Traveling out of town—whether for vacation, business, or visiting family—requires extra planning when you have a dog. While you’re packing your bags and booking travel, you also need to make a key decision: Who will be your dog sitter while you’re away?
For most pet owners, this comes down to two main choices: boarding your dog at a kennel or hiring a professional dog sitter. Both options have their pros and cons, but many dog owners are discovering that dog sitting offers a more personalized, low-stress solution for their furry friends.
In this guide, we’ll compare these two options, break down the benefits of in-home dog care, and answer the most frequently asked questions about dog sitting vs. boarding.
What’s the Difference Between Dog Boarding and Dog Sitting?
Dog boarding refers to placing your dog in a kennel or pet boarding facility while you’re out of town. These facilities range from traditional kennels to high-end “pet hotels” that may offer upgraded amenities like play yards, grooming, and even swimming pools.
Dog sitting, on the other hand, involves someone caring for your dog in your own home—or occasionally in the sitter’s home. You can choose from drop-in visits, overnight stays, or 24-hour live-in care, depending on your dog’s needs and your budget.
Is Dog Sitting Less Stressful for My Dog?
Yes, for most dogs, staying at home is much less stressful than going to a boarding kennel. Dogs are creatures of habit. They find comfort in familiar surroundings, regular routines, and their own toys, beds, bowls, and smells. A boarding facility, no matter how luxurious, involves new sights, sounds, smells, and strange dogs — which can cause anxiety in even the most well-behaved pup.
With a dog sitter, your dog remains in the safety and comfort of their own home while receiving consistent, one-on-one care. This helps reduce separation anxiety, confusion, and stress, especially in senior dogs or those with behavioral issues.
Dog Sitter Services
Professional dog sitting services can be highly customizable and may include:
- Drop-in visits (30, 45 or 60 minutes): Feedings, potty breaks, playtime, and walks
- Overnight stays (typically 12 hours): A sitter stays in your home overnight and provides morning and bedtime routines
- Midday add-ons: Additional walks or check-ins throughout the day
- Home care: Bringing in mail/packages, watering plants, rotating lights, picking up waste
Many dog sitters also offer pet taxi services or errand services to pick up dog food, medication, or cleaning supplies while you’re away.
Are Boarding Kennels Still a Good Option?
Boarding kennels have improved dramatically over the years. Some offer impressive features like “suites” with TVs, doggie spa treatments, group play, and more. However, these upgraded services drive up costs significantly. And while luxury boarding works well for some dogs, others may suffer from overexposure to new environments and unfamiliar dogs, leading to anxiety or even health problems like vomiting and diarrhea.
You also have to consider your dog’s temperament. If they don’t get along well with other dogs or require a consistent routine (like timed medication), boarding may not be the best option.
Dog Sitting vs. Boarding Cost
Costs vary depending on your location, the duration of care, and the level of service. On average:
- Basic boarding ranges from $40–$70 per day
- High-end “pet hotels” can cost $80–$100+ per night
- In-home dog sitting usually starts around $25–$35 per visit and $75–$100 per overnight stay
While dog sitting may seem comparable or slightly more expensive than standard boarding, it tends to offer more value in the form of personalized care, reduced stress, and added home services. Plus, you avoid paying extra for things like one-on-one attention, playtime, or medication administration—which are often basic inclusions in pet sitting services.
Is a Professional Dog Sitter Better Than Asking a Friend or Family Member?
While it might seem easy to ask a neighbor, friend, or family member to check in on your dog, they may not be fully prepared for the responsibilities of pet care. They may miss essential tasks, fail to recognize early signs of illness, or be unable to respond quickly in an emergency.
Professional sitters, especially those from trusted pet care companies, are trained in:
- Pet CPR and first aid
- Handling medical needs and administering medication
- Basic behavior cues and warning signs of distress
A professional dog sitter is committed to your pet’s care and shows up on schedule every time. That consistency and accountability give dog owners peace of mind.
Choosing a Dog Sitter
When selecting a dog sitter, look for:
Positive reviews and references- Experience with your dog’s breed or size
- Certification in pet first aid, CPR, or professional training
- Meet-and-greet options before booking
- Clear contract and care instructions
Ask questions about how they communicate with pet owners, what backup plans are in place, and how emergencies are handled. Trust and transparency are key.
Book Northern Virginia’s Most Trusted Dog Sitters
Taking a trip doesn’t have to be stressful—for you or your dog. Boarding kennels may be a convenient option for some, but in-home dog sitting offers unmatched comfort, personalized care, and peace of mind.
At Paw Pals Pet Sitting, we provide reliable dog sitting services tailored to your dog’s lifestyle. Whether you need quick check-ins, mid-day walks, or extended overnight care, our professionally trained sitters are here to put your mind at ease while keeping your pup safe and happy.
Contact us today to schedule a meet-and-greet or to learn more about our in-home pet sitting services. Give your dog the gift of comfort—and yourself the freedom to relax while you’re away.
