Dog daycare or a dog walker? How to choose

The short answer: Choose daycare for young, social, high-energy dogs who'd otherwise be alone all day; choose a one-on-one walker for dogs who prefer people to other dogs, seniors, or anyone who just needs a midday break.

Both options keep a dog from spending a long workday alone, but they meet very different needs. The right answer depends far more on your dog than on your schedule.

Daycare is best when your dog…

• Loves other dogs and plays well in a group
• Has lots of energy (young dogs and working breeds especially)
• Gets bored or destructive when left alone for long stretches
• Benefits from ongoing socialization

A walker is best when your dog…

• Prefers people to other dogs, or is reactive around them
• Is a senior or has mobility limits that make a full day tiring
• Mainly needs a potty break and some movement in the middle of the day
• Is more relaxed at home than anywhere else

Many dogs do best with both

A common pattern is daycare two or three days a week for play and socialization, with walks on the other days. It keeps energy in check without making every day a big social day.

Questions to ask any provider

• How big are the groups, and who supervises them?
• Are walks one-on-one or with other dogs?
• What vaccines do you require?
• How will I hear how the day went?