HOW MUCH DO DOG BOARDING BUSINESSES MAKE?

Exploring Industry Earnings, Career Potential, and the Value of Professional Training

For dog lovers seeking a rewarding and profitable career, opening a dog boarding business can offer a fulfilling path. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced dog trainer considering additional income streams, it’s important to understand the financial landscape of the boarding industry.

At Good Dog Academy, we recognize that many certified trainers look to diversify their services, and boarding is often a natural extension of that journey. This blog explores what you can expect to earn from a boarding business, key factors influencing profitability, and how professional training through our Professional Pet Dog Trainer (PPDT) Program can give you a distinct competitive advantage.

Earnings Potential in Dog Boarding

On average, dog boarding facilities charge approximately $50 per night per dog. A business boarding 20 dogs per night could potentially generate $1,000 per day, or roughly $30,000 per month in gross income.

However, profitability depends on more than just occupancy. Operating costs—such as staff wages, food, cleaning supplies, insurance, utilities, and facility maintenance—can total $1,500 or more per month, not including unexpected expenses or upgrades.

Understanding how to manage and grow your business within these margins is key to success.

Key Factors That Affect Profitability

1. Capacity and Safety

The number of dogs you can safely board plays a major role in your revenue potential. While 20 dogs is a common benchmark, that number must be tailored to your space, staffing, and skill level.

PPDT Advantage: Trainers certified through Good Dog Academy are equipped to assess canine temperament, manage group dynamics, and create safe environments—essential skills when managing groups of dogs in a boarding setting.

2. Location and Market Demand

Where your business is located will influence pricing and customer expectations.

• Urban Areas: Higher demand and limited options can allow for premium pricing.

• Rural Areas: May require more competitive rates, but often offer more space and a lower cost of operation.

Business Insight: Trainers who also offer board & train programs can command higher rates by bundling care with training—an attractive option for busy dog guardians looking for results.

3. Service Offerings

Basic boarding is just the beginning. Businesses that offer value-added services see increased income and client satisfaction. Consider offering:

• Enrichment-focused care instead of unstructured play

• Private training sessions for obedience, reactivity, or anxiety

• Grooming services

• Structured group walks and activities

PPDT Benefit: Graduates of Good Dog Academy are uniquely positioned to provide these advanced services, turning a standard boarding facility into a high-value destination for clients.

4. Staffing Strategy

Your staffing model will affect both the quality of care and your profitability. While solo operators can keep costs down, larger operations with trained support staff can accommodate more dogs and offer more services.

Boarding businesses that care for dogs with behavioural challenges—such as separation anxiety or reactivity—require a deeper level of knowledge and supervision. This is where professional education truly matters.

Conclusion: Is Dog Boarding a Profitable Career?

The average dog boarding business has the potential to earn $28,000 or more per month, depending on location, services, and operational strategy. With the right knowledge, experience, and training, dog boarding can be both a profitable venture and a deeply rewarding career.

Professionals who combine boarding with dog training services have the opportunity to stand out in a crowded market, offering specialized care that meets the growing demand for high-quality, personalized pet services.

Take the Next Step

Whether you’re exploring board & train options, opening a full-scale daycare, or adding enrichment services to an existing business, education is the foundation of success.

Good Dog Academy’s Professional Pet Dog Trainer (PPDT) Certificate Program and Daycare & Boarding Management Program provide the skills, knowledge, and confidence you need to launch or grow your career in this thriving industry.

Ready to build a business that combines passion with profit?
Explore our programs today and take your next step in the dog care industry with confidence and credibility.