acres Pet Resort
- Contact number: 07 3206 4236
- Email address: info@shadyacres.com.au
What customers like:
- Provide a discounted price for 2 family dogs that can be kenneled together.
- Dogs are well-cared for as they come home looking healthier and happier.
- Shady Acres Pet Resort staff offer valuable advice about the dog’s proper diet.
- Pet owners are welcome to bring their own dog’s toys, bedding and other personal belongings, at their own risk.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog boarding kennels, cattery, emergency care and pet taxi.
Castelan Boarding Kennels & Cattery
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.3/5
- Address: 85 Warriewood St, Chandler 4155
- Website: Castelan Boarding Kennels & Cattery
- Contact number: 07 3390 1132
- Email address: castelan@bigpond.net.au
What customers like:
- The staff is welcoming and treats their customers like family.
- Kennels are clean, and dogs are well-fed.
- Dogs come home clean and smelling fresh.
- Staff are knowledgeable about dog breeds.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog boarding kennels and cattery.
Pinelands Pet Motel
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~4.4/5
- Address: 189 Compton Road, Kuraby 4112
- Website: Pinelands Pet Motel
- Contact number: 07 3808 1146
- Email address: info@pinelandspetmotel.com.au
What customers like:
- Dogs come home meticulously groomed, nails trimmed and well cared for.
- Staff keep the owners at ease and assure them that their dogs are doing fine.
- Discounted rates are available for longer than 3 weeks of pet holidays.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog boarding kennels and cattery.
Noah’s Park 4 Dogs
Overview:
- Google Rating: ~5/5
- Address: 10 Campbell Street Bowen Hills 4006
- Website: Noah’s Park 4 Dogs
- Contact number: 07 3172 8966
What customers like:
- Pay great attention to what the dogs need.
- Able to arrange vet appointments for the dog’s health concerns while in their care.
- The dogs seem to have a good time and are looked after to the highest standard.
- Has a wide playing area where dogs can have enough socialisation.
Services offered (but not limited to): Dog daycare, boarding, training and dog grooming.
