Books and Resources to Start Strong
Starting a dog boarding and kennel business requires knowledge across operations, animal care, business management, and customer service. These books will help you build systems, understand dog behavior, and avoid costly mistakes during your launch phase.
The Business of Dog Training by Teoti Anderson
This book covers the business fundamentals specific to dog-related services, including pricing strategies, liability insurance, client management, and operational workflows. While focused on training, the business principles translate directly to boarding operations. You’ll learn how to structure your business legally and financially from day one.
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Dog Training for Dummies by Jack Volhard and Melissa Bauman
Understanding canine behavior and training methods improves your ability to handle dogs safely and manage problem behaviors during boarding stays. This resource helps you recognize stress signals, anxiety triggers, and appropriate handling techniques. Better dog management leads to fewer incidents and happier clients.
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How to Start a Home-Based Pet Care Business by Kirt Lefebvre
This practical guide walks through startup logistics, licensing requirements, insurance needs, and marketing strategies specific to pet care businesses. It addresses real challenges like dealing with difficult clients, managing multiple dogs, and scaling operations. The book includes checklists and templates you can adapt immediately.
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Don’t Shoot the Dog by Karen Pryor
This classic covers positive reinforcement and behavior management principles that apply to handling boarding dogs, training staff, and managing customer relationships. Understanding these concepts helps you create a calmer boarding environment and resolve behavioral issues without stress. It’s particularly useful for managing anxious or reactive dogs during their stays.
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Equipment You Need
A functional dog boarding facility requires specific equipment for housing, feeding, exercise, health monitoring, and daily operations. Your initial investment depends on whether you start with a small home-based operation or rent a dedicated facility. Start with essentials and add specialized items as you grow and understand your client base.
Kennel and Housing Equipment
- Outdoor dog kennels or runs: Large chain-link enclosures or welded-wire pens for safe outdoor exercise. Sizes typically range from 4×8 to 6×12 feet depending on dog sizes you board.
- Indoor kennels or crates: Various sizes (small, medium, large, extra-large) for overnight stays, rest periods, and dogs requiring secure containment. Heavy-duty plastic or airline-style crates work better than fabric for durability and cleanliness.
- Dog beds and blankets: Washable, durable bedding for comfort and hygiene. Elevated orthopedic beds reduce pressure and improve airflow.
- Exercise pens (x-pens): Portable 8-10 panel enclosures for creating flexible play spaces and separating dogs as needed.
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Feeding and Water Equipment
- Stainless steel food and water bowls: Non-slip, durable, and easy to sanitize. Buy multiple sets so you can rotate during washing.
- Elevated feeders: Reduce strain on dogs’ joints and improve digestion, especially valuable for larger or senior dogs.
- Automatic waterers: Ensure constant fresh water availability, critical for health during longer stays.
- Food storage containers: Airtight, pest-proof containers for keeping dry dog food fresh and organized by dog or dietary type.
- Treat dispensers or puzzle feeders: Provide mental stimulation and help manage anxiety during boarding stays.
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Cleaning and Sanitation Equipment
- Commercial-grade pressure washer: Essential for deep cleaning kennels, runs, and exercise areas. Gas or electric models both work; electric is quieter and lower maintenance.
- Heavy-duty push broom and shovel: Daily cleaning of kennels and outdoor areas.
- Mops, buckets, and cleaning tools: Multiple sets for separate cleaning stations to prevent cross-contamination.
- Enzyme-based disinfectant: Breaks down odors and kills pathogens better than standard cleaners. Essential for health and smell management.
- Waste disposal system: Heavy-duty trash cans with lids for soiled bedding and waste; a composting system or dog waste digester reduces disposal costs long-term.
- Laundry supplies: Commercial washer and dryer for bedding, blankets, and towels if not outsourcing this task.
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Health and Safety Equipment
- First aid kit for dogs: Bandages, antiseptic, pain relief, and basic supplies for minor injuries.
- Thermometer: Digital thermometers for monitoring dogs’ health if they appear ill during boarding.
- Leashes and collars: Multiple sizes and styles for different dogs and handling situations.
- Slip leads: Quick and safe for moving dogs between areas.
- Muzzles: For safely handling dogs with aggression issues or barrier frustration, with proper training and owner consent.
- Safety gates: Secure barriers between different areas to prevent unauthorized mixing of dogs.
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Toys and Enrichment
- Durable chew toys: Kong toys, Nylabone, and similar items that withstand heavy chewing and reduce anxiety.
- Balls and fetch toys: For exercise and play during outdoor time.
- Interactive toys: Food-dispensing toys, snuffle mats, and puzzle toys keep dogs mentally stimulated and reduce stress.
- Rope toys: For tug games and play, but supervise with aggressive chewers.
Shop durable dog chew toys on Amazon →
Office and Administrative Equipment
- Computer and printer: For booking management, client records, invoices, and communication.
- Scheduling software or system: Digital or physical booking system to track which dogs are staying when and their special needs.
- Camera system: Security cameras for monitoring kennels and documenting any incidents; can reassure clients and protect your business.
- Record-keeping system: Organized files or digital database for dietary needs, medication instructions, emergency contacts, and behavioral notes.
What to Buy First vs Later
Prioritize purchases based on what you need immediately versus what you can add as your business grows and generates revenue.
- Buy first: Kennels or crates, food and water bowls, cleaning supplies, basic first aid kit, and leashes. These are operational essentials you cannot function without on day one.
- Buy first: Security measures like basic gates and safety equipment to prevent escapes and injuries. Liability protection is non-negotiable.
- Buy early (within first 3 months): Pressure washer, enzyme cleaner, and additional bedding. Sanitation directly impacts client satisfaction and repeat business.
- Buy as you grow: Elevated feeders, puzzle toys, enrichment items, and luxury amenities once you have consistent bookings. These justify premium pricing but aren’t critical at launch.
- Delay: Automatic waterers and specialized heating systems until you understand your capacity and seasonal demands. Start with manual systems and upgrade based on actual need.
- Delay: Commercial laundry equipment if you can outsource washing initially. Once you have 8+ dogs regularly, in-house laundry becomes cost-effective.
New vs Used Equipment
Strategic purchasing of used equipment can reduce your startup costs significantly. Kennels, crates, and outdoor runs hold up well when purchased secondhand and are typically 30-50% cheaper. Check Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, and local farm equipment suppliers for deals on outdoor kennels and runs.
However, avoid used bedding, food bowls, and water containers due to contamination and sanitation risks. Buy these new to ensure proper health standards and the appearance of cleanliness to clients. Similarly, invest in new cleaning equipment like pressure washers and mops—they’re not expensive and reliability matters. Used electronics like computers and printers are fine, but cameras should be new to ensure proper resolution and warranty coverage. Never compromise on first aid kits, safety gates, or security equipment; buy these new to guarantee functionality and reliability.
Where to Buy
- Amazon: Wide selection of crates, bowls, toys, and cleaning supplies with fast shipping.
- Chewy.com: Pet-specific retailer with bulk food ordering and frequent discounts on supplies and equipment.
- Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist: Used kennels, runs, and crates at significant discounts from people downsizing or relocating.
- Farm and ranch supply stores (Tractor Supply, Rural King): Heavy-duty outdoor kennels, fencing, and pressure washers often at lower prices than pet retailers.
- Local pet stores: Support community businesses for smaller items and build relationships that may lead to referrals or supply discounts.
- Used restaurant supply stores: Commercial-grade stainless steel bowls, serving equipment, and containers at better prices than pet retailers.
- Veterinary supply wholesalers: First aid supplies, medications, and health equipment at professional pricing if you establish a business account.