How to Choose a Dog Boarder: 10 Questions to Ask
How to Choose a Dog Boarder: 10 Questions to Ask
Leaving your dog with someone new is a big decision. Whether you are travelling for work, heading out on a family vacation, or dealing with a personal emergency, you want to know your dog is in safe, caring hands. The problem is that not all boarding options are equal, and a flashy website or low price does not guarantee quality care.
The best way to evaluate a dog boarder is to ask the right questions before you book. Here are 10 essential questions that will help you find a trustworthy, reliable boarder for your dog.
1. What Is Your Experience and Background With Dogs?
Start with the basics. How long have they been boarding dogs? Do they have experience with your breed or size of dog? A boarder who has handled large breeds for years will be better prepared for your Labrador than someone who has only cared for small dogs.
On PetBoard, every provider goes through KYC verification before they can accept bookings. This means identity documents, address proof, and facility photos are reviewed before a provider appears in your search results.
2. Can I Visit the Facility Before Booking?
Any reputable boarder should welcome a visit. When you tour the space, look for cleanliness, secure fencing, adequate ventilation, and enough room for your dog to move around comfortably. Check whether there are separate areas for feeding, sleeping, and play.
If you are searching for boarders in Bangalore, start by browsing verified providers near you and arrange a visit before confirming your booking.
3. What Are Your Emergency Procedures?
Accidents and health issues can happen. Ask the boarder what they do if your dog falls sick or gets injured. Do they have a vet on call? Is there a veterinary clinic nearby? Will they contact you immediately? A clear emergency plan is non-negotiable.
4. What Does a Typical Day Look Like for Boarded Dogs?
Understanding the daily routine helps you assess whether it matches your dog's needs. Ask about walk times, play sessions, rest periods, and how much human interaction your dog will get throughout the day. Dogs thrive on routine, and a structured day with regular activity is a sign of a well-run boarding setup.
5. How Will You Handle My Dog's Feeding Schedule and Diet?
Every dog has different dietary needs. Some dogs eat twice a day, others three times. Some have allergies or require specific brands of food. Ask whether the boarder is willing to follow your dog's existing feeding schedule and whether you need to supply your own food.
A good boarder will ask you about this proactively. When you prepare your boarding checklist, include detailed feeding instructions and any medications your dog takes.
6. How Are Dogs Supervised Throughout the Day and Night?
Find out whether someone is physically present with the dogs at all times, or whether there are periods when the dogs are left alone. For overnight boarding, ask where the dogs sleep and whether the boarder stays in the same building or lives on the premises.
7. Will My Dog Be Around Other Dogs?
Some boarders take multiple dogs at once. Ask how many dogs they board at the same time, whether dogs are grouped by size or temperament, and how they handle introductions between unfamiliar dogs. If your dog is reactive or nervous around other dogs, this is especially important to discuss.
8. How Will You Communicate With Me During the Stay?
Regular updates make all the difference, especially if you are a first-time boarding parent. Ask how often the boarder will send you updates and in what format.
PetBoard has a built-in photo update system where providers send scheduled photo updates during every booking. You can also chat with providers before booking to ask questions and get a feel for their communication style.
9. What Is Your Cancellation Policy?
Life is unpredictable. Plans change, flights get cancelled, and sometimes you need to adjust your booking dates. Before you commit, understand the boarder's cancellation and refund terms. How far in advance do you need to cancel for a full refund? Is there a partial refund window?
PetBoard's platform includes a tiered cancellation policy: full refund if you cancel more than 72 hours before the start date, 50% refund between 24 and 72 hours, and no refund for cancellations less than 24 hours before drop-off. This protects both owners and providers.
10. Can You Share Reviews or References From Past Clients?
Finally, ask for proof that other dog parents have had positive experiences. Reviews from real clients are the strongest signal of quality. Look for specific details in reviews, not just generic praise. Comments about how a boarder handled a particular situation or breed tell you far more than a five-star rating with no context.
On PetBoard, every provider profile includes verified reviews from past bookings, so you can read what other dog owners in Bangalore have experienced firsthand.
Putting It All Together
Choosing a dog boarder is about more than convenience and cost. It is about trust. By asking these 10 questions, you can filter out unreliable options and find a boarder who genuinely cares about your dog's safety and comfort.
If you are ready to start your search, browse verified dog boarders in Bangalore on PetBoard. Every provider is identity-verified, and you can message them directly before making a booking. For a practical packing list before drop-off day, check out our dog boarding checklist.
Your dog deserves the best care possible, and the right questions will lead you to the right boarder.