The Best Pet Daycares in San Diego, CA
Finding the perfect pet daycare for your furry friend in San Diego is easier than ever. We’ve researched and curated the top 3 pet daycares based on quality of care, services offered, customer reviews, and safety standards. Whether you need daily daycare, boarding, grooming, or training services, these trusted facilities provide exceptional care for your beloved pets.
Pet Ranch
Contact Information
4652 Mission Gorge Pl, San Diego, CA
(619) 284-1849
Services
About
Pet Ranch is a premier facility featuring 10,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor play space with artificial turf, splash pools, and shade structures. They separate dogs by size and temperament for safe, supervised play and offer luxury boarding suites. Their highly trained staff and comprehensive service menu make them a top choice.
The Dog Resort
Contact Information
4710 Point Loma Ave, San Diego, CA
(619) 523-1949
Services
About
The Dog Resort offers a high-end, cage-free environment with custom-built playrooms and comfortable boarding accommodations. They focus on providing a fun, safe, and clean atmosphere with webcams for owners to check in. Known for their attentive staff and excellent customer service, they provide both half-day and full-day daycare packages.
Camp Run-A-Mutt
Contact Information
2855 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA
(619) 281-7836
Services
About
Camp Run-A-Mutt operates on a cage-free, open-play concept with a strong emphasis on safety and positive reinforcement. The facility features webcam access so owners can watch their pets play 24/7. They use antimicrobial turf and state-of-the-art air purification systems to maintain a healthy environment.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical vaccination requirements for dog daycare in San Diego?
Most reputable San Diego daycares require proof of the following core vaccinations from a veterinarian: Rabies, DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, and Parvovirus), and Bordetella (kennel cough). Due to the higher density of dogs in facilities, Bordetella is especially critical. Some may also recommend or require the Canine Influenza (CIV) vaccine, as outbreaks can occur. Always check with your chosen facility for their specific, non-negotiable requirements.
How much does dog daycare typically cost in San Diego?
In San Diego, you can expect to pay between $30 and $45 for a full day of daycare. Half-day rates are often between $20 and $30. Many facilities offer discounted multi-day packages or monthly membership plans that can bring the daily cost down to the $25-$35 range. Prices can be slightly higher in neighborhoods like Downtown, Little Italy, and La Jolla compared to more suburban areas. Overnight boarding is typically priced separately and starts around $50-$65 per night.
What should I pack for my dog's first day of daycare?
For a smooth first day, pack a labeled leash and a properly fitted collar (a flat buckle collar is safest for play). While most daycares provide communal water and toys, you can bring a small, labeled lunch if your dog is there during mealtime. Do not bring bedding or favorite toys, as they can get lost or cause resource guarding. It's also helpful to provide any special care instructions in writing. Ensure your dog is wearing a secure ID tag with your current contact information.
Are there specific services or amenities that San Diego daycares offer due to the local climate?
Yes, San Diego's generally warm and sunny climate allows for unique amenities. Look for daycares with features like shaded outdoor play yards, splash pools or misting systems to keep dogs cool, and indoor, air-conditioned play spaces for the hottest parts of the day. Some facilities even offer 'beach day' themes or outdoor rinses to wash off sand and salt if you frequent the dog beach. Proper hydration and sun/heat safety are a major focus for quality daycares in the region.
What is the typical process for a temperament evaluation or trial day?
Nearly all San Diego daycares require a mandatory temperament evaluation before a dog's first full day. This is a scheduled session (usually 2-4 hours) where staff slowly introduce your dog to a small group of compatible dogs to assess their social skills, play style, and comfort level. The goal is to ensure the safety of all pets. Be prepared to provide vaccination records ahead of time and stay on-call during the evaluation. Most facilities will provide feedback and let you know if your dog is a good fit for their group play environment.
Ready to Find Your Pet’s Perfect Daycare?
Contact any of these top-rated pet daycares directly to schedule a tour and give your furry friend the quality care and socialization they deserve in San Diego.